Cape Town: Lions Head Hike Sunrise or Sunset
Active
2h - 3h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Ruminate Travel’s Lion’s Head hike is a unique 3–3.5 hr sunrise or sunset adventure up Cape Town’s iconic peak.
Small groups of 6–12 ensure an intimate experience with expert guides who share local history, ecology, and stories.
The 5.6 km moderate trail features scrambles and ladders, leading to epic 360° views of Table Mountain, the city, and the Atlantic Ocean.
Sunrise hikes reveal vibrant skies; sunset hikes showcase twinkling lights. We provide headlamps for low-light hikes.
Opt for pickup from central Cape Town (ZAR 400/person) or meet at the trailhead. Add a professional photographer (R4000/person or R7000/two) for stunning shots.
Stay connected via our WhatsApp group for weather updates and tips.
Perfect for moderate fitness levels, this curated journey blends adventure, nature, and culture, offering unforgettable moments and camaraderie.
Available options
Cape Town: Lions Head Hike Sunrise or Sunset
What's included
Head Lamps
Expert Guide
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Pre-Hike: Arrival & Briefing (15 min)
Time: Sunrise (e.g., 4:30 AM summer) or Sunset (2.5–3 hrs before sunset, confirmed via WhatsApp) Depending on season.
Location: Lion’s Head Parking Area, Signal Hill Road, Cape Town (-33.9349, 18.3893)
Details:
Arrive 15 min early (or via pickup from central Cape Town, ZAR 400/person round-trip).
Meet your expert guide (6–12 hikers for intimacy) near the trailhead sign.
Receive headlamp (sunrise/sunset)
Briefing: Trail overview (moderate, with scrambles/ladders), safety tips, and summit highlights.
Photographers (if booked, R4000/person or R7000/two) join for epic shots.
2
Stop 2
Ascent: Trail to Summit (1.5–2 hrs)
0–20 min: Gravel Path
Start on a gentle gravel trail, crunching underfoot.
Views: City Bowl lights (sunrise) or glowing skyline (sunset), Table Mountain, Atlantic Ocean.
Guide points out fynbos (protea, erica).
20–60 min: Rocky Steps & Scrambles
Trail steepens with rocky steps and mild scrambles (manageable for moderate fitness).
Circle Lion’s Head for 360° vistas: Camps Bay beaches, Twelve Apostles, Robben Island.
Pause for photos and guide insights on landmarks.
60–90/120 min: Ladders & Final Push
Tackle two short chain-ladder sections and hand-over-foot scrambles (bypass available).
Guide assists with technique and pacing.
Views intensify: Table Mountain’s cliffs, V&A Waterfront, distant Hottentots Holland Mountains.
Reach 669m summit, feeling triumphant.
3
Stop 3
Summit: Panoramic Bliss (30–45 min)
Time: Sunrise (e.g., 5:30–6:00 AM summer) or Sunset (confirmed via WhatsApp)
Details:
Enjoy 360° views: Table Mountain, city skyline, Atlantic Ocean, Clifton beaches.
Sunrise: Sky shifts from indigo to fiery reds/golds. Sunset: City lights twinkle, sky burns purple/pink.
Relax on flat rocks, savor a snack (bring your own or add-on snack pack).
Guide shares stories about Lion’s Head and landmarks (Signal Hill, Devil’s Peak).
Photographers capture professional shots (if booked).
Use provided jacket for summit breezes.
4
Stop 4
Descent: Return to Trailhead (1–1.5 hrs)
0–30 min: Initial Descent
Retrace trail, navigating ladders/scrambles with guide’s tips.
Views: New angles of Table Mountain, fynbos details, ocean shimmer.
Legs feel the workout; group camaraderie shines.
30–60/90 min: Lower Trail
Trail eases to rocky steps, then gravel path.
Spot sunbirds, hear city’s hum return.
Reflect on summit views, share laughs with hikers.
Final Moments:
Arrive at parking area, exhilarated and calm.
Pickup service returns you to central Cape Town (City Bowl) or stay to exchange contacts with group.
Post-Hike: Farewell
Time: Approx. 3–3.5 hrs after start (e.g., 7:30–8:00 AM sunrise, or post-sunset).
Details:
Say goodbye at trailhead or ride back with pickup service.
Receive photographer’s shots (if booked) via digital link post-hike.
Leave with memories of Cape Town’s iconic vistas and a sense of achievement.
What's not included
If you have not select to have your guide collect you, please make your own way to the trail head.
We no not provide any Food or Beverages on this trip. Please make sure you have this in your own back pack.
Feel tree to reward your guide with a tip or a solid review.
