Platteklip Gorge, Cape Town - a very tall mountain with a sky background
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Platteklip Gorge Cape Town

4.6
·491k reviews·Cape Town, South Africa

The most direct and challenging hike up Table Mountain, offering relentless stairs and breathtaking panoramic views of Cape Town.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Morning

Beat the heat & crowds

CrowdMedium
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Platteklip Gorge, Cape Town - a very tall mountain with a sky background

Platteklip Gorge Cape Town

Best Time

Morning

Beat the heat & crowds

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

The most direct and challenging hike up Table Mountain, offering relentless stairs and breathtaking panoramic views of Cape Town.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"This hike will definitely take your breath away... the views of Cape Town are epic!"

Vertical photo
TIP

💧 Hydration is Key!

Carry at least 2-3 liters of water per person. It gets hot and there's no shade! :droplet:

👟 Sturdy Footwear Essential

The trail is essentially thousands of steep steps. Proper hiking shoes are a must for grip and ankle support. :athletic_shoe:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Relentless Staircase

The Relentless Staircase

Platteklip Gorge Trail

Thousands of steps ascend steeply, testing your endurance with breathtaking views of Cape Town unfolding below.

Instagram+1
Panoramic Cape Town Vistas

Panoramic Cape Town Vistas

Along the Platteklip Gorge Trail

Every step offers a new, epic perspective of the city, ocean, and surrounding mountains.

Instagram+1
Summiting Table Mountain

Summiting Table Mountain

Top of Platteklip Gorge

Reaching the flat summit is a huge accomplishment, rewarding you with unparalleled 360-degree views.

Instagram

Planning Your Visit

Conquer Platteklip Gorge: Your Essential Prep

This direct ascent up Table Mountain is a serious workout! Pack ample water (2-3 liters per person is recommended), wear sturdy hiking shoes, and bring layers as the weather can change rapidly. Start early to avoid the midday sun and crowds. Reddit+1

Safety & Timing on Table Mountain

Platteklip Gorge is a popular and generally safe route due to high foot traffic, making it suitable for solo hikers or couples. Reddit+1 However, always be aware of your surroundings, especially regarding car break-ins at the base. Reddit Avoid hiking alone during bad weather or after dark. Reddit

Best Times

When
Morning
Why
Beat the heat & crowds
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekdays
Why
Fewer people on trail
Crowd
Low
When
After 1 PM (for cable car down)
Why
Cheaper cable car fare
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

this literally felt like 4 days in one but i’m happy we squeezed so much in 😭 there was still so much to do. capetown will see me again!! 🫶🏾 // #capetown #southafrica #tablemountain #mantracafe #cabobeachclub #kloofstreethouse
@naechenina
15.7K likes • 181.2K views

💧 Hydration is Key!

Carry at least 2-3 liters of water per person. It gets hot and there's no shade! Reddit+1 :droplet:

👟 Sturdy Footwear Essential

The trail is essentially thousands of steep steps. Proper hiking shoes are a must for grip and ankle support. :athletic_shoe:

Things to do in Cape Town: Visit Table Mountain for only R250 if you’re a student, or you can pay R360 within a student card. Tip: go after 1pm so you don’t pay R420. There are also restaurants at the top of the mountain, so you’re welcome to carry extra cash so you can dine in the clouds. 🔌😍🔥 #thingstodo #thingstodoincapetown #tablemountain #capetown #capetownsouthafrica #visitsouthafrica #shotl...
@lifewithpiwe
6.2K likes • 159.4K views
Platteklip Gorge😅 This hike will definitely take your breath away... Not just because of the thousands of steps that you will have to take, but the views of Cape Town are epic😍 #tablemountain #capetown #capetownsouthafrica #hiking
a_couple_of_adventures
103 likes • 2.6K views

☀️ Sun Protection is Crucial

Wear a hat, sunglasses, and apply sunscreen generously. The gorge offers no shade. Reddit :sunwithface:

🧥 Pack Layers

Weather on Table Mountain can change rapidly. Bring a windbreaker or warm layer, even on sunny days. Reddit :cloud:

Platteklip Gorge always gives you a jug of views and a big table spoon of mental endurance🤝 but we thank God, He gave us the authority. home is anywhere YOU are 💐 There are so many hikes in Cape Town that I don’t know of, if you’re a hiker- let me know some more journeys to try 💌 #explore #hiking #hikingadventures #performer
f.f.kirby
204 likes • 4.7K views

Tips

from all over the internet

💧 Hydration is Key!

