{"id":20514,"date":"2026-11-06T14:00:00","date_gmt":"2026-11-06T14:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/hungrytravelfamily.com\/blog\/?p=20514"},"modified":"2026-11-06T14:00:00","modified_gmt":"2026-11-06T14:00:00","slug":"skeleton-gorge-nursery-ravine-guided-hike-kirstenbosch","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/hungrytravelfamily.com\/blog\/destinations\/skeleton-gorge-nursery-ravine-guided-hike-kirstenbosch\/","title":{"rendered":"Table Mountain&#8217;s Greener Route: The Guided Skeleton Gorge and Nursery Ravine Hike From Kirstenbosch"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p><style>\n\/* \u2500\u2500 Hide Astra default post title + meta for this post \u2500\u2500 *\/\n.single-post .entry-title,\n.single-post .entry-meta,\n.single-post .ast-post-format-meta,\n.single-post .post-meta { display:none !important; }\n.single-post .entry-content { padding-top:0 !important; margin-top:0 !important; }\n.single-post .ast-article-single { padding-top:0 !important; 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Display',serif;font-size:19px;line-height:1.25;display:block;margin-bottom:8px;color:#fff;}\n.htf-la-p{font-size:13px;color:#d8e8d0;display:block;margin-bottom:10px;}\n.htf-la-go{font-size:13px;color:#C8A45A;font-weight:600;display:block;}\n.htf-sb-tours a{display:block;font-size:14px;line-height:1.4;color:#2D5A3D;text-decoration:none;padding:8px 0;border-bottom:1px dashed #E5E3DE;}\n.htf-sb-tours a:last-child{border-bottom:none;}\n.htf-sb-tours a small{display:block;color:#6B6860;font-size:12px;}\n.htf-la-code{display:inline-block;font-size:12px;font-weight:800;letter-spacing:2px;background:#0d2018;color:#C8A45A;padding:4px 10px;border-radius:3px;}\n.htf-body table{width:100%;border-collapse:collapse;font-size:15px;margin:0 0 28px;}\n.htf-body th,.htf-body td{border-bottom:1px solid #E5E3DE;padding:10px 8px;text-align:left;vertical-align:top;}\n.htf-body th{font-size:12px;letter-spacing:1.5px;text-transform:uppercase;color:#2D5A3D;}\n@media(max-width:640px){.htf-la-cta{padding:20px 18px;}.htf-la-title{font-size:21px;}a.htf-la-btn{width:100%;text-align:center;}}\n<\/style>\n\n<!-- HERO --><header class=\"htf-hero\">\n<div class=\"htf-hero-inner\">\n<div class=\"htf-breadcrumb\"><a href=\"https:\/\/hungrytravelfamily.com\/blog\/\">Home<\/a>  \/  <a href=\"https:\/\/hungrytravelfamily.com\/blog\/category\/south-africa\/\">South Africa<\/a>  \/  <a href=\"https:\/\/hungrytravelfamily.com\/blog\/category\/south-africa\/cape-town\/\">Cape Town<\/a><\/div>\n<span class=\"htf-category\">Cape Town \u00b7 Table Mountain<\/span>\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_89 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/hungrytravelfamily.com\/blog\/destinations\/skeleton-gorge-nursery-ravine-guided-hike-kirstenbosch\/#Table_Mountains_Greener_Route_The_Guided_Skeleton_Gorge_and_Nursery_Ravine_Hike_From_Kirstenbosch\" >Table Mountain&#8217;s Greener Route: The Guided Skeleton Gorge and Nursery Ravine Hike From Kirstenbosch<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-2' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/hungrytravelfamily.com\/blog\/destinations\/skeleton-gorge-nursery-ravine-guided-hike-kirstenbosch\/#What_the_route_is\" >What the route is<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/hungrytravelfamily.com\/blog\/destinations\/skeleton-gorge-nursery-ravine-guided-hike-kirstenbosch\/#The_key_facts_at_a_glance\" >The key facts at a glance<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/hungrytravelfamily.com\/blog\/destinations\/skeleton-gorge-nursery-ravine-guided-hike-kirstenbosch\/#Skeleton_Gorge_vs_Platteklip_Gorge\" >Skeleton Gorge vs Platteklip Gorge<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/hungrytravelfamily.com\/blog\/destinations\/skeleton-gorge-nursery-ravine-guided-hike-kirstenbosch\/#How_fit_do_you_need_to_be\" >How fit do you need to be?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/hungrytravelfamily.com\/blog\/destinations\/skeleton-gorge-nursery-ravine-guided-hike-kirstenbosch\/#What_the_day_looks_like\" >What the day looks like<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/hungrytravelfamily.com\/blog\/destinations\/skeleton-gorge-nursery-ravine-guided-hike-kirstenbosch\/#Get_Cape_Towns_best_tour_deals_in_your_inbox\" >Get Cape Town&#x27;s best tour deals in your inbox<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/hungrytravelfamily.com\/blog\/destinations\/skeleton-gorge-nursery-ravine-guided-hike-kirstenbosch\/#Is_R1595_worth_it\" >Is R1,595 worth it?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/hungrytravelfamily.com\/blog\/destinations\/skeleton-gorge-nursery-ravine-guided-hike-kirstenbosch\/#Who_should_choose_something_else\" >Who should choose something else<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/hungrytravelfamily.com\/blog\/destinations\/skeleton-gorge-nursery-ravine-guided-hike-kirstenbosch\/#What_to_bring_and_wear\" >What to bring and wear<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/hungrytravelfamily.com\/blog\/destinations\/skeleton-gorge-nursery-ravine-guided-hike-kirstenbosch\/#Fitting_it_into_a_Cape_Town_trip\" >Fitting it into a Cape Town trip<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/hungrytravelfamily.com\/blog\/destinations\/skeleton-gorge-nursery-ravine-guided-hike-kirstenbosch\/#Weather_seasons_and_when_to_go\" >Weather, seasons and when to go<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/hungrytravelfamily.com\/blog\/destinations\/skeleton-gorge-nursery-ravine-guided-hike-kirstenbosch\/#How_to_book_with_the_Hungrytravelfamily_discount\" >How to book with the Hungrytravelfamily discount<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/hungrytravelfamily.com\/blog\/destinations\/skeleton-gorge-nursery-ravine-guided-hike-kirstenbosch\/#FAQ\" >FAQ<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-15\" href=\"https:\/\/hungrytravelfamily.com\/blog\/destinations\/skeleton-gorge-nursery-ravine-guided-hike-kirstenbosch\/#Our_Honest_Final_Word\" >Our Honest Final