HOW TO: A BEGINNERS HIKING GUIDE

If you’ve been looking to explore the picturesque landscapes that surround our vibrant city and are eager to embark on your hiking journey, you’ve come to the right place. We’ll delve into the essentials to provide you with the fundamental knowledge, key tips, and essential information to ensure a successful and enjoyable hiking experience in Cape Town. Whether you’re a complete beginner or someone looking to enhance your hiking skills, We’ve got you covered. Get ready to equip yourself with the necessary tools, discover breathtaking trails, and embrace the natural beauty that awaits you.

If you are just starting on your hiking journey and you are looking to explore some of the beginner trails around the city, you won’t need too much special gear.

WATER BOTTLE: Be sure to bring a water bottle. A lot of trails have natural streams running down the mountain that are super safe to drink from. Never fill your bottle with any water from stagnant pools.

CLOTHING: In most cases, any comfortable sport or leisure wear will work. I do not recommend hiking in jeans, thick long pants or dresses. Always take a long sleeve layer as the weather on the mountain can change in an instant.

TRAIL SHOES: any running shoes or hiking boots with grip. I do not recommend hiking in open shoes, heels or shoes with no grip.

SUN PROTECTION: Always wear a hat and apply sunscreen to any exposed skin.

HEAD TORCH: If you plan on starting before sunrise or ending after sunset. It’s much safer than walking with a phone light in your hand.

PHONE: Take your phone in your pocket or small backpack for emergencies or banging insta opportunities.

SNACKS: I’ve taken a wrong turn on a trail before and ended up hiking a bit longer than anticipated. Always pack a snack just in case – apples, bananas and protein bars work well.

When parking, be sure not to leave any valuables in your car and hide any items under the seats or in the boot (trunk) of your car.

I always encourage people to run with a partner/friends! A doggo is even better. Be mindful of your surroundings at all times. Ladies, I strongly recommend carrying mace/pepper spray with you whenever hiking in Cape Town. It’s sad, but it is a reality of living here.

You can download the Buzzer app for Apple or Android, which has a SOS button for emergency services.

Allow yourself enough time – research the length of the hike and start early. Inform someone of your route and what time you’re expected back.

Stick to well-used paths. If lost – don’t split up. Rather try to retrace your steps. Remember that climbing down is more difficult than climbing up.

Watch the weather and time, and turn back before you start running late or if bad weather threatens.

Some essential numbers to save on your phone:

Emergencies: +27 (0)21 480 7700

Table Mountain National Park: 086 110 6417

Wilderness Search and Rescue: +27 (0)21 937 0300

Cape Town Tourism: +27 (0)861 322 223

You ideally want clear skies with minimal wind (anything up to 20 km per hour is fine). I recommend downloading an app like Windy.com app for Apple or Android to check weather conditions before a hike. A few clouds are also mellow. However, try and avoid any hiking if there is any rain predicted, as the trails get pretty slippery, and fog and clouds can cover your path. 

The weather on the mountains can also change instantly so be prepared with a warm or waterproof layer of clothing.

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