Carry at least 2-3 liters of water per person. It gets hot and there's no shade! Reddit+1 :droplet:

👟 Sturdy Footwear Essential

The trail is essentially thousands of steep steps. Proper hiking shoes are a must for grip and ankle support. :athletic_shoe:

☀️ Sun Protection is Crucial

Wear a hat, sunglasses, and apply sunscreen generously. The gorge offers no shade. Reddit :sunwithface:

🧥 Pack Layers

Weather on Table Mountain can change rapidly. Bring a windbreaker or warm layer, even on sunny days. Reddit :cloud:

💰 Cable Car Down Option

If you're tired or weather turns, take the cable car down. It's cheaper after 1 PM. TikTok :moneybag:

📱 Fully Charged Phone

For navigation, photos, and emergencies. Consider a portable charger. Reddit :iphone:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Platteklip Gorge for its challenging yet rewarding hike and the absolutely spectacular, panoramic views of Cape Town. The direct ascent is a significant workout, but the sense of accomplishment and the stunning scenery make it a must-do for many. Some find the constant stairs monotonous, and the lack of shade can be intense, but the overall experience is overwhelmingly positive.

What People Like

Epic panoramic views
Sense of accomplishment
Challenging workout

What People Dislike

Relentless stairs
No shade
Can be monotonous

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Platteklip Gorge trailhead is located at the base of Table Mountain, accessible by car or taxi. There is parking available, but it can fill up quickly, especially on weekends. Reddit Many visitors combine this hike with a visit to the nearby Table Mountain Aerial Cableway station. TikTok

While there isn't direct public transport to the trailhead itself, you can take a MyCiTi bus to the Lower Cable Station, which is a short walk from the Platteklip Gorge starting point. TikTok

The most direct and popular way to start is from the designated trailhead at the base of the gorge. It's clearly marked and the beginning of the steep ascent. Instagram

Yes, you can drive to the base of Platteklip Gorge. There is a parking area, but it's advisable to arrive early, especially during peak season, as it can get very busy. Reddit

Yes, the start of the Platteklip Gorge trail is well-marked and easily identifiable at the base of Table Mountain, often near the lower cable car station. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, there are no tickets or fees required to hike Platteklip Gorge itself. It's a public trail. However, if you plan to use the Table Mountain Aerial Cableway to descend, you will need to purchase a ticket. TikTok

Platteklip Gorge is accessible at any time, as it's an outdoor trail. However, it's strongly recommended to hike during daylight hours for safety reasons. Reddit The Table Mountain Aerial Cableway has specific operating hours. TikTok

While Platteklip Gorge itself is free to access, Table Mountain National Park may have general entrance fees depending on specific access points or activities. However, for the gorge hike, no specific park fee is typically charged at the trailhead. Reddit

Absolutely! This is a very common and recommended approach. Hike up Platteklip Gorge and then take the Table Mountain Aerial Cableway down. The cable car fare is cheaper after 1 PM. TikTokReddit

Platteklip Gorge is a very direct and well-defined trail, often referred to as the 'highway to the top.' It's difficult to get lost on this specific route. Reddit+1

🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience

The hike typically takes 1.5 to 3 hours to ascend, depending on your fitness level and how often you stop. Reddit+1 Many hikers take breaks to enjoy the views. Instagram

Platteklip Gorge is considered a strenuous hike due to its steepness and the constant ascent via stairs. It's a significant physical challenge. Instagram+1

Yes, Platteklip Gorge is generally considered safe for solo hikers due to its popularity and high foot traffic. You'll likely encounter many other people on the trail. Reddit+2

Wear comfortable, moisture-wicking clothing and sturdy hiking shoes with good grip. Bring layers, a hat, and sunglasses. Reddit

Yes, there are facilities at the top of Table Mountain, including restrooms, restaurants, and shops, accessible from the cable car station. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