Word<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-16\" href=\"https:\/\/hungrytravelfamily.com\/blog\/destinations\/skeleton-gorge-nursery-ravine-guided-hike-kirstenbosch\/#Our_Cape_Town_picks_with_Cape_Adventure_Brands\" >Our Cape Town picks with Cape Adventure Brands<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-17\" href=\"https:\/\/hungrytravelfamily.com\/blog\/destinations\/skeleton-gorge-nursery-ravine-guided-hike-kirstenbosch\/#Keep_reading\" >Keep reading<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-18\" href=\"https:\/\/hungrytravelfamily.com\/blog\/destinations\/skeleton-gorge-nursery-ravine-guided-hike-kirstenbosch\/#Get_our_best_travel_tips_in_your_inbox\" >Get our best travel tips in your inbox<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-19\" href=\"https:\/\/hungrytravelfamily.com\/blog\/destinations\/skeleton-gorge-nursery-ravine-guided-hike-kirstenbosch\/#Get_Cape_Towns_best_tour_deals_in_your_inbox-2\" >Get Cape Town&#x27;s best tour deals in your inbox<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-20\" href=\"https:\/\/hungrytravelfamily.com\/blog\/destinations\/skeleton-gorge-nursery-ravine-guided-hike-kirstenbosch\/#AI-assisted_content_for_travel_brands\" >AI-assisted content for travel brands<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h1><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Table_Mountains_Greener_Route_The_Guided_Skeleton_Gorge_and_Nursery_Ravine_Hike_From_Kirstenbosch\"><\/span>Table Mountain&#8217;s Greener Route: <em>The Guided Skeleton Gorge and Nursery Ravine Hike From Kirstenbosch<\/em><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h1>\n<p class=\"htf-hero-deck\">Most visitors climb Platteklip Gorge because it is the direct way up. The Skeleton Gorge route starts in the botanical gardens, climbs through forest and ferns to the mountain&#8217;s dams and comes back down Nursery Ravine. Here is what the operator says about it, who it suits and how to book with 5% off.<\/p>\n<div class=\"htf-hero-meta\">\n<div class=\"htf-meta-author\">\n<div class=\"htf-avatar\">J&amp;A<\/div>\n<div><strong>Joona &amp; Alla<\/strong>Rovaniemi, Finland<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<span class=\"htf-dot\">\u00b7<\/span> November 2026 <span class=\"htf-dot\">\u00b7<\/span> 10 min read <span class=\"htf-dot\">\u00b7<\/span> Updated for the 2026\u20132027 season<\/div>\n<div class=\"htf-hero-img\">\n<div class=\"htf-hero-img-inner\"><img fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/hungrytravelfamily.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/capetown-table-mountain-hike-skeleton-gorge-nursery-ravine-1.jpg\" alt=\"Hikers on the Hiking Tours Cape Town Skeleton Gorge and Nursery Ravine hike on Table Mountain\" width=\"1047\" height=\"459\" loading=\"eager\" fetchpriority=\"high\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/header>\n<!-- CAPE ADVENTURE BRANDS READER PERK BANNER -->\n<div class=\"htf-sale-banner\" style=\"margin:28px 0 36px;padding:22px 28px;background:linear-gradient(135deg,#C8A45A 0%,#d8b970 50%,#C8A45A 100%);border-radius:10px;color:#0d2018;display:flex;flex-wrap:wrap;align-items:center;gap:24px;box-shadow:0 8px 24px rgba(200,164,90,0.25);\">\n<div style=\"flex:0 0 auto;font-size:13px;font-weight:800;letter-spacing:3px;text-transform:uppercase;background:#0d2018;color:#C8A45A;padding:8px 14px;border-radius:4px;\">Reader perk<\/div>\n<div style=\"flex:1 1 260px;\">\n<div style=\"font-family:'Playfair Display',serif;font-size:24px;line-height:1.2;font-weight:600;margin-bottom:4px;\">5% off every Cape Town tour on this page<\/div>\n<div style=\"font-size:14px;line-height:1.5;opacity:0.85;\">The discount is applied automatically when you book through our links \u2014 no code to type. Works on Bikes &#8216;n Wines, Cape Town Kayaks and Hiking Tours Cape Town.<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<!-- ARTICLE + SIDEBAR -->\n<div class=\"htf-wrap\"><!-- BODY -->\n<article class=\"htf-body\">\n<p>This guide is built from the live tour pages of Cape Adventure Brands (Bikes &#8216;n Wines, Cape Town Kayaks and Hiking Tours Cape Town) \u2014 prices, start times, ages and inclusions come straight from the operator, never invented.<\/p>\n<div class=\"htf-tldr\">\n<div class=\"htf-tldr-label\">Short answer<\/div>\n<p>If you want to climb Table Mountain through shade, streams and fynbos instead of straight up a steep gorge, book the <a class=\"htf-book-link\" href=\"https:\/\/hikingtours.co.za\/tours\/Table-Mountain-Skeleton-Gorge?ref=hungry\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"sponsored noopener\" style=\"color:#2D5A3D;font-weight:600;text-decoration:underline;text-decoration-color:#C8A45A;text-underline-offset:3px;\">Table Mountain Hike &#8211; Skeleton Gorge\/Nursery Ravine<\/a><span style=\"display:inline-block;font-size:10px;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:1.5px;text-transform:uppercase;background:#C8A45A;color:#0d2018;padding:2px 6px;border-radius:3px;margin-left:4px;vertical-align:2px;\">5% off via our link<\/span>. It costs R1,595 per person, takes 5.5 hours, covers 8 km with 650 m of ascent and is rated 4\/5 by the operator. It starts at the Kirstenbosch main entrance, is open to ages 12+ and includes your Kirstenbosch entry, water and a light snack. Book through our link and 5% comes off automatically \u2014 no code needed.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<!-- HTF-BOOK-CTA -->\n<div class=\"htf-la-cta\">\n<div class=\"htf-la-cta-text\">\n<p class=\"htf-la-eyebrow\">Our pick \u00b7 5% off via our link<\/p>\n<p class=\"htf-la-title\">Table Mountain Hike &#8211; Skeleton Gorge\/Nursery Ravine<\/p>\n<p class=\"htf-la-sub\">R1,595 per person \u00b7 5.5 hours (09:00\u201314:30) \u00b7 8 km \u00b7 650 m ascent \u00b7 difficulty 4\/5 \u00b7 ages 12+ \u00b7 starts at the Kirstenbosch Gardens main entrance \u00b7 garden entry, water and a light snack included.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<a class=\"htf-la-btn\" href=\"https:\/\/hikingtours.co.za\/tours\/Table-Mountain-Skeleton-Gorge?ref=hungry\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"sponsored noopener\">Check dates &amp; book \u2192<\/a>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"htf-toc\">\n<div class=\"htf-toc-label\">In this guide<\/div>\n<ol><li><a href=\"#s1\">What the route is<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#s2\">The key facts at a glance<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#s3\">Skeleton Gorge vs Platteklip Gorge<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#s4\">How fit do you need to be?<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#s5\">What the day looks like<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#s5b\">Is R1,595 worth it?<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#s5c\">Who should choose something else<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#s6\">What to bring and wear<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#s7b\">Fitting it into a Cape Town trip<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#s7\">Weather, seasons and when to go<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#s8\">How to book with the Hungrytravelfamily discount<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#faq\">FAQ<\/a><\/li><\/ol>\n<\/div>\n<h2 id=\"s1\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_the_route_is\"><\/span>What the route is<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Skeleton Gorge is a trail on the eastern slopes of Table Mountain, directly above Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden. On this tour you climb through the gorge, reach the plateau and the tranquil dams, take a break with views, and then descend by Nursery Ravine. The operator&#8217;s description mentions a shaded forest trail beside streams and waterfalls, a rain-forest-like ravine, towering cliffs, and vegetation that changes as you climb: proteas, cycads and ferns.<\/p><figure class=\"htf-fig\"><img loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/hungrytravelfamily.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/capetown-table-mountain-hike-skeleton-gorge-nursery-ravine-2.jpg\" alt=\"Photo from Hiking Tours Cape Town&#x27;s Skeleton Gorge\/Nursery Ravine hike\" width=\"823\" height=\"361\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"><figcaption>Photo from Hiking Tours Cape Town&#x27;s Skeleton Gorge\/Nursery Ravine hike <span>Photo: Hiking Tours Cape Town<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure><p>It is a circuit, not an up-and-down: you leave Kirstenbosch by one route and return by another. That variety is the main reason people choose it over the more direct Platteklip Gorge. We should be honest: we live in Rovaniemi, Finland, and have not walked this route with the operator. Everything below comes from the live tour page and the operator&#8217;s FAQ.<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"s2\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"The_key_facts_at_a_glance\"><\/span>The key facts at a glance<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<table><tr><th>Detail<\/th><th>Operator&#8217;s page<\/th><\/tr><tr><td>Price<\/td><td>R1,595 per person<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Duration<\/td><td>5.5 hours, 09:00\u201314:30<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Distance and ascent<\/td><td>8 km, 650 m<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Difficulty<\/td><td>4\/5<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Minimum age<\/td><td>12<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Start<\/td><td>Kirstenbosch Gardens main entrance<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Included<\/td><td>Guide, Kirstenbosch entry, bottled water, light snack<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Not included<\/td><td>Lunch, guide gratuity, optional vehicle transfers (on request)<\/td><\/tr><\/table><p>At roughly \u20ac85 at the time of writing (the rand moves), this is a long guided day compared with what a similar mountain guide costs in Lapland.<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"s3\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Skeleton_Gorge_vs_Platteklip_Gorge\"><\/span>Skeleton Gorge vs Platteklip Gorge<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>The <a class=\"htf-book-link\" href=\"https:\/\/hikingtours.co.za\/tours\/Table-Mountain-Hike-Platteklip?ref=hungry\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"sponsored noopener\" style=\"color:#2D5A3D;font-weight:600;text-decoration:underline;text-decoration-color:#C8A45A;text-underline-offset:3px;\">Table Mountain Hike &#8211; Platteklip<\/a><span style=\"display:inline-block;font-size:10px;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:1.5px;text-transform:uppercase;background:#C8A45A;color:#0d2018;padding:2px 6px;border-radius:3px;margin-left:4px;vertical-align:2px;\">5% off via our link<\/span> route is the most direct and steep way up: R1,495, 3.5 hours, 5 km, 890 m of ascent, rated 3\/5, and it includes a one-way cable-car ticket. Skeleton Gorge is longer (5.5 hours, 8 km), climbs less (650 m), costs R100 more, is rated harder (4\/5) and does not include the cable car; you walk back down through Nursery Ravine and finish where you started.<\/p><figure class=\"htf-fig\"><img loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/hungrytravelfamily.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/capetown-table-mountain-hike-platteklip-1.jpg\" alt=\"Photo from Hiking Tours Cape Town&#x27;s Platteklip Gorge hike\" width=\"1047\" height=\"459\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"><figcaption>Photo from Hiking Tours Cape Town&#x27;s Platteklip Gorge hike <span>Photo: Hiking Tours Cape Town<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure><p>In short, Platteklip is shorter and steeper; Skeleton Gorge is longer and greener. If you have only half a morning, pick Platteklip. If you want shade, running water and a fuller day outdoors, pick Skeleton Gorge. Our wider comparison of all four Table Mountain routes is on the site as well.