Your guide to the best hikes and trails in Cape Town

Introduction

The best hikes in Cape town are nestled between rugged mountains and the vast Atlantic Ocean. Cape Town really is a hiker’s paradise that’ll leave you breathless – both from the exertion and the stunning views. This South African gem boasts a hiking scene as diverse as its cultural landscape, with trails that wind through unique fynbos vegetation, scale imposing rock faces, and meander along dramatic coastlines.

From the iconic Table Mountain national park, with its famous cable car and challenging Platteklip Gorge route, to the scenic Chapman’s Peak Drive that hugs the mountainside, Cape Town’s hiking options are endless. You’ll find yourself traversing paths that offer panoramic views of the city, False Bay, and the Twelve Apostles mountain range.

In this guide, I’ll explore explore some of the Western Cape’s best hikes. From the summit of Lion’s Head for sunrise, the lush ravines of Skeleton Gorge, and venture to the windswept Cape of Good Hope. Whether you’re after a quick nature walk or a demanding full-day trek, the best hikes and trails in Cape Town promise unforgettable adventures and Instagram-worthy vistas at every turn. So, grab your water bottle and sun cream – it’s time to discover why hiking in the Mother City is an absolute must for any outdoor enthusiast.

Looking for a full guide to Cape Town, where to eat, where to stay and what to do? Have a look at my full guide

Why should I pick Cape Town for hikes?

Cape Town is the jewel of South Africa, a breath-taking outdoor playground that’ll spoil you rotten. What sets it apart? 

Nature and Terrain

• For starters, the biodiversity is off the charts. You’ll be trekking through fynbos, a vegetation type found nowhere else on Earth. This scrubland bursts with colour and life, home to over 9,000 plant species, many of which are unique to the Cape Floral Kingdom. 
• The terrain is a hiker’s dream come true. One day you’re scaling the front face of Table Mountain, tackling steep rock faces and rugged paths. The next, you’re strolling along coastal trails in the Cape Point Nature Reserve, waves crashing below. Fancy a forest walk? Head to Constantia Nek and lose yourself among ancient trees and babbling streams.

Seasons and views

• Unlike many hiking destinations, Cape Town’s trails are open for business year-round. Sure, you might encounter some winter rains from June to August, but these often clear quickly, leaving behind misty trails and atmospheric views. Summer brings long, sunny days perfect for early morning starts or sunset hikes.
• But let’s be honest – it’s the views that’ll really knock your socks off. Picture this: you’re standing atop Lion’s Head, the city sprawled out below, Table Mountain to your right, and the vast Atlantic Ocean stretching to the horizon. Or you’re at Maclear’s Beacon, Table Mountain’s highest point, with 360-degree views of the Cape Peninsula. From spotting whales in False Bay to watching paragliders launch from Signal Hill.

Top 10 best hikes in Cape Town

1. Table Mountain (Platteklip Gorge route)

Difficulty level: Challenging

Approximate duration: 2-3 hours up, 1-2 hours down

Distance: About 3 km one way

Starting point: Tafelberg Road, at the base of Platteklip Gorge

Platteklip Gorge is the most direct route to the top of Table Mountain, and it’s a proper leg-burner. This trail is essentially nature’s StairMaster, zigzagging up the front face of Table Mountain. You’ll be tackling steep rock faces and countless stone steps, but the panoramic city views make every drop of sweat worth it.

Once you reach the top of the mountain, you’re in for a treat. The flat summit is a wonderland of unique fynbos vegetation and small wildlife. Don’t miss Maclear’s Beacon, the highest point on Table Mountain. On clear days, you can see all the way to Cape Point.

Best time of day to hike: Early morning to beat the heat and crowds. Plus, you might catch the sunrise if you start early enough.

Pro tip: If your legs are jelly after the climb, treat yourself to a ride down on the cable car. This is exactly what I did and I’d encourage it, as seeing the cable car in action is good fun!