Every turn offers stunning photo opportunities! Capture the panoramic views of Cape Town, the ocean, and the unique rock formations. The summit provides the most expansive vistas. Instagram+1

Absolutely! As you ascend, the views of Cape Town become increasingly spectacular. The higher you go, the more breathtaking the panorama. Instagram+1

Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones. However, midday offers clear, unobstructed views. TikTok

Drone usage may be restricted in national parks. It's best to check current regulations before flying. However, your phone or camera will capture incredible shots of the landscape. Instagram

The entire trail is a viewpoint! However, as you get higher, the expansive city and ocean views become more dramatic. The summit offers the ultimate panoramic photo backdrop. Instagram+1

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Platteklip Gorge hike is a challenging option for families with young children due to its steepness and length. While some older, active children might manage, it's generally recommended for families with teenagers or those who are very experienced hikers. Reddit A more family-friendly approach is to hike up Platteklip Gorge with older kids and then take the Table Mountain Aerial Cableway down, or vice versa. This allows everyone to experience the mountain without the full strain of the ascent. TikTok Ensure children have plenty of water and are well-protected from the sun. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

Hiking Platteklip Gorge is a fantastic free activity for budget travelers looking to experience Table Mountain. TikTok The main cost to consider is if you opt to take the cable car down. To save money, aim to hike up and take the cable car down after 1 PM, as fares are reduced then. TikTok Packing your own snacks and water is also much cheaper than purchasing them at the summit. Reddit

💑 Couples

Platteklip Gorge offers a rewarding and romantic challenge for couples. The shared effort of the climb and the breathtaking views from the top create a memorable experience. Instagram+1 It's a popular route for couples, and the high foot traffic ensures a sense of security. Reddit+1 Consider packing a small picnic to enjoy at the summit, making your adventure even more special. Remember to bring water and wear appropriate gear for a comfortable journey together. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Platteklip Gorge Hike: A Direct Ascent

Platteklip Gorge is the most direct and arguably the most challenging route to the summit of Table Mountain. It's essentially a steep, continuous climb up thousands of stone steps. This trail is known for its relentless incline, offering little respite until you reach the top. The lack of shade means it can get extremely hot, especially during the summer months, making hydration and sun protection paramount. Instagram+1

Despite its difficulty, the Platteklip Gorge hike is incredibly popular due to its accessibility and the rewarding, ever-expanding views of Cape Town. It's often referred to as the 'highway to the top' because of its straightforward nature and high volume of hikers. Reddit Many visitors choose to hike up via Platteklip and then descend using the Table Mountain Aerial Cableway, a popular combination that offers both a physical challenge and a convenient way down. TikTokReddit

Key Takeaways for the Hike:
* Steep and Strenuous: Be prepared for a significant physical workout. Instagram
* No Shade: Essential to carry ample water and wear sun protection. Reddit
* Direct Route: A clear, well-trodden path to the summit. Reddit
* Popularity: High foot traffic generally ensures safety. Reddit+1

Safety and Preparedness on Table Mountain

While Platteklip Gorge is a popular and generally safe route, preparedness is key to a positive experience. Crime is not a major concern on the gorge itself due to the constant stream of hikers, but car break-ins at the parking area have been reported, so it's wise to keep valuables out of sight or take them with you. Reddit The primary safety concerns revolve around the physical demands of the hike and the unpredictable mountain weather. Reddit

Hikers are strongly advised to carry at least 2-3 liters of water per person, wear sturdy hiking boots, and pack layers of clothing, including a windbreaker, as temperatures can drop significantly and the wind can be fierce at the summit. Reddit+1 Starting your hike in the morning is recommended to avoid the intense midday sun and to ensure you have ample daylight for the ascent and descent. TikTokReddit If the weather turns, or if you're feeling fatigued, the option to descend via the Table Mountain Aerial Cableway is available, though lines can be long. Reddit

Safety Checklist:
* Water: Minimum 2 liters per person. Reddit
* Footwear: Sturdy hiking boots. :athletic_shoe:
* Clothing: Layers, including a windbreaker. :cloud:
* Sun Protection: Hat, sunglasses, sunscreen. :sunwithface:
* Communication: Fully charged mobile phone. Reddit :iphone:
* Timing: Start early, finish before dark. Reddit

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