From leisurely rambles to invigorating hikes, Cape Town has something for everyone.
Whether you’re after a windswept coastal wander, a mountainous hike with spectacular views, or a leisurely amble through one of the Cape’s lush nature reserves, here’s our pick of the best hiking trails in and around the city. So, lace up your hiking boots and get cracking… And, let us know your thoughts in the comments below.
Important note Although the Cape is rich in natural beauty, tourists and locals are urged to take necessary precautions when exploring secluded areas, as crimes and accidents do happen.
Those venturing into the Table Mountain National Park should have the following emergency numbers on hand: 086 110 6417/ 107 or 021 480 7700. Criminal incidents should be reported to the nearest police station as soon as able.
We also recommend @safetymountain as a useful resource for hikers. This free safety tracking service allows you to notify local trackers of your contact details, intended route and travel time via whatsapp. You are then able to provide hourly updates on your progress, and to notify trackers when you are safely off the mountain.
It helps to have a map, and for that, SANParks and The Inside Guide recommends Slingsby Maps as an essential resource for hiking enthusiasts. Detailed maps of some of the Cape’s best hiking trails are available, including the Pipe Track, Cape Point and the Cederberg. Contact Slingsby Maps at 021 788 4545 for more information.
Hiking Trails in Cape Town
These hikes are within easy reach of town, and will take you far above the bustle of city life.
1. LION’S HEAD
The distinct slope next to Table Mountain known as Lion’s Head offers magnificent views of the city, Table Bay and the Atlantic Ocean, making it a top spot for Instagrammers.
Starting and ending point Signal Hill Road, at the base of the Forestry Road.
Duration 2 – 3 hours
Need to know You will have to do some climbing, however there are handholds and chains to assist you. If, like me, you’d prefer to avoid the climbing, a roundabout route (that’s still quite steep) adds half an hour to your hike.
Child-friendly? Yes, although they’ll probably want to avoid the climbing chains (and rock scrambling near the end of the trail)
Dog-friendly? No
Contact 021 422 1601 (Kloofnek Office)
021 712 0527, Table.Mountain@sanparks.org
TMNP emergency numbers: 086 110 6417/ 107 or 021 480 7700
Location Lions Head
2. PLATTEKLIP GORGE
Probably the second most well-known hiking trail in Cape Town (after Lion’s Head), Platteklip is not so easygoing, despite its popularity. Sure, there’s not much climbing or scrambling involved, but there’s a lot of upward walking, which probably makes it the ideal route for a workout. It provides a direct route to the summit of Table Mountain, for those who think taking the cable car is for lightweights.
Starting point Tafelberg Road
End point Upper Cableway Station
Duration 3 hours, though some ridiculously fit people have been known to run up the trail in an hour.
Need to know Platteklip is best avoided on a hot day, as there is little shade to be found along the trail.
Be prepared for all types of weather, and bring a hat, sunblock and jacket.
Proper hiking shoes are required; do not attempt this trail with slip-slops.
If you plan to take the cable car down, make note of operational times and ensure you reach the station before the last cable car leaves.
Important note SANParks has informed us that many rescues are performed at this site, as people underestimate the heat and the level of fitness required, or they miss the last cable car and end up stranded on the mountain at night. Please take the necessary precautions.
Child-friendly? Yes, although take note of the above.
Dog-friendly? Bringing dogs is not recommended on this trail, as they struggle in the heat.
Contact 021 712 0527, Table.Mountain@sanparks.org
TMNP emergency numbers: 086 110 6417/ 107 or 021 480 7700
Location Table Mountain National Park
3. THE PIPE TRACK
This trail is not only mesmerisingly beautiful, it also has an interesting history, in that it was built for the purpose of servicing a pipeline that used to supply 19th-century Cape Town with water from the Disa Gorge, hence its name…
Starting point The junction of Tafelberg Road and Kloof Nek (you can park your car in the Kloof Nek parking lot)
End point Camps Bay
Duration 4 hours. The route is easygoing, although it becomes slightly tougher after passing by Slangolie Ravine.
Good to know There are a number of trails that lead off the Pipe Track, but these should not be attempted without the assistance of a knowledgeable guide. Many of these trails are not beginner-friendly, and they are not recommended for children or dogs.
