Table Mountain Frequently Asked Questions

table-mountain-faq

For all the curious minds out there, we have collected the web’s most asked questions about Table Mountain and answered them below.

Is Table Mountain one of the 7 Wonders of the World?

Table Mountain is one of the 7 Wonders of Nature. In November 2011, Table Mountain was voted into the Top 7 of the prestigious group. 28 locations from around the world were amongst the finalists and over 100 millions votes were cast.

What is at the top of Table Mountain?

Upon reaching the top of Table Mountain, you will be greeted with various flora and fauna, from fynbos to dassies. You can pick up various memorabilia at the Shop at the Top, or have a snack or beverage at the Table Mountain Café. If you are up for a walk, you can take part in free guided tours that will take you to various lookout points. From there you can admire the views of the surrounding areas including Robben Island.

How much does it cost to go to Table Mountain?

Access to Table Mountain is free, however, if you are planning on taking the cable car to the top then you need to buy tickets. Ticket prices range from R50 to R380. It is recommended that you book tickets online and check updated ticket prices on the Table Mountain Aerial Cableway website.

What is the best time to visit Table Mountain?

The best time to visit Table Mountain is during the summer months, which is from October to March. If you are planning on taking the cable car to the top, you should go after lunch time when it is less busy. If you are up for a hike then you start first thing in the morning so that you are not exposed to the afternoon sun.

What is Table Mountain known for?

Table Mountain is known for its distinct flat table top. This flat table top was formed during an ice age by sheets of ice that flattened the layers of sandstone.

Is Table Mountain open for hiking?

Table Mountain is always open for hiking. That said, you should always check the weather report to make sure that conditions are suited for hiking.

Can you climb Table Mountain?

Yes, you can climb Table Mountain. There are various ways to reach the top of Table Mountain including hiking trails like Platteklip Gorge and Skeleton Gorge.

Can you hike Table Mountain without a guide?

Table Mountain boasts an impressive selection of hiking trails that can be enjoyed without the help of a guide.

Can you hike Table Mountain for free?

You can hike Table Mountain for free. If the route requires a guide, then a fee might be applicable.

Can you hike Table Mountain alone?

It is recommended that you don’t hike Table Mountain alone. If you have to hike alone, choose one of the busier routes like Platteklip Gorge so that there is some close by in case of an emergency.

How high is Table Mountain?

At its highest point, Maclear’s Beacon, Table Mountain is 1086 meters high.

Where is Table Mountain?

Table Mountain is located in Cape Town, South Africa in the Western Cape Province.

What can you do on Table Mountain?

There is something for everyone to enjoy at Table Mountain. You can take a ride in the Cable Car. There are various hiking routes with breathtaking views of the surrounding areas and the Atlantic Ocean. If you are up for a walk you can take part in the free guided tours at the top of Table Mountain. For the adrenaline junkies, Abseil Africa gives visitors the chance to abseil off Table Mountain.

How old is Table Mountain?

Table Mountain is one of the oldest mountains in the world. The rocks found on Table Mountain is said to be more than 600 million years old.

In which province is Table Mountain?

Table Mountain is located in the Western Cape Province in South Africa.

How did Table Mountain get its name?

Table Mountain got its name from its most distinctive feature, its flat table top. It wasn’t always known as Table Mountain though. The indigenous people of the Cape, the Khoisan, used to refer to it as the “Mountain of the Sea”. In 1503 the first man to hike Table Mountain, Taboa do Cabo, named it “Table of the Cape”. Finally, in 1652 the Dutch settlers named it “Tafelberg” which translates to Table Mountain.

 

Jan Pretorius

About the Author

Jan Pretorius is a seasoned writer and an avid explorer with a deep passion for Table Mountain, Cape Town, and its surrounding areas. Having resided in Cape Town since 1995, Jan has dedicated over two decades to hiking and understanding the nuances of Table Mountain. As the author behind tablemountaincapetown.com, he shares his expert knowledge and insights, offering visitors a comprehensive guide to one of South Africa’s most iconic landmarks. Jan’s writing not only reflects his intimate familiarity with the region but also his commitment to showcasing its beauty and allure to the world.

 

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