Timeline
08:00
Table Mountain (Maclear's beacon)
Begin the hike up Platteklip Gorge to Maclear's Beacon. The climb is steep and all uphill, taking between one to three hours depending on your pace. Arriving early helps you beat the midday heat and the crowds.
10:00
Table Mountain (Maclear's beacon)
Stand at Maclear's Beacon, the highest point on the plateau. This triangulation station marks the spot where Maclear measured the Earth's circumference. Take in the 360-degree views of the city and the ocean before the sun gets too high.
11:00
Descend to Van Riebeeck Park for a quiet rest. This rectangular heritage park in the Oranjezicht suburb offers a peaceful green space with over 120 species of trees, providing a cool break after the summit climb.
Local tip
The walk from the Cable Car Station to the beacon is roughly 3 km. Ensure you carry enough water for the ascent.
Check before you go
- Check the Table Mountain Cable Car schedule or hiking trail status before you go, as operations can vary.
- Wear sturdy shoes for the Platteklip Gorge hike.
Built from places in the Wikivoyage guide to Cape Town (CC BY-SA 4.0), with open map data from OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL).