Cape Town: Skeleton Gorge Hike to Table Mountain Summit
City Bowl, Cape Town
Climb Table Mountain via lush Skeleton Gorge and cross its iconic summit to descend by cable car — Cape Town’s most scenic hiking adventure. Guided in English or German.
This guided hike follows the Skeleton Gorge trail on Table Mountain, Cape Town, ideal for active travellers seeking a scenic and challenging mountain experience.
Highlights
- Hike one of Cape Town’s most scenic and adventurous routes, Skeleton Gorge
- Traverse the full length of Table Mountain’s summit to the upper cable station
- Visit a beach near the historic Table Mountain dams
- Enjoy views from Maclear’s Beacon, the highest point on Table Mountain
- Start the hike through Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens
Description
Begin your hike in Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens and ascend through indigenous forest on the famed Skeleton Gorge trail. This route includes wooden ladder climbs, seasonal waterfalls, and the tranquil Hely-Hutchinson Dam, often overlooked by visitors.
After the forest section, the landscape opens as you cross the tabletop summit, ending at the upper cable station. At the peak, you can relax, take in the views, and celebrate your achievement before descending by cable car, weather permitting.
Why Choose This Hike
- The most scenic route up Table Mountain, combining forest, ladders and viewpoints
- Guided by a local expert for safety and navigation ease
- Small group sizes allow a personal and flexible pace
- Multiple photo stops at prime viewpoints
- Reach the summit itself, not just the cable car station
What to Expect
- Start at Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens and ascend via Skeleton Gorge
- Climb ladders and pass waterfalls (seasonal)
- Visit Hely-Hutchinson Dam
- Traverse Table Mountain’s summit plateau
- Finish at the upper cable station with time to enjoy views
- Descent by cable car (weather permitting)
Who This is For
- Active travellers wanting a full Table Mountain hiking experience
- Those preferring a guided, safer alternative to solo hiking
- Individuals or small groups seeking a personal guided experience
Not suitable for those with very low fitness levels or anyone uncomfortable with heights or ladders.
Safety and Guidance
Table Mountain’s trails can be challenging and difficult without experience. Hiking with a guide ensures you stay safe, avoid getting lost, and benefit from local knowledge on conditions and weather. Guides adjust the pace to the group’s ability.
Duration and Difficulty
- Duration: Approximately 5 hours
- Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
- Distance: 6 to 8 km
- A reasonable level of fitness is required
What to Bring
- Comfortable hiking shoes
- At least 1.5 to 2 litres of water
- Snacks
- Sunscreen and a hat
- Light jacket, as weather can change quickly
Included
- Guided hike up Skeleton Gorge
- Expert mountain guide fluent in English and German
- Qualified wilderness first aider
- Information on local history, flora, and fauna
- Access to Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens (entry fee not included)
- Visit to historic Table Mountain dams
- Traverse across Table Mountain summit
- Visit to Maclear’s Beacon, the highest point on Table Mountain
Not Included
- Downhill cable car ticket (cable car closed 27 July to 9 August 2026)
- Entrance fee to Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens
- Meals and drinks
- Transportation to and from Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens
Important Information
- The hike is strenuous and requires good physical condition
- The trail can be slippery after rain, so wear appropriate footwear
- Kirstenbosch Gardens’ opening hours may affect start times
- Be prepared for rapidly changing mountain weather
Cancellation Policy
Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
