Skeleton Gorge Waterfall
Scenic forest route from Kirstenbosch Gardens through the indigenous forest to Table Mountain’s slopes.
Description
Skeleton Gorge Waterfall is a moderate, scenic loop hike starting from the renowned Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens. The trail winds through shaded indigenous forest before reaching the moss-covered Skeleton Gorge Waterfall.
This route offers rich biodiversity within the Cape Floral Kingdom and rewarding views over the South Peninsula. Its relatively short distance and gentle gradients make it suitable for beginners, families, and anyone wanting an accessible nature escape.
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Trail Type
Hiking trail
Route Type
Loop / One-way options
Trail Length
- 3.7 km to the waterfall section
- Up to 6.5 km or more to the summit.
Trail Difficulty
Moderate to Hard
Activites
Backpacking | Birding | Hiking | Mountain biking | Rock climbing | Running | Walking
Experinces
Walk under a lush green canopy with birdsong overhead.
Pause at a mossy forest waterfall for photos and relaxation.
Enjoy panoramic views of the South Peninsula along the Contour Path.
Breathe in the fresh scent of fynbos and forest.
Conditions
- Dry ground, typically, sections may be slippery after rain or in winter
- Slippery sections
- Well-maintained paths, but includes ladders and boulder scrambles
- Wildflowers in spring.
- Windy conditions possible
Estimated Duration
2 – 4 hours (shorter option)
Up to 5+ hours for the summit route
Amenities
Bathrooms | Parking | Restrooms | Seating areas | Shaded areas | Trail maps | Water stations
What To Bring
Hat | Sturdy hiking shoes | Sunscreen| Water bottle | Wind-breaker
Additional Information
Part of the Cape Floral Kingdom UNESCO World Heritage Site.
One of Table Mountain’s most accessible waterfall hikes.
Entry fee to Kirstenbosch Gardens is required.
Dogs are not allowed beyond certain points.
Some routes end far from the start – plan return or transport.
- Cape Point and Boulders Gates are cash-free and only accept card payments
Inside Guides
Best enjoyed in spring for wildflowers and full waterfall flow.
Choose the waterfall turn-back option for a rewarding, shorter hike if you prefer a less strenuous outing.
Start early (before 10h00) to avoid crowds and finish in daylight.
Weather Conditions
Ideal Weather: Clear / Sunny | Cool
Rain Alert: Moderate Rain (40–60%)
Weather Experience: Outdoor hike, strongly affected by rain and fog. Trails can become slippery and visibility can be reduced.
Saftey tips
Stay on marked paths to avoid steep drop-offs.
Check weather forecasts before starting.
Avoid after heavy rain when ladders and rocks are slippery.
Hike with a companion if inexperienced.
Trail Rules & Polices
Entry fee is required at Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens.
No dogs allowed beyond certain points.
No laptops or large gear advised.
Fees/ Permits
R250.00 | Guided hike ticket
R100 – R200+ | Self-guided garden entry
Bathrooms
Cashless
Forests
Historic site
Lookout point
Mountain Biking
Parking
Rivers or streams
Scenic views
Seating areas
Shaded areas
Sunrise views
Sunset views
Trail map
Water stations
Waterfall
Wildflowers
Not wheelchair accessible
Must Tries
Skeleton Gorge Waterfall: Hike to the base of the waterfall.
Kirstenbosch Dam: Stop for peaceful views.
Contour Path Views: Detour for sweeping views of the South Peninsula and coastline.
Highlights
Forest Birdlife: Shaded forest paths rich with birdlife.
Peninsula Views: Sweeping South Peninsula views from the Contour Path.
Natural Rock Pools: Refreshing pools and moss-covered rocks create a serene resting spot near the waterfall.
Features
- Bathrooms
- Forests
- Historic site
- Lookout points
- Mountain Biking
- Parking
- Rivers or streams
- Scenic views
- Seating areas
- Shaded areas
- Sunrise views
- Sunset views
- Trail maps
- Water stations
- Waterfall
- Wildflowers
- Not wheelchair accessible
Must Tries
Skeleton Gorge Waterfall: Hike to the base of the waterfall.
Kirstenbosch Dam: Stop for peaceful views.
Contour Path Views: Detour for sweeping views of the South Peninsula and coastline.
Highlights
Forest Birdlife: Shaded forest paths rich with birdlife.
Peninsula Views: Sweeping South Peninsula views from the Contour Path.
Natural Rock Pools: Refreshing pools and moss-covered rocks create a serene resting spot near the waterfall.
Address
Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, Rhodes Drive, Newlands
Parking: Available at Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens
Opening Hours
| Monday – Sunday | All Day |
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