PLATTEKLIP GORGE
INFORMATION
Length: 3km
Elevation gain: 750m
Required time: 1.5-3 Hours
Route type: Point to point
Difficulty level: Intermediate
Price: $80
The Platteklip Gorge Hike is the oldest and most well-known route to the summit of Table Mountain. Tracing a deep ravine that splits the mountain’s dramatic cliffs, it offers a direct, no-nonsense ascent straight to the top.
While it’s not technically difficult, this is a physically demanding ascent that rewards every step with ever-expanding views of Cape Town, Lion’s Head, and the majestic Table Bay including all the way across to the Atlantis Dunes.
For visitors short on time or those who want a clear, scenic, and well-marked trail, Platteklip Gorge is the quintessential Table Mountain experience.
PLATTEKLIP GORGE STARTING POINT
The Platteklip Gorge starting point lies along Tafelberg Road, just over a kilometre beyond the Lower Cableway Station. Look for the signposted path and small parking area on the left-hand side. From here, the route begins its steady climb up the mountain’s front face.
THE ROUTE
The Platteklip Gorge trail is about 3 kilometres long, with an elevation gain of roughly 700 metres. Most hikers take between 1.5 and 3 hours to reach the top, depending on fitness and pace. The terrain is rocky, uneven, and steep in sections, but requires no scrambling or technical climbing.
The first section is a gradual ascent through fynbos-covered slopes, offering superb views over the city. The incline then steepens as the trail enters the gorge proper, with a series of natural stone steps and switchbacks leading you between towering cliffs.
As you ascend, the views expand rapidly — the city sprawls below, Robben Island sits out in Table Bay, and the curvature of the Atlantic horizon becomes visible.
Inside the gorge, the atmosphere shifts dramatically: cool shadows, moss-covered rock faces, and the sound of wind funnelling between the cliffs create a striking contrast to the exposed lower slopes.
At the top of the gorge, the trail levels out onto the Table Mountain plateau, where you can take a breather and enjoy the panoramic views. From here, it’s an easy 10–15 minute walk to the Upper Cableway Station and the main viewpoints.
THE HISTORY OF PLATTEKLIP GORGE
Platteklip Gorge holds a special place in the history of Table Mountain exploration. The name translates from Afrikaans to “Flat Stone Gorge,” referring to the broad, flat slabs of sandstone that line parts of the route.
This was the first recorded path used to climb Table Mountain — with early explorers, naturalists, and even Charles Darwin making the ascent via this very gorge in the 1800s. However, the first official ascent recorded was by Portuguese explorer Antonio de Saldanha in 1503.
While sailing along the Cape, Saldanha’s ship became separated from his fleet. He anchored in Table Bay to take on fresh water and explore the land.
Seeing the prominent mountain above the bay, he decided to climb it to gain his bearings and survey the coastline.
The Platteklip Gorge offered the most obvious natural access up the sheer cliffs of Table Mountain’s front face, making it the logical choice.
From the summit, he was able to get a clear view of the Cape Peninsula and orient himself before rejoining his fleet.
Hiking it today connects you to centuries of local and colonial history, when Table Mountain was both a natural wonder and a navigational source.
FAUNA & FLORA
Despite being steep and rocky, Platteklip Gorge is alive with biodiversity. You’ll pass through dense patches of Cape fynbos, including proteas, ericas, and restios — many of which are endemic to the mountain.
Birdlife is abundant too: look out for the Cape sugarbird flitting among the proteas, or the occasional rock kestrel soaring above the cliffs. Dassies (rock hyrax) are also common near the summit.
During wetter months, small trickles and waterfalls often run down the sides of the gorge, adding to the lush atmosphere of this ancient natural corridor.
DIFFICULTY & SAFETY
While straightforward, the Platteklip Gorge hike should not be underestimated. It’s a steep, continuous climb with little shelter, and temperatures can change rapidly. Hikers should be moderately fit, carry at least two litres of water, and wear proper hiking shoes with good grip.
Conditions can shift from clear skies to mist or wind within minutes, especially near the top. Always check the Table Mountain weather forecast before setting out.
If you’re unsure about your navigation skills or fitness level, consider joining a guided hike with Cape Trek — our guides know the mountain’s terrain, weather, and safety procedures inside out.
ROUTE ALTERNATIVES
If you’d like a different experience on Table Mountain, there are several excellent alternatives to the Platteklip Gorge hike — each with its own scenery, challenges, and character:
1. India Venster
A thrilling and scenic route that zigzags up the front face of Table Mountain beneath the cable car. It includes a few rock scrambles and ledges but rewards hikers with unbeatable views over the city. Recommended for adventurous and confident hikers.
2. Skeleton Gorge
Starting in Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, this route climbs through shaded indigenous forest and lush ravines before reaching the mountain plateau. A great choice in summer and perfect for those who prefer a cooler, greener trail.
3. Kasteelspoort
Located on the Camps Bay side, Kasteelspoort offers sweeping views of the Atlantic and the Twelve Apostles mountain range. It’s a gentler, more scenic ascent — ideal for sunrise hikes and photographers.
4. Pipe Track
A mostly flat trail that runs below the cliffs of the Twelve Apostles, offering beautiful coastal views without a major climb. It’s perfect for a relaxed walk or as an introduction to Table Mountain hiking.
Speak to us here at Cape Trek to advise on which hike is best suited to you based on your fitness and skill levels.
WHO SHOULD HIKE PLATTEKLIP GORGE?
The Platteklip Gorge hike is perfect for:
- Visitors wanting a direct route to the top of Table Mountain.
- Hikers with moderate to good fitness, comfortable with sustained uphill walking.
- First-time visitors to Cape Town looking for an iconic and accessible experience.
- Solo hikers or those short on time — the route is well-marked and easy to navigate.
- Photographers seeking sweeping, elevated views of Cape Town and Table Bay.
- Groups or families with active members who enjoy a bit of a challenge.
For many hikers, Platteklip Gorge is a rite of passage — a way to “earn” the summit rather than take the cable car up. The sense of achievement upon reaching the top is immense.
WHO SHOULDN’T DO THE HIKE
While popular and straightforward, Platteklip Gorge is not suitable for everyone. You may want to consider a different Table Mountain route if:
- You prefer gentle or shaded trails — this hike is exposed and steep.
- You have knee, ankle, or back issues that make constant uphill climbing difficult.
- You’re uncomfortable with heights — the open views can feel intimidating for some.
- You’re not reasonably fit — the climb is relentless and offers few flat sections.
- You’re planning to hike in the heat of the day, especially in summer.
Families with very young children or anyone unused to vigorous physical activity may find Platteklip too demanding. These people should consider less demanding routes. Speak to an expert at Cape Trek to find our more about these routes.