Skeleton Gorge

Skeleton Gorge is one of the favourite routes up to the top of Table Mountain. It begins at the world-famous Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, and tops out at Maclear’s Beacon, the highest point on Table Mountain. This varied route takes you through the dappled shade of the Afromontane forest, before opening out into the sunny fynbos of the Eastern slopes, then crossing the Tabletop to reach the Upper Cable Station. The views over the eastern suburbs and False Bay are spectacular. This is a reasonably steep hike, with a section of ladders and a few not-too-demanding rocky scrambles.

Grade A+
Time 4 to 5 hours, one way (descent by Cableway). Hiking down adds 2 hours.
Price R1800 per person (minimum two people), (excl. Kirstenbosch entrance fee, Cableway descent (R280 per person), and taxi back to start). Hiking down adds R500 per person.
Difficulty You’ll need to be moderately fit, and handle a bit of simple scrambling.