If you do have a guide, it’s recommended to visit Tranquility Cracks, a hidden gem that Capetonian hikers have only recently discovered. These are narrow, labyrinthine tunnels through the rock, formed naturally through erosion.
Need to know The Pipe Track can be tough on hot days, as large portions of it are exposed to the afternoon sun.
Child-friendly? Yes
Dog-friendly? Yes, although the Table Mountain National Park is under the jurisdiction of SANParks, which requires that dog-walkers have a Level 1 My Activity Permit (R270 for a year). Contact Tokai Plantation Office (021 712 7471) for more information.
Contact 021 712 0527, Table.Mountain@sanparks.org
TMNP emergency numbers: 086 110 6417/ 107 or 021 480 7700
Location Table Mountain National Park
4. MACLEAR’S BEACON
At 21 metres above the Upper Cableway Station, Maclear’s Beacon is the highest point on Table Mountain. Plaques at the Upper Cableway Station point you towards the beginning of the hike, and from thereon the trail is marked by yellow footprints. If you do the Platteklip and Maclear’s Beacon trails in one go, then you can truly say you hiked from the bottom of Table Mountain to the very top.
Starting point Upper Cableway Station
End point Maclear’s Beacon
Duration 1 hour
Need to know SANParks does not recommend attempting this trail in cloudy or misty weather, as it becomes more difficult to find your way in such conditions.
Child-friendly? Yes
Dog-friendly? No
Contact 021 712 0527, Table.Mountain@sanparks.org
TMNP emergency numbers: 086 110 6417/ 107 or 021 480 7700
Location Table Mountain National Park
5. TYGERBERG NATURE RESERVE
Hidden among the hills in Cape Town’s northern suburbs, this lush haven offers an easy escape from Bellville’s urban sprawl. Blessed with a rich diversity of plant and bird life, the 388-hectare Tygerberg Nature Reserve offers spectacular views of city, sea and mountain.
Well-marked hiking trails wind their way throughout the reserve, in some cases climbing up hills that offer unrivalled panoramic views of Cape Town. Table Mountain and Robben Island are both visible from this vantage point and, in clear conditions, you’ll be able to see the False Bay coastline.
Good to know Tygerberg Nature Reserve’s network of walking routes includes a wheelchair-friendly trail, close to the picnic area.
Starting and end point Tygerberg Nature Reserve entrance
Duration Varies
Need to know Be sure to take plenty of water, as the more rigorous trails can be quite testing. You’ll want to pack warm clothing in winter, as it gets quite chilly up top.
Child-friendly? Yes
Dog-friendly? No
Cost R15 (adults)
R8 (under 18s, senior citizens, students)
Free (children under 3, Friends of the Reserve with proof of membership)
Contact 021 444 8971, tygerberg.naturereserve@capetown.gov.za
Location Tygerberg Nature Reserve, Totius Road, Welgemoed
6. KASTEELPORT HIKING TRAIL
We love the Kasteelspoort Hiking Trail for its easy access to the mountain, and suitability to all fitness levels. Not to mention the the stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean, Twelve Apostles, and Camps Bay. There are several paths leading to different points – such as the old Cableway Station and the two reservoirs – making each trek a different adventure.
Starting point Top of Theresa Avenue, Camps Bay / Top of Kloof Nek Road
End point Top of Table Mountain / The Woodhead and Helly-Hutchinson Reservoirs
Duration 3 – 4 hours
Need to know While the path is shady in places, it’s best get started in the early morning, and to bring a hat and plenty of water. There is a short section at the foot of Kasteels buttress that requires a certain level of scrambling over rocks, and Kasteelspoort Ravine can be quite slippery (especially after rain), so bring good, gripping shoes and be cautious.
Child-friendly? This trail is not recommended for children or novice hikers, as rock scrambling can be quite challenging at certain points.
