Skeleton Gorge to Maclears Beacon. Table Mountain hike

Cape Town, ZA
100% of travellers recommend this
Excellent (18 reviews)

Included

  • inclusion
    Snacks

Excluded

  • exclusion
    Kirstenbosch gardens entry fee, cable car fee, return transport

Meeting Point

Please wait at the ticket office by gate 2.

Meeting point

Rhodes Dr, Newlands, Cape Town, 7735 , South Africa

End point

End Point

Please wait at the ticket office by gate 2.

Meeting point

Rhodes Dr, Newlands, Cape Town, 7735 , South Africa

End point

Pickup

Check if pick-up is available from your location, you will select during checkout (providers may allow other pickup locations)

Pickup Location
605 The Icon Building Hotel
9 On Barrack
Adderley Hotel
African Elite de Waterkant
Apartments In Mandela Rhodes Place
Cape Diamond Boutique Hotel
Cape Heritage Hotel
Cape Town Hollow
Cape Town Lodge Hotel
Cresta Grande Cape Town
Daddy Long Legs Art Hotel
Fountains Hotel
Gorgeous George
Grand Daddy Boutique Hotel
Happy Rhino Hotel
Hippo Boutique Hotel
Holiday Inn Express Cape Town City Centre, an IHG hotel
Hollow On The Square Cape Town City Hotel
Hotel on St Georges
Hyatt Regency Cape Town
Ikhaya Lodge
Innscape Classic
Kimberley Hotel
Labotessa Luxury Boutique Hotel
Long Street Boutique Hotel
Onomo Cape Town, Foreshore
ONOMO Hotel Cape Town - Inn On The Square
Pepperclub Hotel
Protea Hotel Cape Town North Wharf
Protea Hotel Fire & Ice! Cape Town
Pullman Cape Town City Centre*****
Radisson Hotel Cape Town Foreshore
Southern Sun Cape Sun
St Martini Gardens
Stayeasy Cape Town City Bowl
SunSquare Cape Town City Bowl
Taj Cape Town
The Cape Milner
The Capital 15 on Orange
The Penthouse Collection
The Pinnacle
The Village Lodge
Thirty Keys
Tudor Hotel
Upperbloem
Urban Chic Boutique Hotel
Urban Hip Icon Hotel
As this is an A to B hike we only offer a transfer to the start of the trail. There are plenty of taxis available at the cableway station. Or if you have a hire car we could meet at the end of the trail and leave your car there for the day

What to expect

We will hike from the botanical gardens to the cableway passing Maclears Beacon which is the highest point on the mountain. This +/- 6 hour trail is one of the most popular on Table Mountain as it allows you to see all the different ecosystems along the way. We pass through indigenous forestry with running waterfalls on the way up Skeleton Gorfe and then through pristine fynbos with views all the way down the Peninsula. Finally we hike across the cliffs overlooking the city. Finally we can choose to descend with the cablecar, or take the steep Platteklip gorge.
1

Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden

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We will hike from the botanical gardens to the cableway passing Maclears Beacon which is the highest point on the mountain. This +/- 6 hour trail is one of the most popular on Table Mountain as it allows you to see all the different ecosystems along the way. We pass through indigenous forestry with running waterfalls on the way up Skeleton Gorfe and then through pristine fynbos with views all the way down the Peninsula. Finally we hike across the cliffs overlooking the city. Finally we can choose to descend with the cablecar, or take the steep Platteklip gorge.

The experience can be subject to change due to bad weather or unforseen circumstances. We always endeavour to give you the best possible experience.

Additional Information

  • Additional information
    Not recommended for pregnant travelers
  • Additional information
    Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
  • Additional information
    Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
  • Additional information
    Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Additional information
    Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Provided by Ridgway Ramblers

What our experts say

  • icon
    Bring water and sun protection.
  • icon
    Wear sturdy hiking shoes.
  • icon
    Consider lunch at Kirstenbosch Café.
  • icon
    Check local weather before hiking.
  • icon
    Plan your return transport in advance.

More About this Experience

Introduction

Get ready to embark on an unforgettable adventure as you escape the crowds and delve into the hidden wonders of Table Mountain. The Skeleton Gorge to Maclears Beacon hike is the ultimate experience for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts alike. This activity offers a unique opportunity to explore the back of Table Mountain, home to five awe-inspiring reservoirs and a plethora of rare plant species. As you ascend to the highest point of the mountain, you'll be rewarded with breathtaking views that only hikers can witness.

What to expect?

During the Skeleton Gorge to Maclears Beacon hike, you can expect a memorable journey through diverse ecosystems. The approximately six-hour trail showcases the beauty of indigenous forestry, complete with enchanting waterfalls along the way. As you traverse through pristine fynbos, you'll be treated to panoramic views that stretch all the way down the Peninsula. Finally, you'll venture across cliff edges, providing an awe-inspiring overlook of the city.

Who is this for?

This adventure is perfect for anyone with a passion for outdoor exploration and a desire to immerse themselves in nature's wonders. Whether you're a seasoned hiker seeking a new challenge or a casual adventurer eager to witness the hidden gems of Table Mountain, this experience caters to all skill levels. Don't miss out on the opportunity to create lifelong memories with friends, family, or solo as you hike through the diverse landscapes of this iconic mountain.

Why book this?

By choosing the Skeleton Gorge to Maclears Beacon hike, you can enjoy a truly unique and unparalleled experience. This popular trail allows you to witness the incredible diversity of ecosystems found on Table Mountain, showcasing its natural beauty in all its glory. As you journey through untouched landscapes and admire the running waterfalls, you'll feel a true sense of connection to the mountain's vibrant ecosystem. The breathtaking views that await you at Maclears Beacon and the cliff overlooks will leave you in awe and remind you of the beauty of the world we live in.

Good to know

Please note that the total duration of this hike is approximately 360 minutes. The meeting point for this adventure is at the ticket office by gate 2. At the end of the hike, you will return to the ticket office by gate 2. Be sure to wear appropriate hiking gear and bring enough water and snacks to keep you energized throughout the trail. You have the option to descend using the convenient cablecar or take a more challenging route via the steep Platteklip gorge. Get ready to embark on a journey that will leave you with cherished memories and a newfound appreciation for the natural wonders of Table Mountain.

Reviews

Previous hikers have raved about the Skeleton Gorge to Maclears Beacon hike, praising its stunning scenery and the sense of accomplishment it brings. Many have mentioned that this trail allows you to experience the different ecosystems of Table Mountain up close and personal, making it a must-do for nature enthusiasts. Hikers have also appreciated the knowledgeable guides who provide interesting insights about the flora and fauna that call this mountain home. Overall, visitors have been delighted by this remarkable hike and highly recommend it to fellow adventure seekers.

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