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Cape Town Central Tours
Cape Town: Lion's Head Sunrise/Sunset Hike
5

Cape Town: Lion's Head Sunrise/Sunset Hike

By The Cape Town Local
Recommended by 99% of travellers
99% of reviewers gave this product a bubble rating of 4 or higher.
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Ages 8-65, max of 15 per group
Duration: 3h
Start time: Check availability
Mobile ticket
Live guide: English
More

Travellers’ Choice Best of the Best
2024

  • Headlamps/flashlights
What's not included
  • Hotel pickup and drop-off (if option not selected)
  • Bottled water
  • Snacks


Start:Traveller pickup offered.
  • Lion's Head Hiking Trail, Signal Hill Rd, Signal Hill, Cape Town, 8001, South Africa
    The start location on google maps is at 7 Signal Hill Road, Signal Hill. As you turn onto Signal Hill Road, the parking area is about 500m up the road. There is a white mobile coffee caravan opposite the trail head (most times in the afternoon).
Pickup details
  • Please send exact pick-up address after booking.
End:This activity ends back at the meeting point.

    • Not wheelchair accessible
    • Near public transportation
    If you have questions about accessibility, we’d be happy to help. Just call the number below and reference the product code: 105071P4

    • Confirmation will be received at time of booking
    • No heart problems or other serious medical conditions
    • Travellers should have a moderate physical fitness level
    • Wear a descent pair of walking/hiking shoes
    • You need to have a basic level of fitness
    • Children must be accompanied by an adult
    • Minimum age is 8 years
    • Not recommended for participants with heart or other serious medical conditions
    • Operates in most weather conditions, please dress appropriately. If canceled due to poor weather, you will be given the option of an alternative date or full refund
    • This experience requires good weather. If it’s cancelled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund
    • This experience requires a minimum number of travellers. If it’s cancelled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund
    • This tour/activity will have a maximum of 15 travellers

    • For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.

    If you have questions about this tour or need help making your booking, we’d be happy to help. Just call the number below and reference the product code: 105071P4

    From
    AU$115.48
    per adult (price varies by group size)
    Select date and travellers
    Revenue impacts the experiences featured on this page, learn more.