<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"s4\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_fit_do_you_need_to_be\"><\/span>How fit do you need to be?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>The operator&#8217;s own words are &#8216;moderate to challenging&#8217;, and its scale puts this hike at 4 out of 5. Nursery Ravine is described as a series of steps, steep in some sections. Expect a sustained climb, a flat stretch at the top near the dams, and a long descent that is hard on the knees.<\/p><p>We would say it suits people who walk regularly, can handle 5.5 hours on their feet and are comfortable with steps. It is not a stroll. Children must be 12 or older. If someone in your group is less confident, the <a class=\"htf-book-link\" href=\"https:\/\/hikingtours.co.za\/tours\/kirstenbosch-botanical-hike?ref=hungry\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"sponsored noopener\" style=\"color:#2D5A3D;font-weight:600;text-decoration:underline;text-decoration-color:#C8A45A;text-underline-offset:3px;\">Kirstenbosch Botanical Hike<\/a><span style=\"display:inline-block;font-size:10px;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:1.5px;text-transform:uppercase;background:#C8A45A;color:#0d2018;padding:2px 6px;border-radius:3px;margin-left:4px;vertical-align:2px;\">5% off via our link<\/span> (R1,495, 3.5 hours, 3\/5, ages 16+) is the gentler way to see the gardens.<\/p><p>A practical test: if you can walk briskly uphill for 30 to 40 minutes without stopping and still enjoy yourself, you are probably fine for the climb. If a flight of stairs leaves you breathless, choose an easier outing first. Descents are where tired legs struggle, so shoes with grip and a steady, unhurried pace matter more than speed. Tell the guide early if you feel unwell; with a guided group nobody is left to cope alone.<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"s5\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_the_day_looks_like\"><\/span>What the day looks like<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>You meet your guide at the Kirstenbosch main entrance at 09:00. Garden entry is already paid for, which saves you queueing. From there the guide leads you up into the gorge. According to the operator you reach the plateau and the Table Mountain dams, take a break with views, and descend by Nursery Ravine to finish at about 14:30.<\/p><figure class=\"htf-fig\"><img loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/hungrytravelfamily.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/capetown-table-mountain-hike-skeleton-gorge-nursery-ravine-3.jpg\" alt=\"Photo from Hiking Tours Cape Town&#x27;s Skeleton Gorge\/Nursery Ravine hike\" width=\"823\" height=\"361\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"><figcaption>Photo from Hiking Tours Cape Town&#x27;s Skeleton Gorge\/Nursery Ravine hike <span>Photo: Hiking Tours Cape Town<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure><p>Lunch is not included, so pack something solid or plan to eat afterwards. Optional vehicle transfers are available on request from the operator if you do not want to drive or take a ride-hailing car to the gate.<\/p><p>Pack the night before: shoes by the door, water bottle filled, layers in the bag. The gate is at the main entrance of the gardens, so give yourself margin for traffic and parking. The operator begins at 09:00 sharp and we would not want you arriving flustered.<\/p>\n<div class=\"htf-la-cta\" style=\"margin-top:36px;\">\n<div class=\"htf-la-cta-text\">\n<p class=\"htf-la-eyebrow\">Book it \u00b7 5% off via our link<\/p>\n<p class=\"htf-la-title\">Table Mountain Hike &#8211; Skeleton Gorge\/Nursery Ravine<\/p>\n<p class=\"htf-la-sub\">From R1,595 per person \u00b7 5.5 Hours \u00b7 12+ \u00b7 Hiking Tours Cape Town.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<a class=\"htf-la-btn\" href=\"https:\/\/hikingtours.co.za\/tours\/Table-Mountain-Skeleton-Gorge?ref=hungry\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"sponsored noopener\">Check dates &amp; book \u2192<\/a>\n<\/div>\n<!-- HTF-PARTNER-NEWSLETTER-CAPETOWN-V1 --><style>\n.htf-pnl{margin:44px 0;padding:36px 32px;background:linear-gradient(160deg,#2D5A3D 0%,#1a3d28 100%);border-radius:10px;color:#fff;box-shadow:0 12px 32px rgba(0,0,0,.14);font-family:Inter,system-ui,sans-serif;}\n.htf-pnl-eyebrow{font-size:12px;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:3px;text-transform:uppercase;color:#C8A45A;margin:0 0 12px;}\n.htf-pnl h3{font-family:'Playfair Display',Georgia,serif;font-size:28px;font-weight:600;line-height:1.15;color:#fff;margin:0 0 12px;}\n.htf-pnl p.htf-pnl-sub{font-size:15px;line-height:1.6;color:rgba(255,255,255,.85);margin:0 0 20px;max-width:560px;}\n.htf-pnl form{display:flex;gap:8px;max-width:520px;flex-wrap:wrap;}\n.htf-pnl input[type=email]{flex:1 1 240px;height:46px;padding:0 16px;background:rgba(255,255,255,.1);border:1px solid rgba(255,255,255,.25);border-radius:4px;color:#fff;font-size:14px;outline:none;}\n.htf-pnl input::placeholder{color:rgba(255,255,255,.6);}\n.htf-pnl button{height:46px;padding:0 22px;background:#C8A45A;color:#1A1917;font-weight:600;font-size:14px;border:1px solid #C8A45A;border-radius:4px;cursor:pointer;white-space:nowrap;}\n.htf-pnl button:hover{background:#E8D5A0;border-color:#E8D5A0;}\n.htf-pnl .htf-pnl-msg{margin:12px 0 0;font-size:13px;color:#E8D5A0;min-height:18px;}\n.htf-pnl small{display:block;margin-top:10px;font-size:12px;color:rgba(255,255,255,.6);}\n.htf-sb-pnl{background:#2D5A3D !important;color:#fff;}\n.htf-sb-pnl .htf-sb-label{color:#C8A45A !important;}\n.htf-sb-pnl h4{font-family:'Playfair Display',serif;font-size:17px;color:#fff;margin:0 0 8px;font-weight:600;line-height:1.3;}\n.htf-sb-pnl p{font-size:13px;color:rgba(255,255,255,.8);line-height:1.5;margin:0 0 12px;}\n.htf-sb-pnl form{display:flex;flex-direction:column;gap:8px;}\n.htf-sb-pnl input[type=email]{height:40px;padding:0 12px;background:rgba(255,255,255,.1);border:1px solid rgba(255,255,255,.25);border-radius:4px;color:#fff;font-size:13px;outline:none;}\n.htf-sb-pnl