Constantia Nek Hike, Cape Town

If you want to hike Table Mountain but skip the knee-breaking climbs and tourist traffic, then Constantia Nek is your trail. 

This route is a gem. It’s scenic, peaceful, and way more forgiving than the likes of Platteklip or Skeleton Gorge. Growing up close to the trailhead, I’ve hiked it in all seasons and conditions — and I never get tired of it.

Before you hit the trail, though, know this: Constantia Nek is not the most exciting hike in Cape Town. The view doesn’t change much, and the path up is steady and not particularly exciting. You’ll also be in the company of plenty of dog walkers and Constantia moms along the way. 

But that’s not to say it isn’t beautiful. And the best part is the refreshing dip in the dam at the top, which I’ll confidently say is one of the absolute best swimming spots on any Table Mountain hike.

If you want to experience all that Cape Town’s mountains have to offer, then you can’t ignore Constantia Nek.

This guide is going to walk you through everything you need to know about this hike. 

Constantia Nek Hike: Quick Overview

• Start point: Constantia Nek Parking Lot (right by the circle on Rhodes Drive)
• Distance: ±7 km (out and back to De Villiers Dam)
• Time: 1.5 to 2.5 hours (depending on pace + breaks)
• Difficulty: Moderate (some sweat, no scrambling)
• Terrain: Steps, gravel paths, and jeep track
• Dog-friendly: Yes (but keep your pup leashed)
• Permits/Fees: None for day hikes
• Best time: Early morning (sunrise over False Bay with a morning mountain swim is magic)

Constantia Nek Hike: Getting There and Parking

Start at the Constantia Nek parking lot. It’s popular, especially on weekends, but it’s free. 

If you’re arriving after 9am on a Saturday or Sunday, expect to park a bit further down the road. There’s a small refreshment hut here too — decent coffee and cold drinks if you’re finishing up.

Pro tip: Avoid hiking in the heat of the day. This trail is exposed for long stretches, and it bakes in summer.

Constantia Nek Hike: The Trail

Ready to summit Constantia Nek? It’s a very straightforward hike with no risk of getting lost. 

Section 1: The Initial Climb

From the boom gate, follow the jeep track for a few meters and take the first steep steps on your left. This part climbs fast. You’ll be puffing, but don’t panic, it’s short and it gets easier. 

The stairs are well-maintained, and the fynbos is thick around you. Expect proteas, ericas, and maybe a sunbird or two.

The steps reconnect with the jeep track. Cross it diagonally to another path of, yes, more steps. 

Keep going. This second section winds up through more shrub-covered slopes. Soon, you’ll hit a junction where the narrow trail becomes a concrete jeep track. 

Congratulations: the hardest part is over.

Section 2: The Jeep Track Meander

Now it’s easy walking. The jeep track is wide, flat, and great for chatting or just soaking in the views. The stone wall on your left is often mossy and cool to the touch; your right opens up to jaw-dropping views of False Bay, Muizenberg, and the vineyards below.

This stretch is where you really fall in love with the hike. It’s peaceful. You’re high above the suburbs, the wind is crisp, and the buzz of the city disappears.

Keep following the track as it gently curves right. After about 20–25 minutes, you’ll start seeing De Villiers Dam come into view, shimmering in the sun like a mountaintop oasis.

Image: Alltrails

Section 3: De Villiers Dam & the Overseer’s Cottage

You’ve reached the top of Constantia Nek, which connects you to the larger Table Mountain plateau. This is the turnaround point for most day hikers. Take a rest. Sit on a rock. Breathe in the mountain air.

Just up ahead is the Overseer’s Cottage — a simple but legendary mountain hut that can be booked through SANParks. It sleeps 16, has epic views, a fireplace, braai facilities, and even hot showers if the water’s running.

Want to keep going? You can! This area links you to:

• Victoria & Alexandra Dams (lovely for a longer loop)
  
• Woodhead & Hely-Hutchinson Dams (near the top of Skeleton Gorge)
  
• Kasteelspoort descent if you’ve planned a car shuttle or loop

Constantia Nek Hike: What You’ll See

This hike is rich in fynbos, especially in spring and early summer. Keep an eye out for:

• King Proteas (massive and glorious when in bloom)
• Sunbirds & sugarbirds darting around the flowering shrubs
• Dassies (rock hyraxes) sunning themselves on boulders
  

And of course, the panoramic views. On a clear day, you’ll spot:

• False Bay
• The Hottentots Holland mountains
• The vineyards of Constantia
• Devil’s Peak and the back of Table Mountain
  

As is always the case when hiking on Table Mountain, keep an eye out for snakes. Last time I hiked up Constantia Nek, a cape cobra nearly bit my jack russel!

Optional Detours and Variations From Constantia Nek

The Constantia Nek hike is a straightforward route to the dam summit. However, there are plenty of other options when you get up on the mountain. 

If you’re keen to mix things up, here are some ideas:

• Shorter hike: Just walk to the mossy wall viewpoint and back (~3km return)
• Longer loop: Add in the Alexandra & Victoria Dam circuit (+2–3km)
• Overnight trip: Book the Overseer’s Cottage, or apply to stay at MCSA or Scout Huts
• Alternative descent: Go down via Nursery Ravine or Kasteelspoort (only if you’ve planned transport)

Final Constantia Nek Hiking Tips from a Frequent Hiker

• Bring at least 1L of water — more in summer
• Wear a hat and sunscreen; the trail is exposed
• Bring a windbreaker — even if the city’s hot, it can be breezy up at the top
• Cell signal is good until you hit the top
• Leave no trace: pack out all trash, including fruit peels

Conquer Constantia Nek

Constantia Nek is the perfect “gateway” hike for people who want to explore Table Mountain without dying on the climb. It’s scenic, manageable, and full of options. 

Whether you want a chilled morning walk or a full-day mountain adventure, this trail delivers.