The Lion’s Head hike is one of the most iconic trails in Cape Town and a must-do when visiting. This guide covers everything you need to know to be prepared and make the most of your time on the trail.
Lion’s Head is one of the most iconic hikes in Cape Town. Whether catching the first light of day from the summit or watching the sun dip behind the ocean at sunset, this trail delivers incredible views of the city, Table Mountain, and the Atlantic Ocean.
The relatively short but rewarding hike offers a mix of gradual switchbacks, a bit of scrambling, and a true 360° panorama at the top. And without the full-day commitment of summiting Table Mountain.
I’ve hiked Lion’s Head more times than I can count—it’s one of my favorite things to do in Cape Town after all! This guide covers everything you need to know to plan and make the most of your Lion’s Head hike adventure.
Lion’s Head Hike Guide
We’ve included some extra info for planning your Lion’s Head hike. Jump to the following sections (or just keep scrolling to see it all!).
Lion’s Head trail stats
- Distance: 2.8 miles (4.5 km)
- Elevation gain: 1,141 ft (348 m)
- Difficulty rating: Moderate/Challenging
- Timing: 2-3 hours
- Pets: dogs allowed on the trail
- Permits: no permits necessary
- Trail notes on Alltrails
Lion’s Head trail map
Lion’s Head hike overview
Table Mountain’s next door neighbor is considerably more hiker-friendly, though still a physical feat. At just under 3 miles long with some pretty steep elevation gain, the Lion’s Head hike will take you anywhere from 45 minutes to 1.5 hours to get to the top, depending on your speed and fitness level.
There are plenty of benches to rest along the first half of the trail for those that want to take their time. And there are also two routes to the top. One for the more advanced hikers that includes a series of ladders, and one that takes a bit longer, but makes for an easier hike (no climbing necessary!).
Things to know before you go
There are a few things to consider before you begin your Lion’s Head hike…
Best time of year for the Lion’s Head hike
Cape Town enjoys mild weather year-round, making Lion’s Head a great hike in any season. However, the best time to hike is during the spring and fall months (September to November & March to May) when temperatures are comfortable and crowds are smaller.
Summer (December to February) is popular for hiking, but the heat can be intense, especially with limited shade on the trail. If you hike in summer, aim for early morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday sun.
Winter (June to August) brings cooler temperatures but also the chance of rain and strong winds, which can make the trail slippery and unsafe—so always check the forecast before heading out.
A word of caution: The winds can pick up fast in Cape Town and it is not safe to be on the peak during those conditions. If you are on the trail and it starts to get considerably windy, it is best to turn around and try the hike again on another day, not to risk your safety.
Best time of day to hike Lion’s Head
Lion’s Head is likely the most popular trail in Cape Town and therefore it’s well-trafficked from sunrise to sunset.
Hiking Lion’s Head for sunrise is my top recommendation as you really cannot beat the views. However, if you’re like me and the idea of getting out of bed before 6 a.m. sounds miserable, you can still enjoy the hike later on.
If hiking during summer months (Dec – March), I’d recommend you don’t start the trail any later than 8 a.m. on a clear day. This is because the sun gets intense and the trail is mostly exposed.
Doing the Lion’s Head hike for sunset is also an epic move and one of my favorite Cape Town sunsets. Just be sure to bring a headlamp or use your phone’s flashlight for the hike down—it gets dark quickly after sunset.
Alternative: If your timing lines up, you could also make it out for a full moon hike!
How long does it take to hike Lion’s Head?
The hike is just under 3 miles (5 km) round trip with an elevation gain of 1,141 ft (348 m). The time it takes to reach the summit depends on your fitness level and pace:
- Fast hikers: 45 minutes to the top
- Average pace: Around 1 hour
- Leisurely hikers: 1.5 hours (with rest stops and photo breaks)
Give yourself a good 15-20 minutes at the summit to allow for photos as there are endless photo opportunities and you won’t want to miss out!
Coming down usually takes about 30-45 minutes. If you’re hiking for sunrise or sunset, plan your timing accordingly so you don’t miss the best views.
How difficult is the Lion’s Head hike?
