Rocklands is waiting for you

Welcome to Rocklands Basecamp!

The perfect climbers’ hangout nestled in the heart of the Cederberg, just 30 km from Clanwilliam and 255 km from Cape Town along the scenic N7 road. Beyond the Pakhuis pass lies our haven in the Agterpakhuis valley—a true paradise for climbers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Rocklands Basecamp came about thanks to a decades long dream of Alex Bester. Alex is a seasoned professional mountain guide, who has spent many years exploring the Cederberg himself. Alex saw a need for a space made for climbers by climbers, and from there Rocklands Basecamp was born.

Boasting over 60 sport climbing routes, and on-site boulders, Rocklands Basecamp serves as the perfect launchpad for exploring the diverse bouldering, sport climbing and trad climbing areas within the Cederberg. Whether you are a novice eager to learn the ropes or a seasoned climber seeking a new challenge, Rocklands Basecamp is the perfect place to come to gather intel, meet climbing partners, hire a guide, or simply enjoy Rocklands’ bouldering scene with your friends.

Discover the Bester Crag, our on-site climbing area boasting a collection of established routes of various difficulty levels. Here, you can hone your skills, push your limits, and revel in the thrill of scaling heights surrounded by the breath taking beauty of the Cederberg.

Rocklands Basecamp is more than just a place to pitch your tent. Alex provides personalized training and guidance, ensuring climbers of all levels make the most of their experience. Alex’s deep knowledge of the Rocklands bouldering scene and many years exploring the outer limits of the Cederberg make him the perfect choice of guide for this area.

There are also a range of picturesque and challenging hiking and trail running routes easily accessible from Rocklands Basecamp. Alex’s partner Jessie is a keen runner and offers trail running and hiking weekends at Rocklands Basecamp, get in touch to find out more.

At Rocklands Basecamp, we invite you to embrace the spirit of adventure, challenge yourself, and create lasting memories in the breath taking backdrop of the Cederberg. Escape the pressures of daily life, and join us in our idyllic valley for some wholesome good times. Your adventure begins here—join us for an unforgettable experience.

Our farm offers 24 camping sites, including two glamping options, providing a perfect blend of adventure, budget friendly options and comfort. We also have a beautiful, unique and quirky cottage available to rent. Nestled off the grid in the heart of nature, we harness the power of the sun to supply electricity, ensuring a sustainable and eco-friendly stay.

We run a small shop, which hires bouldering pads and sells essential climbing equipment and basic camping supplies. A reliable WiFi connection is available in communal areas.

When the good, cold climbing conditions come, we’ve got your comfort covered. Our gas geysers guarantee hot showers, and the wood burner in the campers kitchen warms the space up when the weather is cold. The communal area is equipped with gas rings, cooking pots, cutlery, fridges and a freezer. It is a vibrant, buzzing and friendly place where many friendships are made and climbing plans are formed.

The Cederberg has more to offer than climbing. This region hosts rock art paintings which are thousands of years old, and is the birthplace of rooibos tea. You can also indulge in the exquisite pleasures of some of South Africa ‘s best wines, produced by local vineyards within the Cederberg region. South African hospitality and local cuisine can be enjoyed at several local restaurants within a few kilometres from Rocklands Basecamp.

The Cederberg is an integral part of the Fynbos floristic region, recognised by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site for its rich and diverse flora, boasting a staggering 9000 species of plants. At the start of spring, the landscape transforms into a mesmerizing canvas of colours—waves of orange, yellow, pink, and white paint the scenery. Visitors travel from far and wide to see the beautiful flowers that this region has to offer.