Judas Peak Hike, Cape Town: Complete Hiker’s Guide

Welcome to the wild side of Table Mountain – and no, I don’t mean the crowds at Lion’s Head. I’m talking about Judas Peak, hands down one of Cape Town’s most underrated hikes. 

Judas Peak is the final and most elusive peak in the Twelve Apostles range. It’s tucked away beyond the more famous Table Mountain routes and draws far fewer crowds. Which is great, because it means you get the views, the stillness and that amazing summit feeling mostly to yourself. 

But don’t think this will be an easy stroll up a simple path. It’s steep. It’s technical in parts. It’ll get your heart racing, your quads burning and your camera roll overflowing.

But trust me: it’s worth every sweaty step.

Judas Peak Hike: Overview

Before we cover the trail in detail, here’s a snapshot of what to expect:

• Start point: Outside Ruyteplaats Estate, Suikerbossie Road, Hout Bay side
  
• Trail length: About 10 km round trip (give or take, depending on detours)
  
• Estimated time: 4 to 6 hours (including breaks, snacks and photo ops)
  
• Fitness level: Intermediate to advanced — you’ll need endurance and confidence on uneven terrain
  
• Technical difficulty: Moderate to challenging — two scrambling sections with ropes and staples
  
• Exposure: Lots of it — no shade, narrow cliff-edge paths in places, not for the faint of heart
  
• Best season: Late winter to early summer (August–November is ideal for flowers and water)
  
• Water sources: One seasonal waterfall (bring your own and don’t count on it flowing)
  
• Cell phone signal: Spotty at best — download offline maps
  
• Permits or fees: None! One of the best free adventures in the city
  
• Parking: Outside Ruyteplaats estate (get there early for a spot)
  
• Dogs allowed? Nope — technical scrambles and cliff drops make it unsafe for pups
  
• Solo hike? Not recommended. Take a buddy, especially on your first go
  

Image: Alltrails

Getting There: Directions and Parking

Your journey begins on Suikerbossie Road, which is that winding stretch of the M6 between Llandudno and Hout Bay. 

As you head from the Camps Bay side toward Hout Bay, you’ll come across the entrance to Ruyteplaats Private Estate. It’s a large, gated community with security guards and a very clear “residents only” vibe. Do not try to drive in. Instead, park outside the gate in the small parking area on the left-hand side of the road.

This fills up fast on weekends, so aim for an early start. 7 AM or earlier is golden. Bonus: sunrise light on the Atlantic cliffs? Unreal.

From your car, walk toward the Ruyteplaats gate. Just to the left of the entrance, you’ll see a narrow footpath heading uphill — this is the start of your hike. 

You’ll pass a second informal gravel parking lot (where some locals park if they’re being sneaky), and then you’ll spot a little wooden sign marked “Public Footpath.” This is where you start following the trail.

Trail Part 1: The Gentle Intro

The first 10–15 minutes of the hike are an easy, well-defined path that winds gently up through coastal fynbos. It’s a mellow beginning and a great way to ease into the day. 

The trail is narrow but smooth, flanked by suikerbossies, ericas and hardy little mountain shrubs clinging to the slope.

You’ll start to see some views to your left over Llandudno, with Little Lion’s Head poking up proudly in the distance. The sea glistens below you, and if you’re lucky, you might even spot dolphins surfing the waves.

This section is warm-up territory. Enjoy it. The real climb starts soon.

Eventually, the path reaches a saddle where you’ll hit your first decision point. This is where you need to turn LEFT and head up into the mountains. This left turn is your gateway to Hout Bay Corner, and it’s where the incline really starts to bite.

Trail Part 2: The Hout Bay Corner Climb

Now we’re talking.

This part of the trail kicks up steeply and quickly. You’ll find yourself climbing switchbacks on rocky terrain. 

The soil can be loose in spots, especially after rain, so take it slow and watch your footing. This is one of the more exposed climbs of the day, with a bit of hands-on action required here and there.

You’ll work hard, trust me, but the reward is worth it. 

As you crest the top of Hout Bay Corner, you’ll find yourself looking down over the full stretch of Hout Bay, with Sentinel Peak guarding the harbor and the emerald slopes of Chapman’s Peak Drive winding into the distance.

This is a fantastic place to pause. Have some water. Snap a panoramic. Feel proud. You’ve done a lot already, and the best is still ahead.

Image: Alltrails

Trail Part 3: Scrambles, Staples and Major Views

Just past the top of Hout Bay Corner, the trail changes character again. You’re now on a narrow cliffside ledge, walking above serious drop-offs. 

This section isn’t long, but it’s not for those with vertigo. The path hugs the mountain tightly and you’ll need to focus on your steps. 

Thankfully, the fynbos is low and unobtrusive, so your views of the sea and cliffs are totally uninterrupted.

Pretty soon, you’ll hit a small rock wall fitted with metal staples and a rope — your first taste of scrambling. It looks scarier than it is. 

With three or four solid handholds and a little upper body strength, you’re up and over in a flash. Take your time, and if you’re hiking with a group, spot each other.

Once you’re up, you’re on a magical stretch of trail. Flat, narrow, and right on the edge of the mountain. 

To your right, there’s a sheer drop; to your left, the green slopes of Table Mountain’s backside climb up toward the Apostles. And all around you? Ocean, sky, wind and wildflowers.

In the wetter months, this is also where you’ll come across a tiny waterfall cascading down a mossy rock face. It’s delicate and lovely — not a roaring torrent, but enough to make you stop and smile. 

If it’s flowing, you can fill your water bottle here (filtered, ideally). Otherwise, it’s just a scenic bonus.

Trail Part 4: Llandudno Ravine (The Big Push)

Next up is the steepest, most lung-busting part of the entire Judas Peak hike: Llandudno Ravine.

You’ll know you’re there when the narrow path funnels you into a deep, rocky gully that seems to shoot straight up between two sheer cliff faces. 

It looks intimidating. And yeah, it kinda is, but don’t psych yourself out. You’ve got this.

The ravine starts with a short scramble section aided by ropes and metal staples. This initial bit is the trickiest; it’s steep and exposed, but it’s over quickly. 

The staples are solid, the rope is usually in decent condition (though always check before trusting it), and the rock has enough footholds to make the climb manageable. Take your time and use three points of contact.

Once you’re past that scramble, it’s just a long, steep slog up loose gravel and rock. There are no ropes from here. You’ll probably need to stop for breathers, and that’s completely fine. 

The best part? Every time you turn around, the view down the ravine toward Llandudno, Sandy Bay and the endless Atlantic beyond is like a postcard.

This section is a test of endurance, not skill. Just keep putting one foot in front of the other. And when you finally reach the top of the ravine… wow.

Take a seat on the big rocky outcrop just to the right of the top. You’ve earned it. From here, you get full-on panoramic views — cliffs plunging to the sea, mountain peaks all around, and Cape Town far off in the haze. 

If you packed snacks, this is an excellent spot to refuel and take it all in.

Trail Part 5: Ridge Walk to Judas Peak

After the intensity of the ravine, the next section is bliss. You’re now walking along a gently undulating ridge, high up in the Apostles range. 

The trail winds through soft grasses, restios, and bursts of ericas in pinks, reds, and oranges — especially vibrant in spring.

The views shift with every step. Now you’re seeing Table Mountain’s rear cliffs, Orange Kloof’s deep forests and even as far as Constantiaberg and the Cape Flats on a clear day. 

Behind you? That endless blue stretch of ocean and jagged peaks.

The trail is still narrow but far less technical now. After a while, you’ll spot a fork, not super obvious, so keep an eye out. Take the RIGHT fork. It’s subtle, but this is the turn that leads directly to Judas Peak’s summit beacon.

As you follow this path, it gradually ascends. Nothing hectic, just a few rocky steps here and there. Eventually, you’ll see the trig beacon ahead, perched on a rocky dome.

To reach it, you’ll need to do one final rock scramble. Nothing crazy, just a bit of hands-and-feet action over solid boulders. No ropes here, just fun.

And then… you’re there.

Image: trailfitsa.co.za

The Summit: Judas Peak

Welcome to Judas Peak — the final peak in the Twelve Apostles range and one of Cape Town’s most underrated summits.

