Hiking Lion's Head in Cape Town: My Experiences and Tips

Everyone has it on their Cape Town bucket list, yet it always gets postponed: the hike up Lion's Head for sunrise. Push yourself, get up in the middle of the night, and head up the Lion's Head Trail. It's worth it, and here's a tip: If you only have time for one of the many hikes in Cape Town, make it the one up Lion's Head. I've done the hike twice now.

I've written down all the information and experiences for the 4.3 km trail so you can reach Lion's Head without a guide. Here are my tips.

Trail is a straightforward 4.3 km

Rated as difficult, but we found it manageable

You are never alone. No matter what time you leave

Pack a headlamp. A phone flashlight works too, but you'll need both hands free for ladders and climbing sections.

People with a fear of heights should carefully consider if they want to go up here (my companion has a fear of heights and managed just fine)

Definitely go for sunrise on Lion's Head; there is no shade during the day.

At the trailhead, there is a coffee/drink cart where you can enjoy a coffee and snacks after the hike

Make sure to wear good shoes as the rocks can be slippery

Dogs are allowed, but I wouldn't recommend taking one.

Best panoramic view of Cape Town, Table Mountain, Camps Bay, and surrounding areas - and it's free!

Update 2024: Unfortunately, incidents have increased here as well. I follow this Facebook profile for updates. We had two police cars at the start and a ranger was also patrolling for safety. We were never alone; there were other hikers going up for sunrise on Lion's Head both in front and behind us. My experience: trust your instincts and don't be limited by the fears of others. Don't go alone, wear hiking shoes, and if you don't want to wake up early: the sunset is also nice.

Check out my recording on Komoot (follow me so you can save the hike)

The trail is well-marked, and it's nearly impossible to get lost. Depart at a time that allows you to be at the summit for sunrise. We got up around 3 AM to do this.

You really can't get lost.

Plan for a short but brisk hike, allowing about 60 to 90 minutes to reach the top at a moderate pace with photo stops. The Lion's Head trail is steep but very manageable. You'll be rewarded at the summit with an unforgettable view from Lion's Head.

The duration depends on your fitness level and the number of photo stops you take to watch Cape Town wake up at night. The main route begins at the parking lot on Signal Hill Road. The road further up is closed by a gate until 5 AM, so you'll know you're on the right path.

Some sections are fitted with ladders which you can also bypass. We did this on the way up and suddenly encountered a porcupine. An unforgettable sight that I didn't expect.

There is also a section that is now secured with chains where you need to climb and should have both hands free. It's all very doable. My companion has an extreme fear of heights, and only the upper ladders were a slight challenge on the way down.

The route goes clockwise and wraps around the mountain as you ascend. This changes the view, which you'll mainly benefit from on the descent. Make sure to follow the signs upwards, or you will end up on the trail that only goes around the mountain without reaching the summit. But really, the signs are clear.

On a clear day, you have a perfect view of Table Mountain, the Twelve Apostles, the beaches of Camps Bay, Clifton, Signal Hill, Robben Island, and the "City Bowl."

I promise you, the view at sunrise is the most beautiful you can have in Cape Town (unless you're viewing from a helicopter, of course).

Lion's Head is part of Table Mountain National Park. The hike is free. You can only walk up. There are no roads or cable cars like those on Table Mountain.

Pack enough water and snacks. If you arrive before sunrise, you can have a small picnic at the summit while enjoying the view. It was one of the most beautiful moments in Cape Town.

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