2. Lion’s Head

Difficulty level: Moderate

Approximate duration: 1-2 hours round trip

Distance: About 5.5 km round trip

Starting point: Lion’s Head parking lot off Signal Hill Road

Lion’s Head is Cape Town’s go-to for sunrise or sunset hikes. This spiral path wraps around the mountain, offering 360-degree views that’ll make your Instagram followers green with envy. You’ll see Table Mountain, Camps Bay, and the Twelve Apostles from angles you never imagined.

The trail starts off easy enough, but don’t be fooled. The last section involves some scrambling and ladder climbs. It’s nothing too scary, but if you’re not a fan of heights, you might find it a bit daunting.

Best time of day to hike: Sunrise or sunset for the most magical light. Just bring a headlamp for the way down if you’re hiking at dusk.

3. Skeleton Gorge to Maclear’s Beacon

Difficulty level: Challenging

Approximate duration: 5-6 hours round trip

Distance: About 6.2 km one way

Starting point: Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens

This hike is a real adventure and one to test your fitness level, taking you from the lush Kirstenbosch Gardens to the highest point on Table Mountain. You’ll start in a shaded ravine, climbing up ladders and stone steps through the gorge. The dense forest gives way to fynbos as you ascend, and before you know it, you’re on top of Table Mountain.

From there, it’s a relatively flat walk to Maclear’s Beacon. The 360-degree views from this point are simply breath-taking. You’ll see the entire Cape Peninsula stretched out before you, from the city bowl to False Bay.

Best time of day to hike: Early morning. It’s a long hike, so you’ll want plenty of daylight.

4. Chapman’s Peak

Difficulty level: Moderate

Approximate duration: 2-3 hours round trip

Distance: About 3 km round trip

Starting point: Chapman’s Peak Drive, at the lookout point before the toll gate

While most people drive Chapman’s Peak, hiking it is a whole different ball game. This trail offers some of the most spectacular coastal views in the Western Cape. You’ll be walking along the mountainside, with sheer drops to the Atlantic Ocean on one side and towering cliffs on the other.

The path is well-maintained but steep in places. As you climb, keep an eye out for pristine fynbos and, if you’re lucky, you might spot some wildlife like baboons or rock hyraxes.

Best time of day to hike: Late afternoon for the best light on the coastline. Just make sure you’ll be back before dark.

5. Pipe Track

Difficulty level: Easy to Moderate

Approximate duration: 2-3 hours (but can be extended)

Distance: Varies, typically 6-8 km round trip

Starting point: Kloof Nek parking area

The Pipe Track is a bit of a hidden gem, more on these later! This relatively flat trail contours around the Twelve Apostles, offering stunning views of Camps Bay and the Atlantic Ocean. It follows an old water pipeline (hence the name) that used to supply water to Cape Town.

What’s great about this hike is its flexibility. You can make it as long or short as you like. For a longer adventure, you can connect to other trails like Kasteelspoort or Corridor Ravine.

Best time of day to hike: Morning or late afternoon. The trail can get hot during midday as there’s limited shade.

6. Constantia Nek to Kirstenbosch Gardens

Difficulty level: Moderate

Approximate duration: 4-5 hours one way

Distance: About 6 km one way

Starting point: Constantia Nek parking area

This hike takes you through some of the most beautiful parts of Table Mountain National Park. You’ll start at Constantia Nek, winding your way through shaded forests and across the eastern slopes of Table Mountain. The path offers stunning views of the southern suburbs and False Bay.

As you approach Kirstenbosch, you’ll descend through indigenous forest, crossing streams and wooden boardwalks. The finale is a treat – you emerge into the world-famous Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, where you can reward yourself with a picnic or a visit to the tea room.

Best time of day to hike: Morning. This gives you plenty of time to enjoy Kirstenbosch afterwards.

7. Cape of Good Hope Trail

Difficulty level: Moderate

Approximate duration: 3-4 hours

Distance: About 7.5 km loop

Starting point: Cape Point parking area

This trail takes you to the southwestern tip of Africa, where two oceans meet. You’ll start at Cape Point, hiking along rugged cliffs with the vast Atlantic on one side and pristine fynbos on the other. Keep an eye out for wildlife – you might spot baboons, ostriches, or even whales in the distance.

