Platteklip Gorge Trail
The trail starts from a well marked point on Tafelberg Rd, at a well marked point 1.8 km from the lower cable station. It starts with a short series of stone steps before becoming a natural rock path. The path is steep and in winter there is a strong running waterfall on the west side with a small stream that needs to be crossed. The path joins the contour path for a short section before turning steeple up into the Gorge. The route zig-zags into the gorge which is wide on the lower slopes and narrowing towards the top. The steps are uneven in height, with some following the natural rock band, with quick elevation gain. There are no ledges or cliffs but the path is very steep in places.
A slightly longer alternative is to start at the lower cable station as in Option 2.
Trail Details
Trail location
Table Mountain
Nearest city
Cape Town – city area
Transport options
Taxi cab; e-hailing; self-drive; collection by arrangement
Trip Duration / Options
Option 1: Approximately 3 hours – average time up 2 hours – cableway down when operational
Option 2: Approximately 4 hours – average time up 2 hours, walk down same route 1½ hours
Start / Finish
Start: Tafelberg Rd parking – GPS 33˚95’50.73 S / 18˚41’57.60 E
Trail starts 1.8 km from lower cable station
Finish: Tafelberg Rd – at Lower Cable Station – GPS: 33˚95’11.06 S / 18˚40’28.52 E
Time / Distances
Option 1: Approximately 3 km. 3 hours (altitude gain 750m / 2500 ft) – cableway down or return via the same route.
Option 2: Approximately 6km. Start at the lower cable station and walk along the contour path to intersect with the standard route. 5 hours
Trail Grading
Strenuous. Steep trek up a well defined path. Switchback path that has been created with combination of high steps, natural rock path and uneven stoney underfoot in place. Mild exposure in places.
Physical Fitness
A good degree of hiking fitness required and ability to cope with steep, on path ascents and descents.
Technical detail / Terrain
On path, steep terrain, no technical exposure, limited easy scrambling
Mountain terrain with short steep sections both up and down. Generally a well defined natural rock path with a few indistinct section. Loose stones and uneven surfaces underfoot in places. Good grip footwear important.
Food Supply / Catering
Bring your own snacks & water. Lunch packs provided by arrangement. Restaurant for coffee light meals at the cable station (provided the Cableway is operational).
Logistic support / Guiding
The trail is guided by a fully trained, accredited mountain guide.
Highlights
Views over the Atlantic Coast’ Cape Peninsula and City of Cape Town (weather permitting). Abundance of diverse flora, rock formations and scenic cliffs and valleys
Other Activities
Cableway ride from Table Mountain (not included in cost).
Fauna & Flora
The core of the ‘fynbos’ biome and part of the Cape Floristic Region World Heritage Site. Mostly nocturnal and shy small animals, occasional small antelope and rock hyrax. Lizards and agamas with a scattering of birdlife.
Climate
Cape Town and Table Mountain are located in a Mediterranean climate with winter rainfall. Summer can be hot (up to 35 degrees). Spring and Autumn are moderate and the best hiking season although good winter days can be quite warm and summer temperatures are seldom high for long periods. Hiking is possible all year round.
Seasonality & Best Time Year
Spring and Autumn are moderate and the best hiking season although good winter days can be quite warm and summer temperatures are seldom high for long periods. Hiking is possible all year round.
Group Size
1 to 6 hikers per guide
Price P/P
From R2200 for 2 hikers, per person rates lower for larger groups
Cableway tickets excluded – R200 one way
Price review date: 1 November annually
Note: While we endeavor to keep prices up to date, they are an indication only subject to variation without notice. Prices must be confirmed with the service provider
Price Includes
Registered, experienced Mountain Guide
Platteklip Gorge Trail Enquiry
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