The Right Face, Arrow Face Traverse tickles just the right nerves for the adrenaline junkies of hikers.
This is one of the most exhilarating routes to the top of Table Mountain, which is certainly not meant for the faint-hearted.
Starting from the lower cable station on Tafelberg Road, we will walk the first steep section to the contour path, from where we will walk on the contour path until we reach Union Ravine. Yellowstone Gully is the route that links Union Ravine and the Right Face, Arrow Face Traverse.
The main objective of the Arrow Face Traverse route is to traverse along a rock face on the front face of Table Mountain. Along this route, you must squeeze through nooks and cracks and walk on narrow ledges above a steep drop. You will disappear into a wall and reappear on a narrow ledge with hundreds of meters of cliff to balance on and negotiate.
There are a few non-technical, not particularly difficult scrambles on the Right Face, Arrow Face Traverse. It will not be a problem for anyone familiar with scrambling. Above all, it might be comforting for some to know that you do not need to scramble in the exposed areas.
However, on the Right Face, Arrow Face Traverse, the drop-offs are noteworthy and of extreme importance. Therefore you must have nerves of steel, absolutely no fear of heights and no dizziness!
Soon after the traverse, this route meets up with the end of the India Venster, from where both routes continue via Fountain Ledge to the top of Table Mountain.
During this stretch, the scenery changes dramatically from the initial views you had from the front face. You might also catch a bit of a breeze around this corner, so do not forget to bring a warm jacket or a windbreaker.
It is also good to know that there is no water on the route and you would need to carry a sufficient amount, to carry you through the hike.
As you get to Fountain Ledge, you are spoiled with extraordinary views over Camps Bay and the Twelve Apostles.
Until now, you might not have met many other hikers on the route. You will approach the top of Table Mountain from the back table. From there one can see False Bay and the Hottentots Holland mountain range on the furthest side of False Bay.
As to be expected, there are a few very steep walking sections. After all, the idea is to get to the top of Table Mountain! You should have some hiking experience, be fairly fit, and have no fear of heights to hike this trail.
The trail begins at 363 m above sea level and ends at 1067 m.
Very few people hike this route. There is no clear, obvious path to follow; therefore it is strongly advisable to book a mountain guide.
Duration
It takes approximately 5 hours to reach the top of Table Mountain, including stops. From there, we will take the Cableway down.
An important tip! Strongly built people will not fit through the cracks.
Price
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1 Person - R3 900
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2-4 Persons - R2 500 pp
Here is the meeting point.
