1. Table Mountain

South Africa’s most famous mountain rises 1000 meters above the city - visible to approaching ships over 150 km away. With so many different moods it’s hard not to fall in love with it. As the South Easter blows fog into it, clouds fall mysteriously over its edges, creating an almost eerie waterfall over the big rock. A cable car and several hiking trails take visitors to the summit: no-one has an excuse to miss the fantastic views from the top.

If there was only one attraction that gave Cape Town her international fame, it would probably be Table Mountain. Remove the Mountain and it’s hard to image what the city would be like. Other South African cities can only dream about such a spectacular attraction within its city borders – and locals are very proud of their mountain.

No visit to the mountain is complete without taking the 360 degree revolving Cable Way to or from the summit. Since its opening in October 1929 it has taken over 15 million people from literally every corner of the planet to the top. And the journey it is still as popular as ever.

The cable way is open daily from 08:30 – sunset, with the best time to go up in the afternoon when the sunset colours are spectacular. As the sun sets over Camps Bay far below, the city lights turn on one by one. Take warm clothes with and do not miss the last car down.

Take note The cable way doesn’t operate if it’s rainy or the mountain is too overcast – always check with the Cable Way office or phone the weather hotline beforehand. We recommend that you go up the mountain on the first clear day of your holiday – do not postpone it till the end of your trip - even if the weather is fantastic every day. Many visitors have sadly left the city without going up due to bad weather on their last day.

As you drive towards the station the mountain rises dramatically to your right with impressive views of the city to your left. Once you reach the station you will realise that this is one of South Africa’s most popular destinations – taxis and cars are lined up as far as the eye can see.

Before finding a parking spot, go past the station and continue further on with Tafelberg Road. Sadly not many visitors know that this road goes further - it takes you into the Table Mountain National Park with even more astonishing views of the city. You will pass some beautiful fynbos - plant species unique to the Western Cape. Drive as far as the road allows you to go towards Devilspeak (the pyramid shaped eastern corner of the mountain). This is the perfect spot to park your car, get out and smell the fresh city air (yes, city air) before turning back to the station.

Enjoy 360 degrees views as the Cable car heads to the summit. The views from the top are spectacular – and a good personal orientation to understand the city’s layout. There is a restaurant where you can enjoy a delightful lunch on top of Table Mountain – probably the biggest table you will ever eat on. Explore the many mountain walks – one will take you to the highest point Maclear’s Beacon (1086m) at the eastern end. Look out for dassies - they are medium seized rabbit like creatures always enjoying a lazy life on the mountain rocks. If you are lucky you may even spot the Table Mountain ghost frog – it can only be found here on earth.

Before you head down, buy a postcard and post it from the top to your friends back home. And maybe one to yourself… just in case you forget how amazing it felt to be on top of the world.

Another exciting way to reach the summit (or to go down) is to hike one of the 350 paths up the mountain - ranging from easy to difficult. We suggest that you hike one of the following two easier routes: Platteklip Gorge (starting in the middle of Tafelberg Road past the station – 2.5 hour walk to the Cable way) or Skeleton Gorge – a popular and scenic walk starting from Kirstenbosch botanical gardens towards the Cable way (3.5 hours walk to Maclear’s Beacon). Start hiking early.

Mountain Safety tips

If you hike up – be well prepared. Call the Mountain Club of South Africa for a detailed map of climbs. Check with them on the accessibility of your chosen route. Always walk in a group of at least 2 and do not trust strangers. Avoid remote areas and stick to the popular paths. Take with you a full charged mobile phone, a torch, your mountain map, warm clothes, enough water and food, proper walking shoes, sunscreen and a hat. Always let someone know which route you are taking up and when you are due back. Never leave the designated path. In the event that you get lost, try and find your way back by following your footsteps. Should evening approaches, stay where you are and phone for help if a signal is available. Climbing up the cliffs by foot and hand should not be attempted without expert advice.

How to get there

From the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC) (corner of Coen Steytler Ave and Buitengracht) take Buitengracht towards Table Mountain. It becomes Kloof Nek Road and takes you up the mountain. As you reach the top of the road, turn left in Tafelberg Road towards the Lower Cableway station. Plattekloof Gorge path starts about halfway between the station and Devilspeak – you will see the Gorge cutting through the middle of the mountain.

For Skeleton Gorge path head to Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens. From the CTICC take the N2 towards the airport and turn right off the M3 (Rhodes drive) which becomes Union Ave. Follow the Botanical Garden road signs. You will turn right off Union into Rhodes Ave (M63) towards the gardens. The path starts at the very top of the gardens.

Travel checklist

Discovered Tafelberg Road
Took the Cable Car up or down
Hiked on top of Table Mountain
Table Mountain restaurant meal
Postcard writing at the top
Hiked up Plattekloof Gorge
Hiked up Skeleton Gorge

Useful numbers

Table Mountain Cable Way 021 424 8181
Table Mountain National Park 021 701 8692
Mountain Club of South Africa 021 465 3412
Mountain rescue service 021 948 9900
Weather hotline 021 424 8181

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