South Africa‘s Cape Town is a hiking paradise. Known for its dramatic landscapes, diverse flora and fauna, and trails that cater to all fitness levels, this city is a top destination for outdoor enthusiasts. There’s something for everyone in Cape Town, whether you’re a hiker or a walker. Featuring personal insights, practical tips, and information to make your adventure unforgettable, we explore the best hiking trails in Cape Town.
Key Takeaways
- Cape Town offers a diverse range of hiking trails for all fitness levels.
- Always check the weather before heading out, as conditions can change rapidly.
- Start early to avoid crowds and heat.
- Carry plenty of water, sunscreen, and snacks.
Hiking in Cape Town
Cape Town is a city that seamlessly blends urban life with natural beauty. Nestled between the iconic Table Mountain and the Atlantic Ocean, it offers some of the most breathtaking hiking trails in the world. From challenging ascents to leisurely strolls, each trail provides a unique perspective of the city’s stunning landscapes.
“I’ll never forget the first time I hiked Lion’s Head at sunrise,” I reminisce. “The city was still asleep, and the golden hues of dawn painted the sky as I reached the summit. It was a moment of pure magic.”
Hiking Tips for Beginners and Experts
Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting, there are a few key tips that can make your hiking experience in Cape Town safe and enjoyable:
- Wear Proper Gear: Make sure you have good hiking boots, a hat, sunscreen, and a lightweight backpack with water and snacks.
- Check the Weather: Cape Town’s weather can change quickly, so be prepared for rain or strong winds, especially if hiking on Table Mountain.
- Stay on Marked Trails: Always stick to the marked paths for safety and to protect the environment.
- Bring a Hiking Buddy: It’s always safer and more enjoyable to hike with a partner.
What to Bring on a Cape Town Hike
Essentials:
- Sturdy hiking shoes
- Sun protection (hat, sunscreen)
- Reusable water bottle
- Snacks (energy bars, fruit)
- Light jacket or windbreaker
- First-aid kit
- Fully charged phone
- Camera or binoculars
Here are some of the best hiking trails in Cape Town that you should not miss
1. Platteklip Gorge
- Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
- Distance: 3 km (one way)
- Duration: 2-3 hours
- Highlights: Direct route to Table Mountain’s summit, panoramic views of Cape Town.
Platteklip Gorge is the most popular route to the summit of Table Mountain, making it a must-do for any hiker visiting Cape Town. The trail follows a natural gorge up the western face of the mountain, offering incredible views of the city below.
Tip: Be prepared for a steep ascent, especially towards the top. Bring plenty of water and sunscreen.
Pros:
- Well-marked trail.
- Stunning views.
Cons:
- Can be crowded.
- No shade, so start early.
Address: Tafelberg Road, Cape Town
Hours: Open daily, sunrise to sunset.
Cost: Free (cable car descent costs ZAR 300 one way).
Start point Tafelberg Road
End point Upper Cableway Station
Is it child-friendly? Yes, older kids, although take note of the above.
Dog-friendly? Not recommended, as they struggle in the heat (and can’t ride in the cable car).
Contact 021 422 1601 (SANParks Kloofnek Office)
TMNP emergency numbers: 086 110 6417, 107 or 021 937 0300
Cableway weather/operational updates: 021 424 8181
2. Maclear’s Beacon
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Distance: 5.5 km (round trip)
- Duration: 3-4 hours
- Highlights: Highest point on Table Mountain, 360-degree views.
Maclear’s Beacon is the highest point on Table Mountain, and the hike to this historic beacon is both challenging and rewarding. You’ll pass through various landscapes, including rocky terrain and lush vegetation, with breathtaking views of the Cape Peninsula along the way.
Pros:
- Less crowded than Platteklip.
- Incredible photo opportunities.
Cons:
- Weather can change rapidly.
- Requires a cable car ticket.
Address: Table Mountain National Park
Hours: Cable car operates 8:30 AM – 6:00 PM.
Cost: ZAR 300 (cable car round trip).
Start point Upper Cableway Station
End point Maclear’s Beacon
Child-friendly? Yes
Dog-friendly? No (and they are not allowed in the cable car).