The highlight is reaching the old lighthouse at the Cape of Good Hope. From here, you’ll have breath-taking views of the peninsula and the endless ocean. It’s a spot steeped in maritime history and natural beauty.

Best time of day to hike: Early morning to avoid the crowds and catch the best light for photos.

8. Silvermine Nature Reserve

Difficulty level: Easy to Moderate

Approximate duration: 2-3 hours

Distance: Various trails, typically 5-6 km

Starting point: Silvermine Dam parking area

Silvermine offers a network of trails suitable for various fitness levels. The most popular route circles the Silvermine Reservoir, offering easy walking with beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and fynbos-covered slopes.

For a bit more challenge, you can hike to the Elephants Eye Cave, named for its elephant-head shaped opening. The cave offers panoramic views of False Bay and is a great spot for a picnic.

Best time of day to hike: Midday. The reservoir is a perfect spot for a refreshing dip on hot days.

9. Devil’s Peak

Difficulty level: Challenging

Approximate duration: 4-5 hours round trip

Distance: About 6 km round trip

Starting point: Rhodes Memorial parking area

Often overshadowed by its famous neighbour Table Mountain, Devil’s Peak offers a challenging hike with fewer crowds. The trail starts at Rhodes Memorial, climbing steeply through pine forests before emerging onto the rocky slopes of the peak.

The summit offers unparalleled views of Table Mountain, the City Bowl, and both the Atlantic and Indian Oceans. On clear days, you can see all the way to the mountains of the Cape Winelands.

Best time of day to hike: Early morning. The trail can get hot, and afternoon clouds often obscure the peak.

10. Tygerberg Nature Reserve

Difficulty level: Easy to Moderate

Approximate duration: 1-2 hours

Distance: Various trails, typically 2-4 km

Starting point: Tygerberg Nature Reserve entrance

Located in the northern suburbs, Tygerberg Nature Reserve is a bit off the usual tourist track, but it’s well worth a visit. The reserve protects one of the last remnants of the critically endangered Swartland Shale Renosterveld vegetation.

The Uitsig (“View”) Trail lives up to its name, offering panoramic views of Table Mountain, the city, and on clear days, all the way to the Hottentots Holland Mountains. It’s a great option if you’re short on time or looking for an easier hike.

Best time of day to hike: Late afternoon for the best views of Table Mountain in the golden hour light.

Get me off the beaten track: The best lesser know hikes in Cape Town

While Cape Town’s famous trails often steal the spotlight, these hidden treasures offer equally spectacular experiences with a fraction of the crowds, well worth the effort to get to them! 

Elsie’s Peak Trail

Tucked away in Fish Hoek, Elsie’s Peak Trail is a local secret that packs a punch. This relatively short hike offers stunning panoramic views of False Bay that’ll have you reaching for your camera every few steps.

Difficulty level: Moderate

Approximate duration: 1-2 hours round trip

Distance: About 3 km round trip

Starting point: Outspan Road, Fish Hoek

The trail starts with a steep climb, but don’t let that put you off. As you ascend, the views of the coastline become increasingly breath-taking. On a clear day, you can see all the way from Simon’s Town to Cape Hangklip. It’s a fantastic spot for whale watching during the season (June to December).

What makes this hike special is its tranquillity. You’re likely to have the trail mostly to yourself, especially on weekdays. The path winds through beautiful fynbos, and if you’re lucky, you might spot some local wildlife like mongooses or tortoises.

Best time to hike: Early morning for the best light and clearest views across the bay.

Orangekloof Trail

Hidden in a restricted area of Table Mountain National Park, the Orangekloof Trail offers a serene hiking experience that feels worlds away from the city.

