Cape Town is known for steep climbs and world-class bouldering, but that might not be for everyone. If you’ve told yourself that this will be the year of fitness and fun, then a low-effort trek through paradise might be just what you need to make good on your promises.
Here are five easy hiking trails to explore in the Mother City:
1. The Pipe Track
Picture: alistair.pott / Flickr Commons
The well-known Pipe Track boasts the most beautiful views over Camps Bay, Lion’s Head and the Atlantic Ocean. Table Mountain’s unique fynbos is certainly a sight to behold as you navigate through a single rock path that later joins onto a jeep track. Take time to enjoy the views along the way as you pass through stunning ravines of the western slopes. Even though your journey may be rocky in some areas, it isn’t steep, with only a few slight hills which makes it a perfect outing for children.
As one of Table Mountain’s oldest hiking routes, it’s still enjoyed by locals who love a chilled stroll while catching a glimpse of the 12 Apostles mountain range.
Starting point: Tafelberg Road and Kloof Nek intersection (park on Tafelberg Road lower parking lot)
The Newlands Forest Contour Path is another goodie for youngsters. Even though this walk is quite long, you’ll be so distracted by the amazing views that the distance won’t even matter
Starting point: Newlands Forest parking lot
Distance: +/- 8km
Time: 3-4 hours
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
3. Elephant’s Eye Cave
Picture: Matthew Sterne
Even though this may be a slightly challenging hike, it’s not all that difficult. Leave your car in the car park at Silvermine’s reservoir and make your way on the signposted jeep track up the mountain. Located near Noordhoek, it can get quite congested during summer time so ensure that you arrive early if this trail tickles your nature-loving fancy.
Starting point: Silvermine Nature Reserve parking lot
A Capetonian gem that offers the most incredible views of False Bay, Fish Hoek, Simon’s Town and Glencairn, Elsies Peak is a firm favourite when it comes to adults and children. There are a few areas that are steep, but beginners can still tackle this walk and have a blast while doing so.
Starting point: Parking lot on Kommetjie Road in Fish Hoek
Cecilia Waterfall via Cecilia Forest is a heavily trafficked loop trail, home to trickling streams and a waterfall which is the highlight of the experience. Keep an eye out for a few wagging tails along this spectacular journey.
Starting point: Cecilia Forest Parking lot in Constantia
Distance: 4.3 km
Time: +/- 2-3 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
Hiking tips to keep in mind
There’s safety in numbers, so make sure to hike in groups.
Stay hydrated, check the weather forecast and pack along sunblock, proper hiking shoes and a hat.
Be prepared in case of an emergency by keeping emergency contact details on hand.
For emergencies, contact:
Table Mountain National Park: 021 957 4700
City of Cape Town emergency services: 021 480 7700 or 107
We use cookies on our website to give you the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits. By clicking “Accept All”, you consent to the use of ALL the cookies. However, you may visit "Cookie Settings" to provide a controlled consent.
This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. Out of these, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. But opting out of some of these cookies may affect your browsing experience.
Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. These cookies ensure basic functionalities and security features of the website, anonymously.
Cookie
Duration
Description
cookielawinfo-checkbox-analytics
11 months
This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Analytics".
cookielawinfo-checkbox-functional
11 months
The cookie is set by GDPR cookie consent to record the user consent for the cookies in the category "Functional".
cookielawinfo-checkbox-necessary
11 months
This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookies is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Necessary".
cookielawinfo-checkbox-others
11 months
This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Other.
cookielawinfo-checkbox-performance
11 months
This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Performance".
viewed_cookie_policy
11 months
The cookie is set by the GDPR Cookie Consent plugin and is used to store whether or not user has consented to the use of cookies. It does not store any personal data.
Functional cookies help to perform certain functionalities like sharing the content of the website on social media platforms, collect feedbacks, and other third-party features.
Performance cookies are used to understand and analyze the key performance indexes of the website which helps in delivering a better user experience for the visitors.
Analytical cookies are used to understand how visitors interact with the website. These cookies help provide information on metrics the number of visitors, bounce rate, traffic source, etc.
Advertisement cookies are used to provide visitors with relevant ads and marketing campaigns. These cookies track visitors across websites and collect information to provide customized ads.