Dog-friendly? No
Contact 021 712 0527, Table.Mountain@sanparks.org
TMNP emergency numbers: 086 110 6417/ 107 or 021 480 7700
Location Table Mountain National Park
7. DEVIL’S PEAK
Aside from having a really cool name, Devil’s Peak offers numerous vantage points for gazing out upon the cityscape as it stretches from the bay to the foot of the mountain. It’s especially exhilarating to walk along the Saddle – the point that connects Devil’s Peak and Table Mountain; and from there you can ascend to the summit, where you’ll be rewarded with incredible panoramic views of Cape Town.
There are three possible routes to the Saddle, with the Tafelberg Road route being best suited to beginners. The Mowbray Ridge route, which starts at Rhodes Memorial, is considered a more tricky ascent; while the Newlands Ravine is challenging but well shaded.
Good to know Legend tells of a Dutch pirate named Jan Van Hunks, who liked to sit upon the mountain and smoke his pipe every so often. One day he came upon a stranger dressed in black, sitting in his usual spot. The stranger, whose face was hidden beneath a wide-brimmed hat, challenged Van Hunks to a contest to see who could smoke his pipe the longest. As the two of them puffed away, a huge cloud of smoke covered the mountain like a tablecloth. Van Hunks finally admitted defeat, only for his opponent to reveal his true identity: he was none other than the devil himself.
So when you see clouds billowing over Devil’s Peak, remember the tale of Van Hunks. Perhaps he is in his usual spot, together with the devil, the two of them puffing away at their pipes for all eternity.
Starting point and end point Tafelberg Road / Rhodes Memorial / Newlands Forest
Duration 4 hours
Need to know Hold onto your hats, it gets windy up top.
Child-friendly? No
Dog-friendly? Yes, although the Table Mountain National Park is under the jurisdiction of SANParks, which requires that dog-walkers have a Level 1 My Activity Permit (R270 for a year). Contact Tokai Plantation Office (021 712 7471) for more information.
Contact 021 712 0527, Table.Mountain@sanparks.org
TMNP emergency numbers: 086 110 6417/ 107 or 021 480 7700
Location Table Mountain National Park
8. SKELETON GORGE
This hike basically takes you from one side of Table Mountain to the other. Starting off in the the serene Kirstenbosch Gardens, you will arrive at the steep ascent of Skeleton Gorge where indigenous trees provide shade. Along the way, you’ll encounter a stream, typical mountain fynbos and some interesting rock formations before arriving at Maclear’s Beacon – the highest point on Table Mountain. Take a rest and enjoy panoramic views of the city and Robben Island.
Starting point Kirstenbosch Gardens
End point Maclear’s Beacon
Duration 2 – 4 hours (depending on your level of fitness)
Good to know Nursery Ravine provides an easier alternative route that also joins up with the Skeleton Gorge trail at certain points. This makes them a popular pairing, with one trail being used for ascent and the other (preferably Nursery Ravine) being used for descent.
Need to know This is a long hike with ladders to assist climbers to the top, and a rockfall to overcome, meaning you have to be extremely fit. Parts of the gorge can be quite slippery, even during summer. It’s recommended to avoid this route during and immediately after heavy rainfall.
Child-friendly? Yes
Dog-friendly? No
Contact 021 712 0527, tablem@sanparks.org (Table Mountain National Park)
TMNP emergency numbers: 086 110 6417/ 107 or 021 480 7700
021 799 8899, Kirstenboschinfo@sanbi.org.za (Kirstenbosch)
Location Kirstenbosch
9. CHAPMAN’S PEAK
Its (relatively) short distance and effortless terrain make this a popular trail. Starting at the toll booths, it offers great vantages of the the Fish Hoek and Hout Bay valleys, as well as Cape Point, Karbonkelberg and Klein Leeukoppie.
Starting and end point Chapman’s Peak toll booths
Duration 1 – 2 hours
Need to know You will need to get a day pass (request one at the toll booth, there is no charge) for safe parking and access to the hiking trail. Also, remember to take a warm top – Cape weather is unpredictable.
Child-friendly Yes
Dog-friendly? Yes, although the Table Mountain National Park is under the jurisdiction of SANParks, which requires that dog-walkers have a Level 1 My Activity Permit (R270 for a year). Contact Tokai Plantation Office (021 712 7471) for more information.
