Lion's Head hike Cape Town: 360-degree summit views
Climb to 670 metres and see Table Mountain, Robben Island and the Atlantic all at once.
Hike Lion's Head in Cape Town with a qualified mountain guide, choosing sunrise, day or sunset departure. The route climbs 670 metres to a summit with 360-degree views across Table Mountain, Robben Island, Camps Bay, Sea Point and the Atlantic Ocean. You pick the trail difficulty: tackle the staples and chains for extra challenge or take the easier alternative route.
Step-by-step itinerary
Hike Lion's Head and enjoy views
- Climb Lion's Head
- Take in 360-degree views
- See Table Mountain and Robben Island
- View Atlantic Ocean and beaches
What’s included
- Your qualified mountain guide leads the route.
- headtorches come with you if needed.
- bottled water and a snack are provided.
- pickup and drop-off are included from the city centre and immediate surrounds.
Times
- Every day 05:00
Before you book
Operated by OTC Adventures Pty Ltd
Prices and times updated 8 days ago
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The experience
The hike takes three to four hours, and you choose when to do it: sunrise to watch the city wake up, midday for the full views, or sunset to finish your day on the summit. A qualified mountain guide leads the route, which mixes open stretches with scrambles and chains bolted into the rock face. If the chains aren't for you, an alternative path avoids them entirely and still reaches the top. Headtorches come with you if you're hiking before dawn, and the guide carries water and a snack to eat at the summit.
From 670 metres up, the views spread in all directions: Table Mountain rises to the east, Robben Island sits in the bay, and the beaches of Camps Bay and Sea Point curve along the coast below. The Atlantic stretches to the horizon. The route is firm underfoot but exposed in places, and the final push to the summit involves some scrambling. Weather decides whether the hike runs. If conditions turn, you get an alternative date or a full refund.
Pickup and drop-off are included from the city centre and the immediate surrounds. The guide speaks English and knows the mountain well enough to point out the landmarks and answer questions as you climb. Bring comfortable hiking shoes, sunscreen and a light layer for the summit, where the wind picks up even on calm days below.
Is this one for you?The hike climbs steadily for three to four hours with scrambling and chains on the main route, so you need a moderate level of fitness and comfort on steep, exposed ground. The easier alternative path avoids the chains if you prefer a less technical climb but still reaches the same summit and views.
Compare the 4 alternatives
Top questions
What happens if it rains?
It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.
What does the view from Lion's Head actually show?
From the 670-metre summit, you see Table Mountain to the east, Robben Island in the bay, the Atlantic Ocean stretching to the horizon, and the beaches of Camps Bay and Sea Point curving along the coast below. The view circles 360 degrees, so you can turn and see something different in every direction.
Can I hike Lion's Head if I don't want to use the chains and staples?
Yes. An alternative route avoids the chains and staples entirely and still reaches the summit. You choose which path suits you when you book or on the day with your guide.
What time of day should I choose for the hike?
You can hike at sunrise to watch the city come to life, during the day for the clearest views, or at sunset to finish your day on the summit. Each departure has a different feel. The choice depends on whether you prefer an early start, full daylight or the light at the end of the day.
What happens if the weather is bad on the day of my hike?
The hike is subject to favourable weather conditions. If weather forces a cancellation, you can choose an alternative date or receive a full refund.
Is Lion's Head suitable for children?
Children can hike Lion's Head if they are accompanied by an adult and have at least a moderate level of physical fitness. The route involves scrambling and chains in places, so children need to be comfortable with those movements and able to keep pace for three to four hours.
Lion's Head hike Cape Town: 360-degree summit views
3h–4h · EN
from US$ 93 per person
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