Skeleton Gorge Hike up Table Mountain
Hike up Table Mountain via the beautifully forested Skeleton Gorge with experienced local guides!
Beginning at Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden we will initially wander the garden and visit a number of its highlights before ascending the gorge under the Afromontane Forest canopy. The trail follows stepped footpath as well as rugged streambed hiking where there are 6 wooden ladders to climb. In winter we may ascend Nursery Ravine next door if we deem conditions are too wet and risky.
Once on the Back Table (lower plateau) at 740m ASL we continue to Maclear's Beacon at 1086m ASL passing through the incredibly vibrant Fynbos flora which makes the Cape so special. After reaching the summit we get views over the city and then head to the cable car for descent.
Kirstenbosch opens at 08:00 - the start time for the hike.
Options
Skeleton Gorge Hike up Table Mountain
What's included in Skeleton Gorge Hike up Table Mountain
(Subject to Option Inclusions)We will hike to the summit of Table Mountain via Skeleton Gorge, one of the most beautiful routes affording amazing views, biodiversity and adventure! We set off from the iconic Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden, meandering through to see the main features, and then ascend the forested river gorge to reach the Back Table where our water reservoirs are located. From here we continue through over Fynbos shrubland to Maclear's Beacon (1086m ASL) and the Upper Cable Station with views over the city. The Cape Floral Kingdom holds incredible diversity and endemism and you'll come away with a good understanding of our unique flora which we'll discuss throughout the journey. The activity requires a good level of fitness as we gain 1000 metres in elevation & cover around 7 km in distance. There is some technical rock scrambling (use of hands) and minor exposure to heights (vertical drops) which is made easier with 6 x fixed wooden ladders. Difficulty: Strenuous Distance: 7km Duration: 6hours Elevation: 1000m Terrain: Footpath, ladders, minor rock scrambling. Once we get to the base of the mountain on Tafelberg Road we'll wait for you until your taxi/uber picks you up.
Inclusions
- We bring along a thermos/flask for a cup of tea on the mountain.
- Table Mountain
- Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden
- Table Mountain Aerial Cableway - one way ticket for descent
- Please bring at 1.5 - 2 litres water per person
- Please bring trail food/snacks eg. energy bar, dried fruit, sandwich to enjoy along the trail.
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Meet
Pickup and Dropoff
You will make your own way to the meeting points
Meeting / End Points
- We meet at the entrance to Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden. There is a large parking area at the Main Gate (Gate 1) where you'll find the Vida e Cafe coffee shop. Google Maps - "vida e caffe Kirstenbosch (H)" Uber - "vida e caffe Kirstenbosch (H)"