Hiking excursion up Lion's Head in Cape Town

Please avoid cotton as it soaks up moisture, clings to the skin when wet, doesn’t insulate and takes longer to dry. You end up feeling uncomfortable, with a wet and sweaty layer of clothing.

Advice on what to wear:
The weather on the mountains can change unexpectedly and sudden drops in temperature are common. On a hot day the correct clothing can help prevent heat exhaustion and sunburn. Wearing the wrong clothes on your hiking/walking tour could spoil your tour.

Examples and good choices of clothing:

Top:
1st layer: A sleeveless or short sleeve T-shirt/top of light-weight moisture wicking fabric.
2nd layer: A long sleeve shirt with a collar (for protection against sunburn) from light weight moisture wicking fabric. When the temperature increases you can take the shirt off. When it gets cold or sun protection is needed you can put the shirt back on.
3rd layer: A body warmer is a practical choice for the tour (a sleeveless vest that zips up in front, designed to offer warmth and protection to your core, also known as a gilet). Choose one that is light, folds up small and can serve as a wind breaker and can add extra warmth when needed.
4th layer is for protection against rain and cold: Bring light weight jacket that is completely windproof, waterproof, breathable and can keep you warm and dry, preferably with a hood.

Trousers: Full length zip-off pants. Protects the skin form insects, thorn and blister bushes (similar to poison Ivy) and sunburn. The pants could be converted into shorts at any stage and vice versa.

Hands: Gloves for the cold. If no gloves are available bring an extra pair of socks to put over your hands.

Feet: The correct footwear is most important

Socks: Breathable, wick moisture away from the skin and are quick drying.

Shoes: Everyone’s feet are different. Make your footwear choices according to what is right for you. Good choices are: hiking boots, low-cut hiking shoes or trail running shoes.

Head: Wide brimmed hats have excellent coverage. A cap or visor with a bandana for neck protection is also a good combination. Sunglasses, a beanie or buff in backpack in the event of weather changes.

Backpack: 25 – 30 litres for carrying personal items and your snack/lunch pack. If you do not have a day pack please notify us in advance.

Sun block: – at least factor 30; the sunburn danger in Cape Town is high, even on a cloudy day.

Personal first aid e.g. personal medication. sticking plaster, headache tablets. If you have health problem asthma, diabetes or heart problems please inform the guide in advance. If you start getting a blister on your feet on the hike inform the guide so that it can be treated immediately.