Gifkommetjie Clifftop Coastal Trail - Cape Point

This 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.

Note: Cape Point payment is credit card only and ID is required.

Meeting Point: Gifkommetjie Parking at end of Circular Drive.

Meeting Spot: Google Maps Location

Hiking Time: 2hrs 30min

Distance: 5.36km

Elevation: 156m

Grade: Easy

🐶 No dogs allowed in the reserve

Route Notes: An easy to follow clifftop and coastal hike. No exposure to heights. 

Hiking Map: Gifkommetjie AllTrails Map or download GPX Route

Info on Cape Point: Cape Point

Why it's called Gifkommetjie

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.

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. 

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.

Euphorbia Caput Medusae - Cape Point