Cottage 11 - Cederberg Wilderness Area

Cottage 11 is a safari lodge near Cederberg Wilderness Area.

Location
Cederberg Wilderness Area, Western Cape & Garden Route, South Africa, Southern Africa
Coordinates
-32.337334, 19.021473
Activities
lodge

PlnrScore: 29/100

Wildlife Near This Lodge

1795 species observed within 20 km, 34 mammals, 104 birds.

  • Clanwilliam Cedar (Plantae, 404 observations)
  • Wagon Tree (Plantae, 287 observations)
  • Grey Sugarbush (Plantae, 250 observations)
  • Grey Conebush (Plantae, 181 observations)
  • Bokkeveld Sceptre (Plantae, 162 observations)
  • Southern Rock Agama (Reptilia, 103 observations)
  • Cape River Frog (Amphibia, 103 observations)
  • Sticky Storksbill (Plantae, 101 observations)
  • Poorflower Babooncabbage (Plantae, 100 observations)
  • Rocket Pincushion (Plantae, 99 observations)

Best Time to Visit Cottage 11

The best months to visit Cottage 11 are January, February, March, based on temperature, rainfall, weather conditions, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Month-by-Month Safari Conditions

  • January: Great, temperature 19.02°C, rainfall 21.4mm, sunshine 13.4 hrs, humidity 44.3%
  • February: Great, temperature 18.62°C, rainfall 13.4mm, sunshine 12.6 hrs, humidity 43.8%
  • March: Great, temperature 16°C, rainfall 48.4mm, sunshine 11.4 hrs, humidity 51.7%
  • April: Great, temperature 13.27°C, rainfall 25.8mm, sunshine 10.4 hrs, humidity 49.7%
  • May: Good, temperature 10.19°C, rainfall 45.5mm, sunshine 9.4 hrs, humidity 52.1%
  • June: Poor, temperature 7.15°C, rainfall 161.1mm, sunshine 8 hrs, humidity 65.8%
  • July: Good, temperature 5.1°C, rainfall 120.3mm, sunshine 8.4 hrs, humidity 65.8%
  • August: Good, temperature 5.63°C, rainfall 93.6mm, sunshine 9.3 hrs, humidity 65.2%
  • September: Good, temperature 7.44°C, rainfall 53.8mm, sunshine 10.4 hrs, humidity 62%
  • October: Great, temperature 12.62°C, rainfall 33.5mm, sunshine 12.1 hrs, humidity 50.5%
  • November: Great, temperature 13.78°C, rainfall 42.1mm, sunshine 12.6 hrs, humidity 51.5%
  • December: Great, temperature 15.56°C, rainfall 41.9mm, sunshine 13.2 hrs, humidity 52.3%

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of wildlife can I expect to see when staying at Cottage 11 near the Cederberg Wilderness Area?

While Cederberg is not a Big Five destination, guests at Cottage 11 can often spot unique species like the Cape mountain zebra, various antelope, baboons, and a rich diversity of birdlife. Keep an eye out for elusive predators such as caracal or even leopard, though sightings are rare and require patience.

What is the best time of year to visit Cottage 11 for an optimal Cederberg experience?

The ideal time to visit Cottage 11 is during autumn (March-May) or spring (September-November) when temperatures are milder, perfect for hiking and exploring. Spring also brings spectacular wildflower displays, while summers (December-February) can be very hot, and winters (June-August) are cold with potential for rain.

What unique activities can guests enjoy directly from Cottage 11, given its proximity to the Cederberg Wilderness Area?

From Cottage 11, guests have direct access to various hiking trails leading to ancient San rock art sites and unique rock formations like the Maltese Cross. The clear, unpolluted night skies also make it an exceptional location for stargazing, and some trails lead to refreshing natural rock pools for swimming.

How accessible is Cottage 11, and what travel arrangements or vehicle type are recommended for reaching the lodge?

Cottage 11 is typically accessed by road, approximately a 2.5 to 3-hour drive north-east from Cape Town. While much of the route is tarred, the final stretch to the lodge often involves gravel roads, so a high-clearance vehicle is recommended for comfort and ease of access.

What kind of unique experience should I expect at Cottage 11, differentiating it from a typical South African safari lodge?

Cottage 11 offers a distinct wilderness experience focused on the dramatic landscapes, unique flora, and ancient history of the Cederberg, rather than traditional Big Five game viewing. Expect tranquility, breathtaking rock formations, opportunities for hiking and exploring San rock art, and exceptional stargazing in a rugged, pristine environment.

Other Safari Lodges in Cederberg Wilderness Area

Parks in Western Cape & Garden Route

Health & Travel Info

Health & vaccination info for South Africa

Travel advisory for South Africa