EXPERIENCE
IT

CONTACT

Guided Hikes

Hike up Lions Head

2-3 hour – easy to moderate hike 

Lion’s Head is situated in the heart of Cape Town offering a breathtaking 360 view of the city, Table Mountain and Robbin Island.  The hike includes a little scrambling and some ladders. There is no better way to watch sunrise or sunset.

Platteklip Gorge

2-3 hour – easy to moderate hike 

Hike up one of the oldest and most popular trails on Table Mountain. Starting on Tafelberg Road, heading straight up the gorge following a series of switchbacks to the top. Guests can enjoy a lunch and drinks at the restaurant on top of Table Mountain before catching the cable car down. The cable car is weather dependent. 

India Venster

2-3 hour – Moderate to Strenuous, technical route.

India Venster ticks all the boxes for the more adventurous hiker, with spectacular views and a few technical scrambles. Guests can enjoy a lunch and drinks at the restaurant on top of Table Mountain before catching the cable car down. The cable car is weather dependent. 

Warning: Not suitable for those with a fear of heights!

Skeleton Gorge 

4-6 hour -Moderate to Strenuous.

The hike starts from Kirstenbosch Botanical, one of the great botanic gardens of the world. The hike heads up the gorge, in a forest of yellow wood trees along the river, climbing a few wooden ladders before reaching the top where you will hike over the top of the mountain past Maclear’s Beacon which is  the highest point of Table Mountain and down Platteklip Gorge. There is an option to enjoy a lunch and drinks at the restaurant on top before catching the cable car down. The cable car is weather dependent. 

Hikes are typically graded based on several factors, including difficulty, terrain, elevation gain, and the required fitness level. Here’s an overview of common grading systems:

1. Easy

  • Terrain: Gentle slopes, well-maintained paths, minimal obstacles.
  • Elevation Gain: Little to no elevation gain.
  • Distance: Short distances, often under 5 km (3 miles).
  • Suitable For: Beginners, families with children, or anyone looking for a leisurely walk.

2. Moderate

  • Terrain: Varied terrain with some uneven surfaces, may include rocky paths or small streams.
  • Elevation Gain: Moderate elevation gain, typically between 300 to 600 meters (1,000 to 2,000 feet).
  • Distance: Ranges from 5 to 15 km (3 to 9 miles).
  • Suitable For: Hikers with a reasonable level of fitness, including those with some experience.

3. Challenging

  • Terrain: Rough and uneven terrain, may include steep slopes, loose rocks, and possible scrambling sections.
  • Elevation Gain: Significant elevation gain, typically between 600 to 1,200 meters (2,000 to 4,000 feet).
  • Distance: Can range from 10 to 20 km (6 to 12 miles).
  • Suitable For: Experienced hikers with good fitness levels, comfortable with longer distances and more demanding conditions.

4. Strenuous

  • Terrain: Very rough, often includes steep, rocky, or slippery sections. May require technical skills like scrambling or use of hands for stability.
  • Elevation Gain: High elevation gain, often exceeding 1,200 meters (4,000 feet).
  • Distance: Longer distances, often exceeding 15 km (9 miles).
  • Suitable For: Very experienced hikers with excellent fitness levels, possibly requiring specialized equipment.

5. Extreme

  • Terrain: Highly technical, may involve climbing, exposure to heights, or navigation through challenging conditions (e.g., snow or ice).
  • Elevation Gain: Extreme elevation gain, often involving ascents over 2,000 meters (6,500 feet).
  • Distance: Varies, but can be both long and physically demanding.
  • Suitable For: Expert hikers or mountaineers with specialized skills and equipment.

Additional Considerations:

  • Weather Conditions: Can significantly affect the grading of a hike, making an easy hike more challenging under poor weather.
  • Altitude: Hikes at high altitudes can be more difficult due to thinner air, even if the terrain is relatively straightforward.
  • Duration: Some grading systems also consider the time required to complete the hike.

These grades help hikers choose trails that match their skill level and physical abilities, ensuring a safer and more enjoyable experience.

Volunteering

Join our whatsapp group to find out more

Next Event