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    About the operator
    Don’t take it from us – here’s what people have to say about this operator:
    • The Cape Town Local
      619
      South Africa
      Joined in May 2019
    • 0to7221
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Family hike, table mtn.
      Idress was amazing. Very informative and a delight. Suggest him when booking. We hiked table mtn and he told of us of history, and the culture of South Africa.
      Written 2 December 2024
    • chanteo980
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      An incredible guided experience!!
      I’ve never booked a guided hike on any of our travels, but wanted a group to hike with up Tabletop. I’m SO glad we booked this experience. Our guide Eedriss was an excellent guide and gave us a bunch of tips for how to handle the technical part of the route. He was easygoing and fun to talk to and created a nice experience for the whole group. Would HIGHLY recommend booking! The views are out of this world!
      Written 23 November 2024
    • DrylandJamaica
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      If you climb Table Mountain do it with these guys
      This climb/hike was way harder than I anticipated and I consider myself fit. Jean was amazing. Encouraged, entertained, even put a rope around me to make me feel safe in the really tough parts.
      Written 18 November 2024
    • Y3815DKjaneb
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      India Venster hike and climb.
      This was not a hike for those who don't like heights and I would certainly not recommend it for those who aren't reasonably fit. However if you are neither of those then this hike is fantastic, challenging, enjoyable, spectacular and with views that can't be beaten. Idrees is a brilliant guide, knowledgeable, calm, and inspires confidence. Recommended highly as a more exciting way to see all that Table Mountain has to offer.
      Written 16 November 2024
    • Nochanceofrain
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Spectacular Hike - Do Not Miss This!
      I nearly noped out of this hike - I am not a morning person, I had to catch a 16-hour flight later that day, and then I heard that the cable car was down, so we'd have to hike back down the mountain. I have NO regrets! The hike was a once-in-a-lifetime experience and the highlight of my trip. Codi was an amazing, knowledgeable guide and - importantly, when you're hiking together for 6 hours - great company. He coached our small group through the more technical parts of the hike, and kept us all safe and in high spirits. He took wonderful photos for us, too. The views were spectacular and the route up was so much fun (though not for the faint of heart)!  On the way up, our well-traveled group was chatting about our favorite hikes around the world. This one is up there near the the top of my list (along with ones in Nepal, New Zealand, and Tasmania). I was in Cape Town for a work trip and was not planning to hike, so I wore slip-on shoes. Don't be like me. Wear supportive hiking shoes, bring plenty of snacks and water, and enjoy. It's SO worth the early wake-up. Thank you, Codi!
      Written 1 November 2024
    • Bethanonymou
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      MUST DO!! best way to experience table mountain
      Once in a lifetime experience! We took the adventurous and more fun path to the top of table mountain. Big steep hiking and multiple technical sections made it physically challenging. Our guide, Codi, kept us on the path and coached us on all the steps to get through the technical pieces (including staples and chains, scrambling). We definitely would have been lost without him. Codi is awesome- he’s hiked all over the world and had a great vibe. He gave excellent recs for what else to do in Capetown. The cable car wasn’t running so we hiked down the more common path. Our way up was by far more beautiful and interesting, with way fewer people. I signed up solo but made friends with the others on the hike- lots of teamwork- and Codi made a folder where we all shared our fantastic photos. Take snacks and water!
      Written 27 October 2024
    • 336sineadb
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Amazing experience!
      I booked this tour with the option of private guide pick-up and drop-off since I was doing this by myself. The experience was incredible; the guide was super patient with me, and the communication was excellent regarding logistics. I would definitely recommend this tour to anyone who will do it solo or in a group. I felt safe every moment.
      Written 24 October 2024
    • charlesbB554IT
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Great way to end our trip!
      This was our last activity at the end of a 2.5 week safari tour and was one of our highlights! Initially I was concerned about the technical scrambling, but Tauriq encouraged us to give it a try. It was enough of a challenge to be fun but with Codi's help, not scary or intimidating. Codi was a great guide, fun to hike with and imparted knowledge of the flora, fauna, and Cape Town history. A great time, and a perfect end of our trip!
      Written 22 October 2024
    • Lamparski
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Fabulous early morning hike
      I chose the “easy” route up. I explained that I was slow. My guide, Miles, was great. He kept a reasonable pace for a slow mover. He was a wealth of information. The trail zig zags to make it a bit easier but I was climbing on rock steps that varied in size. There were younger people who were running up and down the mountain. I am a senior and did not run. Leave early to catch the sunrise and avoid the heat of the day. There is almost no shade if you leave later in the morning. I recommend for those who exercise on a regular basis.
      Written 22 October 2024
    • Niallquinn89
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Number #1 hike to do in Cape Town
      I had an amazing experience hiking Table Mountain with Codi as our guide! I'm a beginner hiker, so I was a bit nervous about navigating the various technical parts of the climb, but Codi made the entire experience enjoyable and manageable. Highly recommend booking this tour!
      Written 20 October 2024
    • hilker2024
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Great☺️
      It was a special experience. My boyfriend and I felt very confident with our Guide Codi. He gave clear and understandable announcements. If you listen to him, nothing can happen to you. Even if it was sometimes exhausting, it was a lot of fun. The view you have at the top of the mountain is just madness!
      Written 16 October 2024
    • Meander49470616385
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      10/10 Experience
      Tauriq & his team are wonderful. I’d hiked Lions head with them before and was really excited to do the Table Mountain trek. I’d booked on a day that was rainy and overcast and they were super considerate advising me to push my hike to later in the week when I’d have better visibility. The mountain guides were super considerate and accommodating making sure to go at a pace that was comfortable for our group, assisting those who needed it on the more technical spots, and taking our photos at the super photogenic areas. They also shared lots of facts on the flora and fauna of the reserve which I really appreciated as a nature lover! All round a 10/10 experience!
      Written 5 October 2024
    • naomisL3714JB
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      A experience to never forget.
      This hike is one of the most amazing hikes I have ever done. The entire way you had a fantastic view and the friendliness of the guide made the trip complete. In total we did the hike in three hours, but it was worth it. Thank you very much Codi for this amazing experience! :)
      Written 27 September 2024
    • OhItsTroy
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Fantastic experience all round
      Fantastic hike with Codi. So supportive, knowledgeable and great fun. Highly recommend! Challenging hike but very enjoyable
      Written 26 September 2024
    • Brandon W
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Absolutely the BEST Guide and Adventurous Hike
      Absolutely phenomenal experience. One we will never forget. Codi was incredibly astute and could sense immediately if any of us needed help up the mountain. It was a very strenuous hike with some very technical parts for which Codi was an absolute master. We cannot recommend this guide enough. Such an unforgettable day with some of the most incredible views we’ve ever seen in our life. When we return we’ll definitely be trying Lions Head or the twelve apostles. Thank you for the best experience!!
      Written 26 September 2024
    See all 619 reviews
    These reviews are the subjective opinions of Tripadvisor members and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

