Tales from the rock
Céline Cousteau, ambassador for the TreadRight Foundation and advocate for global sustainability and the environment, shares the remarkable history of the rock art waiting to be discovered at Bushmans Kloof.
Situated three hours’ drive north of Cape Town, Bushmans Kloof is a wilderness reserve cradled by South Africa’s rugged Cederberg Mountains; a place of ancient rock art, pristine landscapes and unfiltered natural beauty. A member of The Red Carnation Hotel Collection, this family-owned lodge and reserve offers a uniquely African experience. Set within a 7500-hectare private reserve, Bushmans Kloof combines five-star luxury and inspired South African cuisine with memorable days spent discovering wide-open plains, wildlife and pristine mountain wilderness. Guests at Bushmans Kloof enjoy unique access to more than 130 ancient rock art sites, designated a Grade 1 South African National Heritage Site, and the opportunity to discover the region’s ancient San culture in the company of experienced local guides.
Céline Cousteau, ambassador for the TreadRight Foundation and advocate for global sustainability and the environment, shares the remarkable history of the rock art waiting to be discovered at Bushmans Kloof.
The geology of the Cederberg Mountains dates back more than 500-million years, and today these rugged peaks and sandy plains are famous for the otherworldly landscape of sandstone rocks sculpted by millennia of rain, sun and wind. These valleys were once lush, home to large herds of elephant and prides of lion, while the long-extinct quagga roamed alongside the mighty eland. The passage of time, and the animals that once inhabited these hills, is marked on the walls of caves and overhangs in the ancient San rock art, with some sites on the reserve dating back 10,000 years.
We pride ourselves on delivering authentic South African hospitality. That begins with empowering our team, led by General Manager, Jacques le Roux, to make a difference. By offering exceptionally considerate attention to detail and a South African ‘Welkom’ as warm as our balmy weather, we strive to make your experience truly remarkable. A favourite welcome drink on arrival, fresh-cut bouquets in the suites, candlelit in-room dining with a view, and personalised gifts all create a cosseting experience that makes guests feel truly valued.
Bushmans Kloof offers a wilderness experience entirely unique in South Africa. Combining pristine mountain landscapes with indigenous wildlife, guests enjoy exclusive access to more than 130 ancient San rock art sites, combined with the unique opportunity to discover the origin and culture of Africa’s oldest tribe. The award-winning lodge offers five-star luxury and gracious hospitality, alongside an array of unforgettable dining experiences.
Bushmans Kloof offers a wealth of opportunities to rest and rejuvenate. Find serenity and wellness in The Spa, soak up the great outdoors with a wilderness walk, or sip on fine South African wine. However you choose to spend your days, our passionate and enthusiastic team is on hand to create an unforgettable Cederberg experience.
Look forward to an array of culinary experiences during your stay at Bushmans Kloof, from fine dining in the historic Homestead to flame-grilled feasts served beneath star-spangled African skies. The talented lodge chefs draw inspiration from local culinary traditions and flavours, while our organic kitchen gardens provide bountiful seasonal produce.