Hiking on Table Mountain

Lockdown is slowly being lifted and, with your newfound freedom, you’re trying out new hobbies and really living life to the full! Next on the agenda? Hiking, of course. After being confined indoors for weeks, you’re craving fresh air — and with Table Mountain towering over Cape Town, there’s no better place to start. The problem? No gear and no idea where to begin. Luckily, CityROCK has you covered with everything you need to know.

Gear Basics

First things first — you’ll need comfortable shoes. No slops here! Your feet will thank you later. In short, hiking boots are ideal for long distances thanks to their durability and ankle support, though they can feel bulky for short hikes. Approach shoes, on the other hand, are lighter and grippier on technical terrain but not as cushioned for long-distance hiking.

A great option is the La Sportiva TX2 — supportive, lightweight and great for scrambling. For beginners, a hybrid like the Mammut Mercury III Mid GTX (Men) or Mammut Nova III Mid GTX (Women) is a solid choice. These combine the comfort and support of a hiking boot with a lightweight Vibram sole for excellent grip.

For more on footwear selection, check out CityROCK’s guide: What shoes are right for the great South African outdoors?

Hydration and Essentials

Even on cooler days, the front side of Table Mountain can get scorching. Always carry plenty of water. The Osprey Hydraulics Soft Flask (500ml) fits easily into most packs, or if you prefer something insulated, the Stanley Go Ceramivac Bottle keeps liquids hot for up to 4 hours and cold for 7.

Weather on the mountain changes quickly. Pack a lightweight rain shell such as the Black Diamond Stormline Stretch Rain Shell — waterproof, windproof, and breathable. If your pack doesn’t have a built-in rain cover, consider a Sea to Summit Dry Sack to keep valuables dry even in a downpour.

Daypack

A good daypack makes all the difference. Aim for something in the 20–35L range. The Vaude Brenta 25 is a great option, featuring ventilated mesh straps, sustainable materials, a built-in rain cover, and hydration compatibility. Trust us — it’s far better than a supermarket plastic bag!

Route Planning

Table Mountain offers a wide variety of hiking routes, and with the cableway now open for one-way trips down, you can hike up and ride down. Always plan your route in advance — study the map, know the paths, and check the weather. For an excellent reference, get Table Mountain Classics by Tony Lourens, a comprehensive guide to all known routes, complete with descriptions and difficulty ratings.

Recommended Routes

Platteklip Gorge
The most straightforward and family-friendly route up Table Mountain, Platteklip Gorge follows a clear, well-marked path. It’s mostly stone steps, with shade in places but plenty of sun exposure, so bring a hat. Expect stunning rock formations and blooming Watsonias between September and January. This is also the safest route for descending if you skip the cable car.

India Venster
A step up in difficulty, India Venster involves moderate scrambling and short vertical sections equipped with chains and staples. Solid approach shoes are essential for traction and safety. It’s a rewarding route with incredible views and the famous “window” (venster) — a perfect photo spot. Ideal for hikers with some experience who want more adventure.

Kloof Corner Ridge
The most advanced of the three routes, Kloof Corner Ridge includes three pitches of exposed scrambling. For confident climbers, it’s an exhilarating challenge, but for most hikers it’s a technical and demanding ascent that requires caution — and ideally, a rope and an experienced companion. The views are incredible: city skyline on one side, the Twelve Apostles and Atlantic coast on the other.

Final Checks

Shoes? Check. Water bottle and snacks? Check. Jacket, dry bag, and lunch? Check. Don’t forget a Coghlans First Aid Kit Pack III — small enough for your daypack but essential for safety.

Now that you’re geared up and know your route, there’s only one thing left to do — take a hike!

Warning

Kloof Corner Ridge is considerably more difficult and exposed than India Venster. A fall here could result in serious injury or death. Attempt it only if you have the necessary experience and equipment, or go with a qualified guide.