Lion's Head
Iconic Cape Town hike with a challenging ladder ascent, offering breathtaking 360° views of the city and coastline.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Magical light, fewer crowds
Lion's Head
Best Time
Magical light, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic Cape Town hike with a challenging ladder ascent, offering breathtaking 360° views of the city and coastline.
"The summit view is absolutely breathtaking, making the challenging climb totally worth it!"
👟 Wear Grippy Shoes
Essential for the rocky terrain and ladder sections. Trainers or hiking boots are best!
💧 Hydrate Well
Bring at least 250ml of water, more if it's hot. No water points on the trail.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Summit Views
Lion's Head Summit
360-degree panoramic views of Cape Town, the ocean, and Table Mountain. Absolutely breathtaking!
Ladder & Chain Ascent
Upper sections of the trail
An exhilarating climb using chains and ladders, adding an adventurous element to the hike.
Sunrise/Sunset Spectacle
Lion's Head Summit
Witnessing the sun paint the sky from above the city is an unforgettable experience.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Embrace the Climb
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Grippy Shoes
Essential for the rocky terrain and ladder sections. Trainers or hiking boots are best!
💧 Hydrate Well
Bring at least 250ml of water, more if it's hot. No water points on the trail.
🔦 Headlamp for Sunrise/Sunset
Crucial for visibility if hiking in low light conditions.
⬆️ Main Route is Best
The main route with ladders is well-maintained and safe, even for those with mild height fears.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Grippy Shoes
Essential for the rocky terrain and ladder sections. Trainers or hiking boots are best!
💧 Hydrate Well
Bring at least 250ml of water, more if it's hot. No water points on the trail.
🔦 Headlamp for Sunrise/Sunset
Crucial for visibility if hiking in low light conditions.
⬆️ Main Route is Best
The main route with ladders is well-maintained and safe, even for those with mild height fears.
📸 Pack Light for Photos
Bring your camera but keep it secure in a backpack.
🚫 Leave No Trace
Take all your litter with you; there are no bins on the trail.
☁️ Check Cloud Cover
Use weather apps to avoid hiking into clouds for the best views.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Lion's Head is overwhelmingly praised as a must-do hike in Cape Town, offering breathtaking 360-degree views. While generally considered moderate, the final ascent with ladders and chains provides an exciting challenge. Visitors appreciate its accessibility and the rewarding experience, though crowds can be significant during peak times.
"A perfect hiking trail, that is not very difficult to climb, somewhere between easy to moderate however there are some parts that require a lot of climbing, and usage of ladders and chains to climb which might be challenging for others. The trail offers a breathtaking view of the city, the ocean, Table Mountain as well as the Robben Island (though it’s quite far). Safety is not much of a concern, especially when coming in the morning as there’s a lot of people and groups doing the hike. Parking is available at the starting point, though it is limited. I do not recommend doing the trail when it is raining or wet, as the rocks become very slippery. But in overall: A 10/10 hiking trail."
Kabelo Monama
"Very popular tourist hike. Not hard if you're fit - can get quite crowded. Ladders and chains well maintained. Stunning views."
Elna K
"The Lion’s Head summit hike was an awesome experience! It took us about 3 hours round trip—not super hard, but definitely not a walk in the park either. There are some fun challenges along the way like ladders and chains, and near the top, you’ll need to do a bit of rock climbing. But the effort is totally worth it—the sunrise view from the summit is absolutely breathtaking. Highly recommend it if you're up for a bit of adventure!"
Anastasia Travkina
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Lion's Head is easily accessible by car or ride-sharing services from Cape Town's city center. Parking is available at the base, but it can be limited during peak times. Many visitors opt for Uber or Bolt.
While direct public transport to the trailhead is limited, you can take a MyCiTi bus towards Camps Bay or Sea Point and then a short taxi or ride-share to the base of Lion's Head.
Driving and parking at the base is convenient, but can fill up quickly. Ride-sharing services are a popular and reliable alternative for reaching the trailhead.
