Skeleton Gorge

Know before you go

• Entry through Kirstenbosch requires paying the garden admission fee.
• The gorge is shaded and cool — popular in summer, but the rock scramble demands care in all conditions.
• Descend via Nursery Ravine for a drier alternative return.

If you need help

Frequent lower-leg injuries from slipping on wet rocks and exposed roots. Dense tree canopy causes early darkness in the gorge — allow extra time for descent. Hikers regularly underestimate the time needed and are caught after dark.

Emergency exit

Contour Path intersection at roughly one-third of the way up. This is the only realistic bail-out point — beyond it, retreat becomes difficult.

Cell reception

Zero signal in the lower ravine. Improves significantly above the tree canopy.

Start point

Parking: Park inside Kirstenbosch. Garden entry fee covers parking.

Elevation profile

Best time of year

Shaded gorge — kindest in summer heat. Do not attempt during or after rain.

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

• Skeleton stream

  Year-round

  Treat before drinking — animals upstream.

Tell someone where you are going

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