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Cape Town: Skeleton Gorge Hike to Table Mountain Summit
Features
- Free cancellation available
- 5h
- Mobile voucher
- Instant confirmation
- Multiple languages
Overview
- Hike one of Cape Town’s most beautiful and adventurous routes — Skeleton Gorge
- Traverse the length of the famous tabletop summit to the upper cable station
- Take a detour to a beach at the historic Table Mountain dams
- Enjoy the views from the highest point on Table Mountain, Maclear’s Beacon
- Hike through the Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens to the start of the trail
Activity location
- Cape Town
- Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa
Meeting/Redemption Point
- Rycroft Gate, 28B Rhodes Dr, Wynberg NU (2), Cape Town, 7800, South Africa | We meet at the Rycroft Gate of Kirstenbosch Botanical Garden as this is the only gate that is open before 08:00. Please buy your entry ticket online before the time as tickets are not sold at the gate so early.
- Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa
Check availability
Cape Town: Skeleton Gorge Hike to Table Mountain Summit
- 5h
Activity duration is 5 hours 5h - English
What's included, what's not
- Guided hike up Skeleton Gorge
What's included What's included - Expert Mountain Guide ( English/German)
What's included What's included - Qualified Wilderness First Aider
What's included What's included - Information on history, flora and fauna of the area
What's included What's included - Access to Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens ( Entry fee not included )
What's included What's included - Visit to the historic Table Mountain dams
What's included What's included - Traverse across the Table Mountain top
What's included What's included - Maclear's Beacon -Table Mountains highest point
What's included What's included - Beautiful views
What's included What's included - Stunning floral kingdom
What's included What's included - Cable car tickets down ( Cable car closed 28 July - 03 August )
What's excluded What's excluded - Entrance fee to Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens
What's excluded What's excluded - Meals and drinks
What's excluded What's excluded - Transportation to/from Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens
What's excluded What's excluded
Know before you book
- Not allowed: Alcohol and drugs, Intoxication, Littering, Pets, Smoking
- Not suitable for: People afraid of heights, People with heart problems, People with low level of fitness, People with pre-existing medical conditions, People with vertigo
What you can expect
Cape Town: Skeleton Gorge Hike to Table Mountain Summit
Experience one of Cape Town’s most iconic and rewarding hikes as you ascend Table Mountain via the legendary Skeleton Gorge. This guided hike takes you from the lush lower slopes of Kirstenbosch through indigenous forest, steep rocky sections, and classic ladders to the summit of Table Mountain.
Skeleton Gorge is known for its dramatic terrain and unique variety — shaded forest paths, flowing streams after rain, and steeper upper sections that reward your effort with breathtaking views over Cape Town, the City Bowl, and False Bay. Hiking with a knowledgeable local guide ensures a safe, well-paced ascent while allowing you to fully enjoy the scenery and experience.
The hike begins with a steady climb through dense indigenous forest before transitioning into steeper terrain with ladders and rocky steps. As you gain altitude, the forest opens up and panoramic views start to unfold. Once on top, you’ll explore the upper plateau of Table Mountain before descending via a suitable route depending on conditions, fitness, and group preference.
This is a physically demanding but highly rewarding hike, ideal for active hikers looking for an authentic Table Mountain experience beyond the cable car.
What to Expect
Scenic ascent through indigenous forest and fynbos
Steep sections with ladders and rocky terrain
A guided summit experience on Table Mountain
Regular rest and photo stops
Incredible views over Cape Town and False Bay
Important Safety Information
This hike includes steep, uneven terrain and ladders. A good level of fitness is required. It is not suitable for beginners or those uncomfortable with heights. Your guide will manage pacing, route choice, and safety throughout the hike.
Weather conditions on Table Mountain can change quickly. If conditions make Skeleton Gorge unsafe on the day, a suitable alternative route will be offered.
What to Bring
Hiking shoes with good grip
Water (minimum 1.5–2 liters)
Snacks or lunch
Sun protection and weather-appropriate clothing
Good to Know
Duration: ±5–6 hours
Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
Small group guided experience
Operated by a local, experienced hiking guide
This hike is one of the most scenic and rewarding ways to reach the summit of Table Mountain — a true Cape Town classic for adventurous travelers.
Location
Activity location
LOB_ACTIVITIES LOB_ACTIVITIES - Cape Town
- Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa
Meeting/Redemption Point
PEOPLE PEOPLE - Rycroft Gate, 28B Rhodes Dr, Wynberg NU (2), Cape Town, 7800, South Africa | We meet at the Rycroft Gate of Kirstenbosch Botanical Garden as this is the only gate that is open before 08:00. Please buy your entry ticket online before the time as tickets are not sold at the gate so early.
- Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa