Yes, you need a permit. A CapeNature climbing permit is required to boulder at Rocklands, and daily access is capped at 100 climbers a day — so buy online before you come.
| Who issues it | CapeNature (Rocklands is on reserve land plus private farms) |
|---|---|
| Buy online | CapeNature booking on Quicket — the easiest way, especially in peak season |
| Buy in person | Kliphuis campsite office · de Pakhuys campsite office · Traveller's Rest farmstall |
| Daily cap | 100 climbers per day |
| Carry it | On you, at all times, on the rock |
| Price | Set by CapeNature and subject to change — check the current price |
Where do you buy a permit?
The simplest route is online, in advance, through CapeNature's booking channel on Quicket — do this before you leave home and it's one less thing to sort on arrival. If you'd rather buy in person, three places on the Pakhuis Pass road sell them:
- Kliphuis — CapeNature's campsite office.
- de Pakhuys — the campsite office.
- Traveller's Rest — the farmstall and restaurant. Your permit with your morning coffee.
How much does a permit cost?
The price is set by CapeNature and it changes from time to time, so rather than quote a figure that might be out of date, check the current amount on the CapeNature booking page when you buy. Permits come as day or multi-day tickets — if you're here for a full trip, the multi-day option saves queuing.
Is there a limit on how many climbers per day?
Yes — access is capped at 100 climbers a day. It's rarely a problem outside the peak, but through June to August, when Rocklands is busy with international climbers, it's genuinely worth buying online ahead of time rather than driving up and hoping. Plan the trip, not the gamble.
Access rules and area closures can change (parts of Rocklands have been closed for wildfire recovery in the past). Always confirm the current situation with CapeNature before you go — the link above is the source of truth, not this page.
Do the private farms need a separate permit?
Some sectors sit on private farmland (de Pakhuys and Traveller's Rest) under their own management, alongside the CapeNature reserve. In practice the CapeNature permit covers the reserve areas; for anything on a specific farm, check with that farm when you book your bed — the people at Traveller's Rest and de Pakhuys will point you right.
Last updated August 2026 · permit prices, caps and rules are set by CapeNature — confirm current details there