Bushmans Kloof, So. Africa, Continues Conservation Efforts

Patrick Lane, Conservation Manager of Cederberg Wilderness, Cape Nature, stated, “Approximately 1500 trees were successfully planted in conjunction with Bushmans Kloof, in an effort to increase the density within the Cederberg area.

“About 30 years ago, some cedar trees were planted on top of the ridge near to where we planted this year, and we were delighted to find clear evidence that there is now natural regeneration of these trees – proving that this project has the potential to make a real difference in helping to save the cedar tree from extinction.”

In what has now become a significant annual botanical and community conservation event, the Cedar Treeplanting involves the community members of Heuningvlei, as well as children from local primary schools where the project forms an integral part of environmental and conservation education. Members of local groups such as the Botanical Society, the Wildflower Society and the Cederberg Conservancy also participated to show their support for the project.

The endemic Clanwilliam cedar tree occurs only in the Cederberg mountains, some 250km north of Cape Town. It represents one of 1 000 surviving conifer species in the world and is categorized as endangered on the Red Data List, as it is facing a very high risk of extinction in the wild.

About Bushmans Kloof
Bushmans Kloof is a luxurious ecological oasis of 18,533 acres (7,500 hectare), situated at the foothills of the breathtaking Cederberg mountains. Here majestic views, staggering rock formations, open plains, invigorating outdoor activities, 16 luxurious rooms and suites, award-winning Cape cuisine and a wellness experiencedeeply rooted in Nature, all combine to create an unforgettable, luxury wilderness adventure.

Less than three hours’ drive from Cape Town, it is unequivocally recognized as a conservation success story, and was awarded the Relais & Châteaux Environment Trophy (2007), in recognition of its exceptionalenvironmental and conservation projects. In 2009, it was the Global Winner of Wildlife Conservations Programs in the prestigious Condé Nast Traveler World Savers Awards.

Malaria- and predator-free, Bushmans Kloof is a sanctuary for many indigenous plants, animals and birds, including the endangered Cape mountain zebra. It is also home to over 130 San rock art sites, is recognized as one of South Africa’s Natural Heritage Sites, and is part of the Cape Floral Kingdom. It bases its entire business ethos on preserving the precious natural environment, while providing guests with the ultimate African wilderness experience in the beautiful surroundings of the Cederberg Wilderness Area, which forms part of the Cape Floral Region – a recognized World Heritage site.

A mere 270km from Cape Town, the five-star Relais & Châteaux lodge, voted Best Hotel in the World 2009 (Travel+Leisure), is renowned for its warm, caring service and exceptional hospitality. In 2010 it was listed on the coveted Condé Nast Traveler USA, as one of the Top 50 Resorts in Africa in the World’s Best Awards, and for the past three years (2010 – 2012), was included in the Condé Nast Traveller UK Gold List for Best Hotels for Food in Africa, Middle East and the Indian Ocean.