Cederberg Wilderness Reserve
The Cederberg Wilderness – a haven for hikers, as well as solace-seekers – is renowned for its rugged beauty and for being a place of solitude.
The 71, 000-hectare reserve comprises of arid, mountainous terrain, unique rock formations and indigenous flora and fauna, including the South African Rooibos plant, as well as various types of buchu.
During spring, nature enthusiasts and budding horticulturalists will be privy to the sights of 20 species of wildflowers – the largest recorded number in one district worldwide.
The gates are open to visitors on Monday to Sundays, and on public holidays (7:30am to 7pm).
To learn more about the Cedeberg reserve and information on how to acquire permits.
Ramskop Nature Reserve
Ramskop Nature Reserve is situated in the Cederberg region, on the outskirts of the historic town of Clanwilliam. It is within easy driving distance from Cape Town – ideal if you don’t wish to travel vast distances to view the west coast flowers.In season, you’re almost guaranteed to come across diverse tapestries – approximately 350 species in total – in this small 66-hectare reserve. The best time of day to visit is from 11am to 3pm when the sun’s at its highest and the flowers are in full bloom. Hikers and nature lovers can follow a series of paths which leads to numerous vantage points. These vantage points overlook the imposing mountain range and the Clanwilliam dam.
If you aren’t all that enthused by the natural phenomena, the town of Clanwilliam itself is certainly worth exploring too. Being one of the oldest towns in the district means that Clanwilliam is steeped in culture and history. If you have the time, pay a visit to the seven national monuments dotted around the village.
The reserve’s gates are opened from every day of the week from 8am to 4pm.
Find out more about the rates, tariffs, general information and terms and conditions at Ramskop Nature Reserve.
Pakhuis Conservancy
The Pakhuis Conservancy once stood as a dilapidated farmstead, which was converted into a conservation area by a band of farmers who wished to protect the natural lay of the land, and promote eco-tourism to the area.The conservation area forms part of the greater Cederberg Wilderness Reserve. Travellers who visit this section of the park will be positively astounded by the ever-present beauty – rugged landscapes and unique rock formations with majestic mountains as a backdrop. During the springtime, the beauty is amplified by the blooming of the wildflowers, flooding the area in a sea of dancing colour.
While the west coast flowers might be the main attraction, also be on the lookout for indigenous Cederberg vegetation, such as wild olive trees and rock candlewood (‘kliphout’ as it’s known to the locals).
Postberg Flower Reserve in West Coast National Park
If you’re coming from Cape Town city, a point of call should be the West Coast National Park. While vast in size, an exclusive section to view colourful flower fields is at the Postberg Flower Reserve; which is only opened to the public in August and September.Due to its exclusivity, day or weekend passes are popular and therefore, hard to come by. But if you happen to gain entry, you’ll realise what the fuss is all about – the endless varieties of vibrant west coast flowers are truly magical.
Aspiring photographers might get lucky with sightings of the resident Postberg antelopes (eland and springbok) resting and frolicking in the fields – certainly a picture-worthy moment to capture on camera. If you have the time, you might also have the opportunity to whale watch.
For more information on the reserve and general tariffs rates, please visit the SANParks website.
Columbine Nature Reserve (Tietiesbaai)
The 263-hectare reserve, located near to the fishing village of Paternosters, harbours diverse vegetation that are typical of West Coast veld, which ranges from common fynbos to Karoo succulents.With the coming of spring, the terrain becomes flecked with indigenous west coast flowers. Be taken on a journey of the senses; bask in the colour and aromas of this miraculous wonder.
Apart from the flowers, visitors can view the last manually controlled lighthouse built in South Africa in the reserve. Standing tall at a height of 80 metres, it guides ships to safety with a beam that is visible from 50 kilometres away.
Information on the surrounding regions, operating times and entrance fees, can be found one the sbm.gov website.
Places to stay in the region
Are you visiting the area and looking for places to stay for the night? We’ve got you covered!Take a look at these links for luxuriously comfortable accommodation that won’t break the bank:
Sunset Villas, The Shark Bay Hotel, Draaihoek Lodge.
Please note: deals were available and accurate at the time of publication.
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