What you need to know: Bouldering in Rocklands Cederberg, South Africa
It’s a crisp, sunny Winter’s morning in a far-flung corner of the Western Cape.
Despite the early hour and the cold conditions blanketing the Pakhuis Pass, at the northern-most tip of the Cederberg mountains, the air is filled with cheering and whoops of elation.
The landscape here is punctuated by countless free-standing sandstone boulders, intricately carved into fine-featured natural sculptures by the elements of wind and water that have battered these formations for millenia.
Gathering between these sculptures are climbers who’ve flocked to the region from across the country - and from around the world - to see if they have what it takes to get on top of these behemoth rocks.
The Pakhuis Pass as well as the Agter-Pakhuis valley beyond it, are known as Rocklands: one of the world’s premier bouldering destinations.
Here, a timeless landscape of rugged rock invites outdoor adventurers to explore; to test their skills against the multitude of bouldering challenges; to rope up for some world-class sandstone lead-climbing; or simply to go for a walk through the ancient and unspoiled landscape.
This treasure-trove of natural wonders is just over three hours from Cape Town - putting you well withing reach of experiencing this one-of-a-kind wilderness first-hand.
There are also several accommodation facilities and types available, so whether you’re into camping, glamping or would rather stay warmer in a stone cottage, the farms around Rocklands have it all for you!
Rocklands also includes the areas at CapeNature’s Kliphuis, and partner properties at de Pakhuys, Traveller's Rest,Kleinfontein, Eight Day Rain.
For bouldering enthusiasts, booking accommodation online ahead of time offers convenience, peace of mind, and the opportunity to better plan and manage your bouldering adventure in the Cederberg.
All areas within Cape Nature and on Private property in Rocklands are accessible only with a valid permit. After purchasing your permit, make sure to print a hard copy or keep a digital version of it handy on your phone so that you have it with you throughout your expedition.
Get your permit now: https://tinyurl.com/2ssp37de
Related News
Damara Trail Wins Silver Award at International Tourism Film Festival Africa 2025
CapeNature is proud to announce that its Damara Trail video series has won the Silver Award in the Tourism – Products category at the prestigious International Tourism Film Festival Africa (ITFFA) 2025.
CapeNature’s videos stood out for their compelling storytelling, visual excellence, and ability to capture the essence of nature-based tourism in the Western Cape.
“We are incredibly proud that the Damara Trail videos have been recognised on an international platform. This award helps to underline our commitment to sustainable tourism offerings. Much like the Damara Trail itself, the video helps to tell the unique history and story of the Waenhuiskrans area to visitors both far and near,” said Sheraaz Ismail, Executive Director: Eco-Tourism and Access.
Climbing in Rocklands this Season? Here’s What You Need to Know After the Cederberg Fire
The Cederberg, a protected wilderness area managed by CapeNature and home to some of the most iconic climbing and bouldering routes in South Africa, was recently impacted by a wildfire that began on 7 March 2025. The fire ignited near Krakadouw Peak and burned for 13 days, before being fully contained on 20 March. In total, it scorched 20,834 hectares, spanning 97 kilometers of fire line, and included damage to the Rocklands “Bouldering Area” — a popular climbing zone. As a result of the fire, several popular climbing sectors and access routes have been damaged or are temporarily inaccessible.
The Big Biodiversity Challenge is back – Learners Tackle Biodiversity Crisis in Provincial Competition
The Western Cape Environmental Education Friends (WCEEF), together with members CapeNature, SANBI, Nature Connect, SANParks, Working on Fire, the City of Cape Town, The Environmental Education Association of Southern Africa (EEASA) and the Two Oceans Aquarium, is thrilled to announce the return of its successful competition for children in grades 6 – 9.
CapeNature's vision - Protecting biodiversity for a sustainable future
Biodiversity forms the bedrock of life on Earth. It is essential not only for sustaining healthy ecosystems but also for ensuring human wellbeing. Last week, on 22 May, we celebrated International Day for Biological Diversity, to raise awareness, educate, and build understanding around biodiversity issues, while inspiring collective effort to conserve it for future generations.
Task team briefs Cape Peninsula Baboon Advisory Group on progress and way forward
The Cape Peninsula Baboon Management Joint Task Team (CPBMJTT) consisting of representatives from SANParks, CapeNature, and the City of Cape Town, hosted its second meeting with the Cape Peninsula Baboon Advisory Group (CPBAG) on 27 May 2025. The Shark Spotters who are implementing selected operational tasks under the banner of the Cape Baboon Partnership, also provided feedback on progress and challenges with the implementation of the Cape Peninsula Baboon Strategic Management Plan.
Record-breaking pine clearing operation strengthens water security at Boosmansbos
A successful HeliHack operation has cleared 15 194 invasive pine trees from the rugged slopes of the Boosmansbos Wilderness Area – a CapeNature-managed World Heritage Site and crucial catchment area feeding the Duivenhoks Dam.
From 3–5 May 2025, the latest mission to tackle the invasive alien vegetation marked the most successful pine removal in the initiative’s history.
How can I assist you today?
How can I assist you today?