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Jonkershoek Panorama Circuit

Hard

Jonkershoek

Main risk: losing the path

At a glance

Distance

17 km circuit

Time

6–7 hr

Elevation gain

900 m

Summit

1227 m

Water on routeRemote
No dogs Permit required Parking CapeNature Jonkershoek — R70 adult, R50 child, card only

This is one of the most demanding day hikes near Cape Town. Weather on the Dwarsberg Plateau is cold and wet even on summer days — carry wind and rain layers. Start early. Do not attempt in poor visibility. IMPORTANT (as of March 2026): Parking on the Jonkershoek circular route is closed until further notice. Visitors must park outside the circular drive and walk approximately 5km each way to reach the trailheads. This adds roughly 10km round-trip and 2 hours to every hike in the reserve. Confirm current status with CapeNature.

Know before you go

  • The Dwarsberg Plateau crossing gives simultaneous views of Table Mountain, Cape Point, Robben Island, and False Bay.
  • Optional summit of Guardian Peak (1227m) — the high point of the day.
  • Red disas flower along the streams in January and February.
  • CapeNature fee R70 per adult — start by 09:00 at the latest.

If you need help

Remote route with complex navigation on the Dwarsberg plateau. Hikers who lose the route on the plateau have been stranded. Download GPS track before leaving. CapeNature recommends starting by 9am at the latest.

Emergency exit

From Kurktrekkernek, descend via Tweede Waterval path back to the parking area. From Guardian Peak, return the same way you came.

Cell reception

None inside the reserve.

Start point

Jonkershoek Nature Reserve circular parking area — start no later than 10am

Get directions to trailhead

Parking: Currently parking is closed on the circular drive — park outside and walk in 5 km.

Elevation profile

0 km9.0 km17 km1227 m280 m

Peak

1227 m

Total ascent

900 m

Trail length

17 km

Best time of year

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

Disas flower January–February. Plateau is brutal in wet winter or hot summer.

Water sources

Treat or filter before drinking — never trust a stream raw.

  • Plateau streams

    Year-round

    Reliable on the high ridges. Treat before drinking.

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Share your plan with a friend or family member before you set off.

Last reviewed March 2026

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