Contact 021 712 0527, tablem@sanparks.org (Table Mountain National Park)
021 791 8220, info@chapmanspeakdrive.co.za (Chapman’s Peak Drive)
TMNP emergency numbers: 086 110 6417/ 107 or 021 480 7700
Location Chapman’s Peak Drive
10. CONSTANTIA NEK TO KIRSTENBOSCH
A relatively easy walk on a dirt road and wooden track, it consists mainly of mild uphill sections, but is mostly downhill and flat. Along the way you will enjoy the greenery of Cecilia and Newlands forests and vast views of the slopes of Table Mountain, an aerial perspective of Kirstenbosch, and even views as far as the Cape Flats.
Starting point Constantia Nek
End point Kirstenbosch Gardens
Duration 2 hours
Need to know Guided walks can be booked in advance, and arranged to suit your interests and needs.
Child-friendly? Yes
Dog-friendly? Dogs are not allowed in Kirstenbosch Gardens
Contact 021 712 0527, Table.Mountain@sanparks.org (Table Mountain National Park)
021 799 8899, Kirstenboschinfo@sanbi.org.za (Kirstenbosch)
TMNP emergency numbers: 086 110 6417/ 107 or 021 480 7700
Location Kirstenbosch
Hiking Trails around the Cape
1. JONKERSHOEK NATURE RESERVE
This lush nature reserve, situated near the historic town of Stellenbosch, offers four challenging hiking trails, including the invigorating Swartboskloof Trail, which ascends to the top of Kurktrekkernek, and then back down past a waterfall, where you can take a refreshing dip. Alternatively, you could take the more easygoing Swartboskloof to Sosyskloof hike.
Starting and end point Jonkershoek Nature Reserve
Duration Swartboskloof to Sosykloof: 2 – 2.5 hours
Swartboskloof Trail: 6 hours
Panorama Circuit: 6 hours
Tweede Waterval: 2 hours
Need to know Some of the paths can be quite slippery when wet, so tread carefully.
All CapeNature reserves require visitors to purchase a permit before they can access any of the hiking trails. Contact CapeNature to book your permits, or acquire them at the reserve office.
Child-friendly? Yes
Dog-friendly? No
Cost CapeNature Permit: R40 (adults); R20 (children)
Contact 021 483 0190, reservation.alert@capenature.co.za
Location Jonkershoek Nature Reserve, Jonkershoek Road, Stellenbosch
2. BOBBEJAANS RIVER TRAIL
Situated in the scenic Limietberg Nature Reserve, this trail takes you above the river that gives it its name, eventually ending at a majestic waterfall. Along the way you’ll cross the Witte River, where you can take a refreshing dip in its cool waters.
Good to know There are several other hiking trails in the Limietberg Nature Reserve, including a two-day overnight trail. It’s also the location of the Tweede Tol campsite.
Starting and end point Bainskloof Corner Lodge parking area
Duration 6 hours
Need to know The trail is not recommended during winter, as the Witte River can become quite rough following heavy rainfall.
All CapeNature reserves require visitors to purchase a permit before they can access any of the hiking trails. Contact CapeNature to book your permits, or acquire them at the reserve office.
Child-friendly? Suitable for teenagers, if they are fit.
Dog-friendly? No
Cost CapeNature Permit: R40 (adults); R20 (children)
Contact 021 808 5121 (Tweede Tol campsite)
082 494 9707 (emergency number)
021 483 0190, reservation.alert@capenature.co.za (booking enquiries)
Location Bainskloof Corner Lodge, Limietberg Nature Reserve
3. PAARL ROCK
This hiking trail takes you to the top of a large granite rock that looms above the Paarl Mountain Reserve, offering views of flourishing fynbos fields and the mountains beyond. From here, it’s a short hike to the summit of a second, even larger rock formation known as Bretagna Rock, and along the way you’ll spot a cannon that was once used to signal the arrival of ships in Table Bay.
Feel free to explore the numerous footpaths that wind their way throughout the beautiful reserve and, once you’re done, reward yourself with a relaxing packed lunch in the picnic area.
Starting and end point Meulwater Day Braai and Picnic Site, Paarl Mountain Nature Reserve
Duration 2 hours
Child-friendly? Yes, although keep in mind that there are sections that are not suitable for prams, such as the rocky stairs. Prams can only be used if you are taking the jeep track to the top.
