A birthday special
In Aug 2024 I turned 32. Over the last couple of years it has become a tradition to try and do something memorable in the month to commemorate another year around the sun.
I have done Du Toits Peak multiple times and thus decided I felt comfortable enough to go spend a night up there on my own to capture an epic sunset from one of the highest peaks in the Cape Town and Boland area.
The Climb
Du Toits peak has an elevation of 1,995m. My route would result in 1,600m vertical gain. I knew it would take me about 4hrs to reach the summit with an overnight pack from previous experiences. Thus the climb began. Hiking with the odd bit of rock scrambling I was treated to a spectacular display of clouds drifting in. It was time to get the camera out.
Over the next hour visibility decreased as the low clouds drifted in. Perfect cool hiking temperatures. My excitement grew as I ascended the peak since the cloud got thinner. I knew I was in for a treat.
Popping out above the clouds
One moment I was in the swirling mist and the next I felt sunshine dance on my face. I was now above the clouds. Anyone who has experienced this will know that these moments are what dreams are made up of. A shout of joy echoed across the mountain as I happily snapped a bunch of photos. I decided to head for the summit before sunset so I could catch the last rays from my sleeping spot for the night.
Summit
This was my 5th summit of this grand mountain. With no wind and a layer of low clouds as golden light filled the sky. Definitely the best conditions I have had up here. Standing on the highest point as far as the eye can see I counted myself extremely lucky to be able to witness such grandeur.
Home for the night
I found my sleeping spot for the night. A cave up high that we had discovered once when climbing the peak in the snow. With the light fading fast I made a delicious meal and set up my camera for a self portrait. Moments like these don’t come along very often and one has to put in an extreme amount of effort into planning and executing. But wow is it worth it.
I tucked into my warm sleeping bag for the evening and I can honestly say that it was one of the best nights I have had on the mountain. I felt like a monk in his cave meditating to the colours of the sunset while the world bellow me melted away.
Coffee time
After one of the most peaceful nights in the mountains I brewed a delicious pour over coffee. Sipping on my coffee I enjoyed watching the light as it slowly crept its way from the peak down into the valley.
Slowly I packed up my gear and started down. Sad to leave, but happy to know I will return.
Cheers to the mountains.