Travel bucket list idea:

Hike up Table Mountain

Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa

View of the mountain from inside a cave during the daytime

Last updated: 16 March, 2024

Towering more than 3,000-feet above the city, Table Mountain defines the skyline of Cape Town. And while going up by cable car is an easy option for the unfit, hiking the mountain slopes is a far better way to appreciate the flora, fauna and fine views of this World Heritage Site.

There are dozens of routes on, up and around the mountain. The most popular, independently-tackled route is the well-marked Platteklip Gorge (a challenging 2- to 3-hour hike). If you want something more adventures – like the forested trails that lead up the eastern slopes above Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens – book a guided hike. Guides will teach about the local fynbos and the Cape Floral Kingdom as you ascend.

The true summit is at Maclear’s Beacon, but keen hikers should allow time to discover the quieter trails that explore the ‘Back Table’ to the south.

Logistics

Price: Free

Minimum age: 0

Age suitable: 13+

When: All year around

Duration: 2-3 hours

Getting there & doing it

The Table Mountain National Park stretches almost the length of the Cape Peninsula, though the most popular trails are centred on Table Mountain itself.

Independent hikes are easily accessible, but a good map (available from local outdoor stores) is essential for safe walking. Most of these begin close to the lower cableway station above the city, which can be reached by e-hailing or public transport. If you’re an inexperienced hiker, definitely hire a guide for all but the most popular routes.

Always wear appropriate walking shoes, carry sufficient water and a charged mobile phone with emergency numbers pre-loaded.

When to do it

Trails are accessible year-round, but be extremely cautious of the capricious weather. Sunny summer days can change rapidly due to high winds, covering the mountain in cloud, while winter cold fronts bring rain, high winds and occasional snow.

Summer sees the more popular routes get extremely busy. Start early to avoid the crowds.

Who to go with: organised tours

Our selection of the best Viator tours of this attraction or activity

Table Mountain Adventurous Hike & Cable Car Down

Cape Town

Viator

Join a bucket-list African adventure. We will hike Table Mountain using the lessor known, more adventurous route up, away from the crowds. Once on top, we will have a rare opportunity to walk along the Rim of Table Mountain (where tourists don't usually get to experience unless with local knowledge). After a quick picnic we then make our way to the upper Cable Station where we will take the cable car back down the mountain (if open - ticket fare not included - if the cable car is closed, we will hike down a common route)

Price $73

Min age 10

Rating 4.96 / 5 [162 ratings]

Tour supplied by:

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Private Hiking Tour of Table Mountain

Cape Town

Viator

A private guided hike up Table Mountain is a wonderful adventure not to be missed when you are in Cape Town. The mountain rises over one thousand meters from sea level and offers stunning views of the surrounding city, ocean and mountain range. An experienced hiking and nature guide will give you a deeper insight into the wonders of the Cape Floral Kingdom and natural history of the mountain. Various hiking routes are offered and tailored to the clients' fitness level and preferences.

Price ZAR 4,400

Min age 0

Rating 4.87 / 5 [32 ratings]

Tour supplied by:

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Table Mountain Half Day Hike: Platteklip Gorge

Cape Town

Viator

Zig-zag your way up the fastest route to the summit of Table Mountain in Cape Town, South Africa. This is the same path used before the cable-way was built. Look back at postcard views of Table Bay, Robben Island and down town Cape Town. This is the iconic way up the 7th Natural Wonder of the World. Enjoy time on the summit with many viewpoints and photo opportunities, grab a bite to eat or drink at the cafe on top and experience the cable-way back down the mountain.

Price ZAR 1,650

Min age 10

Rating 4.84 / 5 [13 ratings]

Tour supplied by:

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