Top Beginner Hikes in Cape Town

Cape Town is known for its magnificent hiking trails. This beautiful city has mountains all around, with, rugged cliffs, forests, waterfalls, and of course the spectacular ocean views. It is hard to find hikes that are truly suitable for beginners or children. Luckily, there are a number of really easy hikes to try. So if you are recovering from an injury, just getting started, have children with you, or just want to take it easy, here are our top beginner hikes in Cape Town.

Table Mountain

The Pipe Track is one of the easiest Table Mountain hikes. It is a fair distance, at 6km. The walk starts at the corner of Tafelberg Road and Kloof Nek. Park at Kloof Nek, and then head up the stairs with the fence on your left. After a short climb, you will reach the signpost at the base of Kasteelspoort. Here, you will find a map of all the trails up Table Mountain. Follow the Pipe Track and you will experience some amazing and stunning views of Camps Bay, Lion’s Head and the Atlantic Ocean. There are plenty of great places to stop for a water break and admire all the beautiful views and surroundings.

Muizenberg Peak

Muizenberg Peak involves a relatively steep climb alongside a stream, but it is only about 2km each way so it is not too strenuous. There is also a fun little scramble right before the summit, to really boost your sense of achievement. Park at the sign to Pecks Valley on Boyes Drive. Go through the stone archway at the Peaks Valley sign, and up the stone steps. At the top, turn right onto the contour path. From there, there is a gentle gradient until you get near the stream, you will come to a junction, and see Muizenberg Peak signposted to the right. The views from the top are amazing and spectacular you will look out over Muizenberg, all the way to Gordon’s Bay on a clear perfect day.

The Kleinplaas Dam Trail

The Kleinplaas Dam trail is very easy and simple for all fitness levels. From Red Hill Road, turn onto the road signposted “Brookland Water Scheme”. Drive on for 1.9km until you come to a parking lot on your left. It is a relatively flat hike past boulders and fynbos for about 25 minutes, before you arrive at the dam. There are some nice big rocks and a little beach by the water where you can relax for a bit before heading back the same way. The whole walk is just 3km and there are no steep sections. It is a good hike for children and beginners.

Are you planning a trip to Cape Town? Have you booked your accommodation yet? Book your stay with Southern Comfort Guest Lodge now!