Lions Head is the most popular hike in Cape Town. This sphinx-like peak between Table Mountain and Signal Hill provides 360-degree views of the city, Table Bay, and the Atlantic Seaboard.
For a period of time, I lived below this giant and regarded it as my backyard jungle gym. Summer sunsets after 8 p.m. leave ample time after work to walk up to the summit and watch the golden sunset on your way back down. A mountain guide enhances this experience into one you won’t forget.
This sunset hike is extremely popular with adventurous locals and tourists on weekends and holidays. The full moon is a prevalent time to summit and hike into the rising moon over the distant mountains. Remember your torch or headlamp as you navigate down, forming part of a string of Christmas lights spiraling the rocky footpath. We suggest heading down before it gets dark.
It is a short hike; the ascent is around an hour and a half, and the descent is about an hour. Relatively steep slopes, rock scrambles, and ladder climbs will give you a good workout. The route starts off easy but becomes a challenge for those afraid of heights and climbing as you near the steep outcrops. Halfway through, there is a 90-degree climb up various chain ladders, which can cause some traffic jams. There is an easier alternate route to the left of the chain ladders.
A myriad of accents can be heard all along this route. I have met some interesting adventurers, from British soldiers on R&R to wanderlust Hollanders on a month-long journey through South Africa. I even had the pleasure of meeting a local man who was going up for the first time despite living in the lights below for 50 years.
This is the geological equivalent if you have ever been to the top of a high-rise building. Gorgeous views, but you may have to fight for a good vantage point. I still prefer finding a lower rock and laying there, letting the 500-year-old sandstone soak up a long day’s sweat. This is where a professional guide can lead you to the best spots.
With so many people scaling the natural giant, stay on the beaten path. This is a relatively easy hike when sticking to your limits and safety. Lions Head is a must-do when visiting Cape Town. Tourists will get a unique view of the city and its sites that rival the paragliders that soar below. Contact us to guide you on this bucket list experience.