Constantia Nek Cape Town
Constantia Nek offers breathtaking hiking trails to Table Mountain reservoirs and world-class dining and wine experiences.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Constantia Nek Cape Town
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Constantia Nek offers breathtaking hiking trails to Table Mountain reservoirs and world-class dining and wine experiences.
"A beautiful walk/hike for families with rewarding reservoirs at the top."
🚗 Early Bird Parking
Arrive before 9 AM on weekends to snag parking at Constantia Nek. It gets packed!
💧 Stay Hydrated!
Carry ample water, especially for summer hikes. The sun can be intense on the mountain.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Table Mountain Reservoirs
Top of the Constantia Nek Jeep Track
Hike to the five stunning Table Mountain reservoirs for breathtaking views and a sense of accomplishment.
Beau Constantia Wine Farm
Top of Constantia Nek
Savor bold wines with panoramic views of False Bay at this boutique wine farm.
La Parada Constantia Nek
Constantia Nek
Experience vibrant Spanish flavors and a serene atmosphere amidst lush greenery.
Cecilia Forest Waterfall Trail
Constantia Nek
A steep but rewarding climb offering city views and a beautiful waterfall.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds: Timing is Key
Hydration & Footwear Essentials
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Early Bird Parking
Arrive before 9 AM on weekends to snag parking at Constantia Nek. It gets packed!
💧 Stay Hydrated!
Carry ample water, especially for summer hikes. The sun can be intense on the mountain.
👟 Comfortable Hiking Shoes
Essential for the varied terrain. Trails can be steep and rocky.
🐶 Pet-Friendly Trails
Many trails, like the one via Constantia Nek to Table Mountain, welcome pets.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Early Bird Parking
Arrive before 9 AM on weekends to snag parking at Constantia Nek. It gets packed!
💧 Stay Hydrated!
Carry ample water, especially for summer hikes. The sun can be intense on the mountain.
👟 Comfortable Hiking Shoes
Essential for the varied terrain. Trails can be steep and rocky.
🐶 Pet-Friendly Trails
Many trails, like the one via Constantia Nek to Table Mountain, welcome pets.
📸 Capture the Views
The vistas from Beau Constantia and the hiking trails are incredible. Don't forget your camera!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the stunning natural beauty and diverse hiking trails at Constantia Nek, with many praising the accessibility of the reservoirs and the rewarding views. The area also offers excellent culinary and wine experiences, though parking can be a significant challenge on busy days.
"This is a beautiful walk / hike for families. Parking at Constantia Nek, especially over a weekend can problematic, so be there early. The Constantia Nek Jeep Track goes past the five Table Mountain Reservoirs/dams. One can walk along the Jeep track all the way, or take one of the hiking trails, which is a bit more challenging, especially for young children. The walk to the first of the reservoirs/ dams - De Villiers Dam takes around 1 hour - 1h30 minutes depending on your pace. Continuing along the Jeep Track, one can walk to the furthers of the two reservoirs - Woodhead and Hely Hutchinson. This will take a further 45 minutes to an hour( depending on your pace). It gets very hot on the mountain during summer. Sunny days during autumn, winter and spring are much more pleasant, also the reservoirs usually have more water. No swimming is allowed in the reservoirs."
Wianelle Briers
"Such a beautiful hike... Bit of an evaluation gain, but if you follow the jeep trail... Anyone can do it. The reservoirs at the top are quite the sight."
Andrew Baird
"Enjoy the fresh air and scenic views on a beginner-friendly hike. The trails are decently maintained and easy to follow, perfect for a relaxing outdoor experience. Remember to wear comfortable shoes and bring plenty of water to stay hydrated. Take your time, embrace the tranquility of nature, and create lasting memories. Happy hiking!"
Riaan April
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Constantia Nek is accessible by car from Cape Town. It's a scenic drive, typically taking around 30-45 minutes depending on traffic. You can also use ride-sharing services.
Public transport options are limited directly to Constantia Nek. It's best to drive or use ride-sharing services for convenience.
There's a parking area at Constantia Nek, often opposite La Parada. Arrive early, especially on weekends, as it fills up quickly.
Currently, there are no dedicated shuttle services to the Constantia Nek hiking trails. Driving or ride-sharing is recommended.
Constantia is an affluent suburb and generally considered safe for morning walks. However, always be aware of your surroundings and take standard safety precautions.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The hiking trails themselves are generally free to access. However, if you plan to use the Table Mountain Cable Car to descend, there will be a cost.
Constantia Nek itself doesn't have set opening hours as it's an access point to trails and natural areas. However, it's best to hike during daylight hours for safety.
Wine farms like Beau Constantia typically charge a fee for wine tastings. Check their individual websites for current pricing.
