Cape Town: Lions Head Hike Sunrise or Sunset

Overview

Available languages

English

Mobile ticket

Ruminate Travel’s Lion’s Head hike is a unique 3–3.5 hr sunrise or sunset adventure up Cape Town’s iconic peak.

Small groups of 6–12 ensure an intimate experience with expert guides who share local history, ecology, and stories.

The 5.6 km moderate trail features scrambles and ladders, leading to epic 360° views of Table Mountain, the city, and the Atlantic Ocean.

Sunrise hikes reveal vibrant skies; sunset hikes showcase twinkling lights. We provide headlamps for low-light hikes.

Opt for pickup from central Cape Town (ZAR 400/person) or meet at the trailhead. Add a professional photographer (R4000/person or R7000/two) for stunning shots.

Stay connected via our WhatsApp group for weather updates and tips.

Perfect for moderate fitness levels, this curated journey blends adventure, nature, and culture, offering unforgettable moments and camaraderie.

Additional Info

Public transportation options are available nearby

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

What To Expect

Lion's Head

Pre-Hike: Arrival & Briefing (15 min) Time: Sunrise (e.g., 4:30 AM summer) or Sunset (2.5–3 hrs before sunset, confirmed via WhatsApp) Depending on season. Location: Lion’s Head Parking Area, Signal Hill Road, Cape Town (-33.9349, 18.3893) Details: Arrive 15 min early (or via pickup from central Cape Town, ZAR 400/person round-trip). Meet your expert guide (6–12 hikers for intimacy) near the trailhead sign. Receive headlamp (sunrise/sunset) Briefing: Trail overview (moderate, with scrambles/ladders), safety tips, and summit highlights. Photographers (if booked, R4000/person or R7000/two) join for epic shots.

15 minutes • Admission Not Applicable

Lion's Head

Ascent: Trail to Summit (1.5–2 hrs) 0–20 min: Gravel Path Start on a gentle gravel trail, crunching underfoot. Views: City Bowl lights (sunrise) or glowing skyline (sunset), Table Mountain, Atlantic Ocean. Guide points out fynbos (protea, erica). 20–60 min: Rocky Steps & Scrambles Trail steepens with rocky steps and mild scrambles (manageable for moderate fitness). Circle Lion’s Head for 360° vistas: Camps Bay beaches, Twelve Apostles, Robben Island. Pause for photos and guide insights on landmarks. 60–90/120 min: Ladders & Final Push Tackle two short chain-ladder sections and hand-over-foot scrambles (bypass available). Guide assists with technique and pacing. Views intensify: Table Mountain’s cliffs, V&A Waterfront, distant Hottentots Holland Mountains. Reach 669m summit, feeling triumphant.

1 hour • Admission Not Applicable

What‘s Included

Head Lamps

Expert Guide

If you have not select to have your guide collect you, please make your own way to the trail head.

We no not provide any Food or Beverages on this trip. Please make sure you have this in your own back pack.

Feel tree to reward your guide with a tip or a solid review.

Sneakers, Jackets, Backpacks or Active wear is your responsibility please dress appropriately to avoid slowing the group down. You can let us know if you need something befor the time and we can help.

Options

Cape Town: Lions Head Hike Sunrise or Sunset

Reviews

5.00

4 reviews

Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor

The most exciting hiking activity
211puit,,Oct 25, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
My guide : Donvan Hiking for sunrise trip it the best and have a good guide between hiking the surrounding atmosphere is very beautiful.
Outstanding host, knowledgeable, entertaining, and would the extra mile to make your tour memorable
majnooad1,,Sep 18, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
Outstanding host, knowledgeable, entertaining, and would the extra mile to make your tour memorable During my trip I needed some attention and Don was there to respond.
A guided hike that goes far beyond expectations
rafas466,,Jun 16, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
I recently did the sunrise hike up Lion’s Head with Don O’Neale as our guide, and I couldn’t recommend it more. Don is extremely knowledgeable — he shared stories about the history of the mountain, pointed out interesting plants and animals along the trail, and really brought the experience to life. He was also incredibly attentive to everyone’s needs, setting a good pace and making sure no one felt left behind. At the summit, he surprised us with fresh coffee (made right there!) and honey from his own beehive — such a thoughtful touch. I had a minor accident during the descent (twisted my ankle after slipping on a rock), and Don was immediately supportive, checking in with me often and helping me down the steep sections. If you’re considering hiking Lion’s Head, do it with a guide like Don. It adds a completely different dimension to the experience — informative, fun, and safe. Tip: Wear good shoes with grip, and bring a light jacket — it’s windy at the top!
Expert local knowledge and a memorable hike
ceceliar480,,Jun 6, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
Booked a guided hike last minute because the weather was nice and it was 1000% worth it! Don is a fantastic guide who's very professional (all the certifications and qualifications) and also fun to hike with. He shares lots of info about the land and wildlife and even shares recommendations for local favorite spots to eat and explore around Cape Town. The hike itself is beautiful (I went for sunset) and just challenging enough to make it exciting while still feeling safe. Grateful for the guided hike, the pickup to/from my hotel, and the photos he took during the hike. For solo travelers like me, this is the perfect option. Highly recommend!