Woodstock Cave is one of the largest and most impressive caves on Table Mountain, perched high on the slopes of Devil’s Peak with views over Cape Town, Table Bay and Lion’s Head. This page describes the climb to it from Rhodes Memorial, on the eastern slopes, returning the same way.
The cave is a favourite destination for hikers, photographers and picnickers thanks to its enormous sandstone overhang and panoramic outlook. During winter, water sometimes cascades over the lip of the cave, creating a spectacular seasonal waterfall.
Trail Map
Trail Description
The hike begins at Rhodes Memorial before climbing steadily through indigenous forest and fynbos on well-marked mountain paths. The trail ascends in a series of switchbacks, gradually revealing sweeping views across the City Bowl, Table Bay and the Atlantic coastline.
As the climb continues, the path becomes steeper and rockier before reaching the impressive Woodstock Cave. Measuring roughly 50 metres wide and around 15 metres deep, the cave provides a sheltered resting place with one of the finest viewpoints on the eastern side of Table Mountain. After enjoying the scenery, hikers return along the same route.
Other approaches climb to Woodstock Cave from other sides of the mountain, including from Tafelberg Road. They are different walks with different starting points, and they are not the route described here.
Difficulty
No authority publishes a difficulty grading for the climb to Woodstock Cave, so we print none. It is a sustained uphill on uneven, rocky ground.
Although no technical scrambling is required, the route demands a reasonable level of fitness. Much of the ascent is exposed, making an early start advisable during warmer months.
Best Time to Hike
The trail is open throughout the year.
Spring and autumn provide comfortable hiking conditions, while winter often produces dramatic scenery when water flows over the cave entrance after rain. Summer hikes are best started early, as there is very little shade during the ascent.
Safety Tips
Carry plenty of drinking water, wear hiking shoes with good grip and check the weather forecast before setting out. The trail is steep in places and can become slippery after rain.
Hike with a companion where possible and avoid leaving valuables visible inside your vehicle. Rhodes Memorial is the most common and convenient starting point for this hike.
Photography
Woodstock Cave offers one of the most unique viewpoints in Cape Town. The cave naturally frames panoramic views of the City Bowl, Lion’s Head, Signal Hill and Table Bay, making it a favourite destination for photographers.
Winter can produce spectacular images when a seasonal waterfall flows over the cave entrance, while sunrise provides beautiful light across the city.
Flora & Wildlife
The trail passes through Peninsula Sandstone Fynbos and pockets of indigenous forest. Proteas, ericas and restios line the route, while spring brings colourful displays of wildflowers.
Dassies are often seen around the rocky slopes near the cave, while Cape sugarbirds, sunbirds and birds of prey are regularly spotted overhead.
