Where to snow hunt this winter near Cape Town

Time Out

5 days ago

Matroosberg Nature Reserve, close to Ceres
🕒 Around 2 hours from Cape Town
Matroosberg is often covered with snow when strong cold fronts hit during the winter months. Snowfall can stick around for a bit, and the higher slopes (accessible via a 4x4, depending on the conditions) make this snow-hunting adventure a real treat.
Expect proper winter vibes here with snowball fights, snowy hikes, and cosy stay options on the Erfdeel farm.
While you're visiting, consider bringing old clothes, blankets, or empty yoghurt containers, as the farm conordinates donations for the Touwsrivier Soup Kitchen.
Hottentots Holland Nature Reserve
🕒 Around 2 hours from Cape Town
When conditions are just right, trails and the surrounding areas transform into mini winter wonderlands. You'll find the entrance to the reserve at Nuweberg, on Viljoen's Pass between Grabouw and Villiersdorp. Why not add some spin to your snow day with a Cape Canopy Tour.
All in all, you'll find a delightful selection of things to do on colder days, with Elgin serving up excellent wine farms to explore and the Railway market is worth a stop in.
Koue Bokkeveld, close to Ceres
🕒 About 1.5 hours from Cape Town
The Koue Bokkeveld is a high-altitude plateau north of Ceres, known for its cold winters and regular snowfall.
This rural farming area experiences some of the lowest temperatures in the Western Cape, often seeing snow-covered fields and mountain slopes during winter months.
It's a quieter spot for snow lovers seeking peaceful landscapes and authentic country charm, with opportunities for scenic drives, hiking, and exploring small farming communities.
Fun fact: The name Koue Bokkeveld literally means 'cold buck field', and it's no exaggeration.
Cederberg Mountains
🕒 Around 3 hours from Cape Town
The Cederberg doesn't get as much snow as Matroosberg, but when it does, wow!
The combination of red rock, blue skies, and white snow is unreal. Keep an eye on the forecast, especially around Algeria and Sanddrif.
Witzenberg Valley, close to Tulbagh
🕒 Around 1.5 hours from Cape Town
While snow in the town itself is rare, the mountains that cradle Tulbagh, especially the Obiqua and Witzenberg ranges often get a dusting in winter.
It's the perfect low-effort snow chase. Warm up with wine tastings and stroll through one of SA's best-preserved heritage towns, which also happens to be the ideal gateway to the wider Cederberg area and Route 62.