Home - Cape Town Trail Guides

Find Your Next Adventure with Cape Town’s Best Trail Guides

Love hiking? Looking for a new trail to explore with a knowledgeable guide? You’re in the right place! Cape Town Trail Guides is where independent, registered guides share their awesome hiking events - so you can easily find and join hikes that match your interests..

Browse upcoming hikes, check out photos from past adventures, and read reviews to see what others have experienced. The guides handle all the logistics themselves, so you just show up ready to enjoy the scenery, learn something new, and meet fellow adventurers.

No matter your skill level or interest, you’ll find a diverse range of professionally hosted hikes - all conveniently listed in one place.

Whether you're after a scenic stroll, a challenging climb, or a hike packed with history, there’s something here for you. Let’s hit the trails!

Trail Talk – Quick Note: We’re just the middlemen (or mountain messengers?) connecting hikers with guides. The events listed on the Meetup group are run independently by the guides, so if you sign up for a hike, you do so at your own risk. Stay safe, stretch those legs, and most importantly - have fun!

Meet your trail guides

Browse events on Meetup

most popular trails

Cape Town is a hiker’s paradise, offering trails that weave through rugged cliffs, lush forests, and breathtaking coastal landscapes. Whether you're conquering the iconic Table Mountain, exploring the scenic Pipe Track, or chasing waterfalls in Cecilia Forest, there's a trail for every adventurer. From short sunset walks to full-day treks with panoramic views, these popular hikes showcase the natural beauty and rich history of the Cape. Lace up your boots, pack some snacks, and set off on an unforgettable journey through one of the world’s most spectacular outdoor playgrounds!

Lion’s Head

One of Cape Town’s most iconic hikes, Lion’s Head offers a moderate climb with 360-degree views of the city, Table Mountain, and the Atlantic Ocean. The trail features switchbacks, ladders, and chains near the summit, making it an exciting but accessible adventure. It’s especially popular for sunrise and sunset hikes, offering breathtaking scenery at golden hour.

Platteklip Gorge

The most direct route to the top of Table Mountain, Platteklip Gorge is a steep, stair-like ascent that takes hikers through a dramatic ravine. While it lacks the scrambling challenges of other routes, it’s a physically demanding climb that rewards hikers with spectacular views at the summit. It’s a great choice for those looking for a straightforward but intense workout.

Pipe Track

A scenic and relatively easy trail that runs along the base of Table Mountain, the Pipe Track offers stunning ocean views and a glimpse into Cape Town’s hiking history. Originally built to service water pipelines, this trail is perfect for casual walkers and those looking for a relaxed yet rewarding outdoor experience.

Skeleton Gorge

Starting in Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, this lush, forested trail leads hikers up the eastern slopes of Table Mountain. Featuring wooden ladders, boulder scrambles, and a jungle-like atmosphere, Skeleton Gorge is a challenging but beautiful route that eventually opens up to panoramic views and the historic Table Mountain reservoirs.

Cecilia Forest

A peaceful escape into nature, Cecilia Forest is known for its shady paths, trickling streams, and hidden waterfalls. The trail winds through towering trees and offers a serene hiking experience, making it ideal for those looking for a quiet, scenic walk with the chance to spot local flora and fauna.

India Venster

One of the most thrilling hikes up Table Mountain, India Venster combines steep ascents, rock scrambles, and exposed ledges for an adventurous climb. The route offers breathtaking views of Cape Town and the coastline but requires confidence with heights and scrambling. It’s a challenging but rewarding trail for experienced hikers

Find Your Next Adventure with Cape Town’s Best Trail Guides

Ready to hit the trails? Head over to the Cape Town Trail Guides Meetup group to explore available hikes.

Your go-to destination for discovering unique hiking experiences led by registered, vetted, and active trail guides in Cape Town. The Meetup group serves as a central hub where independent guides showcase their events, offering adventurers an easy way to explore local trails with experienced professionals.
Guests can browse upcoming and past events, view feedback and ratings, and explore photos to get a feel for the experiences offered.

Browse events on Meetup