The Table Mountain, untamed

The Ultimate Guide to Hiking in Cape Town

The Mountain, as most Capetonians call the city's iconic flat top massif, was in early times known as Hoerikwaggo. It means the mountain out of the sea.

Back then Cape Town was known as Camissa - 'sweet water for all.' Early Europeans called it 'an earthly paradise.'

These names hint at reasons for the city's status as a breathtaking hiking destination.

One straightforward route, Platteklip, can be tackled without a guide. But even then, having a knowledgeable guide along can transform the experience. With expert insight into the geography, and deep history of the region, a guide helps connect the dots as the city and it's natural surroundings unfold beneath you.

Why hire a hiking guide?

Table Mountain offers more than just a scenic workout. Its living landscape is layered with geology, history and biodiversity. While hiking without a guide can be rewarding, exploring the mountain with a qualified professional adds context, safety, and richness to the experience.

Safety in changing conditions: Cape Town is famous for its dynamic unpredictable weather, which on steep terrain can present challenges. Map apps are not always accurate and can mislead into dangerous territory. Professional guides are trained to interpret weather patterns, choose appropriate routes and responds to emergencies.

Unlock local knowledge: The Cape is one of the Earth's richest biodiversity hotspots, with unique vegetation and elusive wilflife. It is surrounded by a diverse population of over four million people with a complex history. Guides share stories and the insights that you'd likely miss out on your own. It's like walking through a living museum with your own narrator.

Customised experiences: Tailored routes cater for different fitness levels and time constraints. Whether you're a seasoned trekker seeking a challenge, or merely in the mood for a gentle intro to Cape Town's wild, a skilful guide will adjust route and pace to match your needs. They'll also know if a trail might be too unstable, steep, or overgrown - or even closed due to recent fire damage - and so suggest the best alternatives for your guided hike in Cape Town.