Newlands Ravine Trail
A challenging yet rewarding hike through lush forest to a serene waterfall and panoramic views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Newlands Ravine Trail
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A challenging yet rewarding hike through lush forest to a serene waterfall and panoramic views.
"Lovely Hike up the Ravine. A bit strenuous. Once you get to the saddle have a rest and continue a gentle downhill back to Tafelberg road and your car."
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
The trail is steep and can be slippery. Wear good hiking boots for grip and ankle support.
💧 Hydration is Crucial
Bring ample water, especially on warmer days. The climb can be demanding, so stay hydrated.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Serene Waterfall
Mid-trail
Discover a hidden gem: a tranquil waterfall offering a refreshing mist and breathtaking natural beauty.
Panoramic Saddle Views
The Saddle
Reach the saddle for a well-deserved rest and soak in spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
Newlands Forest Ambiance
Lower Trail Sections
Wander through the mystical, moss-covered paths of Newlands Forest, a truly enchanting experience.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Climb
Check the Weather
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
The trail is steep and can be slippery. Wear good hiking boots for grip and ankle support.
💧 Hydration is Crucial
Bring ample water, especially on warmer days. The climb can be demanding, so stay hydrated.
🗺️ Trail Navigation
Some sections can be less defined. Consider a trail app or map for guidance.
🚗 Parking Considerations
Parking can be limited, especially on weekends. Arrive early or consider ride-sharing.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
The trail is steep and can be slippery. Wear good hiking boots for grip and ankle support.
💧 Hydration is Crucial
Bring ample water, especially on warmer days. The climb can be demanding, so stay hydrated.
🗺️ Trail Navigation
Some sections can be less defined. Consider a trail app or map for guidance.
🚗 Parking Considerations
Parking can be limited, especially on weekends. Arrive early or consider ride-sharing.
🌿 Respect Nature
Stay on marked trails to protect the environment and enjoy the pristine beauty.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Newlands Ravine Trail's spectacular scenery and rewarding challenge. The hike offers a beautiful escape into nature with a serene waterfall and panoramic views from the saddle. Some find the trail strenuous, but the overall experience is highly praised as a great way to connect with the outdoors.
"Lovely Hike up the Ravine. A bit strenuous. Once you get to the saddle have a rest and continue a gentle downhill back to Tafelberg road and your car."
Gavin
"A great experience, worth the walk, spectacular scenery"
Michael Meyer
""
Ricky De Agrela
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The trailhead is typically accessed from Tafelberg Road or within Newlands Forest. Many visitors use ride-sharing services like Uber to reach the starting point, as parking can be limited.
While direct public transport to the trailhead is limited, you can take a bus or train to Newlands and then walk or take a short taxi ride to the forest entrance.
A short Uber ride from the city center will bring you directly to Newlands Forest, making it a convenient starting point for your hike.
The trail can be accessed from various points within Newlands Forest, with some hikers starting near Paradise Park.
Navigate towards Newlands Forest in Cape Town. Parking is often available near the forest entrance or along Tafelberg Road.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Newlands Ravine Trail and Newlands Forest are generally free to access, making it a popular choice for budget-conscious visitors.
Newlands Forest is typically open from sunrise to sunset. It's advisable to check local park authorities for any specific seasonal hours.
No advance booking is required for hiking the Newlands Ravine Trail. It's an open-access natural area.
Generally, no specific permits are needed for recreational trail running on the Newlands Ravine Trail. However, for organized events, permits may be required.
Yes, the Newlands Cricket Ground and Rugby Stadium are iconic landmarks in the area and can be visited, though they are separate from the hiking trails. +1
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The trail is considered moderately strenuous, with steep and rocky sections. It's a great workout and rewarding for those who enjoy a challenge.
Weekday mornings are ideal to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures. After rainfall can be beautiful but requires caution due to slippery conditions.
Facilities are limited on the trail itself. It's best to use restrooms before you start and carry all the water you'll need.
While parts of Newlands Forest are suitable for a stroll, the steeper sections of the ravine might be challenging for very young children. Consider shorter, flatter routes within the forest.
Expect lush forest, a beautiful river alongside the trail, and a serene waterfall. The saddle offers spectacular panoramic views.
📸 📸 Photography
The waterfall is a prime photo opportunity. The saddle also provides stunning panoramic vistas. The moss-covered forest paths offer a mystical ambiance.
Absolutely! The dynamic terrain, lush greenery, and challenging ascents make for dramatic trail running shots. 
Early morning light can be magical in the forest, while late afternoon offers softer light for panoramic shots from the saddle.
Drone usage is generally restricted in natural reserves and national parks in South Africa. It's best to check with local authorities before flying a drone.
A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes, while a telephoto lens can capture details from afar. A sturdy tripod can be useful for waterfall shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider packing a picnic basket and letting the kids explore the forest floor. The presence of a river adds an element of natural wonder. For families seeking a more adventurous hike, it's advisable to assess the children's stamina and perhaps tackle only the initial, less steep sections of the ravine.
🏃♀️ Trail Runners
+2Runners often praise the trail's natural beauty, from the dense forest to the rewarding views. It's a popular spot for organized trail running events and informal group runs. Remember to be mindful of hikers and other users on the trail, and always carry sufficient water.
📸 Nature Photographers
For landscape photographers, the saddle presents a fantastic vantage point for capturing panoramic views of Cape Town and the surrounding mountains. Early morning or late afternoon light can create dramatic and beautiful shots. Be prepared for varying light conditions within the forest, which can add to the photographic challenge and reward.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Newlands Ravine Trail
+1Key points along the trail include a serene waterfall, which offers a refreshing respite and a picturesque spot for photos, and the saddle, a higher point that provides breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. From the saddle, the trail often continues towards areas like Devil's Peak or the Blockhouse, offering further exploration opportunities for experienced hikers.
Community insights suggest that while the trail is well-loved, it can be demanding. It's recommended to wear sturdy hiking boots, carry plenty of water, and be prepared for varied terrain. The beauty of the trail lies in its natural, untamed feel, with moss-covered paths and a sense of adventure.
Newlands Forest: More Than Just a Trailhead
Beyond hiking, Newlands Forest is a popular spot for trail running, with many runners using it as a training ground. The variety of paths, from gentle strolls to more challenging inclines, caters to different fitness levels. It's also a fantastic location for family outings, offering open spaces for children to play and explore amidst nature.
+1It's worth noting that Newlands is also famous for its sporting venues, including the Newlands Cricket Ground and the Newlands Rugby Stadium. While these are distinct from the natural trails, they contribute to the area's vibrant atmosphere and are often mentioned by visitors.
Social
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