South Africa is renowned for its epic landscapes, and if you’re craving adventure with a dash of breathtaking views, the Maltese Cross Hike in the Cederberg is an absolute must.
Whether you’re an experienced hiker or just someone looking to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Western Cape, this hike promises an unforgettable day in one of the country's most stunning mountain ranges.
Located just a couple of hours from Cape Town, the Cederberg is a hiker’s dream come true, offering rugged terrain, jagged rock formations, and some of the best hiking routes South Africa has to offer. The Maltese Cross Hike is one of the highlights, and trust me, you’ll be itching to lace up your boots once you hear more!
Quick Facts
- Difficulty: Easy to moderate (perfect for most fitness levels)
- Distance: Approximately 7 km
- Duration: 3-4 hours, including breaks to snap some epic photos
- Best time to hike: April to September (spring and autumn are ideal – mild weather with stunning landscapes)
- Location: Near Dwarsrivier Farm, Cederberg Wilderness Area
The Maltese Cross Hike is the epitome of a perfect day-hike. With a relatively easy 7 km round trip, it’s accessible for hikers of varying experience levels and makes for a fantastic adventure for families, couples, or even solo explorers.
What makes it even better is the iconic Maltese Cross rock formation that awaits you at the end of the trail—a natural wonder that seems like it’s been carved by ancient hands, standing tall against the vast mountain backdrop.
Setting Out on the Trail: An Adventure Awaits!
The hike starts near the Dwarsrivier Farm, where you’ll need to obtain a permit for access (don’t worry, the fee is minimal, and it goes toward preserving the area – you can purchase a permit at the Sanddrif Holiday Resort). Once you’ve got your permit, you’re good to go!
As you set off, the trail meanders through gorgeous mountain scenery. Expect to be surrounded by rugged beauty—vast, untouched wilderness and dramatic rock formations as far as the eye can see. There are also seasonal streams and patches of fynbos along the way, adding an extra touch of colour and life to the arid landscape.
You’ll soon start to understand why the Cederberg is such a beloved hiking destination. The trail is peaceful, but full of surprises, with rocky outcrops, mini-climbs, and scenic viewpoints along the way. Though there’s some elevation gain, it’s manageable and keeps things interesting without being overwhelming.
After about an hour of hiking, you’ll catch your first glimpse of the Maltese Cross. As it comes into view, you’ll be left in awe by this natural sculpture—a towering, cross-shaped rock that seems to rise out of nowhere, perfectly framed by the surrounding mountain ranges. You’ll definitely want to pause here for a moment (or two... or ten) to snap some epic photos and take in the incredible sight.
What’s Next? More Adventures in the Cederberg!
Though the Maltese Cross Hike is a great standalone adventure, there’s so much more to explore in the Cederberg! If you’ve still got some energy after the hike or you’re planning a longer stay, here are some other must-do activities in the area:
1. Wine Tasting at Cederberg Private Cellar
Did someone say wine tasting after a hike? Yes, please! The Cederberg region is also home to the Cederberg Private Cellar, South Africa’s highest vineyard. After your hike, why not treat yourself to some world-class wines? Nestled among the mountains, the cellar offers a variety of award-winning reds and whites, and the views from the tasting room are spectacular. Whether you're a wine connoisseur or just love a good glass of vino, this is the perfect way to relax and soak in the beauty of the Cederberg.
2. Camping at Sanddrif
If you’re in the mood for more than a day trip, consider camping at Sanddrif, located on Dwarsrivier Farm. This campsite is ideal for those looking to extend their time in the Cederberg and explore more of its trails and attractions. With clean facilities, stunning views, and that unbeatable feeling of being completely immersed in nature, Sanddrif is the perfect base to reconnect with the outdoors. There’s also a range of hiking routes to explore from the camp, including the Wolfberg Arch and Cracks, which are equally stunning.
3.The Cederberg Observatory
For the stargazers among us, you absolutely must visit the Cederberg Observatory. With minimal light pollution, the night skies in the Cederberg are some of the clearest in the country. The observatory offers public viewings on Saturday evenings, where you’ll have the chance to gaze at the stars, planets, and distant galaxies through powerful telescopes. It’s an incredible experience that rounds off a day of hiking and exploring perfectly. After all, what’s better than ending your day under the brilliant, unspoiled stars?
Don’t Miss Kardoesie on Your Way Back
As your adventure-filled day comes to an end and you start making your way back to Cape Town, there’s one last stop you absolutely have to make: Kardoesie. This quaint and charming farmstall and restaurant is located near the N7 and offers hearty, delicious meals that will refuel your energy after your hiking escapades.
Whether you’re in the mood for a decadent breakfast, a freshly baked pastry, or their famous roosterkoek, Kardoesie is the perfect spot to relax, eat, and reminisce about your day in the Cederberg. The warm, welcoming atmosphere and farm-style hospitality make it a favourite for locals and travellers alike.
The Perfect Day-Hike Adventure
The Maltese Cross Hike is an unforgettable experience and is just one of the many gems waiting to be discovered in the Cederberg. Whether you're an avid hiker, a casual adventurer, or someone just looking to soak up the beauty of nature, this hike offers something for everyone. The trail is the perfect balance between challenge and enjoyment, with a rewarding end that will have you telling everyone about your incredible day out in the mountains.
And with so many other amazing things to do in the Cederberg—whether it’s wine tasting, stargazing at the observatory, or simply enjoying the stillness of the mountains—your trip to the Cederberg is bound to be full of fun, energy, and memories to last a lifetime.
So, grab your gear, hit the trail, and make a stop at Kardoesie on the way home. Trust me, you won’t regret it!
By Courtney Lodewyk
Pretoria Shop Assistant- Climber. Hiker. Runner. Yoga is life.