Nuts & Bolts
Important Information for Your Table Mountain Hike
To ensure you have the best possible experience, please review the following information about our hiking policies, group dynamics, and what to expect on the day of your adventure.
Navigating Table Mountain’s Unpredictable Weather
Despite its location in sunny South Africa, Table Mountain’s weather is notoriously unpredictable. Conditions can change dramatically in minutes, with thick cloud cover and strong winds a frequent occurrence.
- Rescheduling for Bad Weather: We will always endeavour to hike in optimal conditions. If we need to reschedule due to bad weather, we will contact you by 8 PM the evening before. We highly recommend booking your hike for early in your stay to allow for spare days in case of cancellation.
- Cableway Closure: In the summer (October to February), strong winds are common and can cause the cableway to close. In this event, your guide will lead you on a hike down via Platteklip Gorge, the quickest and safest route. Please be prepared for an extra 2 hours of hiking and a R500 fee per person.
Pace, Fitness, and Expectations
Our hikes are conducted at a leisurely pace, designed to be enjoyable for the entire group. To ensure a positive experience for everyone, please note the following:
- Pace: We hike at a steady pace, but not a crawl. If you consider yourself a particularly slow or fast hiker, we recommend booking a private hike. This allows you to set your own pace without pressure from other group members.
- Fitness Requirements: Table Mountain’s terrain is steep and rugged, requiring a solid level of fitness. If you are significantly slower than the rest of the group, your guide may have to turn you back, usually within the first 30 minutes of the hike. A 50% payment will apply in this scenario during high season (October to April).
- Motivation: While fitness is important, motivation, determination, and enthusiasm can amply compensate for any physical limitations. Be prepared for a solid workout to earn the sense of achievement that comes with summiting the mountain.
- Why We Start Early: Our early-morning starts are strategic. They allow us to beat the heat and wind, optimize conditions for photography, and get you back to your hotel in time for breakfast, leaving the rest of the day open for sightseeing.
Booking Logistics and Policies
Basic Cancellation Policy:
- 75% payable for cancellations made less than 24 hours before the meeting time, for any reason other than bad weather.
- 75% payable for no-shows or late arrivals (more than 10 minutes).
- 50% payable in the event of a turn-back for any reason other than bad weather.
- Courtesy Pick-Up Service: We offer a complimentary pick-up and drop-off service within the city area. The first four people to book on a given day are eligible. If the guide’s car is full, we will cover your Uber for pick-up.
Since Table Mountain is such an iconic and enthralling landmark, why not make the most of it? Hike Table Mountain with an expert guide.
