Travel Plan
Lion’s Head hike

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ATTRACTION GUIDE · CAPE TOWN

Lion’s Head hike

A popular peak hike with chains and ladders near the top and 360° views of Cape Town.

Tickets & tours Open in Google Maps
Time needed
3 hours
Entry
Free
Best time
Sunrise or sunset
Area
Signal Hill

A popular hike with 360° views.

Where it is & how to get there

Address: Signal Hill Rd, Cape Town

  • Start: Signal Hill Road trailhead; parking fills quickly.
  • Time: About 1–1.5 hours up; the last section has chains and ladders (an alternative path avoids them).
  • Safety: Bring a headlamp for sunrise or sunset hikes; do not hike alone at night.

The story of Lion's Head

Lion's Head is a 669-metre peak between Table Mountain and Signal Hill, named for its shape, which resembles a crouching lion.

The trail spirals around the mountain, giving changing views of the Atlantic, Camps Bay, Table Mountain and the city. Full-moon hikes are a local tradition.

Best time to visit

Best season

October to April.

Best time of day

Sunrise or sunset.

Wind

Avoid on very windy days.

Tips before you go

  • Start early or go for sunset.
  • Start early to avoid heat and crowds.
  • Use the chain-free route if you are not comfortable with heights.

Best hotels near Lion's Head

Well-known hotels within easy reach. Check prices and availability for your dates.

One&Only Cape Town

Luxury hotel at the V&A Waterfront.

See prices

Belmond Mount Nelson Hotel

Historic pink hotel below Table Mountain.

See prices

The Silo Hotel

Design hotel above the Zeitz MOCAA museum.

See prices
All hotels near Lion's Head

What's around Lion's Head

  • Signal HillViewpoint and paragliding.
  • Table MountainNext door.
  • Camps BayBeach below.
  • Sea Point PromenadeSeafront walk.

Questions travellers ask

How long is the Lion's Head hike?

About 2–3 hours round trip.

Are there chains?

Yes, near the top, with an alternative route.

How high is it?

669 metres.

More in Cape Town

Table Mountain

Table Mountain

Read the guide
Bo-Kaap

Bo-Kaap

Read the guide
V&A Waterfront

V&A Waterfront

Read the guide
Back to the Cape Town guide
Travel Plan · Lion’s Head hike Travel times, prices and opening hours change. Check official sites before you go. Photos: Unsplash. Privacy & disclosure