Looming above Cape Town and the surrounding ocean like a sentinel, Lion’s Head is an iconic piece of the city’s wondrous topography. Its peak offers panoramic views of the city, Table Bay and the Atlantic Ocean, making it a wildly popular destination for hiking enthusiasts (and a top spot for Instagrammers).

So, we decided to hike this ourselves for that perfect sunrise view which was so hyped and talked about.

Instead of Sunset – we opted on exploring the sunrise since one of the best sunsets we experienced in cape town was at the end and top of Signal hill. Set aside anything from an hour and a half to up to four hours to enjoy this spectacular footpath and the incredible views on offer.

Hiking up Lion’s Head is extremely popular with tourists and locals alike. Expect to make new friends and take many brag-worthy pictures. Here is our guide on hiking lion’s head safely and for best views.

GETTING THERE

To get to Lion’s Head, simply drive on the road towards Signal Hill (Kloof Nek Road takes one all the way towards Lion’s Head. Take the Lion’s Head/Signal Hill turnoff from Kloof Nek Road) and the base of Lion’s Head will be located on the left before you reach it. There is parking all on the side of the road and you’ll know where the entrance is just by the row of cars parked.

DURATION & DIFFICULTY

Allow three hours or more if you want to take it easy along the way. On the other hand, super-fit trailers will negotiate the 5,5km of the trail both ways in about an hour to an hour and a half.

The route is clearly marked, and most of it can be easily traversed by foot (the path from the parking lot runs uphill for quite a while, offering a particularly good workout). There is a little rock scrambling as you near the summit, but the only part of the trail that could be considered intimidating are the metal ladders and climbing chains required to ascend the rock face at one point.

The route is rocky and steep at times. Remember this is a climb of almost 670 meters. As you reach the summit, it gets rockier and steeper. However, don’t let the difficulty deter you because the views from the top far surpass the strain of the hike.

Is it child-friendly? Yes, although they’ll probably want to avoid the climbing chains (and rock scrambling near the end of the trail)

Is it dog-friendly? Yes, provided you have a permit and your dog is kept on a leash.

RESPECT THE ENVIRONMENT

Most of the Cape’s mountains fall within national parks, and they are sensitive ecological regions. Stick to the main paths, do not pick flowers, feed animals or drop litter, and be aware of fire risks such as smoking or cooking.

HIKING TRAILS

The primary Lion’s Head trail is easy to spot: look across the parking lot for a wide, red gravel trail. The route is well marked and you will not easily get lost.

Left route: Choose the gentler spiral route on the left when hiking up Lion’s Head. This roundabout footpath will help you avoid steep ascents and descents, chains and ladders altogether.

Right route: Adventure seekers will revel in the thrill of using the chains, steps, and ladders. Negotiate the sheer rock face and experience freedom in nature.

VIEW FROM THE TOP

Sweat your way up to the top. It is worthwhile! The vast breathtaking blueness of the Atlantic Ocean meets the clear African sky when one looks toward the South over Camps Bay. Towards the North, you get a look at Robben Island, Bloubergstrand, and the West Coast. Spend time recording your memories before commencing descent.

VIEW WHILE CLIMBING

Your Lion’s Head climb will give you n eagle’s eye perspective of the Cape Peninsula coastline and its various areas.

As you head up, you get a 360ᵒ view of Cape Town. You will enjoy views of the City Bowl, Table Mountain, and Devil’s Peak. You will see the Twelve Apostles Mountain range and Camps Bay and Clifton beaches.

On a clear day, you will see all the way to the Hottentots Holland mountain range. These mountains are on the far side of Paarl and Stellenbosch.

BREAKFAST 

Phew, what a hike! We hope you had an awesome and safe journey up and down one of Cape Town’s iconic peaks. But what do you do now?

Your early morning hiking adventure is sure to have awakened your appetite. Go for breakfast at Manna Epicure in nearby Kloof Street. Or, head to the Oasis Bistro at Belmond Mount Nelson Hotel in Orange Street. You will enjoy a breakfast fit for a king.

Do you want to venture off the beaten track again? Pop in at Nourish’d on the corner of Hof and Kloof Street in Gardens. Truth Café in Buitenkant Street is a popular choice too.

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