Platteklip Gorge Starting Point — Attraction in Western Cape

My Unforgettable Platteklip Gorge Experience

The moment I set foot on the Platteklip Gorge trail, I knew this was going to be something special. The crisp morning air filled my lungs as the golden hues of the sunrise bathed Table Mountain in a warm glow. With every step up the steep, rugged path, Cape Town slowly unfolded beneath me—its vibrant cityscape, the endless Atlantic Ocean, and the faint outline of Robben Island in the distance.

The climb was relentless, a never-ending series of stone steps carved into the mountain, demanding both endurance and determination. My legs burned, my breath quickened, but every turn offered a breathtaking view that made the challenge worthwhile. Fellow hikers exchanged nods of encouragement, a silent camaraderie shared between those pushing themselves to conquer this iconic route.

As I reached the summit, a surge of triumph washed over me. The world stretched out before me in a panoramic masterpiece—rolling clouds kissing the mountain’s edge, waves crashing against the coastline, and the unmistakable beauty of Cape Town from above. I stood there, taking it all in, feeling an overwhelming sense of gratitude and awe.

This wasn’t just a hike. It was an experience that tested my limits, rewarded me with indescribable beauty, and left me with a memory I’ll cherish forever. Platteklip Gorge, you were tough, but oh,...

I had taken this trail from cable car starting point via India Venster and finished at platteklie gorge starting point. In Afrikaans language India venster means India window. A view looks like India, so they named like India vester(window). Platteklip gorge means in Afrikaans language is flat stone George. If you start from Platteklip starting point then you can manage walking up on better flat steps but if you start from cable car starting point then it will be tough because it has steep mountain. You must climb with a guide if you start from cable car starting point otherwise you will get lost. Never hike alone because you will lost way or criminals might approach and rob you if you don’t give phone or wallet then they won’t hesitate to kill. There is micro climate here , it means the climate changes suddenly to hot to cold or cold to hot. Guide charge around 1350 rands but very much worth and safe because guides guide 6+ other hikers. The view is stunning. If you are scared of heights never look back while climbing. Just one step at a time and look your path. I didn’t see any snakes but snakes are in mountain. Take at least 1 litre of water. Drink water regularly, take rest every...

About 1,1km further up the table mountain road, from the main entrance (lots of people standing in long lines, can't miss it), is the platteklip gorge starting point.

This hiking trail is a long winding steep staircase of blistering sunshine and excruciating heat with two natural water spring access points at the start and a few shade spots near the top. It is an amazing experience and an excellent test of determination to reach the top but I won't recommend it to the feint harted.

The views are spectacular and breathtaking at every point. The views of the mountains and city starts to seem so unreal in their splendour.

Take lots of water at least 3 bottles per person, hats, sunscreen and dried snacks (other snacks melt).

This is a wonderful route for team building exercises.

Once you reach the top you will be on top of Table mountain andin a few extra minutes of smooth hiking there's The Shop at the Top souvenirs shop and Restaurant with the best water and food available. On the expensive side but entirely worth it.

For those not wishing to hike back down there's the scenic cable car...