Yes, many trails around Constantia Nek, including those leading to Table Mountain, are pet-friendly.
Parking at Constantia Nek is generally free, but it can be limited and fills up quickly on busy days.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
Popular options include the Jeep Track to the reservoirs, the Cecilia Forest Waterfall trail, and routes towards Table Mountain. 
The walk to the first reservoir (De Villiers Dam) takes about 1-1.5 hours. Reaching the furthest reservoirs can take an additional 45-60 minutes.
The Jeep Track is beginner-friendly. Other trails, like Cecilia Forest, are steeper and more challenging. Choose based on your fitness level.
You might encounter wildflowers and occasionally baboons on the trails. Always maintain a safe distance from wildlife.
No, swimming is not permitted in the reservoirs. They are part of the Table Mountain National Park's water supply.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
La Parada Constantia Nek offers Spanish tapas. For fine dining, La Colombe is highly acclaimed. The Conservatory at The Cellars-Hohenort is another option.
Yes, Beau Constantia offers wine tastings with stunning views. It's a boutique farm known for its premium wines.
La Colombe offers a contemporary fine-dining experience, blending French and Asian influences. It's consistently ranked among South Africa's best restaurants. +1
While not designated picnic areas, many hikers find spots along the trails to enjoy packed lunches. Remember to pack out all your trash.
Dining options range from mid-range tapas at La Parada to high-end fine dining at La Colombe. Wine tastings also have associated costs. +1
📸 📸 Photography
The panoramic views from Beau Constantia, the reservoirs, and the city vistas from higher up on the trails are excellent photo opportunities.
Absolutely. The rolling hills, mountain backdrops, and expansive views make it ideal for landscape photography, especially during sunrise or sunset.
If you're lucky, you might spot baboons or birds. Always maintain a safe distance and avoid disturbing wildlife for photos.
Early mornings and late afternoons offer softer light, ideal for photography. Overcast days can also create dramatic skies.
Drone usage is generally restricted in national parks and protected areas. Check with SANParks for specific regulations before flying.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For a treat after your hike, consider a casual meal at La Parada Constantia Nek for tapas or explore the grounds of a wine farm like Beau Constantia (though wine tasting might be more for the adults).
+1 Always check the weather and aim for cooler parts of the day, especially during warmer months.👟 Active Adventurers & Trail Runners
+1 You can tackle challenging ascents like the Cecilia Forest trail or opt for longer runs along the Jeep Track towards the reservoirs. Many runners appreciate that these trails are pet-friendly, allowing them to bring their canine companions along.
Be prepared for changing weather conditions and ensure you have adequate hydration and energy supplies for your run. The views from higher elevations provide excellent motivation.🥂 Foodies & Wine Enthusiasts
+1 For a more casual yet flavorful experience, La Parada Constantia Nek serves up delicious Spanish tapas in a relaxed setting. If you're seeking an unforgettable fine-dining experience, La Colombe is world-renowned for its innovative cuisine and impeccable service. Consider booking your dining reservations in advance, especially for popular spots like La Colombe. Many of these establishments are located within beautiful estates, offering a complete sensory experience that combines gastronomy with scenic beauty.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Hiking Adventures at Constantia Nek
For those seeking more of a challenge, trails like the Cecilia Forest Waterfall Trail offer a steeper ascent, rewarding hikers with stunning city views and a picturesque waterfall.
Other routes, such as the Vlakkenberg Trail, provide a different perspective of the landscape. Many of these trails are also pet-friendly, making it a great destination for dog owners. When planning your hike, remember that the mountain can get very hot in summer. Autumn, winter, and spring offer more pleasant temperatures, and the reservoirs are typically fuller during these seasons.
Culinary Delights and Wine Experiences
+1 They are known for their small-batch, premium wines and sustainable farming practices. For a taste of Spain in Cape Town, La Parada Constantia Nek provides vibrant tapas and a tranquil atmosphere amidst lush greenery.
It's a perfect spot to relax after a hike or enjoy a leisurely meal. For a truly world-class culinary journey, La Colombe at Constantia Uitsig is a must-visit. Consistently ranked among the best restaurants in South Africa and globally, it offers a contemporary fine-dining experience with innovative French-meets-Asian cuisine.
Navigating Constantia Nek: Practicalities
While the hiking trails themselves are generally free, be aware that costs can accrue if you opt for the Table Mountain Cable Car for your descent.
For those looking to explore without the hassle of driving, ride-sharing services are a viable option, though public transport directly to the Nek is limited. Safety is a common consideration for visitors. Constantia is known as an affluent suburb, and while generally safe for morning walks, it's always wise to stay aware of your surroundings and take standard precautions, especially when hiking alone.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit