Table Mountain is one of South Africa’s most iconic landmarks, located in Cape Town. Known for its flat-topped shape, the mountain rises over 1,000 meters above sea level and offers breathtaking views of the city, the Atlantic Ocean, and the surrounding landscapes. It’s a popular destination for both tourists and locals, with hiking trails, rock climbing routes, and a rotating cable car that takes visitors to the summit.
Table Mountain is part of the Table Mountain National Park, home to unique flora and fauna, including many species found nowhere else in the world. It’s also recognized as one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature, making it a must-see attraction in South Africa.
WHO DISCOVERED TABLE MOUNTAIN?
However, long before that, indigenous Khoikhoi and San peoples had lived in the region for thousands of years and were well acquainted with the mountain. For them, Table Mountain was part of a rich cultural and spiritual landscape. Saldanha’s contact with indigenous Khoikhoi people marked one of the first interactions between Europeans and southern African communities—foreshadowing centuries of cultural exchange, conflict and colonization that would follow.
7 WONDERS OF THE WORLD
The above can refer to three different lists: the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, the New 7 Wonders of the World and the New 7 Wonders of Nature. The ancient wonders are a historical list of remarkable man-made constructions, while the New 7 Wonders are a more modern list chosen by popular vote
Table Mountain is one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature. It was officially named one of the seven natural wonders in 2011 after a global poll. Over 500 million people voted for the New 7 Wonders of Nature, and Table Mountain was selected from 28 finalist. Table Mountain’s New 7 Wonder title transformed it into a global “bucket‑list” destination—driving immediate visitor surges, sustained growth and strategic investment experiences for all.
1. Table Mountain Aerial Cableway (Easiest Option)
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Location: Tafelberg Road, Cape Town
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Duration: 4–5 minutes to the top
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Features: Rotating cable car gives 360° views on the way up
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Hours: Typically operates from 8 AM to sunset, but weather-dependent—strong wind or fog can close it.
2. Hiking Routes (Free but Challenging)
Platteklip Gorge
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Time: 1.5 to 2.5 hours up
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Difficulty: Moderate (steep stairs, but shortest route)
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Start: Tafelberg Road (near cable car station
Skeleton Gorge
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Time: 3 to 4.5 hours
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Start: Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens
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Difficulty: Moderate to hard; lush forest and ladders
India Venster
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Time: 2.5 to 3.5 hours
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Difficulty: Hard (includes scrambling and exposed sections)
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Not recommended for inexperienced hikers
WHAT DO I DO ONCE I REACH THE TOP?
The top of Table Mountain is not just a viewpoint—it’s a natural playground with panoramic views, walking trails, fascinating geology, and rare biodiversity. Table Mountain Café offers snacks, coffee, hot meals, and drinks with a view and the curio shop sells souvenirs, books, and local crafts. We suggest to download the free Table Mountain app, which includes an audio guide, maps, and trail info.
TABLE MOUNTAIN WILDLIFE
Table Mountain hosts a unique range of wildlife, much of it specially adapted to its rugged, windswept environment. Here’s what you might encounter on the summit:
CITY OF CAPE TOWN HALF-DAY TOUR
Drive pass the Castle of Good Hope, which was built between 1666 and 1679 by the Dutch East India Company (VOC). The Castle was developed as a maritime replenishment station, and from 1678 it was the centre of civilian, administrative and military life at the Cape. Today, the Castle is the seat of the military in the Cape,
Tucked under the slopes of Signal Hill, the Bo Kaap is a fascinating and vibrant area that was somehow bypassed in the forced removal policies of the Apartheid. Also called the Malay Quarter, this area is characterized by its multi-coloured cottages and steep cobbled streets as well as its exotic Malay culture. (15min)For those who enjoy a sense of history, the South African Museum offers a look at life throughout the ages in South Africa. The museum is situated in the Company Gardens, which holds the Seat of Parliament. Pristine lawns, shady paths, ornate fish ponds, statues of past leaders and plenty of curious squirrels are just a part of the Company Gardens’ charm. (20min)
The beaches of Clifton and Camps Bay lie along the Atlantic coast. Situated just a few minutes away from the city centre, the beaches are ideal for sunbathing and water sports (even if the water is somewhat chilly). (15min)Signal Hill is a prominent landmark from which the historic noon gun is fired, and forms the “lion’s body” for the adjacent Lion’s Head mountaintop. The hill rewards hikers with spectacular views across Table Bay harbour, the central city and the Atlantic Ocean. Many family-friendly picnic spots on Signal Hill are favoured by tourists and locals all year round.Diamond Factory Tour (Optional). Table Mountain Cable car (Optional). Kindly note, Table Mountain Aerial Cableway will be closed for annual maintenance as from Monday the 28th July 2025 until Sunday the 3rd of August 2025.Contact us for price and availability or inquire for a chance to hike up Table Mountain or Abseil down Table Mountain.
For the love of Travel….
