Platteklip Gorge Hike
Route Overview
| Duration | 2.5 to 3.5 hours |
| Distance | 3.5km/2.1 miles |
| Elevation | 750m/2350ft |
| Difficulty | Moderate |
| Price | R1,200 |
"The views at the top are free. You just pay with your calves."
What to expect from the Platteklip Gorge hike?
The Platteklip Gorge hike is the most direct and historic route to summit Table Mountain, offering a rewarding hiking experience that combines great views with fascinating local history. While the route is a steady uphill climb, it is completed at a comfortable pace with regular stops to rest, take photos, and admire the views. Upon reaching the summit, we’ll head to a special viewpoint where you’ll see the back side of Table Mountain and the rolling mountain ranges stretching into the Cape Peninsula, before descending by the Table Mountain Aerial Cableway.
Along the way, your guide will share stories about Cape Town, the mountain’s geology, unique fynbos, and the role Table Mountain has played throughout history.
The Trail
Beginning on the lower slopes of Table Mountain, the trail follows a perennial river and quickly opens up to panoramic views of Cape Town, Table Bay, and Robben Island before entering the impressive walls of Platteklip Gorge, creating a powerful sense of scale with truly spectacular scenery. As you climb through the gorge, the towering cliffs create a dramatic backdrop while indigenous fynbos lines the route. The hike covers approximately 3 km (2 miles) with an elevation gain of around 750 metres (2,350 feet).
What level of fitness is required?
Although relatively short, the hike is considered moderate due to the continuous ascent and numerous stone steps. There are very few flat sections, making it a steady uphill climb from start to finish. A reasonable level of fitness is required.
Where does the hike start and how do I get there?
Transport is available upon request or you can meet at the trailhead, which is; Platteklip Gorge starting point, along Tafelberg road. We’ll communicate all these details during the booking process.
What's included?
- Professional guide
- Photos
- WhatsApp support
- Headtorches (if required, only for the first 20-30 minutes).
How do I book?
Simply send us a WhatsApp with your preferred date and group size, and we’ll take care of the rest.
What makes the Platteklip Gorge hike so great?
This is the quickest and least technical route to summit Table Mountain. If you’re looking for a rewarding hiking experience only requiring a morning (or afternoon) on the mountain, Platteklip Gorge is the perfect choice.
**Enquire about discount for group bookings.