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    5.0
    5.0 of 5 bubbles495 reviews
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    These reviews have been automatically translated from their original language.
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    Becca
    Caerphilly, UK23 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    A great experience and absolutely agree with the other reviews it's not to be missed.

    Tariq was very accommodating with the weather and let us change the date from a sunset hike to a sunrise hike because of the weather forecast.

    I wouldn't consider the incline/walk itself to be difficult/challenging. But there are parts where you need to pull yourself up on some rocks. This is where having a guide became especially helpful because Tariq guided us on the best way to approach it and assisted those of us who needed an extra hand.

    The views were well worth the hike and we really enjoyed the history lesson from Tariq on Robben Island/Nelson Mandela, slavery, how Islam came to South Africa and District 6.

    The price does seem on the steep side, but having done the walk, we were very grateful to have done it with a very friendly group and to have a guide to share the expert knowledge. So I would say its worth doing.

    Thanks Tariq!
    Written 10 September 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

    Chirvan P
    6 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Dec 2019 • Friends
    Firstly just wanted to say thank you to thecapetownlocal Tauriq , who was an amazing guide on our sunrise morning while I Lion's Head. Tauriq made us feel comfortable and his knowledge of the mountains is amazing. We kept at a easy pace once on top he took us to good lookout spot where we could see the beautiful city and beaches. It was truly magical up there and so breathtaking. I always wanted to see the view from here. What an amazing place and truelly awesome guide. Thank you for showing us this beautiful place and being an excellent guide. Ps a must do hike when in Cape Town
    Written 15 January 2020
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

    Nicole
    2 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    May 2022 • Solo
    To sum it up, I can guarantee without question that booking any experience with Tauriq will be well worth your time. Don’t bother looking any further :)

    I tend to book different experiences whenever I travel which is a few times a year and Tauriq has been the best tour guide I’ve ever met. He’s incredibly knowledgable about Cape Town and shares the information in a way that’s captivating and not boring at all. Beyond being a good storyteller he has an innate ability to make you feel at ease while hiking, which can be important for the more arduous hikes. He meets everyone where they are and never makes anyone feel rushed. He seems to understand how comfortable the group is and how to best guide them without asking.

    Given he’s grown up on the mountains of Cape Town and seems to know them almost personally and better than most, there’s no one more I would trust to lead me on a hike.

    Hope this review has convinced you and you also experience a wonderful part of Cape Town!!
    Written 28 May 2022
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

    Jason Kanahele
    Honolulu, HI48 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    The views were amazing, our tour guide Tariq did a good job of explaining about Cape Town at break intervals throughout the duration of the hike. Tour operator name is the Cape Town Local. We had a good hiking group that got along well. Please do bring a jacket because the wind can pick up quite a bit at sunset time. I would highly recommend couples, families, and solo people for this hike.
    Written 29 February 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

    venessa m
    7 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Nov 2022 • Solo
    I did the sunrise tour with tauriq. The hike had an easy to moderate trail. Tauriq is a very good guide, he made everyone feel comfortable and safe with the hike, our pace was good, he is very knowledgeable with the area. We saw a porcupine and a spider along the way. All in all a very fascinating and a must hike when you're in Cape Town. And I definitely recommend Tauriq to guide you, he is well experienced hiker and loves what he do.
    Written 4 December 2022
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

    Callie U
    San Diego, CA10 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Fantastic hike with an amazing sunset. I highly recommend Tauriq was an amazing guide for this beautiful yet challenging hike. The sunset was spectacular as were the views of the city at night on the hike back down.
    Written 20 November 2022
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

    David
    Los Angeles, CA7 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Oct 2023 • Couples
    My wife and I cannot recommend this guided hike enough! It was easily the best part of our entire honeymoon. Tariq was so kind and helped us through the difficult parts of the hike. We went for sunset and it was the most beautiful scene - a 360 view of all of Cape Town as the clouds turned pink with the sun setting. My wife was quite nervous to climb up the ladders and Tariq helped her every step of the way. More importantly, Tariq gave some of his own personal experiences growing up in Cape Town that is crucial to hear on any trip to Cape Town. Overall - cannot recommend ENOUGH.

