Rules of Access
All hikers must observe these rules of access for the hiking trail. In particular, kindly note the first two rules which apply without exception and cancellation policy below.
- Hiking on Phillipskop Mountain Reserve is strictly limited to 8am to 5pm unless resident in accommodation on site. No entry onto the reserve for day visitors before 8am.
- Even with a pre-purchased permit, hikers must sign the hiking register at Phillipskop Mountain Reserve reception upon arrival if starting there, or midway if starting at Tesselaarsdal.
- No pets under any circumstances.
- No feeding or intentional disturbance of any animal.
- No removal of any wood, stone, archaeological artefact or other material.
- No cutting, damaging, removing or destroying plant, nor be in possession of any plant or any part thereof, including dry wood or firewood.
- Do not behave in a manner which is likely to injure or disturb any other user of the area.
- No person may stay overnight except in designated accommodation.
- No firearms at any time.
- Phillipskop Cave is protected in terms of section 35 of the National Heritage Resources Act. Please help us protect this heritage site!
- Do… Take photographs (flash is fine) & use a torch to see the images more clearly. Report any disturbance to the site or evidence of graffiti. Respect the rarity and heritage value of this rock art, part of the irreplaceable heritage of the San and Khoe and their descendants. Remember that these paintings were made at least a thousand years ago, and if damaged they cannot be repaired.
- Don’t… Touch the paintings. Wet or add any substance to the rock surface, or try to chip paint off. Dig into the sediment or remove any archaeological material from the site. Light fires or kick up dust in the cave.
- Fines of up to R10,000 can be imposed if anyone is convicted of damaging or adding graffiti to the site.
No refunds or change of dates will be given for hiking permits. This includes but not limited to unpleasant weather, illness, previously burned ground, etc. Exceptions to this will be made when we are required to close the hiking trail for any reason (e.g. immediate danger from fire or dangerous weather), in which case we will notify you via the e-mail address or phone number supplied at the time of booking and offer a rearranged date or refund. It is recommended to therefore only order hiking permits once numbers are confirmed and weather conditions are predictable.