Skeleton Gorge Guided Hike to Upper Station

listing image 1
Show all photos
5 hours (approximately)
Offered in: German and 1 more

This guided hike offers a rare opportunity to reach the highest point of Table Mountain via the lush Skeleton Gorge, starting in the world-famous Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens. Unlike busier routes, this trail winds through cool indigenous forest, streams, and waterfalls, with exciting ladder sections that add a sense of adventure.

Led by a qualified, registered mountain guide, you’ll enjoy a small-group, safety-focused experience with local insight you won’t get hiking alone. Reaching Maclear’s Beacon is a true achievement, rewarded with sweeping summit views — and the flexibility to descend by cable car or on foot, depending on conditions and preference.

What's Included

Information on history, flora and fauna of the area
Guided hike up Skeleton Gorge Expert Mountain Guide ( English/German)
Kirstenbosch Botanical Garden Entry Fee (R250)
Visit to the historic Table Mountain dams
Expert Mountain Guide ( English/ German )
Qualified Wilderness First Aider
Cable Car Ticket Down ( R295 pp )
No Meals and drinks
Transportation to/from Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point

Please meet at 07:00 at the Rycroft Gate ( Gate 3 ) of the Kirstenbosch Botanical Garden. It is advisable to purchase the entry ticket to the garden online beforehand.

End point
This activity ends back at the meeting point.

What to expect

Start your adventure at Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens (Entry fee is included in price. ), where your professional mountain guide will meet you for a safety briefing. Then, follow the forest trail of Skeleton Gorge, passing streams, hidden waterfalls, and ancient trees as you climb toward Maclear’s Beacon, the highest point on Table Mountain. The route includes ladder climbs and rocky sections, making it an exciting challenge for active travelers.

Along the way, your guide will share insights about local plants, wildlife, and the mountain’s history, giving you a richer experience of this iconic landscape.

The hike ends at the Upper Cable Station ( Cable Car Ticket Down included R295 pp ). This is a small-group experience, ensuring personalized attention and a safe, enjoyable adventure for everyone. The hike takes about 4 - 5 hrs depending on pace.

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 a high level of physical fitness
Supplied by Aktiv Tours

Tags

Hiking Tours
Extreme Sports
Small Group
Short term availability

Cancellation Policy

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

Show more
from per person
Was {{formatPrice(summaryFromPriceBeforeDiscount, currency, 2)}}
Book Now