Cape Town: Table Mountain Hike with Route Choice & Cable Car

Summary

Table mountain hike from cape town with route options plus cable car down

You’ll climb Table Mountain with a local guide, choosing either a rugged scramble or a steady stair-like path. Feel Cape Town shrink below you as you hike rocky trails and take in wild views before gliding down by cable car. Expect sweat, laughter, and moments that stick with you long after you’re back at sea level.

What’s the experience like?

Ever wondered if those flat-topped cliffs above Cape Town are as tough as they look? I did, standing at the trailhead with my water bottle already sweating in my hand. Our guide, Sipho, grinned and asked which route we wanted—India Venster or Platteklip Gorge. He said India Venster was “spicier.” I liked that word but also felt my breakfast sit heavy in my stomach. We went for it anyway. The air smelled faintly of fynbos and dust, and I could hear distant traffic from the city fading as we climbed up.

The first part was all big rocks and patches of shade, but then came these narrow ledges where you have to scramble a bit—hands on stone, shoes scraping for grip. Sipho showed us how to wedge our feet just right (I probably looked ridiculous). He told stories about the mountain’s history—how locals use different names for some of the plants—and pointed out dassies sunbathing on the rocks. There was this moment where the wind picked up and I could taste salt from the sea below, even though we were way above it all. It’s funny how quiet it gets up there except for your own breath.

I saw folks on the Platteklip side too—lots more people, all heads down climbing those endless steps. Our way felt wilder, but honestly both looked like hard work. When we finally reached the top (my legs were jelly), Cape Town looked tiny and bright under a thin layer of cloud. We sat there catching our breath while Sipho handed around dried mangoes from his pack—best thing I’ve tasted in months, maybe because I’d earned it. The cable car ride down felt surreal after all that effort; you just float back to reality in a few minutes.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Hike Table Mountain and descend

• Choose hiking route
• Hike to Table Mountain summit
• Enjoy views from the top
• Take cable car down
• Hike down if cable car closed

Top questions

Which Table Mountain hiking routes can I choose?

You can choose between India Venster (more adventurous) or Platteklip Gorge (more direct).

How long does the hike up Table Mountain take?

The India Venster route takes about 3.5 hours; Platteklip Gorge is around 2.5 hours.

Is previous hiking experience needed?

No previous hiking experience is required, but moderate fitness is necessary.

What happens if the Table Mountain cable car is closed?

If closed due to weather or maintenance, you'll hike back down via Platteklip Gorge.

Are children allowed on this Table Mountain hike?

Yes, children aged 8 and older can join but must be accompanied by an adult.

Is transport included in this tour?

Private transport is available if selected at booking; otherwise public transport options are nearby.

What should I bring for the Table Mountain hike?

Bring at least 1.5 liters of water per person and wear sturdy walking or hiking shoes.

What’s included

Your day includes National Park entry fees and guidance from a local expert throughout your chosen route up Table Mountain; private vehicle pickup is available if selected when booking—otherwise you’ll meet at the starting point before heading up together toward those famous cliffs.