Travel bucket list idea:
Cape Town’s iconic flat-topped mountain is 1,085m (3,559ft) above sea level at its highest point, Maclear’s Beacon. One of the ‘New 7 Wonders of Nature’, its name also derives from the thin layer of wind-blown cloud that forms over the flat summit before dropping dramatically over the edge like a tablecloth.
It’s now part of the Table Mountain National Park, set-up to protect the landmark but also the rare fynbos vegetation. The site is now a UNESCO Cape Floral Region World Heritage Site.
Ride up in the aerial cable car to enjoy spectacular 360-degree views of the city, and wander the fynbos-fringed footpaths that criss-cross the serene and beautiful flat-topped summit.
If you’re reasonably fit, and a little adventurous, you can hike up to the summit rather than take the cable car. There are a number of different trails that you can do independently or with a guide. You can also abseil down from the summit.
The cable car operates every 10-15 minutes, but you can spend as long as you want at the top. Buy tickets online before you go to skip the queues at the on-site ticket office.
The Table Mountain Café at the upper cableway station offers a range of light meals, but isn’t particularly memorable. There are various snack and cold drink kiosks available.
In summer, first car up is around 8am, last car down around 9pm. Check the website for weather updates and closures.
Avoid cloudy days due to poor visibility, and in the wind or rain, it’s exposed at the top (and rather miserable to be there). Early morning is usually crowd-free and ideal for quiet walks. Sunsets and full moon evenings are popular for sundowners and admiring the city lights sparkling below.
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Destination guides including or relevant to this experience
Western Cape, South Africa
A vibrant, multicultural city with dramatic scenery, adrenaline adventure galore, Africa’s best art scene, golden beaches world-class wine regions and outstanding gastronomy. All in the shadows of the mighty Table Mountain.
Round-ups that include this experience
Multiple countries
Former travel editor of BBC Wildlife Magazine James Fair round-ups the earth’s greatest natural wonders, which will literally take your breath away.
