First Things First
This cache should only be attempted by fit and experienced hikers familiar with off-trail navigation and B-grade scrambling. Carry at least 2L of water per person as well as enough food to keep the energy levels up. Do not attempt in bad weather and be careful when the peak is covered in snow. Having someone along who has done the route before would also be a plus. Round trip distance is more or less 14km with 1700m of ascent and will take about 12 hours to complete at a leisurely pace.
Getting Access
To climb Du Toits Peak you will first need to get permission from the reserve manager, Deon Rossouw. You can contact him on 082 494 9707, 021 871 1535 or dross@capenature.co.za
Du Toits Peak is one of only two ultra-prominent peaks found in South Africa, the other being Seweweekspoort Peak. Both are located in the Western Cape and both form part of the Cape Fold Mountains. Although Seweweekspoort Peak is the highest of the two at 2325m, Du Toits Peak has a greater prominence of 1724m versus Seweweekspoort Peak's 1543m. It's also the highest peak in the Western Cape within direct sight of the ocean at an altitude of 1994m.
What is an ultra-prominent peak?
An ultra-prominent peak, or Ultra for short, is a peak that has a prominence of at least 1500m.
A peak's prominence can be described as the elevation difference between the summit of the peak and the lowest contour line that contains the given peak and no higher peaks. Quite a mouthful, but basically it's another way of measuring a mountain rather than the more common method of elevation above sea level. Generally, the higher a peak's prominence, the more it stands out from the surrounding terrain.
The Cache
The cache is a black container hidden behind a couple of rocks next to a narrow crack. It contains a logbook and pencil, but bring something to write with just in case. Please also make sure it's properly shut and hidden when done.
Route Description
The most convenient way to reach the summit is along the Pinnacle route. Unfortunately, access across the Elandspad farm to the start of this route is only granted to members of the Mountain Club of South Africa (MCSA). Another way, as described below, is to approach via the "A" ridge. This is a long, hot and somewhat bushy ridge and parking is also a bit of a problem. Nevertheless, the views are awesome with the peak constantly looming over you as you approach.
The "A" Ridge
The first challenge is finding a suitable parking space. You can either park next to the road or, if you're concerned about safety, at the Du Kloof Lodge. Parking at the lodge will unfortunately require a 3km walk along the road to the starting point.
Either way, once you're at the starting point, head up the hill near the pylons and follow the ridge ever upwards in a south-southwesterly direction. About halfway up the ridge, you'll reach a nice, shady patch of pines where you can have a rest and maybe even a picnic. From there the steepness increases a bit and the last section before reaching the Pinnacle route requires navigating your way around the sheer cliffs blocking the way. Once you reach the steep grassy slope, you'll join the well-cairned Pinnacle route leading to the summit.
