A Landmark First

Cederberg – The Book is the very first comprehensive account of these extraordinary mountains. Author Peter Slingsby shares his seventy-year encounter with the region—its people, politics, fauna, flora, cartography, and the haunting rock art of the San. Through his words, you immediately connect with the essence of the Cederberg: its dramatic rocks, wide skies, and the tang of its elusive cedar trees.

Richly Illustrated and Authentically Told

In addition, the book spans 256 pages and comes alive with brilliant photographs by Geoff Spiby and more than forty other contributors. It also features a special foreword by acclaimed author Don Pinnock, adding depth and perspective to this remarkable work.

Stories That Bring the Cederberg to Life

Moreover, the contents combine myth and history, blending true stories of the mountains with the struggles to save the iconic cedar trees. You will also meet the animals and plants embedded in the names of kloofs, rivers, and windswept vlaktes. Each story deepens your sense of place.

Adventures and Ancient Art

Finally, the book guides you through favorite walks, hikes, and drives, while also exploring rock climbing in its many forms. Many pages are devoted to the region’s rock art. It traces its roots and reveals what it teaches us about both its creators and our shared human past.

‘This is without doubt one of the best books ever written about the Cederberg… it’s a personal, passionate reckoning with a place that has defined much of the author’s life.’ —Don Pinnock

Foreword by Dr Don Pinnock

For over half a century, Peter Slingsby has mapped not just the Cederberg’s ridges and rivers, but its history, stories and spirit. His maps—and now this book—capture the layers of ecology, culture and memory that define the mountains.

Combining personal essays, trail notes, rock art, interviews and superb photography, it is both a guide and a love letter to the Cederberg. This volume celebrates a lifetime of exploration by South Africa’s legendary mapmaker and storyteller. Indeed, Cederberg the book is a tribute to his indelible imprint on the region.

Preface

After nearly 70 years of exploring the Cederberg, Peter Slingsby finally set down his memories, stories and research while unexpectedly bedridden. Drawing on decades as a cartographer, he weaves together history, place names, photographs and personal insights.

This creates a book for both seasoned hikers and newcomers. His work on Cederberg the book cements his legacy as a key figure in documenting the area.

Contents of the book

Cederberg the book by Peter Slingsby is best enjoyed alongside the Slingsby/Tracks4Africa Hike and Climb the Cederberg map. It offers a rich and intimate guide to these remarkable mountains.