input::placeholder{color:rgba(255,255,255,.6);}\n.htf-sb-pnl button{height:40px;background:#C8A45A;color:#1A1917;font-weight:600;font-size:13px;border:none;border-radius:4px;cursor:pointer;}\n.htf-sb-pnl .htf-pnl-msg{font-size:12px;color:#E8D5A0;margin:8px 0 0;}\n@media(max-width:520px){.htf-pnl{padding:28px 20px;}.htf-pnl h3{font-size:23px;}.htf-pnl form{flex-direction:column;}.htf-pnl button{width:100%;}}\n<\/style><div class=\"htf-pnl\"><div class=\"htf-pnl-eyebrow\">Cape Town deals newsletter<\/div><h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Get_Cape_Towns_best_tour_deals_in_your_inbox\"><\/span>Get Cape Town&#x27;s best tour deals in your inbox<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3><p class=\"htf-pnl-sub\">Winelands bike tours, Hout Bay kayaking and Table Mountain hikes from Cape Adventure Brands \u2014 seasonal picks and 5% off automatically through our links. One short email a week, unsubscribe any time.<\/p><form class=\"htf-pnl-form\" data-tag=\"24949629\" data-list=\"capetown\" data-thanks=\"You&#x27;re in \u2014 Cape Town deals are on their way. Every link in our emails gives you 5% off automatically.\"><input type=\"email\" name=\"email\" placeholder=\"Your email\" required autocomplete=\"email\"><button type=\"submit\">Send me Cape Town deals<\/button><\/form><div class=\"htf-pnl-msg\"><\/div><small>By subscribing you agree to receive our partner-deal emails. No spam, unsubscribe in one click. We may earn a commission on bookings \u2014 your price never changes.<\/small><\/div><script>\n(function(){if(window.__htfPnl)return;window.__htfPnl=1;\ndocument.addEventListener('submit',function(e){var f=e.target;if(!f||!f.classList||!f.classList.contains('htf-pnl-form'))return;e.preventDefault();\nvar em=f.querySelector('input[type=email]').value.trim(),tag=f.getAttribute('data-tag'),msg=f.parentNode.querySelector('.htf-pnl-msg'),btn=f.querySelector('button');\nif(!\/^[^@\\s]+@[^@\\s]+\\.[^@\\s]+$\/.test(em)){msg.textContent='Please enter a valid email address.';return;}\nbtn.disabled=true;msg.textContent='One moment\u2026';\nfetch('https:\/\/api.convertkit.com\/v3\/tags\/'+tag+'\/subscribe',{method:'POST',headers:{'Content-Type':'application\/json; charset=utf-8'},body:JSON.stringify({api_key:'dkGFpqKGHned54ai8Wq1CQ',email:em,fields:{source:location.pathname}})})\n.then(function(r){return r.ok?r.json():Promise.reject(r.status)}).then(function(){f.style.display='none';msg.textContent=f.getAttribute('data-thanks');try{gtag&&gtag('event','newsletter_signup',{list:f.getAttribute('data-list')})}catch(x){}})\n.catch(function(){btn.disabled=false;msg.textContent='Sorry, that did not work \u2014 please try again in a moment.';});\n},true);})();\n<\/script><!-- \/HTF-PARTNER-NEWSLETTER-CAPETOWN-V1 -->\n<h2 id=\"s5b\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Is_R1595_worth_it\"><\/span>Is R1,595 worth it?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Think about what the price covers: a mountain guide for 5.5 hours, your Kirstenbosch garden entry, bottled water and a light snack. Hiking Tours Cape Town says its guides are trained in mountain guiding, which matters on a route that climbs through a gorge in a mountain environment where cloud can roll in within minutes. The guide chooses the pace, keeps the group together and decides whether conditions are suitable. If you are travelling as a couple, the cost is R3,190 for two, roughly \u20ac170 at the time of writing, and it fills most of a day.<\/p><p>Compared with the R1,495 Platteklip hike, you pay R100 more for about two extra hours on the trail but no cable-car ticket, so the better question is which landscape you want. If you want a view-first summit and a quick ride down, take Platteklip. If you want a forest and a long, varied walk, Skeleton Gorge is better value per hour.<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"s5c\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Who_should_choose_something_else\"><\/span>Who should choose something else<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Skip this hike if anyone in your group is under 12, if you dislike steps and steep descents, or if you only have a morning free. For a shorter, gentler day among plants, the <a class=\"htf-book-link\" href=\"https:\/\/hikingtours.co.za\/tours\/kirstenbosch-botanical-hike?ref=hungry\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"sponsored noopener\" style=\"color:#2D5A3D;font-weight:600;text-decoration:underline;text-decoration-color:#C8A45A;text-underline-offset:3px;\">Kirstenbosch Botanical Hike<\/a><span style=\"display:inline-block;font-size:10px;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:1.5px;text-transform:uppercase;background:#C8A45A;color:#0d2018;padding:2px 6px;border-radius:3px;margin-left:4px;vertical-align:2px;\">5% off via our link<\/span> covers the gardens in 3.5 hours at R1,495 (16+). For a sunrise or sunset walk with big views and less effort, look at the <a class=\"htf-book-link\" href=\"https:\/\/hikingtours.co.za\/tours\/lions-head-daybreak-hike?ref=hungry\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"sponsored noopener\" style=\"color:#2D5A3D;font-weight:600;text-decoration:underline;text-decoration-color:#C8A45A;text-underline-offset:3px;\">Lion\u2019s Head Daybreak Hike<\/a><span style=\"display:inline-block;font-size:10px;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:1.5px;text-transform:uppercase;background:#C8A45A;color:#0d2018;padding:2px 6px;border-radius:3px;margin-left:4px;vertical-align:2px;\">5% off via our link<\/span> or <a class=\"htf-book-link\" href=\"https:\/\/hikingtours.co.za\/tours\/lions-head-golden-hour-hike?ref=hungry\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"sponsored noopener\" style=\"color:#2D5A3D;font-weight:600;text-decoration:underline;text-decoration-color:#C8A45A;text-underline-offset:3px;\">Lion\u2019s Head Golden Hour Hike<\/a><span style=\"display:inline-block;font-size:10px;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:1.5px;text-transform:uppercase;background:#C8A45A;color:#0d2018;padding:2px 6px;border-radius:3px;margin-left:4px;vertical-align:2px;\">5% off via our link<\/span>, both R1,495 and about three hours.