Do not hike Table Mountain without a guide. Braucht man für den Tafelberg einen Bergführer?

Do you need a guide for Table Mountain?

Should you hike Table Mountain without a guide? If you answer no to any of the following questions, it is highly recommended that you do't!

You want to hike Table Mountain without a guide. But have you considered the risks?
  • Do you know the route at all? Can you find your way in thick fog if the weather suddenly changes?
  • Do you know the hand- and foot holds on the tricky scrambles?
  • Have you got a rope and know how to use it to secure someone?
  • Are you familiar with Table Mountain’s snakes, scorpions, plants, and other creatures?
  • Do you carry a first-aid kit and know how to use it, if an emergency arises?
  • Do you know the fauna, flora, geology, and tales of Table Mountain?
Rather safe than sorry! Do not hike Table Mountain without a guide.

Every year, dozens of people who decide to hike Table Mountain without a guide, are rescued from Table Mountain, because they under-estimate the difficulty. Table Mountain looks small and people do not realise what dangers this beautiful mountain can pose. Many get lost or injured. Or they climb up somewhere, from where they cannot get down safely, nor can they go up any further! Others come unprepared, without the correct gear, enough water, or knowledge of what to expect on the route ahead.

Here is information on what you need for a guided hike with us.

Our weather is unpredictable and can change suddenly and unexpectedly. Unless you are familiar with the routes, and the respective external challenges, it is unsafe to hike Table Mountain without a guide.

A guide knows the routes, will find the way in bad visibility, and will ensure, you know what you need, to have a safe and optimal experience.

Our main objective is your safety and comfort. Certain areas are more prone to criminal activity. We are closely connected to the mountain rescue, the local police, and other guides. That way we can keep track of the locations of the problem areas, and therefore which trails to avoid.

If you hike Table Mountain without a guide, know your hazards!
And remember, the same applies to the hiking trails on Lion’s Head and Devil’s Peak!

We will guide you where to place your hand or foot on a scramble or which hazardous plants to look for. Some plants will give you painful blisters for weeks if you accidentally touch them! We spot the snakes, know them apart, and can deal with a crisis. To guide safely, we have Wilderness First-Aid training and a good rope-work background to aid anyone in need.

We know the history and tales of the area and would love to share them with you while we guide you.

For the ultimate experience, do not hike Table Mountain without a guide. Not only is it safer for you to book a mountain guide, but also a more rewarding experience.

Read what our clients have to say about our guided hiking trips on Tripadvisor.