Look down on the city and the Atlantic Ocean from the top of one of the mountains that tower over Cape Town.
Go hiking on Lion's Head, a towering peak that forms part of the scenic backdrop to Cape Town. It sits to the right of Table Mountain when looking at it from the city and is part of the Table Mountain range. Unsurprisingly, the views from its slopes and summit are spectacular and well worth the climb to enjoy them.
Lion's Head rises 2,195 feet (669 meters) above sea level. It was named during the 17th century by Dutch settlers who saw that this mountain, Signal Hill, and the space between the peaks resemble a crouching lion.
The walk up to the summit from the base takes a person of average fitness between 1 and 2 hours. Use the well-marked trail, along which are chains and ladders to help you get up some of the steeper parts. If you have young children in your party, use the alternative route that avoids the chain section.
Once you reach the summit enjoy the panoramic views. Look out over Table Bay and the city on one side and the Atlantic shoreline on the other. For an equally thrilling experience, embark on a torchlight hike up Lion's Head during a full moon.
In addition to hiking the mountain is also a well-known spot for hangliding, paragliding and microlight flights.
To get to Lion’s Head from the city center, follow signs to Lion's Head and Signal Hill. Park in the free parking bays near the start of the hiking trail. There is no water along the route so bring some with you, as well as sunscreen if you are hiking during the day.
Lion’s Head is part of the Table Mountain National Park, where you can also enjoy forest walks, see a land-based colony of African penguins and hike up other peaks, including Table Mountain.
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