There are a number of beautiful and manageable short walks throughout the reserve. No matter which trail you pick, you will be rewarded with panoramic ocean and mountain views, access to unspoiled beaches. On this hike, you may get the opportunity to see wildlife wandering peacefully among the vibrant fynbos or across the salt white sand.

Here are some of the best short walks and hikes in and around the Cape Point Nature Reserve:

Lighthouse Keeper’s Trail

The Lighthouse Keeper’s Trail is a short, easy trail (2km / 1.2 miles there and back) that runs below the iconic lighthouse atop Cape Point. However, it is often overlooked by visitors who are eager to visit the old lighthouse.

The trail has a narrow but well-established path that will lead you along a sheer cliff-face towards the lesser-known new lighthouse. The trail offers a fascinating perspective of the old Cape Point lighthouse, which towers many meters above. You will walk through historical bunkers and beautiful fynbos until the path runs out.

The trail begins just behind the upper funicular station. Park at the Cape Point main parking area to access it.

Cape of Good Hope Trail

The Cape of Good Hope trail is also an easy trail, but it’s a little longer at 3.5km / 2+ miles. It should take you approximately 2-3 hours to finish the trail.

The Cape Of Good Hope trail takes you along a well-maintained and marked boardwalk towards the famous Cape of Good Hope sign. This trail is popular for its accessibility, its rugged western shoreline, and its views over the pristine Dias Beach.

If you’re on the trail, be sure to go all the way to the very end of the trail. The end of the trail is the south-western point of the Cape Peninsula, and therefore the most South Western corner of Africa. Take a photo as evidence that you truly have reached that point.

You can get to the trail from the Cape Point main parking area. Simply follow signs towards Cape of Good Hope.

Antoniesgat Trail

The Antoniesgat trail is 3.5km / 2+ miles long. It should take you approximately 2-3 hours to finish the trail.

This trail is moderately difficult but is one of the region’s most enjoyable short trails. Here’s what you can look forward to:

• Access to Buffels Bay Beach, which is a gem hidden from the main tour groups. The Antoniesgat Trail departs from near this beach;
• Beautiful views over the bay, towards the mountains, and up towards the Cape Point lighthouse;
• The opportunity to cool off in the tidal pools;
• There are a number of caves and tunnels to explore en-route;
• The walk takes you close to the action where powerful waves pound the peninsula;
• The opportunity to enjoy a braai (bbq) at the well-maintained facilities at the end of the walk.

Access the trail from the traffic circle south of Buffels Bay Beach.

Gifkommetjie Trail

The Gifkommetjie trail is approximately 5.5km / 3.4 miles long. It’s an easy trail that follows the southwestern shores of Cape Point. It is often overlooked, so it’s quiet most of the time.

This trail offers beautiful views of the unspoiled shoreline, lush green dune vegetation, and open pans and marshes.

If you are moderately fit and you’re looking to get some good distance on a flat route, this would be a good option for you. You’ll get a feeling of true isolation and escapism in one of the most picturesque locations in the world.

To access the Gifkommetjie trail parking area, follow signposts once you enter Cape Point.

Phyllisia Circuit

The Phyllisia Circuit is an easy trail that is approximately 7km / 4.3 miles long. It is named after a large trawler that ran aground on the nearby shoreline in 1968.

This circular route takes you parallel to the Western Cape Point coastline, and returns along the shore.

To access this trail, follow signposts to the Gifkommetjie parking lot. You’ll be able to access the Phyllisia Circuit from there.

Shipwreck Trails

The shipwreck trails are perhaps the most popular of the shorter trails at Cape Point. They vary in distance and time.  These unique walks depart from the Olifantsbos parking area, and each offer a fascinating insight into the early days of the many Cape Point maritime disasters and access to unspoiled fauna and flora. Read our guide to the Cape Point Shipwreck trail for more information on what you can expect from each of these walks.

Olifantsbos Trail

This is the shortest and most easily accessible walk at 3km/ 1.86 miles. It should take you approximately 1½ hours to finish this trail.

The trail leads down to the beach through fynbos foliage. This is where the former WWII troop and weapons transport vessel— SS Thomas T. Tucker wrecked in 1942. The SS Thomas T. Tucker is  Cape Point’s most photographed wreck. Its hull is home to the local birdlife.

Sirkelsvlei Trail

The Sirkelsvlei trail is a relatively easy trail that is approximately 7.5km / 4.66 miles long. It takes you across the rugged landscape and past the Sirkelsvlei pan. This is home to rare animals such as hartebeest and bontebok.

Kanonkop

The Kanonkop trail is one of the most popular trails. It’s a moderately easy trail. It is approximately 5.5km/ 3.4 miles long and should take you around 3 hours to finish this circular route.

The Kanonkop trail provides magnificent views over False Bay, the prominent Da Gama monument, Cape Point and Buffels Bay Beach.

The trail requires only a moderate level of fitness. If you’re not quite up to it, follow the road to Venus Pools and park close to the signs directing you up Kanonkop, (a few hundred metres/yards after the turnoff at Bynes.)

Access the trail from the visitors center.

Tourists and locals alike are urged to take necessary precautions when exploring secluded areas—crimes and accidents do happen. Those venturing into the Table Mountain National Park should have the following emergency numbers on hand: 086 110 6417/ 107 or 021 480 7700. Criminal incidents should be reported to the nearest police station as soon as able. Table Mountian National Parks also recommend @safetymountain as a useful resource for hikers. This free safety tracking service allows you to notify local trackers of your contact details, intended route, and travel time via WhatsApp. You are then able to provide hourly updates on your progress and to notify trackers when you are safely off the mountain.