Lion’s Head is moderately challenging, but doable for most hikers with a decent fitness level. The trail starts with a steady incline and becomes steeper as you approach the top. There are two routes to choose from:
- A direct route with ladders and metal rungs to assist with steep sections.
- A longer, easier route that avoids climbing but takes a bit more time.
While no technical climbing skills are required, the final stretch involves rock scrambling and narrow ledges, so those with a fear of heights may find it intimidating.
Personal experience: I’ve hiked Lion’s Head more times than I can count by now. But, speaking as someone with a healthy fear of heights, I’d be remiss to say I wasn’t a bit intimidated the first few times I made the climb—especially on the ladder sections.
My best advice is to not look down. Instead, focus on your hands and grip each rung before moving your feet. The trail is well-maintained and the ladders very sturdy. (They even added 2 new ladders in 2023 so you no longer have to rely on the chain and staple section to make the climb).
If you’re really freaked out, take the longer route to the top that avoids the ladders all together! The narrow ledges really aren’t too bad as there is space enough for two-way traffic and you can hug the rockside if need be.
How to get to Lion’s Head trailhead
Just a short drive up Signal Hill Road, you will come to a point where the trailhead starts. There is a small parking area on one side of the road opposite where the trail begins. Plus a stand selling waters, coffee, smoothies and snacks.
If you drive a little further, you’ll reach another small parking lot for a church to the left of the road. You can also park here and take the trail up the other side of the peak.
There are also paths to start your Lion’s Head hike from different areas in Camps Bay and Sea Point. Take a closer look at a map to see where, and know that’ll add time and distance to your hike.
Tips for hiking Lion’s Head
To make the most of your Lion’s Head hike and stay safe on the trail, keep these helpful tips in mind before setting out.
- Start early. If you’re hiking in summer, try to start before 8 a.m. to avoid the intense midday heat. Alternatively, sunset hikes are a great option, but be sure to bring a headlamp or use your phone’s flashlight for the descent.
- Wear sun protection. There’s very little shade on the trail, so pack sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect yourself from the strong Cape Town sun.
- Bring plenty of water (and maybe a snack). The steep exposed trail can be dehydrating, so bring at least 1-2 liters of water per person. A small snack, like an energy bar or fruit, can give you a boost once you reach the top.
- Also, don’t carry your waterbottle in hand if you plan to do the ladders route
- Allow time for photos at the summit. The 360° views from the top are absolutely worth it! Plan to spend 15-20 minutes at the summit to soak it all in and snap some epic photos before heading back down.
- Take the longer route if you’re afraid of heights. The direct route includes ladders and chains to assist with steep rock faces. If you’re not comfortable with heights, opt for the longer, alternate route, which skips the climbing sections and offers a more gradual ascent.
More Things to Do in Cape Town
If you’re looking for more ideas for things to do, we have an entire article of fun things to do in Cape Town where we share details and tips for first-time visitors.
First timer’s guide to Cape Town
If this is your first time visiting the Mother City, you’ll want to read our First Timer’s guide which is packed with helpful information like how to get around and where to find the best eats.
Day trips from Cape Town
Situated perfectly between the mountains, winelands and the sea, Cape Town makes the perfect home base for adventuring around the Western Cape.
There are plenty of opportunities for day-trips (or weekend getaways!) near Cape Town. We put together an entire guide to all of the very best day trips from Cape Town (packed with all sorts of tips!).
Plan your trip to South Africa
We have TONS of resources on travel in South Africa and how to make the most out of your trip. Check out our South Africa Homepage for all the answers to your most popular questions, or read some of our favorite articles below.
- Start by reading up on the best time to visit South Africa.
- Plan your Garden Route road trip with our excellent guide.
- Check out all of our top recommendations for things to do in Cape Town.
- Save this list of cool Cape Town Airbnbs for when you’re ready to book your accommodation.
- Sneak a peak at the best wine farms in Stellenbosch and the Cape winelands to plan a day of tastings!
- Read this before you book the Franschhoek Wine Tram—the best way to visit the Cape winelands!
- If you’re planning on visiting a game reserve, make sure you know what to wear on safari (+ what NOT to wear!).
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