Lion's Head

About Lion's Head

Lion's Head is a compact mountain peak overlooking Cape Town, South Africa. It stands adjacent to Table Mountain and forms part of the dramatic backdrop to the city. The distinctive shape resembles a crouching lion, giving the peak its name. It has become Cape Town's most iconic city hike, drawing locals and visitors alike. The summit offers 360-degree panoramic views across the Atlantic Ocean, the City Bowl, Table Mountain, and the Twelve Apostles range. Daily access; visit during daylight hours.

Checked 2026-08-31 · Source

What's inside

The Lion's Head experience centres on a single hiking trail leading to the summit. The route includes natural rock formations, indigenous fynbos vegetation, and exposed rocky sections near the top. Chain ladders and metal staples assist hikers on steeper portions. The summit itself is a relatively small, rocky plateau. There are no buildings, shops, or visitor facilities at the peak. The mountain forms part of Table Mountain National Park. Free for ordinary hiking access. SANParks lists conservation fees for Table Mountain National Park's paid entry sites but none for Lion's Head. Separate permits are required for regulated activities such as dog walking, paragliding and sport climbing.

Checked 2026-08-31 · Source

How long to spend

The standard hike to Lion's Head summit and return typically takes between two to four hours, depending on individual fitness levels and time spent at the top. The trail length is moderate by hiking standards. Some experienced hikers complete the ascent more quickly, while others prefer a slower pace, particularly on the steeper upper sections. Groups and families often take longer. The duration also varies with weather conditions, as strong winds or heat can slow progress. The summit is reached by a roughly 2 km hiking trail with minor rock scrambling.

Checked 2026-08-31 · Source

Season and crowds

Lion's Head can be hiked throughout the year, though conditions vary by season. Summer months bring longer daylight hours and warmer temperatures, while winter may bring rain and stronger winds. Early morning and late afternoon hikes are popular for temperature comfort and lighting conditions. Sunrise and sunset hikes are particularly sought after. Daily access; visit during daylight hours. Take MyCiTi route 106 or 107 to Kloof Nek, the named closest stop, then continue on foot to the spiral-trail start on Signal Hill Drive. Drivers can use the Lion's Head parking area on Signal Hill Road; SANParks identifies the Kramat trail there as a summit-access route.

Checked 2026-08-31 · Source

Tickets

Access to Lion's Head is free of charge. There is no entrance fee for the hiking trail. Visitors do not purchase tickets for the mountain itself. However, parking in surrounding areas may involve costs depending on location and duration. Guided hiking services operate commercially and charge fees, but these are optional. Self-guided hiking requires no payment. Free for ordinary hiking access. SANParks lists conservation fees for Table Mountain National Park's paid entry sites but none for Lion's Head. Separate permits are required for regulated activities such as dog walking, paragliding and sport climbing.

Checked 2026-08-31 · Source

Getting there

Lion's Head is accessible from central Cape Town by private vehicle, taxi, or rideshare services. The primary access point is via Signal Hill Road, with parking available near the trailhead. Public transport options are limited directly to the mountain. Cycling to the trailhead is possible for active visitors. Take MyCiTi route 106 or 107 to Kloof Nek, the named closest stop, then continue on foot to the spiral-trail start on Signal Hill Drive. Drivers can use the Lion's Head parking area on Signal Hill Road; SANParks identifies the Kramat trail there as a summit-access route.

Checked 2026-08-31 · Source

What to watch out for

Hikers should be prepared for exposed rocky sections and chain ladders that require upper body strength and confidence with heights. Strong winds are common and can make the summit dangerous. The trail has no water sources, so adequate hydration is essential. Sun exposure is significant with limited shade. Mobile phone coverage is not guaranteed throughout the route. Hiking alone carries additional risks. The summit is reached by a roughly 2 km hiking trail with minor rock scrambling. A spiral hiking route avoids the chains and staples but does not provide step-free summit access.

Checked 2026-08-31 · Source

Photography

Lion's Head offers exceptional photographic opportunities from multiple vantage points. The summit provides unobstructed 360-degree views encompassing the Atlantic Ocean, Robben Island, Table Mountain, the City Bowl, and the Twelve Apostles. Sunrise and sunset create dramatic lighting conditions. The fynbos vegetation offers macro photography possibilities. Wide-angle lenses capture the expansive panoramas. The chain ladder sections and rocky outcrops provide foreground interest. Drone operation would require compliance with South African civil aviation regulations and national park restrictions. No drinking water is available along the route. The route is about 2 km each way, and SANParks estimates 1–1.5 hours for the ascent.

Checked 2026-08-31 · Source

Where it is

• 1 hour

  18 min walk

  Fourth Beach

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  • Nature site
• 2 hours

  22 min walk

  Camps Bay

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  • Activity
• 20 min

  23 min walk

  Kloof Corner

  • Must see
  • Viewpoint

External links

• View on Wikidata