Table Mountain is undoubtedly a walkers paradise. It is rare to find such beauty that can be explored on foot, so close to a major city. The Cape Peninsula offers an abundance of flora and fauna to delight even the most casual observer. Some of the most breathtaking views in the world can be enjoyed and it is common to stumble upon a little piece of history while walking in the mountains. To explore Table Mountain on foot is in many ways the only way to fully appreciate this unique corner of Africa.
Skeleton Gorge
This route starts from the world famous Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens. There is a fairly strenuous walk up through the shady indigineous forest of Skeleton Gorge. On reaching the top of the Back Table, relax next to Hely Hutchinson dam, one of the 5 dams on Table Mountain. There is an easy stroll along the top with magnificent views towards the Hottentots Holland mountains, False Bay and the Peninsula to Cape Point. Before descending Nursery Ravine there is Castle Rock to visit. This walk takes about 3.5 hours.
Platteklip
Follow the route of the original explorers to the top of the Front Table. This ascent is steep and stepped. The reward at the top is the unrivalled views of Cape Town, Table Bay, Robben Island and the whole of the Cape Peninsula, east to the Hottentots Holland mountains and from the twelve apostles to Cape Point. Spend time exploring on the top before descending by the same route. This walk takes about 4.5 hours.
Skeleton Gorge via Maclears Beacon
This is a strenuous full day hike. Walk up Skeleton Gorge where the indigenous forest provides shade. On reaching the top of the Back Table, take a break before the final climb to Maclear`s Beacon, the highest point on Table Mountain. Stroll along the Front Table and enjoy the most spectacular views in the world before returning to Kirstenbosch Gardens, our starting point. The time for this walk is 7 to 8 hours.
Constantia Nek
This is the easiest route to reach the top of the Back Table. Walk through the magnificent Cecelia Forest along a jeep track. The going is smooth and there are no steps to be tackled. Shade is provided by the forest. Enjoy the views over the Cape Flats to the Hottentots Holland mountains and look south to False Bay and Cape Point in the distance. For those still feeling energetic there is the choice of walking a little further to view the spectacular Disa Gorge and Woodhead Dam. The time for this route is 3 to 4 hours.
12 Apostles
This is an easy but scenic 3 hour stroll below Table Mountain's magnificent 12 Apostles. Admire the spectacular Atlantic Seaboard, the palm fringed beaches of Camps Bay and Lion's Head to the North. Return by the same path.
