How to get there
The easiest way to get to the peak is to start at the entrance to the Mont Rochelle Nature Reserve and from there making your way towards Perdekop. Once on Perdekop, have some breakfast before continuing. To the North-West you should see Wemmershoek Peak, but don't let its size or distance discourage you. After regaining your spirits, head down the eastern side of Perdekop where you'll spot the first set of cairns that will guide you for the rest of the way.
Of course you could always skip Perdekop altogether and start the traverse sooner if you went up via the Uitkyk-Perdekop trail. This is done by splitting off the main trail on top of the hill just before crossing the stream near Perdekop. A large boundary cairn will mark the spot. Head in a north-northeasterly direction across the grassy hill and join the ridge on the other side.
The remaining 4km trek consists mainly of following the ridge and crossing a few saddles along the way, however the terrain is fairly easy going with only a couple of steep pulls required now and then. There is one tricky section just before the last saddle at the base of the peak which requires some caution, but otherwise it's mostly straightforward as long as you're on the right path.
Please take note
- A permit at R40pp is required to enter the Mont Rochelle Nature Reserve. See their website for more information.
- Take the trail that will require you the least amount of time and effort to reach Perdekop. This way you'll have enough time and energy left to tackle the traverse between Perdekop and Wemmershoek Peak. I suggest going up via the Breakfast Rock-Uitkyk-Perdekop trail. It's longer, but less steep.
- The trail officially ends at Perdekop, so it would be wise to have a plotted route for the traverse on your GPS. If the clouds roll in, it's very easy to get lost as the cairns are few and far between.
- Depending on the route taken and your pathfinding skills, total trip distance can vary anywhere from 18 to 20+km. This means it might take you 9-12 hours to complete, so an early start is advised.
- Combined with a total elevation gain of up to 2000m, this hike can be rated EXTREME.
- Take enough water along with you, including food. There are no reliable water sources after Perdekop.
- Good, comfortable shoes and warm clothing are required, even in summer, and in winter there is also the chance of snow so come prepared.
- Strong to gale force winds are frequent on these mountains. I would not recommend attempting the climb if the mountain is covered in clouds, you might get blown off a cliff. Best to do this one on a clear day.
- The cache contains a logbook and writing sticks along with a couple of trinkets. Make sure the container is latched and concealed once you're done.
- Enjoy the Hike!
