Central Berg · Out and back
Gray’s Pass to Champagne Castle
Hard
The route
Up the boulder-choked Gray’s Pass past Nkosazana Cave onto the escarpment, then a gentle walk up to Champagne Castle at 3377 m — the second-highest point in South Africa. The cave makes this a genuinely comfortable overnight if you can get it.
Day by day
- Day 1
Monk’s Cowl → Nkosazana Cave
Contour path below Cathkin and Monk’s Cowl, steadily up the valley to Keith Bush Camp, then a short climb to the cave. Five to six hours at a relaxed pace.
- Day 2
Gray’s Pass → Champagne Castle → out
Two and a half hours of boulder-hopping to the top, an easy walk south to the summit, then all the way back down and out. A long day — leave the cave by 05:30.
What to expect
Terrain
Good path for two thirds, then Gray’s Pass: continuous boulders and a few scrambling steps. Nothing technical, but tiring with an overnight pack.
Descent
Coming down the pass is slower than going up. Trekking poles earn their place here.
Weather
Gray’s Pass funnels wind and turns into a watercourse in a downpour. If a storm is building, do not be in it.
Water
Good in the valley and at the cave. Nothing in the pass itself, and the escarpment is dry — carry 2 L from the cave.
The cave
Nkosazana books out weeks ahead for weekends. Have Keith Bush Camp as a plan B and carry a tent regardless.
Hazards
- Rockfall and loose boulders in the pass
- Storm runoff turning the gully into a stream
- Long committing day two with a big descent