Sneakers, Jackets, Backpacks or Active wear is your responsibility please dress appropriately to avoid slowing the group down. You can let us know if you need something befor the time and we can help.
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Tripadvisor
5.0
4 reviews
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Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Meeting point
How to Find It: Located at the base of the Lion’s Head trail, this large gravel lot is a 10-minute drive from Cape Town’s city center, with stunning views of the peak. Spot your guide near the trailhead entrance standing next to the information sign.
About Cape Town
Cape Town is a stunning coastal city known for its dramatic landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture. Nestled between the iconic Table Mountain and the Atlantic Ocean, it offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cosmopolitan living, and historical significance.
Top Attractions
Table Mountain
Table Mountain is an iconic landmark and one of the New7Wonders of Nature. It offers breathtaking views of Cape Town and the surrounding coastline.
Nature
2-4 hours
Moderate (Cableway ticket: R380 return)
V&A Waterfront
The V&A Waterfront is a bustling hub of activity, featuring shopping, dining, and entertainment options. It's a great place to experience Cape Town's vibrant atmosphere.
Entertainment
Half day to full day
Free to explore, with varying costs for activities and dining
Robben Island
Robben Island is a UNESCO World Heritage Site where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned for 18 years. It's a powerful reminder of South Africa's apartheid history.
Historical
3-4 hours
Moderate (Tour ticket: R500 including ferry)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Bunny Chow
A hollowed-out loaf of bread filled with curry, typically made with chicken or lamb. It's a popular street food dish with Indian roots.
Lunch/Dinner
Vegetarian options available, but traditionally contains meat.
Cape Malay Curry
A flavorful curry made with spices, herbs, and often includes meat or vegetables. It's a staple of Cape Malay cuisine and is typically served with rice.
Dinner
Vegetarian options available, but traditionally contains meat.
Biltong
A dried, cured meat similar to jerky, but with a unique South African flavor. It's a popular snack and can be found in various flavors and cuts.
Snack
Contains meat, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.
Popular Activities
Hiking
Paragliding
Shark cage diving
Surfing
Mountain biking
Beach lounging
Spa treatments
Wine tasting
Best Time to Visit
November to March
This is the summer season, characterized by warm, dry weather and long daylight hours. It's the peak tourist season, perfect for beach activities, hiking, and outdoor adventures.
18°C to 30°C
64°F to 86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English, Afrikaans
- Widely spoken: Xhosa, Zulu
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
South African Rand (ZAR)
Time Zone
GMT+2
Electricity
220VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution
Cape Town is a generally safe city for tourists, but visitors should be aware of their surroundings and take precautions to protect themselves and their belongings. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and bag snatching, can occur in crowded areas and on public transportation. Violent crime is less common but can occur, particularly in certain neighborhoods and at night.
Important Precautions:
- • Avoid walking alone at night
- • Be cautious with valuables in crowded areas
- • Use reputable transport services
Getting there
By air
- Cape Town International Airport • 20 km from city center
By train
Cape Town Station
By bus
Cape Town Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
The MyCiTi Bus system is efficient and affordable, with dedicated bus lanes to avoid traffic. It's a popular choice for both locals and tourists.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Bolt
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Cape Town City Centre
Camps Bay
Bo-Kaap
Day trips
Stellenbosch
50 km from Cape Town • Full day recommended
Stellenbosch is a charming university town in the heart of the Cape Winelands, known for its historic architecture, world-class wine estates, and vibrant student culture. It's a great place to explore South Africa's rich history and indulge in some of the country's best wines.
Hermanus
120 km from Cape Town • Full day recommended
Hermanus is a coastal town known for its stunning whale watching opportunities, beautiful beaches, and scenic coastal walks. It's a great place to escape the city and enjoy some of South Africa's most breathtaking natural landscapes.
Cape Point and Cape of Good Hope
60 km from Cape Town • Full day recommended
Cape Point and the Cape of Good Hope are two of South Africa's most iconic natural landmarks, offering breathtaking views, scenic hikes, and a rich history. It's a great place to explore the country's diverse wildlife and experience the raw beauty of the Atlantic Ocean.
Festivals
Cape Town International Jazz Festival • March (annual)
Cape Town Carnival • January (annual)
Cape Town Fashion Week • September (annual)
Pro tips
- Visit Table Mountain early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and strong winds
- Explore the city's diverse neighborhoods, from the vibrant Bo-Kaap to the upscale Camps Bay
- Take a day trip to the Cape Winelands to sample some of South Africa's best wines
- Visit the V&A Waterfront for shopping, dining, and entertainment options
- Take a harbor cruise for stunning views of the city and Table Mountain
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
