Best Hiking Trails in Cape Town — Table Mountain, Lion's Head & Beyond

Cape Town Hiking — The Best Trails for Every Level

Cape Town hiking is world-class. The city is surrounded by mountains, coastlines, and indigenous fynbos — all accessible from the city centre. Whether you want a gentle coastal walk or a challenging scramble up Table Mountain, there's a trail for you.

Top Cape Town Hiking Trails

1. Platteklip Gorge (Table Mountain)

Difficulty: Moderate-Hard | Duration: 2-3 hours up | Distance: 2.5km

The most direct route up Table Mountain. Steep stairs carved into the mountain with incredible views of the city bowl. Take the cable car down (R190 one-way). Best started before 08:00 to avoid the heat. See our complete Table Mountain guide.

2. Lion's Head Sunrise Hike

Difficulty: Moderate | Duration: 1.5-2 hours return | Distance: 4km

The most popular hike in Cape Town. Start at 05:00 for sunrise at the summit — 360° panoramic views of Table Mountain, the Atlantic Ocean, and the city. Includes chains and ladders near the top (there's an easier bypass route). Full moon hikes are legendary.

3. Pipe Track

Difficulty: Easy | Duration: 1.5-2 hours return | Distance: 6km

A flat, scenic trail along the contour of the Twelve Apostles mountain range. Views of Camps Bay and the Atlantic below. Perfect for families and casual walkers. Starts from Kloof Nek.

4. Skeleton Gorge (Table Mountain)

Difficulty: Hard | Duration: 3-4 hours up | Distance: 3km

The most scenic route up Table Mountain through Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens. Lush forest, stream crossings, wooden ladders, and waterfalls. More demanding than Platteklip but far more beautiful. Return via the cable car or Platteklip.

5. Cape Point Trail

Difficulty: Easy-Moderate | Duration: 2-3 hours | Distance: 8km

Dramatic coastal scenery from Cape Point to the Cape of Good Hope. Baboons, ostriches, and spectacular ocean views. Part of our Cape Point & Penguins tour.

Safety Tips

• Never hike alone — muggings have occurred on isolated trails
• Start early — Cape Town gets hot by midday and afternoon clouds roll in
• Carry water — minimum 1.5 litres per person
• Check the weather — Table Mountain weather changes rapidly. Don't hike in cloud cover or strong wind
• Tell someone your route — cell signal can be patchy in gorges
• Sun protection — hat, sunscreen SPF50+, sunglasses

Prefer a guided hike? Our Cape Town tours can include a guided Table Mountain hike with a certified mountain guide. Enquire about guided hiking →