Platteklip Gorge – Table Mountain Guided Hike
Platteklip Gorge – Table Mountain Guided Hike
Platteklip Gorge – Table Mountain Guided Hike
Platteklip Gorge is the oldest and most direct route to the summit of Table Mountain. This steep but rewarding trail offers dramatic views over Cape Town, the Atlantic coastline, and the Twelve Apostles.
Hike Summary
Duration: ±2 to 3 hours
Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
Start Point: Platteklip Gorge Trailhead, Tafelberg Road
End Point: Table Mountain Summit (option to hike down or take the Cableway)
Recommended Start Times (Heat-Safe)
Summer (Dec–Feb): 06:00–06:30
Autumn (Mar–May): 06:45–07:30
Winter (Jun–Aug): 07:00–08:00
Spring (Sep–Nov): 06:30–07:30
Why Hike Platteklip with Ruminate
Certified and experienced guides
Small groups for safety and personalised attention
Direct ascent with panoramic views
Optional Pick-Up & Drop-Off
R400 per group (maximum 4 guests) per location.
What to Bring
1.5–2 liters of water
Snacks
Active clothing
Warm layer
Hat, sunscreen
Trail or hiking shoes
Good to Know
Very exposed trail – early start is essential
Weather dependent
Cableway ticket not included
Private or custom tours available
Book your Platteklip Gorge hike with Ruminate today.
What's Included
- ✓Professional qualified hiking guide
- ✓Safety briefing before the hike
- ✓Mountain navigation and route guidance
- ✓Basic first aid kit and emergency assistance
- ✓Professional photos taken throughout the experience (where possible)
- ✓Access to one of the most scenic routes on Table Mountain
Not Included
- ✗Table Mountain Aerial Cableway ticket for the descent
- ✗Food and drinks
- ✗Personal hiking gear and clothing
- ✗Travel insurance
- ✗Gratuities (optional)
Further reading: Table Mountain Hiking Guide · India Venster vs Platteklip Gorge · Best Hiking Trails in Cape Town · What to Wear Hiking in Cape Town · Is Table Mountain Difficult? · Cape Town Hiking for Beginners · Platteklip Full Guide · Cable Car Guide · Hiking Safety
Frequently Asked Questions
What is included in the Platteklip Gorge guided hike?
Your guided hike includes a professional qualified hiking guide, a safety briefing, mountain navigation and route guidance, a basic first aid kit and emergency assistance, and professional photos taken throughout the experience where possible. Food and drinks, Cableway tickets, personal hiking gear, travel insurance, and gratuities are not included. Transport from your accommodation is available as an optional add-on at R400 per group (max 4 guests) per location.
Is Platteklip Gorge suitable for beginners?
Yes — it's a direct, well-maintained ascent and one of the most accessible Table Mountain routes. The hike takes 2 to 3 hours up. Note that it is a very exposed trail so an early start is essential, especially in summer. Cableway tickets for the descent are not included and purchased on the day.
Where does the hike start?
The hike starts at the Platteklip Gorge trailhead on Tafelberg Road. Meeting point details are confirmed in your booking and sent via WhatsApp before the hike.
How do we get down?
Most groups descend by Table Mountain Aerial Cableway, which gives spectacular aerial views. Cableway tickets are not included and are purchased at the upper cable station on the day. Walking down via Platteklip is also an option.
What should I bring?
Bring 1.5–2L of water, snacks, active clothing, a warm layer, a hat, sunscreen, and trail or hiking shoes.