Dog-friendly? No
Cost R52 per vehicle
R17 per passenger (on weekends and public holidays)
Free (weekdays)
Contact 082 744 5900 / 082 335 0461, louiseR@drakenstein.gov.za
Location Paarl Mountain Nature Reserve, 6 Jan Phillips Mountain Drive, Paarl
4. JASON’S HILL HIKING ROUTE
Not only does Jason’s Hill Private Cellar produce multi-award-winning wines, it also boasts a hiking route with enchanting scenery, straggling streams, wondrous waterfalls and abundant wildlife – all of which nature lovers can experience firsthand. The 6.5km trail departs from Jason’s Hill between 8am and 1pm – every Monday to Friday – and between 10am and 1pm on Saturdays.
Starting and end point Jason’s Hill Private Cellar
Duration 3 – 4 hours
Child-friendly? Yes, although children under 18 require parental supervision.
Dog-friendly? Dogs are not permitted on the hiking trail, although there are dogs on the farm who may decide to join.
Cost R30
Contact 023 344 3256, info@jasonshill.co.za
Location Jason’s Hill Private Cellar, Slanghoek Road, Slanghoek Valley, Rawsonville
5. MACASSAR DUNES
Follow in the footsteps of the ancient San people, who lived and foraged along this coastline centuries ago. The Massacar Dunes Conservation Area has a rich biodiversity and, as the name implies, a mesmerising landscape of windswept sand dunes. Also to be found within the reserve: the last remaining forest of the endangered white milkwood trees.
Starting and end point Macassar Road, off Baden Powell Drive
Duration Your choice
Child-friendly? Yes
Dog-friendly? No
Contact 021 400 3855, macassar.reserve@capetown.gov.za
Location Macassar Road, Macassar / Baden Powell Drive, Khayelitsha
6. CRYSTAL POOLS
This hiking trail is very doable for anyone who is reasonably fit, and slightly challenging for those who are not. The rockpools along the way, where you can cool down during your walk, make it well worth the slog. The half-day hike takes you through rocky, but generally flat, terrain, and all the way at the top is a wonderful waterfall. But it is quite a trek, so make sure you have plenty of snacks, water and energy to get there.
Starting and end point Steenbras Nature Reserve entrance
Duration 3 hours
Need to know The trail is only open from 1 November to 30 April.
Child-friendly? Children under the age of 12 must be accompanied by an adult.
Dog-friendly? No
Cost R65 per person (valid until June 2018)
Contact 021 444 6927, steenbras.naturereserve@capetown.gov.za
Bookings must be done via email, at least two working days before your visit
Emergency number: 021 957 4725
Location Faure Marine Drive R44, Steenbras Nature Reserve
7. FARMERS CLIFFS TRAIL
This easy-to-follow 8km stone path boasts fantastic views that cannot be seen from a car (so take your smartphone or camera with you). The path winds up and down at various points, with some rock climbing (or boulder hopping if you prefer), with only the calls of the chacma baboons breaking the silence. Once at Buffels Bay beach you’ll find a tidal pool, ablution block and braai area.
Starting point Smitswinkel Viewpoint parking area
End point Buffels Bay beach in Cape Point Nature Reserve
Duration 3 hours
Good to know Take two cars and leave on at Buffels Bay, and take the other to the starting point at Smitswinkel Viewpoint, otherwise you’ll have a long walk there and back in the hot sun.
Need to know There isn’t much shade, so be sure to wear sunblock, bring a hat and plenty of water.
Child-friendly? Yes, but it is a very long hike for children to do.
Dog-friendly? No
Cost Entry into Cape Point: R145 (adults); R75 (children)
Contact 021 712 0527, Table.Mountain@sanparks.org
021 780 9010, info@capepoint.co.za (Cape Point)
Location Cape Point Nature Reserve
8. CAPE POINT NATURE RESERVE
Cape Point is a landform at the southeast corner of the Cape Peninsula, which runs north-south for about 30 kilometres at the extreme southwestern tip of Africa, and is often (mistakenly) cited as the point where the Atlantic and Indian Oceans meet. There are a number of trails, ranging from two-hour to two-day hikes. The scenery along the way is diverse, and includes fynbos and fauna, shipwrecks, whales and vast stretches of empty beaches.
