Rim of Africa | Traverse 2
This favourite traverse is the first taste of what the Cape Fold Mountains offer outside of the Cederberg, and the off-trail nature of the rest of the Rim journey. The terrain varies from off-path hiking to short sections of jeep track on Day 2, mostly through virgin fynbos and rocky terrain. With incredible views each day, you might feel as if you’re in the Drakensberg one moment or the Fish River Canyon the next. From fynbos to hanging valleys, rock mazes, and crystal pools, this 6-day traverse reveals an unexpected variety of Cape mountain landscapes.
Beauty: 5/5
Difficulty (fitness): 10+/10 (Extremely tough, both physically and mentally)
Technical rating: Mostly off-trail hiking with dense fynbos, uneven terrain, steep ascents, descents, and rock-hopping.
Duration: 6 days
Photo by Fiona Ayerst.
Day 1
The start of Traverse 2 delivers an early surprise: a steep ascent of a mountain saddle above Middelberg Pass, followed by a descent through fynbos to a grassy campsite beside a gushing stream and shaded by old oaks. Though short, Day 1 is demanding — the 600 m climb and descent quickly separate seasoned hikers from day-trailers. Even those breezing through Traverse 1 will feel the tougher, off-trail challenge here.
A long climb to the saddle awaits hikers on Day 1. @daniapea
Day 2
The day begins with a quick scramble to a cave overlooking the campsite, then follows the old Ceres–Citrusdal pass track — now overgrown and requiring some “bundu-bashing.” You’ll walk alongside a stream for much of the day, past an ancient tree marked by leopard claws, with a cold rockpool for lunch. After a river crossing, camp is set among kopjies beside deep pools perfect for a refreshing dip.
The picturesque Day 2 campsite beside the Olifants River. @daniapea
Day 3
The third day defines the spirit of Traverse 2 — a climb into the Kouebokkeveld Mountains and away from civilization. Lunch offers final views of the southern Cederberg before a saddle crossing and steep descent into a wild ravine. The path then opens into a vast valley framed by sculpted mountains — a magnificent campsite setting.
Admiring the mighty mountains before descending into the valley. @kirstykirstx
The steep descent to camp on Day 3. @rimofafrica
Day 4
Day 4 reveals the full grandeur of the Kouebokkeveld. Off-trail contour walking across steep ravines and scree slopes offers exhilarating climbs and panoramic rewards. As you crest the high ridges, look for Table Mountain on the far horizon at sunset — a humbling reminder of the Cape’s vastness.
Steep ravines and scree slopes define Day 4. @kirstykirstx
From the summit, the view stretches toward Traverse 3. @daniapea
The treasure found in high places. @daniapea
Day 5
We continue through untouched Kouebokkeveld wilderness, navigating grey-orange boulders and descending from the highest points through a maze of rock tiers. It’s a slow, meditative day — each footstep a reminder of the vast beauty that surrounds you.
The wild, isolated beauty of Day 5. @daniapea
Our final campsite sits on the eastern edge of the mountains, framed by boulders with views toward the Skurweberge of Traverse 3. As the stars appear, hikers share stories, laughter, and the bittersweet wish to remain in this mountain sanctuary.
Campfire reflections at day’s end. @daniapea
Day 6
A short descent brings hikers to the pick-up point. Before leaving the high country, the group pauses — forming a circle facing the mountains — to give thanks for the journey completed and the wilderness experienced.
Breathtaking vistas crown the final day of Traverse 2. @rimofafrica
A Note on the Difficulty of Rim of Africa
Hiking South Africa’s difficulty rating uses the Amatola Trail as a 10/10 benchmark — and most of the Rim traverses exceed it. Rim of Africa is not a single “trail” but a demanding off-path mountain traverse, and conditions vary yearly depending on weather and route. This is a journey for experienced, self-reliant hikers seeking true wilderness adventure.
For more information, visit rimofafrica.co.za.