    This is a moderately difficult hike to get to the top! Definitely wear hiking boots or shoes with good grip.
    Written 31 October 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

    Colette W
    7 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Highly recommend! Tauriq is an experienced and enthusiastic guide. He has hiked this area thousands of times! He had the sunset timing perfectly down, knowing how long it would take our group to get up and then to a perfect viewing spot. He even brought homemade snacks! I have hiked and climbed mountains all over the world and this guy is as strong and as any guide I have met, but also super nice, generous and friendly.
    Written 20 February 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

    Suzanne B
    27 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Oct 2023 • Solo
    I’ve spent many years hiking, and I have NEVER met a more patient, kind, and mindful guide than Tauriq.

    The majority of our group was inexperienced and it was impressive watching him juggle everyone’s feelings, needs, and skill level to ensure that a safe and enjoyable time was had by all. Tauriq was timely, he gladly took pictures, carried people’s belongings, provided extra encouragement, and shared so much about Cape Town’s history and landscapes, as well as personalized stories of growing up in the area.

    The hike was iconic, the views were unreal, and he topped things off with homemade cookies made by his wife (thanks Suzanne). I mean, who doesn’t want a cookie at the top?!?!

    I’d hike with Tauriq again and again! Amazing guide, amazing hike!!
    Written 11 October 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

    Cezar U
    52 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Feb 2024 • Couples
    Lion's Head is another must-see attraction in Cape Town, offering an incredible hiking experience and panoramic views that rival those of Table Mountain. The mountain, which rises to 669 meters above sea level, is located between Table Mountain and Signal Hill, providing spectacular views of Cape Town, the Atlantic Ocean and the surrounding mountains.

    The trail
    The trail to the top of Lion's Head is one of the most popular in Cape Town, suitable for experienced hikers and beginners alike.

    Duration and Difficulty: The hike to the summit takes about 1.5 to 2 hours. The trail is considered moderate in terms of difficulty, with some steep sections and rock stairs that require a little more effort.

    Route: The trail starts out gentle and gradually becomes steeper. Halfway there is a section with crampons and chains to help with the climb. Those who prefer can opt for an alternative path that avoids these obstacles.

    Starting Point: The trail starting point is easily accessible by car or taxi, with parking available at the base.

    On the top
    Upon reaching the summit of Lion's Head, you will be rewarded with breathtaking views:

    Panoramic View: From the top, you have a 360-degree panoramic view that includes Table Mountain, Signal Hill, the city of Cape Town and the Atlantic Ocean.
    Night Views: The trail is also popular for night walks, especially during the full moon, when the illuminated city offers a spectacle of its own.
    Sunset
    Lion's Head is a prime spot to watch the sunset:

    Vibrant Colors: The sunset seen from Lion's Head is spectacular, with the sky painted in vibrant shades of orange, pink and red.
    Atmosphere: The atmosphere at the top during sunset is tranquil and magical, making it an ideal time to relax and enjoy the natural beauty.
    Tips for the Visit
    Proper Equipment: Wear comfortable shoes and clothing suitable for walking. Bring a jacket, especially if you plan to stay for the sunset, as it can get cold quickly.
    Water and Snacks: Bring enough water and some snacks for the trail as there are no stores or water sources along the way.
    Safety: Walk in a group, especially if you are going on the trail at night. Tell someone about your plans and expected return time.
    Time: Start the trail early if you want to avoid the midday heat or crowds. For sunset, start the hike with enough time to reach the top before the sun sets.
    Conclusion
    The hike to the top of Lion's Head offers a memorable experience, with stunning views and a sense of achievement upon reaching the summit. Whether for a morning walk, a sunset adventure or an evening hike under the full moon, Lion's Head is a must-see destination in Cape Town.
    Google
    Written 21 May 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

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    Cape Town: Lion's Head Sunrise/Sunset Hike provided by The Cape Town Local

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