ON FOOT · SUNRISE HIKES IN CAPE TOWN

Best Sunrise Hikes in Cape Town: Our Top 15

16 hikes  ·  from $38 a head

Every trip has one free day too few. These 15 sunrise hikes in Cape Town earn the slot, priced and timed so you can decide over breakfast and still make the trailhead.

Cape Town: Lion's Head Sunrise or Sunset Hike - Choosing sunrise or sunset
Cape Town Hiking Tours, Evening Experiences, Hiking Tours, Morning, Sunrise Hikes, Sunrise Hikes in Cape Town, Sunset Hikes, Sunset Hikes in Cape Town, Table Mountain Hikes, Tour Reviews

Cape Town: Lion’s Head Sunrise or Sunset Hike

1.Lion’s Head Sunrise or Sunset Hike

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 1,084 reviews · from $46Our pick

Climb Cape Town’s 669-meter Lion’s Head with a registered English-speaking guide. Choose a dark, flashlight-lit sunrise hike or an evening ascent timed for sunset. Expect steady hiking, scrambling, ladders, exposed sections, and wide views of Table Mountain, Camps Bay, the Atlantic, and Cape Town. Pickup is available with selected options.

“Great time, the hike was nice and not too intense, around 2km each way. Our guide Idrees was fantastic and so knowledgeable”

Places left →Read the full write-up

Cape Town: Lion's Head Sunrise/Sunset Hike - What the three-and-a-half-hour hike feels like
Cape Town Hiking Tours, Evening Experiences, Hiking Tours, Morning, Sunrise Hikes, Sunrise Hikes in Cape Town, Sunset Hikes, Sunset Hikes in Cape Town, Table Mountain Hikes, Tour Reviews

Cape Town: Lion’s Head Sunrise/Sunset Hike

2.Lion’s Head Sunrise/Sunset Hike

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 921 reviews · from $65

Climb Lion’s Head with a small group and guides such as Kurt, Codi, Jean, or Tauriq. Choose sunrise over the Hottentots Holland Mountains or sunset above the Atlantic. Expect rock steps, ladders, dark sections, photo stops, headlamps, and about three and a half hours on the trail.

“Kurt was our guide during the sunset hike. Extremely knowledgeable about the area as well shared life perspective of a local of Cape Town. He took care of us the entire time making sure everyone was safe and that we’re having a good time! Pace was great and the hike Read more”

Places left →Read the full write-up

Cape Town: Lion's Head Sunrise or Sunset Guided Hike - Starting at the Lion’s Head trail
Cape Town Hiking Tours, Evening Experiences, Guided, Guided Day Hikes, Hiking Tours, Morning, Sunrise Hikes, Sunrise Hikes in Cape Town, Sunset Hikes, Sunset Hikes in Cape Town, Table Mountain Hikes, Tour Reviews

Cape Town: Lion’s Head Sunrise or Sunset Guided Hike

3.Lion’s Head Sunrise or Sunset Guided Hike

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 642 reviews · 3 hours - 210 minutes · from $38Cheapest way up

Join guides such as Robert, Lindy, Brad, Brandon, or Miguel for a three-hour Lion’s Head hike timed for sunrise or sunset. Expect scrambling, ladders, chains, dark sections, head torches, plant and wildlife information, and photo help at the best viewpoints. Pickup may be added by arrangement.

“Unfortunately we had a cloudy evening and no sight for sunset however the small group, hiking experience and guide Robert were great and highly recommendable. The way up showed great views below the clouds and the pace is right for all levels with plenty of time until sunset, also for pictures, some stories and rest.”

Places left →Read the full write-up

Cape Town: Guided Lion's Head Hike at Sunrise or Sunset - The first section, plants, rocks, and rising views
Cape Town Hiking Tours, Evening Experiences, Guided, Hiking Tours, Morning, Sunrise Hikes, Sunrise Hikes in Cape Town, Sunset Hikes, Sunset Hikes in Cape Town, Table Mountain Hikes, Tour Reviews

Cape Town: Guided Lion’s Head Hike at Sunrise or Sunset

4.Guided Lion’s Head Hike at Sunrise or Sunset

★★★★★★★★★★4.9 · 312 reviews · 3h 30m · from $56

Climb Lion’s Head in a small group of up to eight with an English-speaking guide such as Fatima, David, or Santonio. Choose sunrise or sunset, take the steeper chains-and-ladders route or the easier ridge path, and stop for coffee, snacks, photos, and local stories. Bring water, sturdy shoes, and layers.

