A Hiker’s Guide to Lion’s Head for Sunrise or Sunset in 2025

Okay, so there’s just something about Lion’s Head that really gets a hold of you. It’s sort of like this magnetic thing from the moment you first see it, right? We are talking about a mountain with a very pointy top, literally located right in the middle of Cape Town, you know. Actually, from more or less anywhere in the City Bowl area, you can pretty much see its summit just sticking out. I mean, making your way to the top is basically a rite of passage for the people who live here and for almost anyone who is visiting, to be honest. It’s frankly not the highest point of land around, not by a big stretch, but the views you get are, well, completely amazing. Frankly, they just leave you without words. The way it sort of stands guard over the city, with Table Mountain as its big brother next door, is actually really special. This particular mountain, well, it tends to be one of those memories that sticks with you long after you have left Cape Town.

You see, this review is a bit different because it’s really about what it feels like to be up there. Obviously, we’ll cover the practical stuff for your 2025 hike, like what to wear and which path to choose. But more than that, this is, in a way, about the feeling of the wind on your face and the sight of the city lights starting to twinkle way down below. Honestly, it’s about that quiet moment you get at the very top, whether you are there with the rising sun or the setting one. We are trying to give you a real sense of the place. So, as I was saying, let’s get into what you might actually feel and see on this very popular walking route. This experience is something you kind of have to do for yourself. As a matter of fact, you’ll see why so many people make this climb again and again. It is arguably one of the best things you can choose to do with a few free hours in the city.

What to Actually Expect on the Trail

Alright, let’s talk about the trail itself because it’s sort of a two-part story. First, the beginning of the hike is actually pretty straightforward. You just start on a wide, dirt road that kind of winds its way up around the mountain. It’s a fairly gentle slope at this point, so you can really take your time and look at the changing views of the Atlantic Seaboard, you know. This part of the walk is just a little bit deceptive in its ease, to be honest. We see a lot of people going pretty fast here, only to run out of breath later on. Basically, my advice is to just take it easy and enjoy the slow revealing of the amazing sights around you. For example, you will see Camps Bay and Clifton beaches looking really beautiful from up here. Honestly, this spiral path is a great warm-up for what is to come just a little higher up.

Now, after you have been walking for maybe twenty to thirty minutes, the character of the path begins to change quite a bit. The wide road basically narrows into a more rugged, rocky footpath. Still, it becomes more of a proper hike here, with some stone steps and uneven ground to think about. You’ll actually find yourself using your hands a little bit for balance in some places. In other words, this is where the fun really starts for people who like a bit of a challenge. It’s still not terribly hard, you know, but you definitely need to watch where you are putting your feet. Anyway, this section continues upwards, offering seriously incredible views of Table Mountain and the city. It’s a bit of a workout, for sure, but the feeling of getting higher and higher is really very rewarding.

The Chains and Ladders: A Little Bit of a Scramble

So, then you get to the most talked-about part of the whole Lion’s Head hike: the section with metal ladders and chains. Frankly, this is what makes the hike a real adventure for some people. There’s a series of big rocks that you pretty much have to climb up, and there are metal rungs and chains bolted into the rock to help you out. It is actually a bit of a scramble and might seem intimidating if you’re not a big fan of heights. You sort of have to pull yourself up, so you need a little bit of upper body strength, I mean. It’s honestly not as scary as it might sound, but it’s good to be prepared for it, you know. Most people who are reasonably fit can manage it without too much trouble, actually.

Okay, but here’s a really important thing to know: you absolutely do not have to do the chains and ladders part. There is an alternative path that goes around this tricky section, and it is, frankly, a much easier option. This other path is still a bit of a climb, but it avoids the steep scrambling altogether, so it is just a nice walking trail. It might take you five or ten minutes longer, but it’s a very good choice if you’re a bit nervous about heights, or if you’re hiking with kids, or if you just don’t feel like climbing rocks that day. So, seriously, don’t let the stories about the chains stop you from doing the hike; there’s always this other way to the top that is more or less just as good.

Picking Your Time: The Great Sunrise vs. Sunset Debate

Honestly, deciding between a sunrise and a sunset hike is a pretty tough choice, as both are amazing in their own way. Let’s talk about sunrise first. Of course, this means a very, very early start, and you will be hiking up the entire way in the dark. You will definitely need a headlamp for this, without a doubt. The reward, though, is pretty much magical. Watching the first light hit Table Mountain and seeing the city slowly wake up below you is just an incredible feeling. Another big plus is that there are usually fewer people on the trail in the very early morning, so you get a bit more peace and quiet at the summit. I mean, there’s a certain feeling of victory in being up there while most of the city is still fast asleep. It’s a really special way to start your day, for sure.

On the other hand, a sunset hike is probably the more popular option for a lot of people. You get to hike up in the daylight, which is arguably a bit easier. The real show begins as the sun starts to go down over the Atlantic Ocean. The sky just lights up with colors—oranges, pinks, purples—it is honestly breathtaking. Then, after the sun disappears, you get to see all the city lights start to come on, which is a whole other kind of magic. It is really something to see. The downside is that it tends to be a lot more crowded at sunset. Sometimes, the summit can feel a bit like a party, which is fun but maybe not what you want if you’re looking for quiet time. And, of course, you will be making your way down in the dark, so you will still need that headlamp.

Gearing Up: What You Genuinely Need to Bring

Alright, so let’s get into the nitty-gritty of what you should actually have in your backpack. First, and probably most important, is a good pair of shoes. Seriously, don’t try to do this hike in flip-flops or fashion sneakers. You really want something with good grip, like trail runners or hiking shoes, because the path gets quite rocky and slippery. Your feet will definitely thank you for it at the end of the day. Next up is water, and you should probably bring more than you think you need. Even if it’s cool, you will work up a sweat, so having at least a liter of water per person is a pretty smart idea. Honestly, getting dehydrated up there is not a good time.

Now, let’s talk about something that is absolutely non-negotiable for a sunrise or sunset hike: a headlamp. A lot of people think they can just use their phone’s flashlight, but that’s a really bad idea, to be honest. You are going to need your hands free for scrambling over rocks, especially on the way down in the dark. A good headlamp just makes everything so much safer and easier, you know. Also, the weather in Cape Town can change really quickly. It might be warm at the bottom, but it can be very windy and cold at the summit, so bringing a windbreaker or an extra layer is always a good move. Finally, a little snack to enjoy at the top is pretty much a tradition. Something like a granola bar or some fruit just tastes so much better when you’re enjoying those incredible views.

Some Extra Pointers for a Really Good Time

Okay, just a few more things to help you have the best possible time up there. First, always, always check the weather forecast before you go. Cape Town’s wind, known as the Cape Doctor, is honestly no joke. If there are really high winds predicted, it is probably better to just choose another day, as it can make the climb quite dangerous and not very fun. Next, let’s talk about parking. The parking area at the start of the trail on Signal Hill Road is pretty small and it fills up really fast, especially for sunset. So, if you’re driving, you definitely want to get there early to find a spot. You might have to park a little way down the road and walk up, which is something to just keep in mind.

As a matter of fact, hiking with a friend or in a group is usually a good idea. It is just safer, and it’s nice to share the experience with someone, you know. By the way, if you happen to be in Cape Town during a full moon, you should definitely look into doing a full moon hike. This is a very popular local thing to do. The city looks absolutely amazing lit up by the moonlight, and it’s a really unique atmosphere on the mountain. Obviously, you’ll still need your headlamp for the tricky parts, but it is an experience you won’t forget. At the end of the day, just take your time, be aware of your surroundings, and just soak it all in. Lion’s Head is a really special place, and treating it with respect will make your visit all the more rewarding.

Read our full review: [Lions Head hike Cape Town Full Review and Details]
See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now ([Lions Head Sunrise/Sunset Hike])