Starting and end point Varies
Duration 2 hours – 2 days (your choice)
Cost Entry into Cape Point: R145 (adults) and R75 (child)
Child-friendly? Yes
Dog-friendly? No
Contact 021 712 0527, Table.Mountain@sanparks.org
021 780 9010, info@capepoint.co.za (Cape Point)
Location Cape Point Nature Reserve
9. BOESMANSKLOOF
How convenient are mountain passes! Back in the day, if there was a mountain in the way, you’d have to walk over it! Jokes aside, this hike allows you to do exactly that. Where travellers would normally have to drive around the Riviersonderend mountain range to get from Greyton to McGregor, the Boesmanskloof trail takes you right through it, passing by the beautiful Oakes Falls on the way and granting you the opportunity to spot a variety of mountain-dwelling flora and fauna.
Starting point Greyton / McGregor
End point McGregor / Greyton
Duration 6 – 7 hours
Need to know The trail can be hiked in one day, but you will need to arrange transport back to your starting point (whether it be Greyton or McGregor). Or you could just return via the same route the following day.
All CapeNature reserves require visitors to purchase a permit before they can access any of the hiking trails. Contact CapeNature to book your permits, or acquire them at the reserve office.
Child-friendly? No, as the trail terrain is quite strenuous
Dog-friendly? No
Cost CapeNature Permit: R40 (adults); R20 (children)
Contact 023 625 1621 (reserve office)
082 496 2448 (emergency number)
021 483 0190, reservation.alert@capenature.co.za (booking enquiries)
Location Vrolijkheid Nature Reserve, Reitz Street (off Robertson Road), R60, Robertson
10. KOGELBERG TRAIL
Rich plant life, majestic mountain peaks and the cool waters of the Palmiet River make the Kogelberg Nature Reserve a favoured destination for hikers. The abovementioned trail is a circular route that covers roughly 24 kilometres, as it takes hikers deep into the heart of the Cape Floral Kingdom. Or you could try the Palmiet River Hike, for a more easy-going adventure.
Start and end point Kogelberg Nature Reserve office
Duration 8 hours
Need to know The trail is long, so hikers are advised to start as early as 10am (8am in winter).
All CapeNature reserves require visitors to purchase a permit before they can access any of the hiking trails. Contact CapeNature to book your permits, or acquire them at the reserve office.
Cost CapeNature Permit: R40 (adults); R20 (children)
Child-friendly? No, as the trail is quite long
Dog-friendly? Dogs are not allowed in CapeNature reserves.
Contact 021 851 6982 / 021 851 4060 (reserve office)
082 783 8585 (emergency number)
021 483 0190, reservation.alert@capenature.co.za (booking enquiries)
Location Kogelberg Nature Reserve, R44, Kleinmond
11. KROM RIVER TRAIL
This noncircular route in the Limietberg Nature Reserve crosses two rivers before it reaches the Krom River waterfall and pool. Follow the white boot prints (painted on rocks along the ravine) for breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, and into a fairytale-like indigenous forest. Once through the Worcester exit of the Huguenot Tunnel, take the first road on your left to the parking lot.
Starting point Follow the Krom River signs
Good to know There are several other hiking trails in the Limietberg Nature Reserve, including a two-day overnight trail. It’s also the location of the Tweede Tol campsite.
Duration Around 5 hours
Need to know The trail is closed during winter.
All CapeNature reserves require visitors to purchase a permit before they can access any of the hiking trails. Contact CapeNature to book your permits, or acquire them at the reserve office.
Child-friendly? Yes
Dog-friendly? No
Cost CapeNature Permit: R40 (adults); R20 (children)
Contact 021 808 5121 (Tweede Tol campsite)
082 494 9707 (emergency number)
021 483 0190, reservation.alert@capenature.co.za (booking enquiries)
Location Limietberg Nature Reserve, 267 Main Street, Esterville, Paarl
Source credit: The Best Hiking Trails in Cape Town 2018 first appeared on insideguide.co.za