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Lion's Head - Cape Town

A view from the top of Table Mountain showing Lion's Head (left), Robben Island and Cape Town Stadium © Kay-africa, License

Lion's Head - Cape Town

Lion's Head is a prominent peak in Cape Town, located between Table Mountain and Signal Hill. Renowned for its distinctive shape, it offers panoramic views of the city, Table Bay, and the Atlantic Ocean. The hike to the summit is popular among locals and tourists, with a well-trodden trail that includes sections of scrambling and chains for assistance. At the top, visitors are rewarded with breathtaking sunrise and sunset vistas, making it a favorite spot for photographers. Lion's Head is also known for its monthly full moon hikes, attracting those eager to experience the city illuminated by moonlight.

There is a moderately strenuous hiking trail of about and hour and 50 minutes that spirals up around Lion's Head that gives a much better view of the city and also overlooks Camps Bay and Sea Point. The trail begins at a gravel parking lot located under a patch of bluegum trees near the beginning of Signal Hill Rd.

There is quite a steep rock that you need to climb to reach the top, you can get up this with the help of mountain chains. But for the less adventurous there is an alternative route which does take a bit longer. Loin's Head is a spectacular site during the full moon. Unfortunately a number of muggings have also been reported recently by hikers taking this trail also it isn't suitable for the elderly and young children.

5 interesting facts about Lion's Head in Cape Town:

1. Distinctive Shape: Lion's Head is named for its unique shape, which is said to resemble a crouching lion or a sphinx. It stands prominently between Table Mountain and Signal Hill, contributing to Cape Town's iconic skyline.

2. Popular Hiking Destination: The hike to the summit of Lion's Head is one of Cape Town's most popular trails. It offers a relatively easy ascent with spectacular 360-degree views of the city, Table Mountain, and the Atlantic Ocean.

3. Full Moon Hikes: One of the most popular times to hike Lion's Head is during the full moon. Hikers often start in the late afternoon to catch the sunset from the summit and then descend by the light of the full moon, enjoying the magical experience of night hiking.

4. Paragliding Launch Site: Lion's Head is a favored launch site for paragliders. On any given day, you can see colorful paragliders taking off from its slopes and gliding over the city and coastline, offering a thrilling aerial perspective.

5. Historic Significance: The slopes of Lion's Head are dotted with historic cannons from the 18th century, part of the Lion Battery. These were once used to signal the arrival of ships and to defend Cape Town from potential threats.


Accommodation Near Lion's Head - Cape Town

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