When planning on hiking Table Mountain National Park, it is necessary to realize that the park comprises a large area within the Cape Peninsula and apart from Table Mountain, offers a wide variety of hiking options. If your stay is a little longer than three or four days, I highly recommend finding time to hike at least one other route in Table Mountain National Park.
A visit to the Cape of Good Hope is essential and while there try the Kanonkop circular hike or the coastal Shipwreck Trail. Both are very scenic and take about two hours. You will then find yourself away from the crowds and able to enjoy the peace and serenity of the reserve – just be aware you might encounter a baboon. Don’t carry food and then they won’t bother you.
Further North, Silvermine Nature Reserve also offers a wide selection of hikes to suit all ages and abilities. My favorite is Echo Valley/Spes Bona which takes you to the Amphitheatre. This is a natural rock formation which marks the highest point. The views over False Bay are truly stunning. This circular walk takes around 2 and a half hours.
So please add another day or two to your stay in Cape Town and I promise you won’t be sorry! You will realize that this small addition of hiking Table Mountain National Park, will add loads of wonderful memories, which you will forever cherish.