At the top, you’re treated to a 360-degree panorama that, quite frankly, competes with anything on Table Mountain or Lion’s Head — but with zero crowds. On a clear day, you’ll see:

• Hout Bay laid out beneath you, from the harbor to the Sentinel
  
• The full spine of the Twelve Apostles, curving north toward Table Mountain
  
• Lion’s Head and Signal Hill peeking out over Camps Bay
  
• The rugged coastline stretching south past Sandy Bay, Karbonkelberg and toward Cape Point
  
• Inland views over Orange Kloof, Constantia and Muizenberg mountains
  

There’s also a great flat slab at the summit — perfect for laying out snacks, stretching out or even taking a summit nap if the weather’s calm.

Lunch up here is a must. Even just 20–30 minutes to sit quietly and soak it all in makes the whole climb worthwhile.

Optional Detour: Llandudno Lookout Beacon

Before you start your descent, you might want to add on a bonus detour. 

Just a few minutes’ walk away is a secondary trig beacon perched on a rocky ledge above Llandudno. It’s an unofficial “mini peak,” but honestly, the views are some of the best on the entire trail.

From the Judas Peak path, look for a trail that cuts right across a rocky plateau (it’s near where you originally turned off to reach the Judas Peak summit). It’s unmarked but easy to follow.

The path dips slightly, then climbs again, bringing you to a dramatic outcrop with the second beacon. From here, you get a front-row view over:

• Llandudno Beach, bright white against turquoise water
  
• Sandy Bay and Karbonkelberg beyond it
  
• The entire Atlantic coastline stretching toward Noordhoek and Kommetjie
  

Bring your camera. Or just sit and zone out. It’s a surreal place.

The Way Down: Retrace

Heading back down, retrace your route. Yes, that means tackling the same technical bits in reverse — the rock scramble, the ravine, the cliff-edge ledge and eventually Hout Bay Corner.

Go slow. Take breaks. Watch your knees. The descent can be tough on tired legs and ankles. Hiking poles help here, if you use them.

The good news? You’ll get to enjoy all those spectacular views again, now with the golden afternoon light painting the landscape a little differently.

Once you hit the sugarbush trail again, it’s smooth sailing back to your car.

What to Pack for the Judas Peak Hike

Let’s talk gear. Don’t under-pack for this one — it’s a solid hike with remote stretches and zero water stations or help if things go sideways. Here’s what you actually need:

• 2L of water minimum (more in summer)
  
• Snacks/lunch — you’ll want energy for the climb and the summit chill
  
• Grippy trail shoes — not the place for worn-out sneakers
  
• Windbreaker or warm layer — weather can shift fast
  
• Hat & sunscreen — very little shade, high UV exposure
  
• Offline map — Gaia GPS, AllTrails, or a downloaded GPX track
  
• First aid kit — even a small one helps for scrapes or twisted ankles
  
• Gloves (optional) — handy for scrambles if you like extra grip
  
• Headlamp or torch if there’s any chance of finishing late

Check out our ultralight backpacking list, which might give you some more inspiration on gear.

 Final Tips for a Great Hike Up Judas Peak

• Start early. The trail gets hot by midday, and the light’s best in the morning.
  
• Go with friends. It’s safer and more fun with company.
  
• Respect the trail. Stay on paths, pack out your trash and don’t pick the fynbos.
  
• Avoid if wet. The rocks and scrambling sections get slippery.
  
• Tell someone. Let a friend know where you’re going, especially if hiking on a weekday.

Final Thoughts

Judas Peak is one of those Cape Town hikes that feels like a real adventure. It’s not just a pretty walk — it’s a full-on mountain experience, complete with thrilling scrambles, killer views, wild terrain and quiet moments of awe. 

It’s a trail that rewards effort and leaves you buzzing for days after.

If you love hikes with drama, solitude, and big-sky beauty, this one’s for you.

Let me know if you want a companion hikes that pair well with Judas Peak (there are some bangers nearby like Tranquility Cracks or Suther Peak). 

Happy hiking and see you on the trail!