<\/p><p>Travelling with younger children? Cape Town has plenty for them that does not involve a mountain: the half-day <a class=\"htf-book-link\" href=\"https:\/\/bikesnwines.com\/tours\/stellenbosch-family-bike-tour?ref=hungry\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"sponsored noopener\" style=\"color:#2D5A3D;font-weight:600;text-decoration:underline;text-decoration-color:#C8A45A;text-underline-offset:3px;\">Stellenbosch Family Tour<\/a><span style=\"display:inline-block;font-size:10px;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:1.5px;text-transform:uppercase;background:#C8A45A;color:#0d2018;padding:2px 6px;border-radius:3px;margin-left:4px;vertical-align:2px;\">5% off via our link<\/span> bike ride takes all ages, and the <a class=\"htf-book-link\" href=\"https:\/\/capetownkayaks.co.za\/tours\/standard-kayak-tours?ref=hungry\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"sponsored noopener\" style=\"color:#2D5A3D;font-weight:600;text-decoration:underline;text-decoration-color:#C8A45A;text-underline-offset:3px;\">2 Hour Hout Bay Kayak Adventure<\/a><span style=\"display:inline-block;font-size:10px;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:1.5px;text-transform:uppercase;background:#C8A45A;color:#0d2018;padding:2px 6px;border-radius:3px;margin-left:4px;vertical-align:2px;\">5% off via our link<\/span> takes children aged 6 and over with an adult.<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"s6\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_to_bring_and_wear\"><\/span>What to bring and wear<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<ul><li>Shoes with real grip: forest sections can be wet and steps are uneven.<\/li><li>A warm and waterproof layer: mountain weather changes fast, even in summer.<\/li><li>A hat, sunscreen and sunglasses for the exposed top.<\/li><li>A small daypack with extra water and lunch; the operator provides water and a light snack.<\/li><li>Your phone, fully charged, and a small first-aid kit if you carry one.<\/li><\/ul><p>The guides are trained in mountain guiding, which is the main reason to book rather than go alone: they decide whether conditions are suitable and navigate in cloud.<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"s7b\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Fitting_it_into_a_Cape_Town_trip\"><\/span>Fitting it into a Cape Town trip<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Because the hike starts at 09:00 and finishes around 14:30, it takes most of a day. We would put it on day one or two, when the weather window is most flexible, and keep a spare day for a cloud or wind postponement. Afterwards you will want a slow evening, not a 06:00 alarm.<\/p><p>A sensible three-day mix is: one mountain day (this hike or Platteklip), one Winelands day on a bike tour, and one morning on the water in Hout Bay. Read our 3-day Cape Town itinerary for that plan. Cape Town is on South African time (UTC+2) with no daylight saving, so from Finland the time difference is zero or one hour. There is no jet lag, which is a real advantage when you have a 09:00 trailhead on your first full day.<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"s7\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Weather_seasons_and_when_to_go\"><\/span>Weather, seasons and when to go<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>The tour runs year-round and in light rain, with a peak from November to April, which is Cape Town&#8217;s summer. In high summer the shaded gorge is the cool choice, but the plateau can be hot and windy. In winter, rain fronts make the forest lush; if conditions are unsafe, the operator says tours are adjusted, postponed or cancelled and alternatives offered. Check the operator&#8217;s terms before booking. In peak season the popular dates sell out, so book early.<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"s8\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_to_book_with_the_Hungrytravelfamily_discount\"><\/span>How to book with the Hungrytravelfamily discount<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Click the tour link on this page, choose a date on the operator&#8217;s own booking page and pay there. The price shown is the normal price; the 5% comes off automatically because you arrived through our link. We never take payment. A minimum of two guests is needed per departure and solo travellers can join an existing booking or book two seats. Private tours are available for a supplement. We are a Cape Adventure Brands affiliate and earn a commission on bookings made through our links \u2014 the 5% discount is yours either way.<\/p><p>If your plans change, the operator publishes its own terms; we do not handle bookings, so contact Hiking Tours Cape Town directly. Keep your confirmation email handy on the morning of the hike.<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"faq\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"FAQ\"><\/span>FAQ<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2><div class=\"htf-faq\"><details><summary>How much does the Skeleton Gorge hike cost?<\/summary><p>R1,595 per person for the guided 5.5-hour hike, including Kirstenbosch entry, bottled water and a light snack. Lunch and guide gratuities are extra. Book through our link and 5% comes off automatically.<\/p><\/details><details><summary>How long and how hard is it?<\/summary><p>8 km, 650 m of ascent, 5.5 hours from 09:00 to 14:30, and a 4\/5 on the operator&#8217;s difficulty scale.<\/p><\/details><details><summary>What is the minimum age?