Contact 021 422 1601 (SANParks Kloofnek Office), 021 712 7471 (SANParks Tokai Office)
TMNP emergency numbers: 086 110 6417, 107 or 021 937 0300
Cableway weather/operational updates: 021 424 8181
3. Lion’s Head
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Distance: 5.5 km (round trip)
- Duration: 2-3 hours
- Highlights: 360-degree views of Cape Town, popular sunrise and sunset spot.
Lion’s Head is one of the most iconic hikes in Cape Town, offering stunning panoramic views at the summit. This hike is particularly popular at sunrise or sunset, as the views of the city, coastline, and mountains are unrivaled.
Tip: Arrive early if you want to avoid the crowds, and bring a headlamp if you’re hiking for sunrise.
Pros:
- Short and rewarding.
- Great for all fitness levels.
Cons:
- Can be crowded.
- Some sections require scrambling.
Address: Signal Hill Road, Cape Town
Hours: Open daily.
Cost: Free.
Start + end point Signal Hill Drive, at the base of the Forestry Road.
Child-friendly? Yes, although the roundabout route is recommended for them.
Dog-friendly? No
Contact 021 422 1601 (SANParks Kloofnek Office)
TMNP emergency numbers: 086 110 6417, 107 or 021 937 0300
4. Devil’s Peak
- Difficulty: Challenging
- Distance: 6 km (round trip)
- Duration: 4-5 hours
- Highlights: Spectacular views of Table Mountain and the city.
Devil’s Peak is known for its rugged terrain and is perfect for experienced hikers looking for a more strenuous challenge. The hike leads you through forests and rocky landscapes, with the summit offering awe-inspiring views of Cape Town.
Pros:
- Less crowded than other trails.
- Stunning views.
Cons:
- Steep and strenuous.
- Not suitable for beginners.
Address: Tafelberg Road, Cape Town
Hours: Open daily.
Cost: Free.
Start + end point Tafelberg Road (2.5km from the Lower Cable Station) / Rhodes Memorial (via King’s Blockhouse for Mowbray Ridge or the Contour Path for Newlands Ravine)
Child-friendly? Yes, older kids should be fine on the Tafelberg route.
Dog-friendly? Yes, with a SANParks My Activity Permit (R340 for a year), obtainable from the Tokai Plantation Office (021 712 7471).
Contact 021 422 1601 (SANParks Kloofnek Office)
TMNP emergency numbers: 086 110 6417, 107 or 021 937 0300
5. Kasteelspoort
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Distance: 6 km (round trip)
- Duration: 3-4 hours
- Highlights: Views of Camps Bay and the Atlantic Ocean.
This trail begins at the Cableway car park and winds up the slopes of Table Mountain, passing through lush vegetation and rugged rock formations. The views along the way are stunning, and the summit provides a perfect vantage point of the coastline.
Pros:
- Beautiful scenery.
- Less crowded.
Cons:
- Some steep sections.
- Limited shade.
Address: Theresa Avenue, Camps Bay
Hours: Open daily.
Cost: Free.
Start point On the Pipe Track (via the Theresa Avenue jeep track above Camps Bay); turn left once on the track to access the signposted trailhead.
End point Top of Table Mountain (Woodhead and Hely-Hutchinson Reservoirs / Upper Cableway Station)
Child-friendly? No
Dog-friendly? No
Contact 021 422 1601 (SANParks Kloofnek Office)
TMNP emergency numbers: 086 110 6417, 107 or 021 937 0300
6. The Pipe Track
- Difficulty: Easy
- Distance: 6 km (one way)
- Duration: 2-3 hours
- Highlights: Views of the Twelve Apostles and Atlantic Ocean.
For a more relaxed hike, the Pipe Track is a great option. This flat trail follows an old pipeline along the lower slopes of Table Mountain, offering fantastic views of the ocean and city.
Tip: It’s a great option if you’re looking for a leisurely hike that still provides amazing views.
Pros:
- Easy and accessible.
- Great for families.
Cons:
- Can be windy.
- Limited shade.
Address: Kloof Nek Road, Cape Town
Hours: Open daily.
Cost: Free.
