India Venster

India Venster varies throughout when it comes to difficulty and terrain. It’s is relatively steep, but mixed with level sections so it is not a constant slump to the top, a relatively good fitness level is required.

Description

The route starts off northern slopes of Table Mountain also known as the Front Table. On these northern slopes we hike through India Ravine discovering varieties of Table Mountain’s unique fynbos and fascinating rock formations. There are fantastic view points along this route and we’ll be sure to take some time out to make the most of them looking back over the City of Cape Town, Devils Peak, Lions Head and Table Bay.

India Venster brings a thrill and excitement and is not your average hike, along the route there are scrambles up rock faces either by using the grooves in the rocks or by staples that have been installed to aid hikers. I like to describe the scramble as exciting and relatively easy, but it can be fairly challenging for some. If you are scared heights and being a little on the edge you may want to consult with a guide to find out if this hiking route is for you.

Once we cross over to the western slopes the route gets a little easier. Here you’ll be blown away with views over the 12 Apostles and Atlantic coast as we hike below massive sandstone cliffs to the summit. From the summit we take a short walk to the Upper cable car station and catch a ride down.

Hiking both the northern and western slopes show you the best of both worlds and great way to see what Table Mountain is all about.

Distance

±3km

Time

3 hours

Terrain

Single rocky track, stone steps,
steep sections, staples, scrambling.

Difficulty

Challenging

Best Time to hike

Starting this hike early in the morning is the most recommend time to go especially in the hotter summer months, the route is exposed to direct sunlight and quickly heats up in the late mornings and afternoons.

Start

We start our hikes at 7am sharp. Our guide will be at the meeting point waiting for you.

Meeting and Parking:

Meet at the lower cable car station, it is situated on Tafelberg road and there is parking along the road. We do ask you to meet us there it is easier and cheaper for you and just a short taxi ride from any Cape Town establishment.