Kasteelspoort to Table Mountain
The trail starts with a 45 minute warm up walk along the relatively flat Pipe Track, before the steep ascent up Kasteelspoort, taking about an hour to the top of the gorge, on the Back Table of the Mountain. From here there are various routes to the flat Western Table at the top of the Mountain, where the Upper Cable Station is located. The ridges and valleys are spectacular whichever route is chosen. Some of the paths are well defined and clear, while other lesser known paths can be slightly overgrown and vague. Guides are familiar with all options.
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 5 hours – circular route along the Pipe Trail, up the Kasteelspoort to Upper Cable Station.
Option 2: Approximately 7 hours – as above with more time exploring various Back Table paths
Start / Finish
Start: Kloof Nek Rd parking – GPS: 33˚94’22.05 S / 18˚39’51.14 E – Trail starts along the Pipe Track
Alternative start: Theresa Ave, Camps Bay – GPS: 33˚96’29.06 S / 18˚38’42.527 E
Finish: Tafelberg Rd – at Lower Cable Station – GPS: 33˚95’11.06 S / 18˚40’28.52 E
Time / Distances
Option 1: Approximately 9 km. 5 hours
Option 2: Approximately 15km. 7 hours
Trail Grading
Strenuous. Starting with even contour path followed by steep path up and a variety of ridges and valleys at higher level. Uneven, rocky underfoot and natural rock steps. Slight 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. Short pitches that require the use of fixed metal ladders. 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 R2500 for 2 hikers, per person rates lower for larger groups
Cableway tickets excluded – R200 pp 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
Kasteelspoort Trail Enquiry
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