Sunset Hike Up Table Mountain: A Must-Do in Cape Town
Activity
€ 1 - 50
If you’re visiting Cape Town and looking for an unforgettable experience, hiking up Table Mountain for sunset is a top recommendation by locals. While Lion’s Head is the go-to spot for sunrise, Table Mountain offers breathtaking panoramic views as the sun dips below the horizon.
Safety First: Hike Smart
Table Mountain is beautiful but can be unpredictable. It’s always best to hike in a group for safety. Fortunately, there are great local hiking communities like Lekker Hike, which you can find on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/lekker_community/) and join their WhatsApp group for the latest info. Hiking with others not only enhances the experience but also ensures safety, since robbery is not uncommon in South Africa.
What to Pack
The weather at the top can change quickly, so come prepared! Bring:
✅ A warm vest—it gets chilly at the summit.
✅ Plenty of water—staying hydrated is key.
✅ A hat and sunscreen—Cape Town’s sun is intense.
✅ A headlamp—you may need to walk down in the dark if the cable car isn’t running due to strong winds.
✅Cash or card – to buy your Cable Car ticket to get back down (you can also buy it online)
Getting There:
The best way to reach the starting point of the hike is by Uber. The trailhead is actually a bit higher up than the cable car station, so make sure to direct your driver accordingly.
The Hike: Platteklip Gorge Route
The Platteklip Gorge route is the most direct way up and takes about 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes, depending on your pace. Make sure to leave early enough to reach the summit before sunset!
Getting Down: Cable Car or Hike?
At the top, you can buy a ticket to take the cable car down for R280 (about €14). You can purchase it online in advance or at the summit. Listen for the alarm sound—this signals that the last cable car is leaving. If you miss it, you'll have to hike back down in the dark. If the weather is too windy, it could be that the cable car is not running and you will have to hike back down. So make sure that you have a headlight or flashlight to get back down.
Hiking up Table Mountain at sunset is an incredible experience, offering views you won’t soon forget. Just remember to stay safe, come prepared, and enjoy the magic of Cape Town’s natural beauty! 🌄✨