Diagonal Cave Hike: A Hidden Gem on Table Mountain
If you’re looking for a hike that gives you epic views, a sense of adventure, and a secret cave tucked into the cliffs of Table Mountain, without having to commit to a full summit mission, then the Diagonal Cave Hike is calling your name.
This is one of those trails that flies under the radar. It’s got all the drama and beauty you expect from Table Mountain — steep rock faces, wild fynbos, and those ridiculous views of Camps Bay — but without the crowds of Platteklip or India Venster.
Here’s everything you need to know about the diagonal path up Table Mountain and how to prepare for it.
Quick Overview
- Start Point: Kloof Nek Parking Lot (top of Tafelberg Road)
- Distance: Around 7.5 km return
- Time: 2.5 to 3 hours round trip (more if you linger at the cave)
- Difficulty: Moderate — short and steep section, light scrambling
- Cost: Free (no permits or fees)
- Dogs: Technically allowed, but not recommended past the Pipe Track
- Best Time to Go: Early morning in spring or autumn
What Makes the Diagonal Cave Hike Special?
The Diagonal Cave hike is like a mini adventure tucked into the side of a mountain. You follow the Pipe Track (a gentle, scenic walk above Camps Bay), then veer sharply up the Diagonal Route — a steep zigzag trail that cuts across the rock bands of the Twelve Apostles.
It leads you to a big, dramatic cave halfway up the cliffs. From the cave, you get an insane view over Lion’s Head, Camps Bay, and out to the Atlantic.
It’s a natural stone amphitheatre and makes a killer lunch spot, photo op, or meditation moment.
It’s wild, rugged, peaceful, and still relatively unknown.
Diagonal Cave Hike, Cape Town: Step-by-Step Route Breakdown
Hiking up the Diagonal Cave path is relatively straightforward. Here’s what the route looks like.
1. Start at Kloof Nek Parking Lot
Pop your car in the upper parking lot on Tafelberg Road — the one near the start of the Pipe Track (just before the road to the cable car station ends).
Get there early. Parking fills up fast on weekends.
2. Follow the Pipe Track
Head south (away from Lion’s Head) along the Pipe Track. It’s an easy, flat-ish gravel trail that runs above Camps Bay, with beautiful views, proteas, and shady patches under massive boulders.
Walk about 2.5 to 3 km past the entrances to Kasteelspoort and Corridor Ravine. Eventually, you’ll see a wooden sign pointing up the mountain: “Diagonal Route.”
3. Turn Left and Start Climbing
This is where the real hiking begins. The trail turns into a steep single track as you zigzag your way up through fynbos, loose rock, and rocky steps. Your legs will know about it.
Pace yourself — this bit gets hot in summer. There’s minimal shade, and it’s a solid grind. But the higher you go, the more ridiculous the views get.
4. Scramble Near the Top
As you approach the cave, the trail tightens, and you’ll hit a short rocky scramble. It’s not technical and doesn’t need ropes, but you’ll probably use your hands here and there.
If the rock is wet, go carefully — it can get slippery.
The cave is tucked just to the left before the route continues further up Diagonal.
5. Arrive at the Cave
Boom. You made it.
The cave is a massive sandstone overhang facing west. On a clear day, you can see Lion’s Head perfectly framed in the gap, and watch waves crashing on the beach 500 meters below.
There’s usually a cool breeze up here — perfect after that sweaty climb. Rest, eat, and soak it in.
Unless you’re continuing up to the top of Table Mountain (which you can do), this is your turnaround point.
6. Head Back the Way You Came
Downhill is faster, but be careful on the steep switchbacks — especially if your knees are tired or the trail is dusty.
Back on the Pipe Track, you’ll be cruising.
Optional: stop under one of the big rock overhangs for some shade before heading back to the car.
Image: capetrek
What to Bring on the Diagonal Cave Hike
- At least 1.5L of water (there’s zero shade after you start climbing)
- Sunscreen and a hat — the sun hits hard, even in winter
- Grippy trail shoes or hiking boots — the trail is steep and rocky
- Windbreaker or light jacket — the cave can be breezy, even when it’s hot below
- Snacks/lunch — the cave is the spot for a sandwich with a view
- Offline map (like AllTrails or Gaia) — signal can drop in places
Things to Know
Although the Diagonal Cave hike is relatively straightforward, you still need to be prepared and take safety seriously. Here are a few important things to always keep in mind:
- Navigation: The trail is well-defined, but there are a few faint side paths. Follow signs and use a map if unsure.
- Safety: Don’t hike alone. This route is quiet and remote. Hike in a group, or at least let someone know your plan.
- Scrambling section: It’s manageable for most fit hikers, but not ideal for beginners or people uncomfortable with heights.
- Weather: Avoid this trail after heavy rain. The rocks become slick and dangerous. Also, avoid the route in peak summer heat unless you start early.
Want to Go Further?
If you’re feeling strong, you can keep going past the cave and summit Table Mountain via the Diagonal Route. From the top, you can link to:
- Valley of the Red Gods
- Valley of Isolation
- Diving Board at the Kasteelspoort hike (if you know the way)
- Descend via Kasteelspoort
This makes for a much longer hike (4–5+ hours), but it’s one of the most beautiful circuits on the mountain.
Take on the Diagonal Cave Hike
Table Mountain’s Diagonal Cave hike is short, punchy, and super rewarding. You get a steep climb, a quiet trail, and a massive cave with panoramic views — all in just a couple of hours.
It’s one of those “hidden in plain sight” routes. If you want to impress your out-of-town friends (or just escape the usual Table Mountain traffic), take them here. They’ll think you’re some sort of local hiking guru.
This trail is proof that you don’t need to summit Table Mountain to get the full magic.