Difficulty level: Moderate to Challenging

Approximate duration: 4-5 hours

Distance: About 9 km loop

Starting point: Constantia Nek

What sets Orangekloof apart is its limited access. You need to obtain a permit from SANParks (source that here), which helps keep the area pristine and uncrowded. The trail takes you through a beautiful, secluded valley filled with indigenous forest – a rarity on the otherwise fynbos-covered Cape Peninsula.

As you hike, you’ll cross babbling streams, pass by hidden waterfalls, and walk under a canopy of ancient yellowwood trees. The forest gives way to fynbos as you climb, offering contrasting landscapes in a single hike. Keep an eye out for the elusive Knysna Warbler and the Cape Dwarf Chameleon, both of which call this area home.

Best time to hike: Early morning. The permit system limits the number of daily hikers, so you’ll want to make the most of your time here.

Post-Hike Experiences

After a day of conquering Cape Town’s trails and breathtaking views, you’ll have earned some proper refuelling and relaxation. Luckily, the Mother City knows how to reward weary hikers.

• If you’ve just descended from your Table Mountain hike, head to the vibrant Kloof Street. The Power and the Glory is a local favourite, offering craft beers and mouth-watering sandwiches. For something more substantial, Asoka serves up delicious tapas-style dishes in a charming Victorian house.

• Hikers coming down from Lion’s Head should make a beeline for Camps Bay. Chinchilla Rooftop Café & Bar is the perfect spot to watch the sunset over the Atlantic while sipping on a well-deserved cocktail. If you’re after heartier fare, try Codfather Seafood & Sushi for some of the freshest fish in town.

• After exploring Kirstenbosch, you’re in for a treat. The gardens’ own tea room offers light meals with a view, but if you’re willing to venture a bit further, head to Foxcroft in nearby Constantia for an unforgettable fine dining experience.

• For those finishing up in Silvermine or on Chapman’s Peak, Noordhoek’s Village Lane is a must-visit. The Foodbarn serves up gourmet comfort food that’ll sort out any post-hike hunger pangs.

Safety Tips and Considerations

While Cape Town’s hiking trails offer incredible experiences, it’s crucial to prioritise safety. Here are some essential tips to ensure your adventures are both enjoyable and secure:

• Hike in groups whenever possible. There’s safety in numbers, and it’s more fun to share the experience. If you’re solo travelling, consider joining a guided hike or meet-up group.

• Always inform someone of your hiking plans. Let them know your route and expected return time. It’s a simple step that can make a big difference in an emergency.

• Check the weather forecast before setting out. Cape Town’s weather can change rapidly, especially on Table Mountain. Be prepared to turn back if conditions worsen.

• Carry essential gear, even on short hikes. This includes plenty of water, snacks, sunscreen, a hat, and a warm layer (trust me on this one!!). The weather can be unpredictable, so it’s better to be over-prepared.

• Be aware of your surroundings. Unfortunately, some isolated areas can attract opportunistic crime. Stay alert and avoid displaying valuable items openly.

• Know the emergency numbers. Save these contacts: Mountain Rescue (021 937 0300) and Table Mountain National Park (021 712 2337).

• Respect the local wildlife and plant life. Don’t feed the animals (especially the baboons), and avoid picking plants. Many species are protected and crucial to the ecosystem.

Planning your trip to Cape Town? Check out my full guide here, as well as my complete guide to the best wine tours the region has to offer

Conclusion

From the iconic silhouette of Table Mountain to the windswept cliffs of Cape Point, the best hikes and trails in Cape Town deliver in spades. Each path tells a story – of ancient geology, unique flora, and the raw beauty of the Cape Peninsula.

Whether you’re tackling the challenging ascent of Platteklip Gorge, enjoying the coastal views from Chapman’s Peak, or exploring the hidden forests of Orangekloof, you’re in for unforgettable adventures. The city’s diverse terrain ensures there’s a perfect trail for every fitness level and interest.

So lace up your boots, fill your water bottle, and hit the trails. Cape Town’s natural wonders are waiting to be explored. Just remember to tread lightly, stay safe, and take nothing but photographs and memories. Happy hiking!