There are a vast number of beautiful hiking trails in Cape Town, ranging from leisurely to extremely difficult. While each track is different, it is important to adhere to the following safety principles during every hike:
- Pack plenty of water to ensure you are adequately hydrated throughout your hike.
- Always hike with another person, and let someone else know where you’re going and how long you’re expected to be gone for.
- The Cape Town weather is known for experiencing four seasons in a day – ensure to pack sun cream and a warm jacket.
- Don’t attempt a route that is too advanced for your fitness range. There are many challenging hikes in and around Cape Town, and often rescues occur to help those who have overestimated themselves!
Once you’ve found a friend to walk with, packed your supplies, and laced up your shoes, it’s time to get hiking! With so many fantastic trails to explore, it can be hard to decide which route to take. We’ve crafted the following list of hiking trails in and around Cape Town to help you decide, depending on your own fitness levels and needs.
#1 Lion’s Head
Situated between Table Mountain and Signal Hill, Lion’s Head is a mountain peaking at 669 metres above sea level. Taking approximately 2-3 hours to complete (both up and down) and consisting of a moderate ascent with a short distance of climbing near the top, Lion’s Head is a great option for those with an average fitness level. At the top of the peak, you’re awarded with sensational 360-degree views of the city, beaches, and ocean. If hiking during the heat of the day sounds not-so-appealing, why not take part in one of the full moon hikes? Starting from 18:00 on the night of the full moon, hikers don head torches and climb the mountain for a completely different, yet equally beautiful view!
#2 Platteklip Gorge
If you’re wanting to hike in Cape Town, you can’t miss out on climbing up Table Mountain! Famous for its flat, table-like peak, Table Mountain is thought to be one of the oldest mountains in the world and features approximately 1,500 indigenous plant species. There are many ways of ascending this impressive landmark, including a cable car for those who are unable to walk up. One of the best hiking routes, however, is Platteklip Gorge. Located on the front face of the mountain, Platteklip Gorge provides a straight route up to the summit. One of the best hiking trails in Cape Town, this route offers guests a scenic 2-3 hour hike up the mountain. Either take the cable car back down or walk back down the path, taking a further 2-3 hours.
#3 The Pipe Track
Are you seeking an easier hike that the whole family can enjoy? The Pipe Track starts at the junction of Tafelberg Road and Kloof Nek road and ends in Camps Bay, offering walkers stunning ocean, mountain, and fauna and flora views throughout. With a mostly flat trail for a length of approximately 6km, The Pipe Track is a route that can be enjoyed at any pace and can be turned back on at any time. For those craving extra adventure, there are several tracks that deviate off of the main path. Please note, that these trails can be extremely challenging, however, and for your safety are always best explored with an experienced guide.
#5 Noordhoek Panoramic Circuit
The Noordhoek Panoramic Circuit is a 21km route that leads you right around the Noordhoek Valley. Truly magnificent views are to be found on this trail, from Noordhoek Peak to Silvermine Dam to numerous 360-degree viewpoints. Taking approximately 8 hours to complete, this circuit is appropriate for adults of a decent fitness level. Once you’ve completed the trail, reward yourself with a slap-up meal and a cool beverage at Noordhoek Village Farm, where multiple restaurants, bars and cafes can be found.
#5 Skeleton Gorge
As the name suggests, this trail is not for the faint-hearted! While it is not scary, it definitely requires a high level of fitness as the trail is 7km (round trip), is steep, and includes the use of ladders. The Skeleton Gorge hike begins in the Kirstenbosch Botanical National Garden (note you are required to pay an entry fee), trails through the forest, over rocks, and ends at the top of Table Mountain. Head to MaClear’s Beacon, the mountain’s highest point, to enjoy the incredible views of the Mother City.
With so many amazing places to hike in Cape Town, we hope you have fun exploring! Remember to stay safe, take plenty of refreshments, and return home to one of our villas for some well-deserved relaxation.