Woody Ravine Guided Hike – Table Mountain

Woody Ravine is one of Table Mountain's most rewarding lesser-known routes — a route that takes you through cool indigenous forest, up dramatic rocky sections, and onto the open plateau with some of the best views the mountain has to offer. If you're looking for a Table Mountain hike that feels genuinely adventurous and quieter than the popular Platteklip Gorge route, Woody Ravine is it.

Hike Summary

Duration: 3 to 4 hours total
Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
Start Point: Lower Contour Path, Table Mountain
End Point: Table Mountain summit plateau
Group size: Small group, maximum 8 people

The Route

Your Ruminate guide leads you from the lower slopes up the Woody Ravine route, beginning through a shaded forest canopy of indigenous Cape flora before the terrain opens up onto steeper, rockier sections as you gain altitude. The upper section of the ravine is demanding — you'll navigate boulders and exposed rock faces — but the summit plateau reward makes every step worthwhile.

From the top, sweeping views take in Cape Town, the Atlantic Ocean, the Cape Flats, and the distinctive silhouette of Lion's Head. At the summit, you can choose to descend via the cable car (Aerial Cableway ticket purchased separately) or take a different route back down, including the nearby Tranquillity Cracks route for those wanting an extra challenge.

Why Hike Woody Ravine with a Guide

Woody Ravine is not a signposted trail. Route-finding on the upper sections is challenging even for experienced hikers, and the mountain's famously fast-changing weather makes preparation critical. Every Ruminate guide is certified (FGASA/MLTSA qualified), carries first aid equipment, and knows the mountain's routes in all conditions.

What's Included

• Certified mountain guide (FGASA/MLTSA qualified)
• Pre-hike safety briefing and route overview
• Local knowledge and interpretation throughout
• Emergency first aid kit
• Water for the trail

What to Bring

• Comfortable hiking shoes or trail runners with grip
• Warm layer (weather changes fast on Table Mountain)
• Water bottle (2L recommended)
• Light snack or packed lunch
• Sunscreen and sunglasses
• Cash or card for cable car if choosing that descent

Aerial Cableway descent: tickets purchased at the upper cable station (approx. R490 per adult). Subject to seasonal maintenance closures and weather. Check cableway status on the day.

Further reading: Best Hiking Trails in Cape Town · Why Book a Guided Hiking Tour · What to Wear Hiking in Cape Town · Is Table Mountain Difficult? · Cape Town Hiking for Beginners · Woody Ravine Full Guide · Skeleton Gorge Guide · Safety Guide

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the Woody Ravine guided hike?

Your guided hike includes a FGASA/MLTSA qualified hiking guide, a safety briefing, mountain navigation and route guidance, a basic first aid kit and emergency assistance, and professional photos where possible. Woody Ravine is not a signposted trail — a guide is essential. Food and drinks, Cableway tickets, personal gear, travel insurance, and gratuities are not included. Transport is available as an optional add-on.

Why is a guide essential on Woody Ravine?

Woody Ravine is not a signposted trail. Route-finding on the upper sections is challenging even for experienced hikers, and Table Mountain's fast-changing weather makes local knowledge critical. Every Ruminate guide is FGASA/MLTSA qualified and knows the mountain's routes in all conditions.

How do we get down from the summit?

Descent options include the Table Mountain Aerial Cableway or on foot. Cableway tickets are not included and are purchased at the upper cable station — approximately R490 per adult, subject to seasonal maintenance and weather. Your guide will advise on the best option on the day.

Where does the hike start?

Full meeting point details are confirmed in your booking and sent via WhatsApp before the hike.

What should I bring?

Bring comfortable hiking shoes or trail runners with grip, 2L of water, a light snack or packed lunch, a warm layer, sunscreen, and sunglasses. Bring cash or card if you plan to use the Cableway for the descent.