Hiking Lion’s Head is a popular activity for visitors and locals alike, making the trail busy at times. Knowing what to expect will ensure you have the best experience.
The Basics and What to Bring
There’s no shade on the trail, so avoid hiking in the heat of the day. Bring enough water and a snack for the summit. Don’t forget sunscreen, a hat, and comfortable hiking shoes with good grip.
Sunrise and sunset hikes are popular, but you’ll need to navigate parts of the trail in darkness. Bring a headlamp for these hikes. Always check the weather forecast before hiking Lion’s Head—Cape Town’s weather can change rapidly.
The summit can be cold and windy, so pack a light jacket just in case.
As with any hiking trail, never hike alone. Even though you’ll likely encounter others on the trail, it’s best to go with at least one companion.
The Trail
While many people hike Lion’s Head daily, this isn’t an easy trail—I wouldn’t recommend it for complete beginners.
The trail starts relatively easy and flat. As you progress, it becomes rockier and requires some scrambling. A good grip on your shoes is essential.
Things get more challenging at the ladders, chains, and staples section. This part can be daunting if you’re afraid of heights. There’s an alternative route, but be aware it’s longer, narrower, and has steep drop-offs.
The ladders are straightforward, but the chains and staples are tricky—especially if you’re short. Having a buddy to help you through this section is useful, and it can get crowded during busy times.
Some hikers prefer the alternative route for descent since the chains and staples are even trickier going down. Watch your step on the rocky sections, as they can be slippery.
After the technical section, the rest is easygoing. Keep in mind there are multiple trail options—I learned this the hard way when I ended up at a different spot than my starting point.
When it got dark, I needed to descend quickly and found myself on Signal Hill Road, requiring a walk back to the parking area.
The total hiking time varies with your fitness and experience. First-timers should plan for 2.5–3 hours round trip.
The Views
Despite the challenges, reaching Lion’s Head’s summit is incredibly rewarding, with breathtaking 360-degree views. Take time to soak it in before descending.
The views are spectacular from the start and improve with elevation. You’ll see Table Mountain, Signal Hill, and the city sprawling from the centre to Camps Bay.
Guided Hike
If you’re solo or prefer professional guidance, I recommend the Lion’s Head Sunrise or Sunset Hike. An experienced guide leads the way, and safety and first aid equipment are provided. This guided option takes 3.5 hours.
In conclusion, this hike is a Cape Town must-do. Though challenging, the spectacular views make every step worthwhile.
