Lion's Head
The spiral hike above Cape Town with the city's best summit payoff — short, steep, and busy.
Trip Role
Ideal stay
Best for
Our take
The essential Cape Town summit for those who prefer a quick, high-intensity workout over a long trek.
The essential Cape Town summit for those who prefer a quick, high-intensity workout over a long trek.
- Trip Role
- Day Trip
- Ideal Stay
- 2–3 hours
- Time Needed
- 2 hours
- Best For
- Reasonably fit hikers, sunrise walkers
- Skip If
- Anyone uncomfortable with exposure or scrambling
- Go If
- It's a clear, calm morning.
Why it's worth your time
This conical peak offers a steep, short climb that rewards hikers with a 360-degree view of the city and the Atlantic coastline. It is a high-traffic route, so expect crowds and consider a sunrise or sunset ascent to avoid the midday heat.
What we love
The 360-degree payoff for under two hours of effort.
What to know
There's a short scrambling section with chains and staples. Skip it if you're unsure — there's a bypass. Don't go in high wind.
Last reviewed
Reviewed by Sample Editor