If you thought you were stuck in the city with nowhere to hike, look again. The Cape has much to offer with regards to beaten tracks and the wild. Below we’ll be talking about the 9 best hiking trails around Cape Town. So, before you put your boots on, read what we’ve got to say about the trails in and around the beautiful Mother City.
1. Lion’s Head
If you’re ready to spend a few hours hiking clockwise around and up a mountain to the top with different views on each side, then Lion’s head is for you. This moderate trail has a total distance of 5km and can be hiked within 3 hours max. Hikers have gone up Lion’s head at midnight with a full moon, in the morning, and just before sunset in order to watch the sun go down from the top. The summit offers breathtaking views of Robben Island and Signal Hill.
2. Platteklip Gorge
The hike up Platteklip Gorge is one of the alternative ways to reach the summit of Table Mountain. So those who refuse to take the cable car up to the top have a good hike in store for them. One should always wear a hat and sunscreen when hiking here because there’s very little shade.
3. Pipe Trail
The Pipe Trail’s name comes from the fact that the route was built for people to maintain and work on the pipeline. The hike is fairly moderate and should take you about 4 hours to complete the whole trail. For those who want to bring their kids with them are more than welcome given that the trail is quite easy. There are stunning views in store for the Pipe Track hiker and the trail will have you wanting more when you reach the end in Camps Bay.
4. Maclear’s Beacon
Maclear’s Beacon is the highest point on Table Mountain and starts from the upper cable car on the top of the mountain. There will be signs that will guide you from the cable car station that will eventually turn into yellow-painted footprints. Always remember to not hike the Maclear’s Beacon trail on a cloudy day as you might get lost in the mist.
5. Tygerberg Nature Reserve
Tygerberg Nature Reserve’s trail is hidden away in the Northern Suburbs and is found just outside of Bellville. This trail is perfect for those who want to bring their kids along in order to get them used to hiking. There are two entrances, one by Welgemoed and one by Plattekloof. This hike will give you amazing views of the Northern Suburb lights in the evening as well as Table Mountain.
6. Kasteelpoort Hiking Trail
This is a beautiful hike suitable for all fitness levels, and kids love it. Be ready to lift your head up every now and then in order to see spectacular views of the Twelve Apostles and Camps Bay. The trail ends at the top of Table Mountain and should take you about 3-4 hours to complete. It’s always best to start this hike early in the morning in order to avoid the heat of midday.
7. Devil’s Peak
With Panoramic views of Cape Town, this hike is a must-do. There are at least 3 different routes you could take to the top. The first starting at Tafelberg road which is a route that beginners should take. The second route is the Mowbray Ridge route which is a little difficult and then the Newlands Ravine route which is moderate and most popular because of its shade throughout. This hike should take you about 4 hours to complete. Hold on to your hats, it gets quite windy up there!
8. Skeleton Gorge
This is a beautifully lush trail that goes from the back of Table Mountain all the way to the other side. The trail starts in Kirstenbosch Gardens and will take you through lots of mountain fynbos with lovely views, scents and ladders to climb. The Skeleton Gorge hike ends at Maclear’s Beacon on top of Table Mountain. This hike is also child-friendly and should take about 2-4 hours to complete.
9. Chapman’s Peak
This is a very popular hiking trail and starts at the Chapman’s Peak toll booths. It’s relatively easy to do and should take about 1-2 hours to complete. The best part is that it is child and dog friendly, but you’ll have to get a level 1 permit for your dog. From this hike you’ll be able to see views of Fishhoek, Hout Bay, Cape Point, Karbonkelberg and Klein Leeu Koppie.
If you’re keen on visiting Cape Town to experience some of these moments yourself then book a tour with us by clicking the link here: https://africantraveldesk.com/tour-category/cape-town-half-day-tours/