Keeping it wild in the Cederberg

In the heart of the Cederberg, over 200 nature enthusiasts gathered recently at Driehoek Guest Farm for the second annual Keeping it Wild in Cederberg weekend. The event was conceived by CN&CO’s Blake Dyason, who is also the founder of Love our Trails, and Dawie Burger, farm manager at Driehoek Guest Farm. Blake put this blog together…

It’s not surprising that Cederberg has seen a surge in tourism in recent years. However, this influx brings its own set of challenges, from littering to graffiti, threatening the very essence of this pristine landscape. As I wandered through the Wolfberg Cracks and witnessed ancient rock art defaced by modern vandalism, it became evident that education and engagement are paramount in safeguarding these natural treasures.

The Keeping it Wild in Cederberg weekend seeks to bridge the gap between conservationists and outdoor enthusiasts, leading to a deeper appreciation for the wilderness and its delicate ecosystems.

The weekend was all about sharing knowledge and creating experiences to build a connection to nature with the goal to protect it. With 10 inspiring speakers sharing their expertise and passion, attendees were treated to a wealth of knowledge spanning from leopard conservation to fossils and the intricate world of endemic freshwater fish. Each talk underlined how connected and sensitive the ecosystem is, which is what makes the Cederberg so special.

The highlight of the weekend was the planting of 1 000 cedar trees – our way of demonstrating our commitment to reforestation and biodiversity conservation. Spearheaded by Sustainable Ceder and planted by the volunteers, we were able to breathe new life into the landscape, one sapling at a time.

The festivities kicked off on Friday evening as guests gathered around a crackling bonfire – enjoying locally brewed beer by the Cederberg Brewery, wine from Driehoek and Cederberg, and kombucha from Culture Lab – to hear the first five talks.

As Saturday dawned, the 80 volunteers set out to conquer the mountains, armed with cedar saplings and the determination to make a difference. While the adults planted trees, the children dived into a world of discovery, with attractions ranging from reptiles and bugs to virtual reality encounters with ancient rock art, before planting cedar trees of their own.

As I reflect on the Keeping it Wild in Cederberg weekend, I’m reminded that the future of our wilderness lies not in isolation, but in collaboration. Together, we can find a way for humans and nature to coexist, where every footprint leaves a legacy of stewardship and respect.

To all who made this weekend possible, from sponsors to speakers to volunteers, I extend my heartfelt gratitude. We will never be able to measure the full impact of this weekend, but because of you we managed to make a positive impact that will benefit the Cederberg for years to come.

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A quick thank you to some of the people and brands that made it possible. Driehoek, Love our Trails, Cederberg Wines, Cederberg Breweries, The Diamond Works, Culture Lab Kumbucha, Cape Leopard Trust, Cape Nature, Cederberg Conservancy.