Hike Chapman's Peak - the easy way

Route Summary

Distance: 5.8km

Estimated time: 2.5hrs + stops.

Total Elevation gain: 450m

Type: Out and back

View Chapman Peak Walk map

*Short but fairly strenuous because of the elevation gain.

Today's hike was the shortest route to the beacon on Chapman's peak. Chapman's peak offers magnificent views North across Hout Bay and up to the Back Table; and South and East down the full lower Cape Peninsula.

Route description

Driving up Chapman's Peak drive from Hout Bay, you will reach the toll road booths 1.4km after passing the Chapman's Peak Hotel (on your left as you leave Hout Bay). No need to pay - they have an arrangement where you can ask for a day pass if you are walking in the area, and will be given a dated slip which you must hand in on the way out.

Three kilometres further on and about 750m before the main/highest Chapman's Peak road viewpoint, there is a small side-loop road on the left with some parking. Park here (or as close as you can), and set off up the path at the apex of the loop road, clearly sign-posted "Chapman's Peak".

The route heads fairly steeply uphill, then takes a long curve to the right before crossing a stream and curving slightly left again to a large cairn and 3-way intersection. Left takes you back along the front of the mountain range towards Hout Bay, right takes you to Chapman's peak along the side of lower Chapman's Peak.

Take the right-hand fork and follow it for 1.6 km to the saddle between lower Chapman's and Chapman's peek; this is a good spot to pause and admire your first view down the south peninsula, but the stiff 200-odd metre ascent from there to the Chapman's Peak beacon point is well worthwhile, rewarded by awesome views.

When ready return to your car along the same path.

Apologies for the quality of the photos (taken with my phone) - I'll make a point of carrying my camera from now on...