Seven totally scenic hiking trails to explore in Cape Town

Cape Town offers some of the world’s most stunning hiking opportunities, with a mix of mountain and coastal landscapes – the city has something for everyone. Here are seven incredibly scenic hiking trails to explore…

1. Table Mountain via Platteklip Gorge

The Platteklip Gorge trail is one of the most direct routes and hiking trails to the top of Table Mountain, offering breathtaking views of the city, Atlantic Ocean, and Cape Peninsula. The trail is steep and strenuous, but the well-marked path makes it accessible for determined hikers. Upon reaching the summit, you’re rewarded with sweeping vistas that stretch far beyond the city!

• Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
• Duration: 1.5 to 3 hours (one way)

2. Lion’s Head

Lion’s Head offers one of the best 360-degree views of Cape Town, making it one of the more popular hiking trails for locals and tourists. The trail spirals around the mountain, providing different perspectives as you ascend. Whether you hike at sunrise or sunset, this trail never fails to deliver a magical experience, with panoramic views of Table Mountain, the city, and the ocean.

• Difficulty: Moderate
• Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours (round trip)

3. Kasteelspoort to the “Diving Board”

For those seeking quieter trails, Kasteelspoort is a great alternative. This moderate hike provides stunning views of Camps Bay, the Twelve Apostles, and the Atlantic Ocean. The journey leads to the famous “Diving Board,” a dramatic rock formation that offers an incredible photo opportunity.

• Difficulty: Moderate
• Duration: 3 to 4 hours (round trip)

4. Skeleton Gorge to Maclear’s Beacon

Starting from the lush Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, the Skeleton Gorge trail takes hikers through shaded forests, past waterfalls, and up a steep path that requires some scrambling. Reaching Maclear’s Beacon, the highest point on Table Mountain, is a rewarding achievement, offering awe-inspiring views from the summit.

• Difficulty: Challenging
• Duration: 4 to 5 hours (round trip)

5. Pipe Track

The Pipe Track is perfect for hikers seeking a more leisurely walk without steep climbs. Running along the western slopes of Table Mountain, this scenic route offers panoramic views of the Atlantic coastline and the Twelve Apostles mountain range. It’s an ideal trail for families or casual hikers looking to enjoy the beauty of Cape Town at a relaxed pace.

• Difficulty: Easy to moderate
• Duration: 2 to 4 hours (depending on distance covered)

6. Devil’s Peak

Devil’s Peak, though less famous than Table Mountain, offers a challenging hike with stunning views of the city and surrounding areas. Steep in places, the trail involves some scrambling near the summit. Once at the top, you can enjoy vistas that include Table Mountain, the Cape Flats, and the distant Hottentots Holland Mountains.

• Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
• Duration: 3 to 5 hours (round trip)

7. Chapman’s Peak

Chapman’s Peak offers one of Cape Town’s most scenic coastal hikes, with sweeping views of Hout Bay, the Atlantic Ocean, and Noordhoek Beach. The path follows dramatic cliffs, providing a sense of awe as you walk above the crashing waves. Wildflowers often bloom along the trail, adding colour to the experience.

• Difficulty: Moderate
• Duration: 2 to 3 hours (round trip)