10 Tips: Table Mountain, Cape Town

1. Take a Detour: If you’re up for it, take the detour and check out Table Mountain’s only beach! It’s at the top of the Skeleton Gorge Hike, look for a reservoir! 

2. Bring some Cash: The start is in Kirstenbosch Gardens and the entrance fee will set you back about 70 Rand.

3. More Money!: If you’re tired bring some moreeeeee cash for the tram ride down. It will cost about 150 Rand.

4. No Money: If you’re broke from the entrance fee, hike Platteklip Gorge down. (At the top, look for the giant crack in the mountainside) There are some great valley views down to the ocean with this route and if you start on Skeleton Gorge, you get a 2 for 1 hike. 

5. Food: Pack Snacks. The round trip takes 4 hours if you’re not an Ironman. (5 if you take pictures)

6. Sleep In: Start the hike around midday to enjoy incredible sunsets over the valley on the way down. 

7. Clear Skies, Go Go: (Contrary to the previous point) If the sky is clear it’s time to hike. The weather in Cape Town can be finicky. Clouds and afternoon showers roll in at mock speed.

8. Downward: Don’t hike down Skeleton Gorge. You have to scramble up a stream to get to the top, which means going down will be pretty slick. 

9. Skip Sandals: Wear some closed toe shoes. There is some scrambling involved with this hike, so to avoid bloody toes… flip-flops are a no-go. 

10. Camera: Bring a Camera! You will definitely see other hikers throughout the day, so bring a camera (or phone) to capture those awesome moments. 

Extra: Most importantly… ask someone to take a picture of you… please don’t take a selfie on a New7Wonder of the world.