Lion's Head
One of Cape Town's most iconic hikes: 360Β° panoramic views, dramatic sunrises and sunsets, and the legendary full moon climb experience.
Quick Facts
- Elevation: 669m above sea level
- Distance: ~5.5 km round trip
- Duration: 2β3 hours (round trip)
- Difficulty: Moderate
Some sections have chains and ladders β manageable for most fitness levels, but not for those with a fear of heights.
Entry & Cost
- No entry fee
- Open 24/7 (but hike in daylight or full moon)
- Free parking at Signal Hill parking area
- No permits required
Tip: Arrive early on weekends β parking fills up fast, especially for sunrise hikes.
Location
Between Table Mountain and Signal Hill, with the main trailhead off Signal Hill Road. About 10 minutes from the city centre.
GPS: -33.9367, 18.3897 (Signal Hill parking area)
Why Hike Lion's Head?
Lion's Head is Cape Town's most accessible summit with truly spectacular rewards. The 360Β° views from the top β spanning Table Mountain, the Atlantic Seaboard, Robben Island, and the city bowl β make it one of the best viewpoints in South Africa. Sunrise, sunset, and full moon hikes are legendary.
Top Highlights
Don't Miss
- 360Β° panoramic views from the summit
- Sunrise hikes β arrive early, the colours are incredible
- Full moon hikes β a Cape Town bucket-list experience
- The chain and ladder sections (optional route available)
- Views of Table Mountain's back table and Twelve Apostles
Best For
- Sunrise or sunset chasers
- Fitness enthusiasts looking for a quick workout
- Photographers: golden hour light is spectacular
- Visitors wanting iconic Cape Town views
- Social hikers: it's popular and you'll meet people
Trail Information
The Route
The trail starts from the Signal Hill parking area and spirals up the mountain. Near the top, you have two options:
- Chain route: Shorter but steeper, with chains and ladders to assist.
- Longer route: Bypasses the chains β slightly longer but easier for those uncomfortable with scrambling.
Both routes meet at the summit. Most people go up via the chains and down the longer path.
Difficulty Breakdown
| Section | Difficulty |
|---|---|
| Lower slopes (spiral path) | Easy |
| Middle section | Moderate |
| Chain/ladder section | Challenging |
| Longer bypass route | Moderate |
| Final scramble to summit | Moderate |
Best Times to Hike
Recommended Times
- Sunrise: Start in the dark (headlamp essential), summit for first light. Magical but requires early wake-up.
- Late afternoon / sunset: Most popular time. Arrive 2 hours before sunset, bring a headlamp for descent.
- Full moon: Cape Town tradition. Hundreds of hikers, festive atmosphere, no headlamp needed at the top.
- Early morning (after sunrise): Cooler, quieter, best for avoiding crowds.
Avoid midday in summer β it's hot and exposed with little shade on the trail.
Full Moon Hikes
Full moon hikes are a Cape Town institution. Expect crowds, picnics at the top, and an electric atmosphere. Some tips:
- Start early to get parking
- Bring a headlamp anyway (clouds happen)
- Pack snacks and something warm
- Go with friends β it's social
What to Bring
Essential
- Water (at least 1 litre)
- Proper footwear (hiking shoes or trail runners)
- Sun protection (hat, sunscreen)
- Headlamp or torch (for early/late hikes)
- Phone (charged) and emergency contacts
Recommended
- Light jacket (it's windy at the top)
- Snacks for the summit
- Camera
- Small daypack
- Gloves (chain sections can be cold/rough)
How to Get There
By car: from the city centre, take Kloof Nek Road toward Camps Bay. Turn onto Signal Hill Road and follow it up to the parking area on the left. The trailhead is clearly marked.
By Uber/taxi: drop-off at the Signal Hill parking area. Schedule your return pickup in advance, as signal can be patchy.
Parking tip: arrive at least 30 minutes early on weekends and full moon nights. Overflow parking along Signal Hill Road fills up fast.
Safety Notes
- Don't hike alone at night β go in groups, especially for full moon hikes.
- Leave valuables at home and don't leave anything visible in your car.
- Weather changes fast β check conditions before you go and turn back if needed.
- The chains can be slippery when wet β avoid hiking after rain.
- Emergency number: 021 480 7700 (Table Mountain National Park)
Tips (and Mistakes to Avoid)
Smart Tips
- Start early to beat crowds and the heat.
- Download offline maps β signal is unreliable.
- Take the chain route up, longer route down.
- Bring layers β it's often windy at the summit.
- Pack out your litter β keep the mountain clean.
Common Mistakes
- Not bringing enough water.
- Wearing flip-flops or inappropriate shoes.
- Starting a sunset hike without a headlamp.
- Underestimating the difficulty of the chains.
- Hiking alone at night or in bad weather.
Go on a Virtual Hike with This Video
Find Lion's Head on the Map
Tip: Save the route offline before you go β signal is patchy on the mountain.