“We had an amazing tour with Fatimah. We felt very safe and well cared for. The views were amazing and Fatimah knew where best to stop and how much time we needed to reach the top for sunset. It was so nice discussing her experiences as a tour guide and her hiking experience too. She was very kind and took a real interest in us. Would highly recommend to anyone looking for a tour guide for lions head or anywhere else in Cape Town.”

Places left →Read the full write-up

Cape Town: Lion's Head Sunrise with coffee or Sunset Hike - Starting at the Lion’s Head car park
Cape Town Hiking Tours, Coffee Experiences, Evening Experiences, Hiking Tours, Morning, Sunrise Hikes, Sunrise Hikes in Cape Town, Sunset Hikes, Sunset Hikes in Cape Town, Table Mountain Hikes, Tour Reviews

Cape Town: Lion’s Head Sunrise with coffee or Sunset Hike

5.Lion’s Head Sunrise with coffee or Sunset Hike

★★★★★★★★★★4.9 · 160 reviews · from $49

Join guides such as Patrick or Andy for a sunrise or sunset hike up 669-meter Lion's Head. Expect coastal views, ladders, chains, light scrambling, local nature and history, summit photos, and coffee or tea on sunrise trips. Hotel pickup is optional.

“We loved hiking lions head with our tour guide, Patrick. He was very knowledgeable and friendly, gave us a quasi -tour of capetown on our way up! He was prepared and helpful and really kept us safe (we are not experienced hikers at all!) Would do this again!”

Places left →Read the full write-up

Cape Town: Lion's Head Sunrise Hike - Starting before dawn and meeting your guide
Cape Town Hiking Tours, Hiking Tours, Morning, Sunrise Hikes, Sunrise Hikes in Cape Town, Table Mountain Hikes, Tour Reviews

Cape Town: Lion’s Head Sunrise Hike

6.Lion’s Head Sunrise Hike

★★★★★★★★★★4.9 · 67 reviews · 3 hours · from $93

Start before dawn and climb Lion’s Head with a qualified English-speaking guide and up to nine other hikers. Reach the 670-meter summit for sunrise, Table Mountain, Robben Island, Camps Bay, and Sea Point views. Lynette, Kai, Barry, and Irene have guided this route, with chains and staples or an easier path available.

“Our guide Kai was kind attentive helpful. Even though I was the least trained person in the group he always suggested the best way to overcome more difficult points of the trail. The view from the top was worth all the effort! Kai took beautiful pictures of us that he shared immediately after the experience and this hiking will remain in our hearts forever. Best way to start our stay in Cape Town!”

Places left →Read the full write-up

Hiking Lion's Head for Sunrise or Sunset - The final ridge and the 360-degree summit
Cape Town Hiking Tours, Evening Experiences, Hiking Tours, Morning, Sunrise Hikes, Sunrise Hikes in Cape Town, Sunset Hikes, Sunset Hikes in Cape Town, Table Mountain Hikes, Tour Reviews

Hiking Lion’s Head for Sunrise or Sunset

7.Hiking Lion’s Head for Sunrise or Sunset

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 64 reviews · from $70

Climb Lion’s Head with a registered guide in a group of no more than seven. Expect a steady uphill walk, rock scrambling, ladders, and a chain-assisted section before the summit’s 360-degree views. Sunrise trips include coffee. Sunset hikers receive headlamps for the descent, with optional hotel transfers.

“Incredible experience that I would recommend to all. As a solo traveler, I felt safe with Andy and his expertise. He knew the best routes and suggestions for a safe hike. Grateful for his encouragement throughout the challenging hike. He made the perfect cappuccino for me to enjoy at sunrise. Thank you Andy. Worth it.”

Places left →Read the full write-up

The Best! Lions Head Sunrise & Sunset Hike & Hotel Pick-up - Sunrise or sunset, choosing the right departure
Cape Town Hiking Tours, Evening Experiences, Hikes with Hotel Pickup, Hiking Tours, Morning, Sunrise Hikes, Sunrise Hikes in Cape Town, Sunset Hikes, Sunset Hikes in Cape Town, Table Mountain Hikes, Tour Reviews

The Best! Lions Head Sunrise & Sunset Hike & Hotel Pick-up

8.The Best! Lions Head Sunrise & Sunset Hike & Hotel Pick-up

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 34 reviews · from $74

Climb Lion’s Head with a certified guide such as Kai, Kieron, or Yvette on a moderate 3 to 4 hour sunrise or sunset hike. Expect rocky paths, grassy slopes, chain ladders, sweeping Cape Town views, and help with pacing, safety, photos, snacks, and tea. Hotel pickup is offered, though the listed meeting point is the Lion’s Head parking area.

