Gifkommetjie Clifftop Coastal Trail - Cape Point
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This stunning Cape Point trail runs along a cliff-top path that offers great views of the coast before gradually descending to the beach. For the return journey, you'll follow sandy paths a bit inland from the shore, culminating in a short, steep ascent back to the parking area.
Cliff Top Path — The cliff-top path offers spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding coastline and fynbos-covered cliffs.
Coastal Path — Once you reach the coast, there is the option of a swim in the sea. The return coastal path runs very close to the shoreline. Along the way, hikers often encounter local wildlife including ostriches wandering the fynbos and bontebok grazing nearby.
Return Route — The path then winds upward towards the lookout point, allowing hikers to enjoy elevated views once again before completing the loop.
Important Note — Cape Point payment is credit card only and ID is required. For more info, visit the official Cape Point Website
📍 Meeting Point — Gifkommetjie Parking at end of Circular Drive
📌 Meeting Spot — Google Maps
⏱️ Hiking Time — 2hrs 30min
📏 Distance — 5.4km
⛰️ Elevation — 156m
🟢 Grade — Easy
🐾🐾 — No dogs allowed in the reserve
Route Notes — An easy-to-follow clifftop and coastal hike. No exposure to heights.
Why it's called Gifkommetjie
Origin of the Name — The Afrikaans name Gifkommetjie translates to "poisonous little bowl." The term "little bowl" refers to the circular sea basin in the area while the "poison" denotes the toxic milky sap of the Euphorbia caput-medusae plants that flourish on the sandy coastal plains of Cape Point.
Historical Naming — This plant was named by the Swedish biologist Carl Linnaeus in 1753, reflecting its resemblance to the head of Medusa, a figure from Greek mythology known for having a head of hair consisting of live venomous snakes.
Plant Characteristics — This succulent is a sprawling plant with many slender serpent-like branches arising from a central, thick, tuberous stem. It is not considered toxic to humans or animals but when damaged, it oozes a milky sap that can cause skin irritation and eye damage if touched.
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