Start + end point Parking lot at the junction of Tafelberg and Kloof Nek Roads.
Duration 4 hours (there and back).
Child-friendly? Yes
Dog-friendly? Yes, with a SANParks My Activity Permit (R340 for a year), obtainable from the Tokai Plantation Office (021 712 7471).
Contact 021 422 1601 (SANParks Kloofnek Office)
TMNP emergency numbers: 086 110 6417, 107 or 021 937 0300
7. Tranquillity Cracks
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Distance: 10 km (round trip)
- Duration: 4-5 hours
- Highlights: Hidden rock formations, panoramic views.
Tranquillity Cracks is one of Cape Town’s hidden gems. This relatively unknown trail winds through the Table Mountain National Park, offering a serene experience with views of the ocean, mountains, and the city.
Pros:
- Unique scenery.
- Less crowded.
Cons:
- Longer hike.
- Requires some navigation skills.
Address: Table Mountain National Park
Hours: Open daily.
Cost: Free.
Start + end point Theresa Avenue entrance to the Pipe Track above Camps Bay.
Duration 5 hours
Child-friendly? No
Dog-friendly? No
Contact 021 422 1601 (SANParks Kloofnek Office)
TMNP emergency numbers: 086 110 6417, 107 or 021 937 0300
8. Newlands Forest
- Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
- Distance: Varies
- Duration: 1-3 hours
- Highlights: Shaded trails, family-friendly.
Newlands Forest is perfect for those looking for a relaxing hike amidst towering trees and lush ferns. The trail is easy to navigate and offers tranquility away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Pros:
- Shaded and cool.
- Great for families.
Cons:
- Can be busy on weekends.
- Limited views.
Address: Newlands, Cape Town
Hours: Open daily.
Cost: Free.
Start point Parking lot near Newlands Fire Base, Union Avenue (M3), Newlands
End point Back where you started, or Rhodes Memorial or even Kirstenbosch (if you’ve followed the Contour Path).
Child-friendly? Yes
Dog-friendly? Yes, with a SANParks My Activity Permit (R340 for a year), obtainable from the Tokai Plantation Office (021 712 7471).
Contact 021 422 1601 (SANParks Kloofnek Office)
TMNP emergency numbers: 086 110 6417, 107 or 021 937 0300
9. Skeleton Gorge
- Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
- Distance: 6 km (round trip)
- Duration: 3-4 hours
- Highlights: Lush forest, views of Kirstenbosch Gardens.
Skeleton Gorge offers a challenging and scenic hike up the eastern slopes of Table Mountain. The trail is steep in sections, and hikers will pass through dense, indigenous forest before reaching the summit.
Pros:
- Beautiful scenery.
- Shaded trail.
Cons:
- Can be slippery.
- Steep in sections.
Address: Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden
Hours: Open daily.
Cost: ZAR 100 (Kirstenbosch entry fee).
Start point Fragrance Garden, Kirstenbosch Gardens, Newlands
End point Maclear’s Beacon
Child-friendly? Yes, for older kids, but it is hard going.
Dog-friendly? No
Contact 021 422 1601 (SANParks Kloofnek Office), 021 712 7471 (SANParks Tokai Office)
Kirstenbosch: 021 799 8783, [email protected]
TMNP emergency numbers: 086 110 6417, 107 or 021 937 0300
10. Constantia Nek to Kirstenbosch
- Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
- Distance: 5 km (one way)
- Duration: 2-3 hours
- Highlights: Scenic views, easy access.
This trail connects Constantia Nek to Kirstenbosch Gardens and offers beautiful views of the surrounding area. “It’s a great option for a relaxed hike,” I say.
Pros:
- Easy and scenic.
- Great for families.
Cons:
- Can be busy.
- Limited shade.
Address: Constantia Nek, Cape Town
Hours: Open daily.
Cost: Free.
Start point Constantia Nek parking area, off Rhodes Drive
End point Kirstenbosch Botanical Garden
Child-friendly? Yes
Dog-friendly? Yes, on a leash – but dogs are not allowed in Kirstenbosch. You can continue along the Contour Path to Newlands Forest (see below), or even around the front of the mountain to Tafelberg Road.
