Newlands to Kirstenbosch Contour Path

A scenic point-to-point hike along the popular Table Mountain Contour Path, linking Newlands Forest with Kirstenbosch. The route winds through shaded indigenous forest and open mountain slopes with sweeping views over the city and False Bay.

Route Description — Start at Newlands Forest parking and follow the well-defined contour path as it traverses forested sections and open slopes. Once your each the contour path, the hike is mostly gentle, with the option of a short, steep ascent at the Kirstenbosch edge or an easier walk along the garden boundary. The route finishes at the Kirstenbosch top gate. As this is a one-way hike, leave a car at Kirstenbosch or arrange an Uber for the return.

---

📍 Meeting Point — Newlands Forest parking off Union Avenue

📌 Start Spot (Newlands) — Google Maps

📌 End Spot (Kirstenbosch Top Gate) — Google Maps

⏱️ Hiking Time — 3 hrs

📏 Distance — 6.7 km

⛰️ Elevation — 409 m

🟠 Grade — Moderately Strenuous

🐾🐾 — No dogs allowed in Kirstenbosch

---

Route Notes — A clearly marked and popular hiking trail. Some rocky sections but no scrambling.

Hiking Map
Newlands to Kirstenbosch – AllTrails | Download GPX Route