Some of the most stunning and rewarding hiking paths on Earth may be found in Cape Town and the surrounding areas. The entire family may enjoy hiking in Cape Town, which offers a variety of terrain and landscapes. Lace up your hiking boots and get outside, whether you're looking for a windswept seaside stroll, a mountain climb with breathtaking vistas, or a leisurely stroll through one of the Cape's lush nature reserves.
1. Lion's Head
A popular location for Instagrammers is Lion's Head (669m), a distinctive slope near Table Mountain that provides stunning 360-degree views of the city, Table Mountain and the Twelve Apostles, Table Bay, and the Atlantic Coast. A 2 km spiral rise that requires only a little bit of climbing near the top with the help of handholds and chains. It can get quite crowded because it is Cape Town's most well-liked hike, especially under the full moon and at sunset.
Duration: 2 – 3 hours (up and down)
Child-friendly: Yes, although the roundabout route is recommended for them.
Dog-friendly: No
2. Platteklip Gorge
For those who believe using the cable car is only for lightweights, Platteklip Gorge (on the front face of Table Mountain) offers a straight-up direct route to the summit. It is arguably the second most well-known walk in Cape Town (after Lion's Head). But, Platteklip is not as simple as it seems, so avoid trying it in slip-slops. There is a lot of upward trekking (3 km! ), even though there isn't much rock climbing or scrambling. Rest frequently and savour the breathtaking views.
Duration: Around 3 hours (one-way), though some ridiculously fit people have been known to run up the trail in an hour
Child-friendly: Yes, older kids, although take note of the above
Dog-friendly: Not recommended, as they struggle in the heat (and are not allowed to ride in the cable car
3. The Pipe Track
In addition to being breathtakingly beautiful (thanks to the sea view and the blooming proteas in winter), this 6 km trail along the western side of Table Mountain also has an intriguing history: it was constructed to maintain a pipeline that once carried water from the Disa Gorge to Cape Town in the nineteenth century. Although it becomes a little bit more difficult after crossing over Slangolie Ravine, the route is largely level and enjoyable.
Duration: 4 hours (there and back)
Child-friendly: Yes
Dog-friendly: Yes, with a SANParks Level 1 My Activity Permit (R320 for a year), obtainable from the Tokai Plantation Office (021 712 7471)
4. Maclear's Beacon
The official summit of Table Mountain (1 088m), Maclear's Beacon is located 21 meters above the Upper Cableway Station, making it the highest point in Cape Town. The 5.5km track is marked by yellow footprints beginning at the cableway station, where signs direct you to the start of the hike. You can legitimately claim to have trekked from the base of Table Mountain to its highest point if you complete the Platteklip and Maclear's Beacon routes all at once!
Duration: 2 hours (there and back)
Child-friendly: Yes
Dog-friendly: No (and they are not permitted in the cable car)
5. Devil's Peak
In addition to having a wonderfully cool name, Devil's Peak provides a variety of view spots for taking in the metropolis from the bay to the mountain's base. Walking along The Saddle, which connects Devil's Peak and Table Mountain, is very thrilling. From there, you can trek to the peak's summit at 1,000 meters and be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic vistas. Three routes are available, with the Tafelberg Road route (2.8 km) being the most beginner-friendly. The Newlands Ravine route (3.9km) is difficult but well-shaded by lovely indigenous woodland; the Mowbray Ridge route (5km), which begins near Rhodes Monument, is a trickier ascent that traverses the Knife Edge.
Duration: 4 – 5 hours
Child-friendly: Yes, older kids should be fine on the Tafelberg route
Dog-friendly: Yes, with a SANParks Level 1 My Activity Permit (R340 for a year), obtainable from the Tokai Plantation Office (021 712 7471)
6. Skeleton George
You essentially travel from one side of Table Mountain to the other on this 7-kilometer climb. You just head up Smuts Track and Skeleton Gorge after starting in Kirstenbosch Gardens, where the charming woodland provides shade for the first half of the trip. Before reaching the summit, you will pass a creek, typical mountain fynbos, and some intriguing rock formations. You can turn right to reach Maclear's Beacon, the highest point on the mountain, where you can take a well-earned break and take in panoramic views of the city, the ocean, and Robben Island. Alternatively, you can turn left to access Nursery Ravine, a wonderful alternative for returning down.
Duration: 2 – 3 hours, depending on your level of fitness (one-way)
Child-friendly: Yes, for older kids, but it is hard going
Dog-friendly: No
You'll never forget your trip to the Mother City, especially if you hike in one of these fantastic locations. Visit BookNow.co.za to reserve a special place to serve as your home away from home while visiting Cape Town.
