Guided hike from Kirstenbosch Botanical GardenSkeleton Gorge
Skeleton Gorge is one of the most scenic and varied routes up Table Mountain, starting in Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden. The trail begins in dense indigenous forest, following a shaded path with streams, wooden ladders and stone steps, before opening onto the upper slopes and reaching the top near Maclear’s Beacon.
Cecil John Rhodes famously used this route to reach the summit.
The hike is about 6 to 7 km to the top, depending on the route you take back, and typically takes 3 to 4 hours. It is moderate to challenging because of its steep sections, ladders and sometimes slippery rock, especially after rain. The reward is a mix of forest, mountain and reservoir views, making it one of the most varied hikes in Cape Town.
Skeleton Gorge has deep roots: it was a natural route up the mountain for the Khoi people, and in colonial times it mattered for water, as the area feeds the streams and reservoirs that supply parts of Cape Town.
Prices
All rates include your guide, entry and ticket fees, and transport. Pick-ups 35 to 60 km from your hotel cost an extra R1 000. All rates are per person.
| Group size | Per person |
|---|---|
| 1 person | R4 500 |
| 2 people | R4 000 |
| 3 people | R3 500 |
| 4 people | R3 200 |
| 5 people | R3 000 |
| 6 people | R2 800 |
| 7 people | R2 700 |
| 8 people | R2 600 |
Before you hike
Bring the right kit, and have the forms ready. We’ll ask for the enrolment and indemnity forms when you book.
Questions
Good to know
How does the price work?
The price is per person and drops as your group gets bigger: R4 500 for one person, down to R2 600 each for a group of 8.
What is included?
All rates include your guide, entry and ticket fees, and transport. Pick-ups 35 to 60 km from your hotel cost an extra R1 000. All rates are per person.
Is it a private hike?
Yes. It is just your group, with a hike leader and a sweeper, walking at the pace of the slowest person.
Do I pay a deposit?
For bookings more than 30 days ahead, a 15% non-refundable deposit secures your date, with the balance due 48 hours before. Bookings within 30 days are paid in full when you book.
What if the weather turns?
Safety comes first, so we may change the route or timing. If we cancel because of the weather, you get a full refund.
More hikes on Table Mountain
- Platteklip GorgeThe oldest and most direct route up the front of Table Mountain.
- Lion’s HeadThe classic: 360° views of the city, Table Mountain and the Atlantic.
- Maclear’s BeaconThe highest point on Table Mountain, about 1,086 metres up.
- Devil’s PeakA tougher, quieter climb to the eastern summit of the range.
- Newlands ForestCool, shaded forest paths on the eastern slopes.
- Lion’s Head LoopAn easy 5 km loop around Lion’s Head, best just before sunset.
- Woodstock CaveThrough fynbos to a huge rock shelter overlooking the harbour.
- All fifteen hikesTable Mountain, Silvermine and Cape Point.
Ready for Skeleton Gorge?
Send us a WhatsApp with your date, how many of you there are and where you are staying, and we’ll come back to you with what happens next. Prefer email? info@takebackourmountains.org
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