Contact 021 712 7471 (SANParks Tokai Office)
Kirstenbosch: 021 799 8783, [email protected]
TMNP emergency numbers: 086 110 6417, 107 or 021 937 0300
11. Orange Kloof
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Distance: 10 km (round trip)
- Duration: 4-5 hours
- Highlights: Remote and pristine, stunning views.
Orange Kloof is a restricted area that requires a permit, but it’s worth the effort. “The trail feels untouched and pristine,” I share.
Pros:
- Remote and quiet.
- Beautiful scenery.
Cons:
- Requires a permit.
- Longer hike.
Address: Table Mountain National Park
Hours: Open daily (permit required).
Cost: ZAR 200 (permit fee).
Start + end point Constantia Nek parking area, Rhodes Drive (starting on the Cecilia Forest jeep track).
Child-friendly? Yes, older children.
Dog-friendly? No
Contact Permits: 021 422 1601 (SANParks Kloofnek Office)
021 712 7471 (SANParks Tokai Office)
TMNP emergency numbers: 086 110 6417, 107 or 021 937 0300
12. Chapman’s Peak
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Distance: 6 km (round trip)
- Duration: 3-4 hours
- Highlights: Coastal views, iconic Chapman’s Peak Drive.
Chapman’s Peak offers stunning coastal views and is a favorite among locals. “The ocean views are simply breathtaking,” I say.
Pros:
- Scenic and rewarding.
- Great for photography.
Cons:
- Can be windy.
- Limited shade.
Address: Chapman’s Peak Drive, Hout Bay
Hours: Open daily.
Cost: Free.
Start + end point Chapman’s Peak Drive turnaround-point toll booth.
Child-friendly? Yes
Dog-friendly? Yes, with a SANParks My Activity Permit (R340 for a year), obtainable from the Tokai Office.
Contact 021 712 7471 (SANParks Tokai Office)
TMNP emergency numbers: 086 110 6417, 107 or 021 937 0300
Chapman’s Peak Toll Plaza: 021 791 8220, [email protected]
13. Noordhoek Panorama Circuit
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Distance: 10 km (round trip)
- Duration: 4-5 hours
- Highlights: Panoramic views, diverse landscapes.
The 21km route takes you to where the real coastal views are – at the top of Chapman’s Peak (593 metres) and past Noordhoek Peak, above Silvermine Dam, passing Spitskop, Bokkop and Dassenberg. The peninsula is dotted with 360-degree panoramic viewpoints, from Hout Bay to False Bay. Afterwards, you’ll walk through Noordhoek’s greenbelt and see the ruins of the old 17th-century silver mine. The route is great for trail runners (half marathon!).
Pros:
- Diverse scenery.
- Less crowded.
Cons:
- Longer hike.
- Some steep sections.
Address: Noordhoek, Cape Town
Hours: Open daily.
Cost: Free.
Start + end point About 500 metres from the end of Chapman’s Peak Drive/M6 (Noordhoek side); look for the green cycling sign “Single File Please”. There is a parking area around the bend.
Child-friendly? Not really; it’s a long way and quite strenuous.
Dog-friendly? Yes
Contact [email protected] (Noordhoek Ratepayers Association)
TMNP emergency numbers: 086 110 6417, 107 or 021 937 0300
14. Elephant’s Eye Cave
- Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
- Distance: 5 km (round trip)
- Duration: 2-3 hours
- Highlights: Unique cave, views of False Bay.
Constantiaberg has a cave where an elephant’s eye would be, similar to the face of an elephant. For most of the 5km route you’re in fynbos-smothered wilderness as you hike to the Eye. Initially a wide jeep track with short cuts and sidetracks to viewpoints, the trail eventually becomes a contour path with a little scrambling. Huge and deep, moss-covered and fern-bedecked, the cave affords a spectacular view of the Constantia Winelands.
Pros:
- Unique destination.
- Great for families.
Cons:
- Can be busy.
- Limited shade.
Address: Silvermine Nature Reserve
Hours: Open daily.
Cost: ZAR 50 (entry fee).