Cycling is possible to the general area, but the final ascent is on foot. Be mindful of parking your bike securely if you choose this option.
Yes, the trailhead is well-marked and easily identifiable at the base of the mountain, with clear signage indicating the start of the popular hiking route.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no entrance fees or tickets required to hike Lion's Head. It's a free public trail within the Table Mountain National Park.
Lion's Head is accessible 24/7 as it's an outdoor trail. However, it's highly recommended to hike during daylight hours for safety and enjoyment.
There is no admission fee to hike Lion's Head. The trail is part of the natural landscape and open to everyone.
While technically possible, hiking at night is not recommended due to safety concerns and the lack of lighting. A headlamp is essential if attempting a sunrise or sunset hike.
No permits are required for individuals or small groups to hike Lion's Head. It's a public access trail.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The round trip typically takes 2-3 hours, depending on your fitness level and how much time you spend at the summit.
It's considered moderate. The initial part is steep, and the final ascent involves ladders and chains, which can be challenging for those with a fear of heights.
Wear comfortable clothing, sturdy sports shoes with good grip, and a light jacket as the weather can change. A hat and sunscreen are recommended for sunny days.
No, there are no toilets or water stations on the Lion's Head trail. Be sure to use facilities at the base and carry enough water.
It's generally considered safe due to its popularity and high foot traffic, especially during peak hours. However, always stay aware of your surroundings.
Dogs are allowed in Table Mountain National Park, but it's not recommended for Lion's Head due to the ladders and chains, which can be difficult for dogs.
📸 📸 Photography
Sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting for stunning photos. Midday can be harsh, but the panoramic views are always impressive. +1
Expect breathtaking 360-degree views of Cape Town, the Atlantic Ocean, Table Mountain, and the surrounding landscape.
The summit offers the most iconic panoramic shots. The various viewpoints along the trail also provide excellent photo opportunities.
It can be tricky. It's best to secure your camera or phone in a backpack and take photos from stable points before or after the more challenging sections.
Use a wide-angle lens or panorama mode on your phone to capture the vastness of the views. Including people in your shots can also help convey scale.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Recommendations: Consider going early in the morning to avoid the midday heat and crowds. Ensure children wear appropriate footwear with good grip. Pack plenty of snacks and water. If your child is particularly afraid of heights, you might want to stick to the lower parts of the trail or opt for a less exposed hike.
🧗♀️ Adventure Seekers
The panoramic views from the summit are the ultimate reward for your efforts. Tips: Consider timing your hike for sunrise or sunset for the most dramatic and memorable experience. Push your limits on the ascent, but always prioritize safety. The feeling of conquering the mountain is exhilarating!
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Tips: Bring your camera and a wide-angle lens or use your phone's panorama feature. Be prepared for the climb to reach the best vantage points. Consider a tripod for low-light shots, but be mindful of space and other hikers.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Lion's Head Ascent: Hike or Climb?
For those with a significant fear of heights, the ladders and chains can be daunting. While the main route is the most direct and popular, some discussions mention a 'spiral route' that might offer a slightly less exposed alternative, though its existence and ease can vary. It's always best to assess your comfort level and proceed cautiously. The effort is undeniably rewarding, with the summit offering unparalleled 360-degree vistas that make the climb entirely worthwhile.
Key Takeaway: Be prepared for a moderate hike with a challenging, exposed final ascent involving ladders and chains. Assess your comfort with heights before you go.
Capturing the Magic: Photography at Lion's Head
During sunrise, the soft, golden light bathes the city in a warm glow, while sunset offers dramatic silhouettes and vibrant sky colors. Many visitors recommend bringing a headlamp for these early morning or late evening excursions.
+1Remember to pack your camera securely in a backpack, as you'll need your hands free for the ladder and chain sections. While the summit is the prime spot, don't overlook the scenic viewpoints along the trail itself, which offer different perspectives and compositions.
Safety and Preparedness on the Trail
Essential items to bring include plenty of water, especially on warmer days, as there are no water sources on the mountain.
It's important to note that there are no restroom facilities on the trail itself, so plan accordingly.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit