A coastal road walk on a toll road (about R70-90 / $4-5 USD per car) with pavement sections; check closures at chapmanspeakdrive.co.za.
Chapman's Peak Drive is a famous scenic road carved into cliffs between Hout Bay and Noordhoek on the Cape Peninsula, in Cape Town, South Africa's Western Cape, and its pavement can be walked for an easy coastal outing. The route is on the M6, with the Hout Bay side about 30 minutes by Uber or Bolt from the city centre, or reachable by MyCiTi bus to Hout Bay followed by a taxi. Drivers pay a toll of about R70 to R90 (around $4 to $5 USD) per car, while pedestrians should check access and closures at chapmanspeakdrive.co.za, as the road is shut at times for rockfall or high wind. The walk is about 5 km along a mostly flat road shoulder, and the elevation stays gentle at roughly 150 m above sea level, so there is little climbing. Surfaces are tarmac with narrow pavement sections and some gravel verges, and shade is minimal because the road hugs the sunny cliffs. Landmarks include the Hout Bay viewpoint, the series of carved rock galleries, the Atlantic-facing lookouts and the sweep of Noordhoek beach in the distance. Walkers share the road with cars, cyclists and motorbikes, so they should stay on the verge and keep children close. Water is not available along the route, but cafes in Hout Bay and Noordhoek offer refreshment at either end. The turn-around point is any viewpoint, as the walk is out and back, and bail-out is easy by calling a ride.
| Distance | About 5 km, mostly flat road shoulder |
|---|---|
| Duration | 1.5-2 hours |
| Difficulty | easy |
| Trailhead | Uber/Bolt to the Hout Bay side (about 30 minutes and R250-350 / $15-21 USD from the city centre) or MyCiTi to Hout Bay then taxi. |
| Best season | Year-round; check wind and rockfall closures |
| Address | Chapman's Peak Drive (M6), Hout Bay, Cape Town 7872, South Africa |
Trail facts
- Trail area
- Chapman's Peak Drive, Hout Bay
What to bring
- 1 litre of water
- Hat and sunscreen
- Windproof jacket
- Comfortable walking shoes
Location
Chapman's Peak Drive (M6), Hout Bay, Cape Town 7872, South Africa
-34.0903, 18.3672 View on map
Highlights
- Walk beneath dramatic carved sandstone cliffs above the Atlantic
- Viewpoints over Hout Bay, Sentinel Peak and Noordhoek beach
- Mostly flat route suitable for casual walkers
- Combine with a meal in Hout Bay harbour
Tips for visiting
- Check chapmanspeakdrive.co.za for closures due to rockfall or wind before setting out.
- Keep to the verge and stay alert, as cars, cyclists and motorbikes share the road.
- Bring a windproof jacket, sun protection and water, as shade is scarce.
- Arrange a return ride in advance if walking one way.
- Go early or late for softer light and cooler temperatures.
When to visit
Year-round, though morning or late afternoon is more comfortable; check wind and rockfall closures, especially in winter.
Accessibility
The route is mostly flat tarmac and may suit wheelchairs and strollers in places, but pavements are narrow and traffic is close. Visitors should assess the sections before relying on them.
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Frequently asked questions
Can visitors walk Chapman's Peak Drive?
Yes, walkers can use the road shoulder, but they should check closures and take care with traffic.
Is there a toll?
The toll of about R70 to R90 per car applies to vehicles; pedestrians should confirm current access rules with the operator.
How long is the walk?
About 5 km, which usually takes 1.5 to 2 hours depending on stops.
Is it difficult?
No, the gradient is gentle and the surface is paved, so it suits most fitness levels.