Start + end point Silvermine Dam parking area, Silvermine Reserve (Gate 1), Ou Kaapse Weg (M3)
Child-friendly? Yes
Dog-friendly? Yes, with a SANParks My Activity Permit (R340 for a year), obtainable from the Tokai Office.
Contact 021 780 9002 (Silvermine gate)
021 712 7471 (SANParks Tokai Office)
TMNP emergency numbers: 086 110 6417, 107 or 021 937 0300
15. Noordhoek Peak
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Distance: 8 km (round trip)
- Duration: 3-4 hours
- Highlights: Panoramic views, diverse flora.
It has spectacular views from its lofty height (754m). In this 7km loop hike, you’ll pass the Silvermine dam wall and climb steady up on a wide gravel track, each elevation offering a better view of the Peninsula – from Muizenberg, Zandvlei to Fish Hoek, Simon’s Town, and Noordhoek-Kommetjie. In a matter of seconds, you’ll be at the summit gazing over the entire Hout Bay, Chapman’s Peak Drive, and the distant Atlantic.
Pros:
- Stunning views.
- Less crowded.
Cons:
- Steep in sections.
- Longer hike.
Address: Noordhoek, Cape Town
Hours: Open daily.
Cost: Free.
Start + end point Silvermine Dam, Silvermine Reserve (Gate 1), Ou Kaapse Weg (M3)
Child-friendly? Yes
Dog-friendly? Yes, with a SANParks My Activity Permit (R340 for a year), obtainable from the Tokai Plantation Office.
Contact 021 780 9002 (Silvermine gate)
021 712 7471 (SANParks Tokai Office)
TMNP emergency numbers: 086 110 6417, 107 or 021 937 0300
16. Silvermine River Walk
- Difficulty: Easy
- Distance: 4 km (round trip)
- Duration: 1-2 hours
- Highlights: Family-friendly, scenic river views.
It’s a pleasant, peaceful walk along the river in Silvermine Reserve – from the reservoir entrance gate. It’s a pretty stroll with green surroundings, fynbos (the reserve has over 900 species), keurboom forests, and a bridge over a small waterfall. During this 5km hike you’ll find jeep track, rock scrambling and wooden boardwalk, including the last stretch around the dam. It’s perfect for multigenerational families.
Pros:
- Easy and accessible.
- Great for families.
Cons:
- Can be busy.
- Limited views.
Address: Silvermine Nature Reserve
Hours: Open daily.
Cost: ZAR 50 (entry fee).
Start + end point Entrance gate parking area, Silvermine Reserve (Gate 1), Ou Kaapse Weg (M3).
Child-friendly? Yes
Dog-friendly? Yes, with a SANParks My Activity Permit (R340 for a year), obtainable from the Tokai Plantation Office.
Contact 021 780 9002 (Silvermine gate)
021 712 7471 (SANParks Tokai Office)
TMNP emergency numbers: 086 110 6417, 107 or 021 937 0300
17. Elsie’s Peak
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Distance: 4 km (round trip)
- Duration: 2-3 hours
- Highlights: Views of False Bay, wildflowers.
The 4.2km hike goes up to a radio mast on a mountain named for its indigenous butterspoon trees in the Peninsula’s deep south. Both Fish Hoek and Glencairn offer easy access (with clear trail markers and rock steps in sections). It’s a steep hike, but the herby scent of fynbos and the vast panoramas will stay with you forever; from the top, you can see False Bay all the way to Strand and Gordon’s Bay.
Pros:
- Scenic and quiet.
- Great for photography.
Cons:
- Steep in sections.
- Limited shade.
Address: Glencairn, Cape Town
Hours: Open daily.
Cost: Free.
Start and end point Berg Road, Fish Hoek; or Golconda Street, Glencairn Heights
Child-friendly? Yes
Dog-friendly? Yes
Contact 021 712 7471 (SANParks Tokai Office)
TMNP emergency numbers: 086 110 6417, 107 or 021 937 0300
18. Farmer’s Cliffs Trail
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Distance: 6 km (round trip)
- Duration: 3-4 hours
- Highlights: Coastal views, secluded beaches.
