Hikers warned of delays on popular Table Mountain routes
· The South African
Hikers using some of Cape Town’s most popular Table Mountain routes can expect delays of up to 45 minutes next week as safety inspections are carried out.
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SANParks will conduct its annual inspections, testing and re-certification of ladders, staples and chains on hiking trails in Table Mountain National Park (TMNP) from 6 to 9 October.
The affected routes are:
- India Venster
- Contour Path – Waterfall Section
- Lion’s Head
- Kloof Nek Corner
- Llandudno/Judas Peak
The inspections form part of SANParks’ annual safety maintenance programme and are aimed at ensuring fixed safety equipment remains safe and compliant for public use.
Temporary restrictions
Sections of the affected routes may be temporarily closed while engineers inspect and test the equipment.
Hikers have been urged not to use ladders, chains or related infrastructure while work is taking place.
SANParks said visitors should expect delays of approximately 30 to 45 minutes per site, with access restricted while the safety checks are conducted.
Access will be reopened as soon as the relevant work has been completed and it is considered safe to do so.
The temporary restrictions are particularly relevant to hikers planning routes that rely on fixed infrastructure, including some of the more technical sections of Table Mountain.
SANParks regularly reminds visitors that Table Mountain is a serious mountain environment, with challenging terrain and rapidly changing weather conditions.
Hikers are advised to plan ahead, allow additional time for their routes and follow all temporary signage and instructions from officials.
Safety checks essential
The annual inspections are designed to identify potential problems with fixed trail infrastructure before it poses a risk to visitors.
SANParks has apologised for any inconvenience caused by the temporary restrictions and thanked hikers for their patience and cooperation.
The organisation said the work is necessary to help maintain a safe hiking environment across Table Mountain National Park.
Visitors should also follow SANParks’ general hiking advice, including carrying enough water, checking weather conditions, informing someone of their planned route and carrying a fully charged cellphone.