<\/summary><p>12. For under-12s look at the <a class=\"htf-book-link\" href=\"https:\/\/bikesnwines.com\/tours\/stellenbosch-family-bike-tour?ref=hungry\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"sponsored noopener\" style=\"color:#2D5A3D;font-weight:600;text-decoration:underline;text-decoration-color:#C8A45A;text-underline-offset:3px;\">Stellenbosch Family Tour<\/a><span style=\"display:inline-block;font-size:10px;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:1.5px;text-transform:uppercase;background:#C8A45A;color:#0d2018;padding:2px 6px;border-radius:3px;margin-left:4px;vertical-align:2px;\">5% off via our link<\/span> or a kayak trip such as the <a class=\"htf-book-link\" href=\"https:\/\/capetownkayaks.co.za\/tours\/standard-kayak-tours?ref=hungry\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"sponsored noopener\" style=\"color:#2D5A3D;font-weight:600;text-decoration:underline;text-decoration-color:#C8A45A;text-underline-offset:3px;\">2 Hour Hout Bay Kayak Adventure<\/a><span style=\"display:inline-block;font-size:10px;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:1.5px;text-transform:uppercase;background:#C8A45A;color:#0d2018;padding:2px 6px;border-radius:3px;margin-left:4px;vertical-align:2px;\">5% off via our link<\/span> (ages 6+ with an adult).<\/p><\/details><details><summary>Is the cable car included?<\/summary><p>No. The Platteklip hike includes a one-way cable-car ticket; Skeleton Gorge returns on foot via Nursery Ravine.<\/p><\/details><details><summary>What if it rains or there is cloud?<\/summary><p>The tour runs in light rain. When weather is unsafe the operator adjusts, postpones or cancels and offers alternatives. Check its terms.<\/p><\/details><details><summary>Can I do this hike without a guide?<\/summary><p>Many people do, but we prefer guided hikes in changing mountain weather. The guide handles navigation and conditions.<\/p><\/details><\/div>\n<h2 id=\"s9\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Our_Honest_Final_Word\"><\/span>Our Honest Final Word<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2><p>We have not hiked this route with the operator \u2014 we send readers based on its live pages \u2014 but the plan is appealing: a shaded forest climb, the dams on the plateau, a descent through Nursery Ravine and a price that includes your garden entry. It is a long, demanding day, so be honest about fitness. For a quicker summit, take Platteklip instead.<\/p><p>Book the <a class=\"htf-book-link\" href=\"https:\/\/hikingtours.co.za\/tours\/Table-Mountain-Skeleton-Gorge?ref=hungry\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"sponsored noopener\" style=\"color:#2D5A3D;font-weight:600;text-decoration:underline;text-decoration-color:#C8A45A;text-underline-offset:3px;\">Table Mountain Hike &#8211; Skeleton Gorge\/Nursery Ravine<\/a><span style=\"display:inline-block;font-size:10px;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:1.5px;text-transform:uppercase;background:#C8A45A;color:#0d2018;padding:2px 6px;border-radius:3px;margin-left:4px;vertical-align:2px;\">5% off via our link<\/span> through our link and 5% comes off automatically. Pair it with a <a class=\"htf-book-link\" href=\"https:\/\/hikingtours.co.za\/tours\/lions-head-daybreak-hike?ref=hungry\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"sponsored noopener\" style=\"color:#2D5A3D;font-weight:600;text-decoration:underline;text-decoration-color:#C8A45A;text-underline-offset:3px;\">Lion\u2019s Head Daybreak Hike<\/a><span style=\"display:inline-block;font-size:10px;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:1.5px;text-transform:uppercase;background:#C8A45A;color:#0d2018;padding:2px 6px;border-radius:3px;margin-left:4px;vertical-align:2px;\">5% off via our link<\/span> or a day among the vineyards on the <a class=\"htf-book-link\" href=\"https:\/\/bikesnwines.com\/tours\/stellenbosch-half-day-winelands-mountain-bike-cycle-tour?ref=hungry\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"sponsored noopener\" style=\"color:#2D5A3D;font-weight:600;text-decoration:underline;text-decoration-color:#C8A45A;text-underline-offset:3px;\">Stellenbosch Half Day Winelands Cycle Tour<\/a><span style=\"display:inline-block;font-size:10px;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:1.5px;text-transform:uppercase;background:#C8A45A;color:#0d2018;padding:2px 6px;border-radius:3px;margin-left:4px;vertical-align:2px;\">5% off via our link<\/span>.<\/p>\n<!-- CAPE ADVENTURE BRANDS TOUR CARDS -->\n<div class=\"htf-la-cards\">\n<div style=\"text-align:center;margin-bottom:28px;\">\n<div class=\"htf-la-code\" style=\"margin-bottom:16px;\">5% off \u00b7 automatic via our links<\/div>\n<h3 style=\"font-family:'Playfair Display',serif;font-size:30px;font-weight:400;margin:0 0 10px;color:#fff;line-height:1.2;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Our_Cape_Town_picks_with_Cape_Adventure_Brands\"><\/span>Our Cape Town picks with Cape Adventure Brands<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p style=\"font-size:15px;line-height:1.6;color:#d8e8d0;margin:0 auto;max-width:580px;\">Tap a tour to see live dates and prices on the operator&#8217;s own page. Book through our link and <strong style=\"color:#C8A45A;\">5% comes off automatically<\/strong> \u2014 nothing to type at checkout.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"htf-la-grid\"><a class=\"htf-la-card\" href=\"https:\/\/hikingtours.co.za\/tours\/Table-Mountain-Skeleton-Gorge?ref=hungry\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"sponsored noopener\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"htf-la-card-img\" src=\"https:\/\/hungrytravelfamily.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/capetown-table-mountain-hike-skeleton-gorge-nursery-ravine-1.jpg\" alt=\"Table Mountain Hike - Skeleton Gorge\/Nursery Ravine\" loading=\"lazy\"><span class=\"htf-la-k\">Hiking Tours Cape Town \u00b7 5.5 Hours<\/span><span class=\"htf-la-n\">Table Mountain Hike &#8211; Skeleton Gorge\/Nursery Ravine<\/span><span class=\"htf-la-p\">From R1,595 per person<\/span><span class=\"htf-la-go\">Book with 5% off \u2192<\/span><\/a><a class=\"htf-la-card\" href=\"https:\/\/hikingtours.co.za\/tours\/Table-Mountain-Hike-Platteklip?ref=hungry\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"sponsored noopener\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"htf-la-card-img\" src=\"https:\/\/hungrytravelfamily.