Hiking in the South

One of the most iconic Kirstenbosch hikes, this classic Skeleton Gorge hike starts in Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens and climbs steeply through shaded indigenous forest to the top of Table Mountain. The route then contours around the mountain to the top of Cecilia Ridge before descending back into Kirstenbosch Gardens, making it one of the most rewarding and strenuous Kirstenbosch hiking trails. Start — From the Top Gate of Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, follow the path just before the restaurant up to the start of Skeleton Gorge. Ascend through the gorge, staying in the watercourse after the ladders until a clear path branches right.  Contour —  At the top, head to the left and continue past the top of Nursery Ravine  to join the concrete road. Pass the Overseers Cottage , and take the next left onto the path that leads to the...

A scenic and accessible loop hike in Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, combining forest paths, rocky contour paths and a visit to the beautiful Cecilia Waterfall. Perfect for a relaxed half-day Kirstenbosch hike with rewarding views of Cape Town. Start — From the Kirstenbosch bottom gate, walk up Camphor Avenue toward the contour path. Take the uphill turn to Cecilia Waterfall. After reaching the falls, back track and return to the contour path.  Return   — Follow the contour path past the Nursery Ravine and Skeleton Gorge starting points. After the Skeleton Gorge waterfall, take the first descending path which winds down to the café at the top gate. Walk back through the gardens to the bottom gate. Important Note  —   There is an entrance fee and ID is required for access through the Kirstenbos...

A varied loop through Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden combining garden paths, forest sections and the scenic Kirstenbosch Contour Path . This hike offers shaded walking, mountain streams and views across the southern suburbs. Route Description — Start from the Kirstenbosch bottom gate and walk up Camphor Avenue through the gardens to the contour path. Turn right and follow the contour past the start of  Nursery Ravine and Skeleton Gorge .  Once on the contour, the path is mostly flat except for one steep ascent and descent before reaching a path that drops back into the gardens near the Newlands Forest edge. The route then heads past the café near the top gate and down through the gardens to the bottom gate. Important Note  —   There is an entrance fee and ID is required for access thro...

A scenic Newlands Forest to Kirstenbosch hike along the popular Table Mountain Contour Path, linking Newlands Forest with the Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens. 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 you reach 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 Gardens 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 (Newlan...