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
Roll-out of baboon-proof bins to start as northern fence gets under way
The Cape Peninsula Baboon Management Joint Task Team is pleased to announce key developments related to the practical implementation of the approved Cape Peninsula Baboon Strategic Management Plan (CPBSMP). The Action Plan that guides the practical implementation of the CPBSMP was approved by SANParks, CapeNature, and the City of Cape Town in November 2025.
Explore the Western Cape for free this Access Week – Nature is for Everyone
A week of free access to some of the Western Cape’s most spectacular natural spaces is on offer this September, as CapeNature opens the gates to selected nature reserves for its 12th annual Access Week. Taking place from 19–25 September 2026 under the theme “Nature is for Everyone”, Access Week invites individuals, families and communities to explore participating reserves without paying a conservation entry fee.
CapeNature extends cashless payments to more nature reserves
Building on the success of its initial rollout, CapeNature will extend its cashless payment system to a further five nature reserves in September 2026, in line with its ongoing commitment to service excellence, sustainability and safety. Following the successful transition to cashless payments at Robberg, Keurbooms, Stony Point, Bird Island and Walker Bay nature reserves earlier this year, CapeNature will expand the cashless payment system to reach more visitors across the Western Cape.
CapeNature updates fees for commercial filming across its reserves
From fynbos-covered mountains and indigenous forests to rugged coastlines and Marine Protected Areas, CapeNature’s reserves have long provided a diverse backdrop for local and international film and television productions. From 1 October 2026, CapeNature is updating its commercial filming tariff structure to better align fees with the scale of productions and the demands they place on protected area management.
Western Cape communities called to join the 2026 #DontBeTrashy Drive
CapeNature in collaboration with the Department of Environmental Affairs and Development Planning is calling on communities, schools, businesses and visitors across the Western Cape to take part in the annual #DontBeTrashy Drive, running from 1—30 September 2026. The month-long campaign aims to reduce waste, protect biodiversity and raise public awareness about the growing impact of pollution on the Province’s land, rivers
Stony Point workshops equip tour guides to deliver informed and responsible eco-tourism experiences
CapeNature has brought tour guides and tourism operators together at Stony Point Nature Reserve to strengthen their knowledge of the site and support more informed and responsible visitor experiences. The first-ever CapeNature tour guide and operator workshops were held at Stony Point on 26 and 27 August, covering the reserve’s history, biodiversity, African Penguin colony, conservation work, and