Wolfberg Arch

The Wolfberg Arch stands on the plateau above Sanddrif in the Cederberg, a span of orange sandstone weathered free of the rock around it, framing sky and the mountains beyond - it is the single most photographed formation in the range. Getting there is the day: from the farm you climb to the Wolfberg Cracks, a system of narrow fissures in the cliff where the route goes up through chimneys and between boulders, sometimes requiring you to pass your pack ahead, and then across the plateau for several kilometres to the arch. The whole trip is around fifteen to eighteen kilometres return with a serious ascent, and route-finding on the plateau is by cairn. Water is scarce, summer heat is extreme, and people underestimate it every season. The alternative Wolfberg Cracks-only walk is shorter and still worthwhile.

What you actually see

• The free-standing arch - orange sandstone weathered into a span on the plateau.
• The Cracks route - narrow fissures and chimneys climbed to reach the top.
• The plateau crossing - kilometres of cairn-marked walking to the arch itself.
• The Cederberg colour - orange rock that intensifies at either end of the day.

When to go

March to May and September to November. A full day, starting early.

Honest expectations

This is a long, hot, unmarked walk with a scramble - not a casual outing. Permits are required. Water on the route is unreliable; carry three litres or more. Summer temperatures make it dangerous. The Cracks are tight and unsuitable for anyone claustrophobic.

Nearby

The Maltese Cross is on the other side of the range; Sanddrif farm is the base.