Safe Hiking in Table Mountain National Park

Please follow the basic safety rules as the mountain can be dangerous to those who are unprepared or inexperienced.

Ten Basic Rules of Mountain Safety – Safe hiking on Table Mountain

Don’t hike alone; four is the ideal number.
Choose your route carefully and stick to it. Allow yourself enough time – start early. Inform someone of your route and what time you’re expected back.
Choose a hike leader and walk at the pace of the slowest member.
If lost – don’t split up. Rather try to retrace your steps. Remember that climbing down is more difficult than climbing up.
Always take waterproof clothing, even in mid-summer, and wear walking shoes or hiking boots. Wear a hat or cap and sun block in summer. Weather changes rapidly.
If lost or forced to stop because of bad weather, stay together and remain in one place. Find the closest shelter from wind and rain.
In case of injury, take time to assess the situation. Then send two people for help and let the third remain with the injured person. If possible, mark the position on a map and send it with those going for help.
Stick to well-used paths, which will be indicated on the Park’s hiking map and read the warnings on this map. Don’t take shortcuts and especially don’t wander into ravines.
Always take enough water, especially in summer, and food in case of a delay. Watch the weather and time, and turn back before you start running late or if bad weather threatens.
Take a fully-charged cellphone. Some parts of the Park do not have cell phone reception, but you will always be able to reach a place where you can use a cell phone more quickly than you’ll get to a landline.

General Enquiries: Tel: +27 (021) 712 2337 / 0527

Table Mountain National Park Head Office: Admin