Set against the backdrop of recurring droughts and a growing urban population, this guided hike traces the development of Cape Town’s water supply and the remarkable infrastructure built in response. Along the way, hikers gain insight into the geology, hydrogeology, hydrology, climatology and environmental history of the southwestern Cape, while experiencing the unique heritage of the Table Mountain National Park landscape.
Developed by the Umvoto Foundation in collaboration with Forge and funded by the 35IGC Legacy Fund, the trail forms part of a broader geoheritage and geotourism initiative aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Supported by an interactive app and guidebook, the Table Mountain Dams Geotrail invites walkers to deepen their understanding of Cape Town’s natural and cultural history and to play a role in preserving this heritage for future generations.
Book a guided hike
Paul Lee and Dylan Blake host a full-day (6-8 hours) guided hike along the Table Mountain Dams GeoTrail. To make a booking or for more information, email dblake@theumvotofoundation.org or call 021 709 6700. A portion of the hike's proceeds goes to TUF initiatives.
Author’s recommendation
Derived from the technical difficulty and the stamina requirements.
Track types
Safety information
- For all emergencies on Table Mountain, contact Wilderness Search and Rescue - 021 937 0300.
- For security / crime-related incidents in the mountains around the Cape Town Metropolitan area call the City Public Emergency Contact Centre (PECC): 021-480-7700 (or 107 when using a traditional landline phone).
- Always be prepared for bad weather conditions.
Tips and suggestions
The entire GeoTrail makes for a full-day outing. However, you can craft your own day hikes that incorporate the points of interest, enabling you to explore them at your own pace. Download this route to your phone so you can locate all the sites.Roadbook
Upper Hout Bay Valley Geology
Woodhead Tunnel East Entrance
Apostle Tunnel East Entrance
Old Cableway
Waterworks Museum
Hely-Hutchinson Reservoir
Woodhead Reservoir
Victoria and Alexandra Dams
De Villier's Dam
Peninsula Formation Anticline Fold
Cape Peninsula Geology Viewpoint
Graafwater Formation Cutting Outcrop
Public transport
The trailhead is not on a public transport network.Directions
Use your preferred driving navigation app to get directions to "Constantia Nek".Parking
Parking is available at Constantia Nek. Park at your own risk and do not leave valuables in your vehicle. On weekends we recommend arriving early as space is limited.Coordinates
Book recommendation by the author
Author’s map recommendations
Equipment
- Carry a backpack with the following:
- warm jacket or windbreaker
- food sustenance/snack
- headlamp with spare batteries
- first-aid kit - Wear a hat and sunblock.
- Take a minimum of 1l of water. Never assume you will find drinkable water en route.
- Have the relevant emergency contacts saved on your phone and on your person.
- Ensure your phone battery is fully charged (We also suggest carrying a fully charged power bank).
- Download this map and save it offline on your app, and let someone (not coming along) know of your intended route.
Derived from the technical difficulty and the stamina requirements.

User Questions