Unleash Your Inner Adventurer on The Lion Trail: Cape Town's Must-Do Experience
Cape Town, known for its natural beauty, is home to one of the most unique hiking and adventure experiences called The Lion Trail. This trail is a must-do for anyone visiting the city and seeking to explore its natural wonders. The itinerary is carefully curated to showcase the diverse range of natural attractions, making it a truly unforgettable experience.
"Always there has been an adventure just around the corner … and the world is still full of corners."
Roy Chapman Andrews
Why The Lion Trail Is Unique
Founder and guide Matt Sterne's inspiration and vision for the trail was to showcase Cape Town's stunning natural beauty. The trail includes a range of natural attractions, such as mountains, oceans, beaches, forests, and fynbos, making it a one-of-a-kind experience. Sterne's passion for the environment and conservation is evident throughout the trail, with an emphasis on responsible tourism and the preservation of the natural surroundings.
The History And Meaning Behind The Name
The Lion Trail derives its name from the chain of mountains surrounding Cape Town, which is said to resemble a lion's head and neck. The route of The Lion Trail forms a chain around the lion's neck, with Signal Hill representing the lion's head. The name reflects the significance of the natural surroundings, and the connection to Cape Town's rich history and culture.
What To Expect On The Lion Trail
- Hiking on Signal Hill: The Lion Trail starts at Green Point Lighthouse and takes you through Sea Point before heading up Signal Hill. This 5km hike offers stunning views of the city on all sides and is the perfect place for a decadent picnic – complete with mimosas! After hiking down from Signal Hill, you'll skirt Lion's Head and descend through the forests of The Glen. This section of the trail offers another opportunity to stop for picnic snacks before continuing on to Maiden's Cove.
- Swimming at Clifton Beach: From Maiden's Cove, the Lion Trail heads to Clifton Beach for a refreshing swim in the icy blue ocean. Although the water may be chilly, the views and the experience are well worth it.
- E-Scooter Ride: After your swim, hop on an e-scooter for a half-hour ride along the coastal road and Sea Point Promenade. This is the perfect way to end the tour, with stunning views of the ocean and cityscape as you ride back to the Green Point Lighthouse.
- Participants are advised to wear comfortable shoes and bring sunscreen, hats, and water.
- No prior hiking experience is necessary.
- The trail is suitable for all fitness levels, with a minimum age requirement of 10 years old.
- Booking in advance is recommended. Contact details can be found on The Lion Trail's official website.
Exploring Cape Town's natural beauty through The Lion Trail is an experience like no other. The five-hour adventure combines hiking, swimming, and scootering, showcasing the diverse range of natural attractions that Cape Town has to offer. The trail's founder, Matt Sterne, is passionate about conservation and responsible tourism, making it a truly unique and sustainable adventure.
For those seeking to explore Cape Town's natural beauty, The Lion Trail is a must-do.
Contact Us
Exceed House
Springfield Office Park
Belleville, Cape Town
7450
Cell / WhatsApp +27 72 136 9096
Email: travel@whereitallbegan.co.za
About
Where It All Began is committed to crafting active adventures that not only thrill but also preserve the natural wonders and cultural heritage of Southern Africa.
Our mission is to provide sustainable adventure travel experiences that connect travellers with off the beaten track experiences in this diverse region through cycling, hiking, sailing, diving, off-roading and other low-emission methods of travel.
Through responsible tourism practices, we aim to leave a positive impact on local communities and ecosystems, ensuring that future generations can continue to explore and cherish the places where it all began.
Ethos
Our logo is an image of a skull found in the Rising Star Cave System in Gauteng, South Africa in 2013. It was named ‘homo naledi’, meaning ‘human of the stars’.
The cave system has so far given rise to the remains of over 15 individuals, making it the largest hominid fossil remains site ever discovered.
Travelling to Southern Africa is truly a return to the source of humankind, to Where It All Began.
