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Practical information
This moderate to strenuous hike, with slight exposure to heights, starts off with a leisurely walk through the world-renowned Kirstenbosch Botanical Garden. The contour path is soon reached before ascending Skeleton Gorge via a cool, running stream, magnificent indigenous Afro-montane forest and a few sturdy timber ladders.
Once at the top of the gorge, the Smuts Track is followed to Maclear’s Beacon, the highest point on Table Mountain, offering stunning views in all directions. After walking the entire length of the Front Table, the upper cable station is reached for the descent.
Attractions: Short walk through part of Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens including the Boomslang Treetop walk, shady Skeleton Gorge, indigenous forest, beautiful views (on a clear day), variety of Fynbos, Maclear’s Beacon (highest point of Table Mountain) and the flat plateau of Table Mountain overlooking the city bowl and harbour.
Altitude: Start at 180m / 591ft to highest point 1085m/3560ft = total climb of 905m/2969ft
Distance: approx. 6 – 7 km
Rating: Unrelenting but a pleasant ascent, physically demanding and mountain fitness is required.
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.
- Table Mountain Aerial Cableway tickets
- Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden entrance fee
- Lunch pack & water: R150.00
- Comfortable clothing adapted to the weather conditions
- Hiking shoes
- Always pack a warm top/jacket in case
- Approximately 2-3 litres of water
- Trail lunch for a 6 hour hike
- Sun protection: lotion and hat