“We had the most amazing morning with Kai our guide. He was so patient, friendly and knowledgeable and made the experience even better. The views at the top are incredible and the sunrise was beautiful over the city. Highly recommend to anyone visiting Cape Town.”

Places left →Read the full write-up

Lion's Head Hike: Cape Town - Sunrise or Sunset Hike - The pickup makes the early start easier
Cape Town Hiking Tours, Evening Experiences, Hiking Tours, Morning, Sunrise Hikes, Sunrise Hikes in Cape Town, Sunset Hikes, Sunset Hikes in Cape Town, Table Mountain Hikes, Tour Reviews

Lion’s Head Hike: Cape Town – Sunrise or Sunset Hike

9.Lion’s Head Hike: Cape Town – Sunrise or Sunset Hike

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 29 reviews · 3h 30m · from $49

Join Cape Town Trails OG for a 3.5-hour guided Lion’s Head hike at sunrise or sunset. Guides including Jarrod, Ryon, Miguel, and Vincent lead small or private groups along a circular route, helping with rocky sections and the final scramble. Headlamps are provided, and private tours include a picnic.

“I had the chance to hike Lion’s Head in Cape Town with my mom and our guide Jarrod, and it was truly one of the most beautiful experiences of my life. From the very beginning, Jarrod made us feel comfortable he went at our pace, even brought hiking poles for my mom, and always took the time to answer our questions and share interesting insights along the way. Towards the end, I felt dizzy and couldn’t continue to the top. Jarrod handled the situation with so much calm and professionalism, and he guided us to a perfect spot where we could still watch the sunrise with a warm cup of…”

Places left →Read the full write-up

Lion's Head Sunrise or Sunset Hike + Hotel Pick-Up - Hotel pickup in a military green Suzuki Jimny
Cape Town Hiking Tours, Evening Experiences, Hikes with Hotel Pickup, Hiking Tours, Morning, Sunrise Hikes, Sunrise Hikes in Cape Town, Sunset Hikes, Sunset Hikes in Cape Town, Table Mountain Hikes, Tour Reviews

Lion’s Head Sunrise or Sunset Hike + Hotel Pick-Up

10.Lion’s Head Sunrise or Sunset Hike + Hotel Pick-Up

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 24 reviews · 3h 30m · from $62

Join Geoff of Cape Hiker for a private or small-group Lion's Head hike at sunrise or sunset. You get hotel pickup for up to three people, a safety briefing, a 5.5-kilometer circular route, chains and ladders near the top, snacks, refreshments, and sweeping views of Cape Town, Table Mountain, and the ocean.

“Great hike!! Very friendly and flexlible. Got a lot of interesting information about South Africa. Worth it! :)”

Places left →Read the full write-up

Guided Sunset/Sunrise Hike on Lions Head,Cape Town (Hotel Pickup) - The middle section and the first big views
Cape Town Hiking Tours, Evening Experiences, Guided, Hikes with Hotel Pickup, Hiking Tours, Morning, Sunrise Hikes, Sunrise Hikes in Cape Town, Sunset Hikes, Sunset Hikes in Cape Town, Table Mountain Hikes, Tour Reviews

Guided Sunset/Sunrise Hike on Lions Head,Cape Town (Hotel Pickup)

11.Guided Sunset/Sunrise Hike on Lions Head,Cape Town (Hotel Pickup)

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 23 reviews · from $98

Start about two hours before sunrise or sunset on a private Lion’s Head hike with hotel pickup, headlamps, and a qualified guide. Shamier, Nashad, or Ian may lead you through the darker lower trail, steep ladders, chains, and rock sections, sharing Cape Town stories and helping with photos before returning you to the pickup point.

“Shamier was our guide and he was outstanding. He was very helpful, knowledgeable and made our hike up lions head unforgettable. He even made us a nice cup of tea with biscuits which was such a lovely gesture!”

Places left →Read the full write-up

Lion's Head Hike for Sunrise - Walking Lion’s Head in the dark
Cape Town Hiking Tours, Hiking Tours, Morning, Sunrise Hikes, Sunrise Hikes in Cape Town, Table Mountain Hikes, Tour Reviews

Lion’s Head Hike for Sunrise

12.Lion’s Head Hike for Sunrise

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 23 reviews · from $85

Start before dawn with a local English-speaking guide and climb Lion’s Head by headlamp for sunrise views over Cape Town. Barry and Idrees are praised for patient pacing and clear guidance. Hotel pickup, water, snacks, hot drinks, and a small group of up to 10 make this a practical choice, though ladders, chains, rock scrambling, and steep sections require care.

