Suther Peak Hike, Cape Town

Let me just say this upfront: Suther Peak is one of the most underrated hikes in Cape Town. And that’s saying something in a city filled with jaw-dropping trails. 

It’s steep, rugged, and a little wild — but if you love the kind of hike where you earn every view, this one’s for you. 

What makes Suther Peak so special isn’t just the hike itself, but its location. Perched right between Hout Bay and Llandudno, it gives you a perspective that’s totally unique in Cape Town. You’re high above the coastline with the Atlantic stretching endlessly to the horizon, Table Mountain hulking in the background, and the wild Karbonkelberg ridges running off behind you. 

It feels remote and untouched, like you’ve found your own secret lookout over the Cape Peninsula.

So if you’re ready to trade crowds for solitude, and typical Table Mountain trails for something off-the-beaten-path, keep reading. 

Here’s everything you need to know before heading up Suther Peak.

Suther Peak Hike: Overview

• Distance: ~6.5 km round trip
• Duration: 3 to 4 hours (including photo stops and a summit chill)
• Difficulty: Moderate to tough — steep sections, loose rocks, and a short scramble
• Dog Friendly? No, the scrambling and terrain are not suitable for pups
• Permit Needed? Nope, free to access
• Best Time to Hike: Mornings in spring or autumn. Avoid strong winds and midday summer heat.

Suther Peak Hike: Where it Starts

You’ll start your hike in Hout Bay, at the Sandy Bay parking area. The road is called Eustagia Way, right at the top of the suburb of Kronezicht.

Plug “Sandy Bay Parking” into Google Maps and follow the narrow winding road up. You’ll know you’re in the right place when the road ends at a boom gate with a sign pointing to the beach.

Top Tip: Don’t leave any valuables in your car. This area is quiet, and break-ins have happened. Lock up and travel light.

Suther Peak Hike: Step-By-Step Route Guide

Ready to hit the trail? Here’s a breakdown of what to expect when hiking Suther Peak.

1. From the Boom Gate to the Dunes

Start walking past the boom gate (towards Sandy Bay). After about 100m, look left for a sandy trail leading slightly uphill. This is easy to miss, so keep your eyes open.

Very quickly, you’ll reach a fork — keep left again. This path takes you across a flat stretch toward the sand dunes. 

You’ll see the ocean on your right, Hout Bay to your left, and ahead, a sandy slope leading to the fynbos-covered mountain.

At this point, you’ll see Rocket Road (a wide gravel jeep track) off to your right. Don’t take that. Look just left of it — you’ll find a narrow, sandy single-track trail heading up the ridge. That’s your way to Suther Peak.

2. The Climb Begins

Once you’re on the trail, the path is straightforward. 

It’s a mix of loose gravel, packed earth, and some big steps made from logs and stones. The trail is steep, but never technical in the beginning. It snakes up the ridge quickly, gaining elevation fast.

Take breaks — not just to catch your breath, but to look back. The views of Sandy Bay, Llandudno, and the Sentinel get better with every step.

3. Rocky Scramble and Chains

About halfway up, you’ll hit a short scrambling section. You’ll know it when you see it — big rock slabs with some embedded chains for support. 

It looks gnarly, but it’s not too technical. If you’re mobile and confident, you’ll be fine.

Just take it slow, test your footing, and use your hands. There’s usually only one way up, and it’s obvious. If it feels dangerous, you’ve probably veered off the path.

Important: Don’t do this hike in wet weather. The rocks get slippery, and the chains are useless if your hands can’t grip.

4. Lookout Point

After the scramble, the path levels out slightly, and you’ll reach one of the best lookout points on the mountain. On a clear day, you’ll see:

• The full curve of Sandy Bay beach
• Little Lion’s Head to your right
• Hout Bay down below
• And even Lion’s Head way off in the distance

It’s an amazing spot to catch your breath and enjoy a snack.

5. Final Push to the Peak

From here, the trail wraps around the left side of the summit. You’ll pass a gnarly-looking milkwood tree, and then turn right, climbing gently toward the summit ridge.

You’ll see a small cluster of rocks ahead — climb these carefully. There’s no big scramble here, just some large boulders to step around or over. And then the trig beacon marks the top.

Fun fact: There are actually two summits. The one with the trig beacon is the more dramatic one, but slightly lower than the grassy peak to the left. Do both if you’ve got time.

The View From the Top

Honestly? It’s mind-blowing.

You’re standing above the Atlantic, with 360° views of:

• Hout Bay
• The full Karbonkelberg massif
• Sandy Bay and Llandudno
• The back of Table Mountain
• Even Robben Island on a clear day

It’s quiet, remote, and somehow feels much higher than it actually is. You’ll probably have the whole summit to yourself — a rare treat in Cape Town.

Image: thehappytraveller.co.za

Getting Back Down

Retrace your steps carefully. The steep, loose gravel can be sketchy on the descent. Use your poles if you have them, or just take it slow.

You’ll be back at your car in about 90 minutes, depending on your pace. By then, you’ll definitely have earned a cold beer or a dip in the ocean.

Optional Add-Ons

If you’re still feeling adventurous, you can:

• Traverse to Karbonkelberg: There’s a saddle connecting the two peaks. It’s wild, remote, and longer. Only for experienced hikers.
• Swim at Sandy Bay: Head down the main path to the beach for a cold Atlantic dip.

Conquer the Suther Peak Hike

Suther Peak is the kind of trail you fall in love with. It’s challenging enough to be interesting, quiet enough to feel wild, and delivers seriously big views without needing a full-day mission. Plus, it’s way less crowded than Table Mountain or Lion’s Head.

If you like a trail with a bit of grit and a lot of reward, put Suther Peak on your list. You’ll thank yourself later.