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/capetown-table-mountain-hike-platteklip-1.jpg\" alt=\"Table Mountain Hike - Platteklip\" loading=\"lazy\"><span class=\"htf-la-k\">Hiking Tours Cape Town \u00b7 3.5 Hours<\/span><span class=\"htf-la-n\">Table Mountain Hike &#8211; Platteklip<\/span><span class=\"htf-la-p\">From R1,495 per person<\/span><span class=\"htf-la-go\">Book with 5% off \u2192<\/span><\/a><a class=\"htf-la-card\" href=\"https:\/\/hikingtours.co.za\/tours\/kirstenbosch-botanical-hike?ref=hungry\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"sponsored noopener\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"htf-la-card-img\" src=\"https:\/\/hungrytravelfamily.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/capetown-kirstenbosch-botanical-hike-1.jpg\" alt=\"Kirstenbosch Botanical Hike\" loading=\"lazy\"><span class=\"htf-la-k\">Hiking Tours Cape Town \u00b7 3.5 Hours<\/span><span class=\"htf-la-n\">Kirstenbosch Botanical Hike<\/span><span class=\"htf-la-p\">From R1,495 per person<\/span><span class=\"htf-la-go\">Book with 5% off \u2192<\/span><\/a><a class=\"htf-la-card\" href=\"https:\/\/hikingtours.co.za\/tours\/lions-head-daybreak-hike?ref=hungry\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"sponsored noopener\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"htf-la-card-img\" src=\"https:\/\/hungrytravelfamily.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/capetown-lion-s-head-daybreak-hike-1.jpg\" alt=\"Lion\u2019s Head Daybreak Hike\" loading=\"lazy\"><span class=\"htf-la-k\">Hiking Tours Cape Town \u00b7 3 Hours<\/span><span class=\"htf-la-n\">Lion\u2019s Head Daybreak Hike<\/span><span class=\"htf-la-p\">From R1,495 per person<\/span><span class=\"htf-la-go\">Book with 5% off \u2192<\/span><\/a><\/div>\n<p style=\"font-size:12px;color:rgba(255,255,255,0.65);margin:22px 0 0;text-align:center;\">We are a Cape Adventure Brands affiliate and earn a commission on bookings made through our links 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href=\"#s5c\">Who should skip<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#s6\">What to bring<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#s7b\">Fit it into a trip<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#s7\">Weather and season<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#s8\">How to book<\/a><\/li><\/ol>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"htf-sb htf-sb-tours\">\n<div class=\"htf-sb-label\">Cape Town tours \u00b7 5% off<\/div>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/hikingtours.co.za\/tours\/Table-Mountain-Skeleton-Gorge?ref=hungry\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"sponsored noopener\">Table Mountain Hike &#8211; Skeleton Gorge\/Nursery Ravine<small>From R1,595 per person \u00b7 5% off via our link<\/small><\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/hikingtours.co.za\/tours\/Table-Mountain-Hike-Platteklip?ref=hungry\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"sponsored noopener\">Table Mountain Hike &#8211; Platteklip<small>From R1,495 per person \u00b7 5% off via our link<\/small><\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/hikingtours.co.za\/tours\/kirstenbosch-botanical-hike?ref=hungry\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"sponsored noopener\">Kirstenbosch Botanical Hike<small>From R1,495 per person \u00b7 5% off via our link<\/small><\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/hikingtours.co.za\/tours\/lions-head-daybreak-hike?ref=hungry\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"sponsored noopener\">Lion\u2019s Head Daybreak Hike<small>From R1,495 per person \u00b7 5% off via our link<\/small><\/a>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"htf-sb htf-sb-pnl\"><div class=\"htf-sb-label\">Cape Town deals newsletter<\/div><h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Get_Cape_Towns_best_tour_deals_in_your_inbox-2\"><\/span>Get Cape Town&#x27;s best tour deals in your inbox<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4><p>Weekly picks and the reader discount \u2014 free.<\/p><form class=\"htf-pnl-form\" data-tag=\"24949629\" data-list=\"capetown\" data-thanks=\"You&#x27;re in \u2014 Cape Town deals are on their way. 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Lunch and guide gratuities are extra. Book through our link and 5% comes off automatically.\"}}, {\"@type\": \"Question\", \"name\": \"How long and how hard is it?\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"@type\": \"Answer\", \"text\": \"8 km, 650 m of ascent, 5.5 hours from 09:00 to 14:30, and a 4\/5 on the operator's difficulty scale.\"}}, {\"@type\": \"Question\", \"name\": \"What is the minimum age?\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"@type\": \"Answer\", \"text\": \"12. For under-12s look at the Stellenbosch Family Tour or a kayak trip such as the 2 Hour Hout Bay Kayak Adventure (ages 6+ with an adult).\"}}, {\"@type\": \"Question\", \"name\": \"Is the cable car included?\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"@type\": \"Answer\", \"text\": \"No. The Platteklip hike includes a one-way cable-car ticket; Skeleton Gorge returns on foot via Nursery Ravine.\"}}, {\"@type\": \"Question\", \"name\": \"What if it rains or there is cloud?\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"@type\": \"Answer\", \"text\": \"The tour runs in light rain. When weather is unsafe the operator adjusts, postpones or cancels and offers alternatives. Check its terms.\"}}, {\"@type\": \"Question\", \"name\": \"Can I do this hike without a guide?\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"@type\": \"Answer\", \"text\": \"Many people do, but we prefer guided hikes in changing mountain weather. The guide handles navigation and conditions.\"}}]}<\/script><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<\/div>\n\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Skeleton Gorge and Nursery Ravine guided hike from Kirstenbosch: R1,595, 8 km, 650 m, 5.5 hours, ages 12+. 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