Skeleton Gorge Sunrise Hike — Table Mountain via Kirstenbosch
Difficulty
challenging
Duration
6 hours
Fitness Level
Good cardiovascular fitness and leg strength for steep, sustained climbs; comfortable with a steady pace and short scrambles.
Overview
Start at Kirstenbosch before dawn and climb Skeleton Gorge to Table Mountain’s summit on this 6‑hour guided loop. Expect steep, variable terrain, rare afro‑montane forest and sunrise views over Cape Town.
Skeleton Gorge Sunrise Hike — Table Mountain via Kirstenbosch
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You reach the gates of Kirstenbosch before dawn, a slow pulse of light behind the Twelve Apostles ridge. The air is cool and sharp; fynbos smells faintly of resin and peat. A small group gathers beneath the canopy walkway, coffee cooling in paper cups, while a guide checks boots and points the way toward a narrow, green throat in the mountain: Skeleton Gorge.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Start early and layer
Temperatures vary from chilly forest floor to windy summit — wear layers you can shed as you warm up.
Sturdy traction is a must
Choose hiking shoes with grippy soles — wet rock, roots and occasional metal steps make footing tricky.
Carry enough water
Bring at least 1.5–2 L per person even though bottled water is provided — you’ll want extra on the descent.
Watch the weather
Mountain weather changes rapidly; if visibility or wind forecasts are poor, reschedule for safety and better views.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Cape sugarbird
- Rock hyrax (dassie)
History
Kirstenbosch was established in 1913 to protect South Africa’s unique flora; the Table Mountain range has been shaped by sandstone deposition and erosion over hundreds of millions of years.
Conservation
The Cape Floral Kingdom is globally significant and sensitive to trampling and invasive species—stick to trails, avoid picking plants, and follow guide instructions to minimize impact.
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Adventure Hotspots in Cape Town
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Hiking shoes with good traction
Necessary for wet rock, roots and uneven granite slabs encountered on the gorge sections.
Water (1.5–2 L) and electrolyte snacks
Sustains energy during 700–900 m of ascent and the full 6‑hour outing.
Light waterproof layer/wind shell
Protects against sudden wind and drizzle on the exposed summit and during descents.
winter specific
Headlamp or compact torch
Useful for pre-dawn starts or if the hike runs longer than expected into dusk.
summer specific