Table Mountain summit plateau with panoramic views
Moderate

Table Mountain
via Platteklip Gorge

3–4 hrs round trip
6 km · 669 m ascent
Max 8 people
R 1,500 per person

About This Hike

Stand on one of the world's most iconic summits. Table Mountain's flat-topped plateau rises 1,086 metres above Cape Town, offering 360° views stretching from the Winelands to Robben Island. The Platteklip Gorge route is the mountain's classic ascent — a well-worn path through dramatic ravines and fynbos, finishing on the famous tabletop where the city unfolds beneath you.

Platteklip — Afrikaans for "flat stone" — follows a natural gully carved through the front face of the mountain. The path is clearly marked and well-maintained, but it demands sustained effort. You'll gain nearly 670 metres of elevation in under 3 kilometres, making every step count. Our guides know the route in all conditions and keep the group moving at a comfortable, sustainable pace.

Once on top, you'll have time to explore the plateau, visit the café, and take in the full sweep of the Cape Peninsula before descending — or catching the cable car down if your legs prefer. Either way, summit day on Table Mountain is something you won't forget.

Route Highlights

What you'll experience on this iconic ascent.

Platteklip Gorge

The classic gully route — steep, direct, and deeply satisfying.

1,086 m Summit Plateau

Step onto the famous tabletop and take in one of the world's great views.

Maclear's Beacon

The mountain's highest point — a short walk across the plateau, well worth it.

Cape Fynbos in Bloom

The gorge is lined with proteas, ericas, and restios unique to this biome.

Rock Dassies on the Plateau

These surprisingly ancient relatives of the elephant love to sun on the summit rocks.

Robben Island Views

On clear days the full sweep of Table Bay and Robben Island stretches to the north.

What to Bring

Pack well — weather can change fast on the mountain.

2 L of water minimum
High-energy snacks or lunch
Windproof jacket (mandatory)
Hiking shoes or trail runners
Sunscreen & sunglasses
Small daypack (20–30 L)

Important Notes

  • Weather dependent. Table Mountain weather can change in minutes. Trips are confirmed or rescheduled based on summit conditions the morning of the hike.
  • Cable car option available. If you'd prefer to ride down after summiting, cable car tickets can be arranged — additional cost applies.
  • Meeting point: Tafelberg Road parking area at the bottom of Platteklip Gorge. Coordinates shared in your booking confirmation.
  • Fitness level: Moderate — the ascent is steep and sustained. Suitable for anyone who exercises regularly. No technical scrambling required.
Keep Exploring

More Hikes You Might Love

Lion's Head peak Moderate

Lion's Head

2.5 hrs · 5 km · 396 m

A loop with chain-assisted scrambling and jaw-dropping 360° summit views over both coastlines.

India Venster route Challenging

India Venster

±3 hrs · 4 km · Challenging

An adventurous scramble up Table Mountain with exposed sections and spectacular views all the way up.

Table Mountain via Platteklip

R 1,500 per person

Book Now