Another
great hike we did in Cape Town was up Table Mountain. This was a bit more
challenging than Lion´s Head and I saw several people that looked like they
wanted to give up, but I am so glad that we didn´t!
Apparently there
are several different paths to walk up. We chose Platteklip Gorge, which is the
most direct route to hike. It takes about an hour and a half to hike, depending
on how fit you are. It is a challenging but rewarding hiking experience and I
am so glad we decided to do it! It is the most popular hiking route up to Table
Mountain as well, and as long as you hike during daylight then it is perfectly
safe. Except the pain in your legs, you will definitely feel the burn as it is
a steep way up.
It is a
clear pathway so you know where to go. It is well constructed with stone steps
so it is not possible to walk in the wrong direction. But walk slowly – that way
you can also enjoy the great view of Cape Town and the costal line.
The thing
about Cape Town, as I have mentioned earlier, is that the clouds tend to
surround Table Mountain. So when the sky is clear, that is when you go hiking! Don´t
wait until another day, because there may not be another clear day. And even
though there are no clouds, there still might be some clouds or mist around
Table Mountain. And if this is the case, then you shouldn´t go because the view
won´t be any good – you shouldn´t go because it is easy to become disoriented
and to lose your way.
At the
highest point of the mountain you will find a restaurant, a shop and a café. Which
is a good thing, because you will then have time to relax and enjoy a great
meal and something cold to drink while enjoying the view. We sure did!
It is
possible to take the Cable Car both up and down as well. We only took the Cable
Car down and it is possible to purchase tickets at the top as well as by the
foot of Table Mountain.
Be sure to
wear comfortable hiking shoes, trust me! And bring enough water – don´t think
that you can wait until you´re at the top. Even if it is not that warm, you
always have to make sure that you bring enough water when hiking. And because
the sun can be strong then a good sun block is also recommended. It is also a
good idea to bring a small jacket to put one once you´ve reached the top,
because the mountain is high so there can be a significant temperature
difference from the city centre to the top of the mountain.
And don´t
forget to enjoy the view!
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