If you’re looking for the most direct route to hike up Table Mountain, Platteklip Gorge is your go-to trail. This is the classic Table Mountain hike—steep, iconic, and incredibly rewarding.
It’s a favourite for first-timers, visitors on a time crunch, and anyone who wants to stand proudly on the summit of one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature.
Quickest route to the top of Table Mountain (2.5–3.5 hours)
No technical climbing – just lots of steep rock steps
Ideal for beginners who are moderately fit
Safe in most weather conditions
Access to the cable car at the top for the descent. You can book your cable car tickets here
This route doesn’t involve any scrambling or exposure to heights. It’s physically demanding, but mentally manageable with the right guide and pace.
The hike starts from Tafelberg Road (about 2km past the lower cable car station) and begins with a short traverse on the Contour Path before ascending the gorge itself. From here, it’s essentially nature’s stair-master—stone steps that wind up between towering cliffs.
You’ll gain over 740 meters in elevation over just 3.3 km if you just hiking to the cable car. While the upper section becomes narrower and less scenic, the reward awaits at the top: panoramic views over Cape Town, the Atlantic Ocean, and the mountain plateau.
Expect to sweat, feel your legs burn, and wonder why you didn’t train with more step-ups. But also expect to feel proud, inspired, and completely alive at the summit.
Indigenous fynbos and Afro-montane forest patches
Dramatic cliffs and weathered sandstone
Views of Lion’s Head, the city bowl, Robben Island, and Table Bay
Dassies (rock hyraxes) sunbathing near the top!
The best time to hike Platteklip is early morning, especially in summer. The route is exposed to direct sunlight most of the day, and Cape Town can get hot. Morning hikes offer cooler temperatures and quieter trails.
Bring at least 2–2.5 litres of water
Wear grippy hiking shoes and a hat
Weather can change fast – pack a light jacket
Cable car down is optional (ticket not included)
Average fitness required (but we hike at your pace)
We recommend this hike for ages 12+. However, if your child is fit and experienced, we’re happy to assess individually — just reach out before booking.
If the weather is unsafe (e.g. wind, storm), we’ll:
Reschedule your hike
Or offer a full refund (for direct bookings)
🌧 Light drizzle? We usually still hike — sometimes the mist makes it even more magical. Check out the weather here
Your safety comes first. If the weather is unsafe, we will reschedule your hike for another suitable time. If you cannot make the new date, we offer a full refund. Cape Town weather changes quickly, so we monitor it carefully before and during your hike.
No problem — just let us know. We guide hikers of all experience levels and can choose routes that are less exposed and more comfortable. For hikes like Lion’s Head or India Venster, we support you through the trickier sections at your pace.
Yes — depending on the route & their fitness levels Private family hikes can also be arranged.
For our private group hikes, we keep our groups small and personal, usually 6–12 people depending on the trail.
For our community hikes, we a larger groups and where appropriate more guides.
This ensures safety, connection, and a more enjoyable experience. Private groups are available on request.
Yes!
We offer private sunrise, sunset, and custom hikes for:
Private hikes can be customised to your fitness level and time preference.
For hikes that require permits (e.g., Crystal Pools, Cape Point routes), we handle all the permit logistics.
Permit costs are either:
included in your quote, or
clearly stated before you book.
We guide hikers of all fitness levels.
Each route has a recommended fitness level, and we’ll help you choose the best hike for you.
Our pricing includes:
You’re paying for safety, expertise, convenience, and a premium outdoor experience.
Yes — we offer optional transport for most hikes.
Pickup is available from most areas in Cape Town for an additional fee.
Please ask when booking so we can confirm availability.
Depending on the season, sunrise hikes typically start between 4:00 and 5:30 AM.
We will send you the exact meeting time when your booking is confirmed.
Yes — we offer a limited number of overnight and multi-day hiking experiences, including Table Mountain hut adventures, Cederberg escapes, Cape Point overnights and curated nature retreats.
Overnight hikes include:
5.0 from 400+ Google reviews · Read them all on Google
I had an amazing experience hiking with the Lekker Hike Cape Town group! We tackled the iconic Platteklip Gorge trail up Table Mountain, enjoying stunning views all the way. The energy and camaraderie of the group made the climb even more …
Our guide Matthew was absolutely fantastic! Kept the pace we needed but gave us so much awesome information about the history of Table Mountain. Highly recommend!!!!
I had a very enjoyable hike this morning with Emlyn. I was really looking forward to climbing table Mountain but the wind this week has been insane and I did not feel safe as we began the ascent. Emlyn Offered me an alternative route around …
Amazing hike with Matthew! He shared loads of interesting stories about the history of Cape Town and Table Mountain, and told us plenty of fun facts along the way. He’s very attentive to the group and happy to adapt the pace. And as a …
Ryon not only took us to Table Mountain, but also gave us great suggestions for our stay here. Most amazing hike and guide! 💯 % recommend. …
Very enjoyable morning hike up the Indian venster route of table mountain with our guide Matthew who was very knowledgeable and helpful. Would definitely recommend.
More guided hikes around Cape Town
Certified local guides · small groups · any day of the week