Located in Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve, this 8km stone path offers spectacular views you cannot see from your car. As the trail winds up and down hills, you will encounter some rock climbing (or boulder hopping, if you prefer) and view Kanonkop, which was once used to warn Simon’s Town of approaching ships. Often ostriches, bonteboks, and baboons can be seen beachcombing. You can hike either way, but we recommend ending at Buffels Bay beach, where you can enjoy a tidal pool and braai.
Pros:
- Scenic and quiet.
- Great for photography.
Cons:
- Steep in sections.
- Longer hike.
Address: Scarborough, Cape Town
Hours: Open daily.
Cost: Free.
Start point South end of Smitswinkel Viewpoint parking area, just under 1km from Cape Point Reserve entrance gate, Main Road (M4)
Child-friendly? Yes, but it is a very long hike for them.
Dog-friendly? No
Contact 021 712 7471 (Cape Point Buffelsfontein Visitor Centre)
021 712 7471 (SANParks Tokai Office)
TMNP emergency numbers: 086 110 6417, 107 or 021 937 0300
19. Lighthouse Keeper’s Trail
- Difficulty: Easy
- Distance: 2 km (round trip)
- Duration: 1 hour
- Highlights: Views of Cape Point, historic lighthouse.
Other than the baboons and the crashing waves, Cape Point is also known for this dramatic path, which provides extraordinary views of the wild, battered coastline, with animal sightings possible along the way. At 3.4km, it’s an easy walk along a narrow path, where you’ll see historical bunkers, two lighthouses (old and new), thick fynbos, and some of the world’s-end atmosphere that makes Cape Point so special.
Pros:
- Easy and accessible.
- Great for families.
Cons:
- Can be windy.
- Limited shade.
Address: Cape Point Nature Reserve
Hours: Open daily.
Cost: ZAR 150 (entry fee).
Start + end point Behind the Upper Funicular Station (at the lighthouse).
Child-friendly? Yes (plus the ride in the funicular will be fun).
Dog-friendly? No, they are not allowed in the reserve.
Contact 021 712 7471 (Cape Point Buffelsfontein Visitor Centre)
021 712 7471 (SANParks Tokai Office)
TMNP emergency numbers: 086 110 6417, 107 or 021 937 0300
20. Tygerberg Nature Reserve
- Difficulty: Easy
- Distance: Varies
- Duration: 1-3 hours
- Highlights: Views of Cape Town, diverse flora.
This nature haven offers an easy escape from Cape Town’s urban sprawl among the hills of the northern suburbs. Plants, birds and animals abound in this 388-hectare reserve, which offers spectacular views (including close-ups of jumbo jets arriving at the airport!) 13 well-marked, interconnected trails provide panoramic views of Table Mountain, Robben Island and even False Bay, in clear conditions. Ukhetshe and Golden Mole trails offer the greatest elevation gain. With over 500 plant species, spring flower displays are spectacular.
Pros:
- Easy and accessible.
- Great for families.
Cons:
- Can be busy.
- Limited shade.
Address: Tygerberg, Cape Town
Hours: Open daily.
Cost: ZAR 30 (entry fee).
Start + end point Info Centre at Tygerberg Nature Reserve, Totius Street, Welgemoed
Child-friendly? Yes, especially if they like critters like tortoises and chameleons.
Dog-friendly? No
Cost R20 (adults); R10 (under-18s)
Free for babies/toddlers and Friends of the Reserve (with proof of membership)
Contact 021 444 8971, [email protected]
FAQs
1. What is the best time of year to hike in Cape Town?
The best time to hike in Cape Town is during the spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May) when the weather is mild.
2. Are the hiking trails in Cape Town safe?
Most trails are safe, but it’s important to hike in groups, stay on marked paths, and be aware of your surroundings.
3. Do I need a guide for hiking in Cape Town?
While many trails are well-marked, hiring a guide can enhance your experience, especially for less familiar routes.
4. What should I pack for a hike in Cape Town?
Essential items include water, sunscreen, a hat, comfortable hiking shoes, and a map or GPS device.
Disclaimer
WakaAbuja has made every effort to ensure that the information in this post was correct at the time of publication. However, we do not assume any liability caused by errors, such as price, cost, time, and location.
