SANTIE GOUWS MOUNTAIN GUIDE

Table Mountain at the foot of Africa has captured the imagination of travellers for hundreds of years with its striking topography. With its highest point at 1084.6 m above sea level, it offers magnificent views not only across Table Bay and Robben Island, but also of Lion’s Head and the dramatic Twelve Apostles coastline as well as Devil’s Peak and the Hottentot’s Holland Mountains in the distance.

Apart from splendid views, it also forms part of the Fynbos Floral Biome, which has World Heritage Status, and is known as the world’s ‘hottest biodiversity hotspot’ for the rich biodiversity in plant species it contains. A variety of Proteaceae species, such as the magnificent King Protea (protea cynaroides), Waboom (protea nitida) and Tree Pincushion, (leucospermum conocarpodendron) to name but a few, naturally occur on top and along its slopes.

This splendid hike follows the dramatic and beautiful Kasteelspoort trail. The steep, rocky footpath follows the western flank of the Twelve Apostle coastline, offering grand views across the Atlantic Ocean as one ascends the mountain. The effort is well rewarded when one reaches the well-known ‘diving board’ rock formation at the top of the Back Table, with its fantastic photo opportunities. From here, the hike meanders across and through the magnificent fynbos mountain paradise that is ‘Echo Valley’, right to the top of the Front Table where one is greeted with spectacular views across the city, harbour and distant mountains. One can either hike or take the Aerial Cableway down.

• DISTANCE - 7.0 km (add another 2.0 km if hiking down via Platteklip Gorge)

• ELEVATION GAIN - 975 m

• DIFFICULTY LEVEL - 2A - Strenuous half-day on-trail hike, limited exposure and some use of hands for climbing ladders

• STANDARD-PACED HIKE - Up to 6 hours is the standard duration for this hike. Add another 1.5 to 2 hours if hiking down. 

• SLOW-PACED HIKE - Guests preferring a slower pace, can book a 7 hour hike. Add another 1.5 to 2 hours if hiking down. 

• LOCATION - Cape Town, South Africa

• START/END - One-way hike, starts at the Kasteelspoort Hike starting point on Theresa Avenue, Camps Bay and ends at the upper Aerial Cableway station on Table Mountain, or if hiking down, on Tafelberg Rd. 

CLICK HERE FOR PRIVATE GUIDED HIKE TARIFFS  

Coffee/tea included. Other drinks/snacks and transport are excluded and can be arranged at an additional fee. Aerial Cableway tickets are not included and can be purchased at the upper Aerial Cableway station on the day. 

WHATSAPP Santie to book for this special hike.