Best trails in Table Mountain National Park
Situated directly next to Cape Town, Table Mountain National Park is the most popular national park in South Africa. Known for its biodiversity and stunning views of the skyline, this park an outdoor recreation playground. The park is partially fragmented into separate sections spanning the entirety of the Cape Peninsula, known as the Northern, Central and Southern sections of the park. The Cape Floral Kingdom of Table Mountain National Park is one of the richest floral regions in the world. Over 70% of the flowers are endemic to Table Mountain. For this reason United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (Unesco) awarded Table Mountain Heritage Status for being a natural site that is part of the Cape Floral Kingdom. The mountain was also chosen as one of the new seven world wonders. Table Mountain is thought to be one of the oldest mountains in the world. The rocks of the mountain are approximately 600-million years old. It is the only natural site on the planet to have a constellation of stars named after it. The constellation is called “Mensa”, which means ‘table’ in Latin.
Dogs are allowed in certain sections of the park.
Top trails
Visitor info
Table Mountain National Park charges a fee to enter. A local rate is available to residents with proof of identification/residence. Cape Point and Boulders Gates are cash-free and only accept card payments. For more information, please visit: https://www.sanparks.org/parks/table-mountain/rates-entry-fees.
Trail reviews for Table Mountain National Park
Great views with lush vegetation. Easier and more green compared to other Table Mountain hikes
Epic trail! Amazing views all the way up overlooking the Cape and Table Mountain.
What an unforgettable adventure on one of Table Mountain’s most iconic trails. The real climb begins by the ladders, rock-hopping along the stream, and plenty of steep sections to get your heart racing. Very rewarding with stunning views, the peaceful Hely-Hutchinson Reservoir at the top, and that unbeatable feeling of conquering the mountain. If you’re planning it, bring enough water, wear good shoes, and be ready for some scrambling. Totally worth every step!
Diagonal up as a really cool adventurous route up to the top of the table mountain plateau. Using corridor ravine and hiking back via the pipe track gives you amazing views across the 12th apostles on the return
I really enjoyed this trail, well marked and stunning scenery. More of a forest vibe but you get lovely views of table mountain. Moderate trail if you’re just starting out - easy if you’re an avid hiker. If you’re exiting through Kirstenbosch, there’s quite a bit of decline for about 300m, hiking boots recommended for sturdiness and grip. Shaded in most places but I still advise a sun hat/cap and sunglasses.
Morning Hike Cecilia Forest to the Waterfall This was an invigorating morning hike up Cecilia Forest Trail, starting from the main gate, right up to the Cecilia Waterfall and back. The trail kicks off with a bang—steep stone steps that get your heart pumping fast. We found a solid pace and worked up a good sweat climbing through the shady afrotemperate forest. The path is well-marked, but those steps are no joke; expect a serious leg workout! I were a bit spooked by signs warning of baboons, which are common around Mountain. Chatting with other hikers and runners eased my nerves there, but they shared some solid advice: - Avoid eye contact, as it can seem aggressive to baboons. - Stay calm, ignore them, and act submissive to avoid trouble. - Rangers often patrol to guide baboons away from the trails. Thankfully, we didn’t encounter any baboons, but it’s wise to carry a stick or make noise as a precaution. The trail led us to the Skeleton Gorge waterfall, which was just a trickle during our visit—likely due to the dry summer season (February 2025). It must be spectacular after winter rains, but crossing it looked tricky, as the path runs close to or behind the falls. A full-blown waterfall might make that section an adventure! The shade from the dense forest kept us cool for most of the hike, but the upper sections open up with stunning views of Cape Town and fynbos slopes. We didn’t push to the Table Mountain plateau (a 4–5 hour round trip to the cable car), choosing instead to descend back to Kirstenbosch. The descent was steep with loose rocks, so watch your step! Tips for Hikers: - Start early (7 AM) to beat the heat and crowds. Kirstenbosch gates open at 8 AM, but some trails are accessible earlier with a key. - Pack 2–3 liters of water and snacks—this 3–4 hour hike is demanding. - Check weather forecasts; The clouds and winds can roll in fast. This hike blends challenge, beauty, and the reward of Kirstenbosch’s serene gardens. A must-do for Cape Town adventurers!