“Barry was very patient with my teenage daughter...and got us to the top of the mountain with relative ease and in good time, despite the very challenging climb.”

Places left →Read the full write-up

Sunrise & Sunset Lion's Head Hike + Hotel Pick-Up - What the route feels like underfoot
Cape Town Hiking Tours, Evening Experiences, Hikes with Hotel Pickup, Hiking Tours, Morning, Sunrise Hikes, Sunrise Hikes in Cape Town, Sunset Hikes, Sunset Hikes in Cape Town, Table Mountain Hikes, Tour Reviews

Sunrise & Sunset Lion’s Head Hike + Hotel Pick-Up

13.Sunrise & Sunset Lion’s Head Hike + Hotel Pick-Up

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 12 reviews · from $55

Join a French- or English-speaking guide such as Kai, Yvette, or Cara for a guided Lion’s Head hike from Cape Town. Expect rocky paths, grassy slopes, chain ladders, sunrise or sunset views, hotel pickup in selected areas, snacks, water, and headlamps. The moderate climb takes about one to two hours.

“Cara was een leuke enthousiaste gids,die veel vertelde over de flora en fauna op Lions Head en ons deskundig nasr boven leidde tijdens de klim voor zonsondergang te zien.Had koffie en druiven voor ons bij zich.”

Places left →Read the full write-up

Hiking Table Mountain at sunrise Platteklip Gorge Morning Hike - Platteklip Gorge turns the walk into a serious climb
Canyon & Gorge Hikes, Cape Town Hiking Tours, Hiking Tours, Morning, Mountain & Summit Hikes, Mountain and Summit Hikes in Cape Town, Sunrise Hikes, Sunrise Hikes in Cape Town, Table Mountain Hikes, Tour Reviews

Hiking Table Mountain at sunrise Platteklip Gorge Morning Hike

14.Hiking Table Mountain at sunrise Platteklip Gorge Morning Hike

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 11 reviews · from $92

Start before dawn beneath the Table Mountain cableway and climb Platteklip Gorge with guide Patrick or another registered hiking guide. You’ll follow a warm-up contour path, tackle steep stone steps, and reach the summit around sunrise. Headlamps, first aid, and photos are included, but the cable car ride down costs extra.

“Patrick was a fantastic guide, very patient and incredibly knowledgable about the wildlife and history of the area. I would recommend him to anyone interested in climbing Table Mountain. The hike itself is challenging (of course), we climbed up Read more”

Places left →Read the full write-up

Hiking Lion's Head for sunrise, coffee & hotel Pick-up & Drop off - The loop before the final climb
Cape Town Hiking Tours, Coffee Experiences, Hikes with Hotel Pickup, Hiking Tours, Morning, Sunrise Hikes, Sunrise Hikes in Cape Town, Table Mountain Hikes, Tour Reviews

Hiking Lion’s Head for sunrise, coffee & hotel Pick-up & Drop off

15.Hiking Lion’s Head for sunrise, coffee & hotel Pick-up & Drop off

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 10 reviews · from $83

Start before sunrise and follow Patrick or another guide up Lion’s Head with a headlamp for the dark opening stretch. Tackle a steep gravel path, rocky ridge, and ladders before reaching the 669-meter summit for views of Table Mountain, the 12 Apostles, Devil’s Peak, and Camps Bay. Pickup may be arranged in Cape Town.

“Watching the sunrise on this hike was amazing and Patrick was an amazing guide. I have already recommended this hike to all of the travelers I’ve met heading to Cape Town.”

Places left →Read the full write-up

Other ways to spend the day on foot

Mountain & Summit Hikes356Volcano Hikes196Waterfall Hikes166Guided Day Hikes261Glacier Hikes90National Park Hikes123
Scroll to Top

Pick a kind of walking day

Rock, ice, forest or crater rim.

Above the treeline

Summit HikesVolcano ClimbsGlacier WalksKilimanjaroEverest Base Camp

Water and rock

Waterfall TrailsCanyons & GorgesLakes & LagoonsCave HikesCliff Paths

How you walk it

Guided Day HikesPrivate GuidesSmall GroupsLunch IncludedSnowshoe Days

Trees and trails

Forest & JungleNational ParksEasy Nature WalksSunrise StartsSunset Walks