Consistently rated in the world’s top 20 hiking routes by National Geographic, the 670m-high Lion’s Head alongside Table Mountain in Cape Town is everyone’s favourite hike. It’s less than an hour to complete, a short distance from the city and there are several interesting challenges to overcome before reaching the summit.

Lion’s Head is by far the most climbed mountain in South Africa, receiving approximately 200000 visitors per year. Some arrive for the exceptional views, others for the stimulating hike and adventure sports such as tandem paragliding and abseiling. Whatever the reason, all are required to take the walk up Lion’s Head to enjoy their experience.

The unique fynbos (fine bush) on the slopes of Lion’s Head include a silver tree forest, the leaves glimmering at any hint of wind. These trees only thrive on one side of the mountain and are the largest member of the protea family of plants.

The hiker faces a series of stainless steel staples and chains embedded in the rock to assist in scrambling up a small rock face, however, there is an alternate scenic route for those with a fear of heights or accompanied by pets.

Lion’s Head summit has 360° views all the way across Table Bay, of Table Mountain, Robben Island, the city below and the 12 Apostles mountain chain that extends out to Llandudno beach. Even Cape Point is visible on clear days.

There is a launch pad overlooking Camps Bay for tandem paragliding and a number of certified operators offer this service.

On the eastern slopes of Lion’s Head you will see a brightly painted structure. This is a Kramat, a holy burial place for important Muslim leaders. The Kramat holds the tomb of Sheikh Mohamed al Qadri.

A popular outing with the locals is the full moon hike that takes place every month, check the print media for details.