More than 800 000 people visit Table Mountain every year, and for good reason. Not only is it a world-famous landmark, but it also has something for everyone to enjoy. From the casual sightseer to the biggest adrenaline junkie.
Let’s have a look at the Top 5 things you can do at Table Mountain.
Take a ride in the Cable Car
Arguably Table Mountain’s most popular attraction, the Table Mountain Cable Car provides visitors with a 5-minute ride to the top of Table Mountain. During this ride, you will be treated to a 360-degree view of Cape Town City as the floor of the cable rotates. Once at the top of Table Mountain, you will be 3 563 feet above sea level and you will be treated with spectacular views.
TOP TIP: Make sure to book a ticket to ride in the cable car as this is a very popular attraction.
Hike to Table Mountain
If the queue at the Cable Car is too long, or if you want to brave the elements, you can hike to the top of Table Mountain. The most popular hiking trail is Platteklip Gorge. It is the quickest route up Table Mountain, but be warned, it is not the easiest. Prepare yourself for a 2.5km hike which will take you between 2.5 and 3 hours to complete. The best time to hike this route is early in the morning during the summer months.
TOP TIP: Always take a bottle of water with you and try not to hike alone. Although this is a busy route, it is always better to have someone with you who can assist in the case of an emergency.
Enjoy the view
Whatever you decide to do at Table Mountain, you will always be greeted by breathtaking views. Whether you are taking a ride in the cable car, or hiking up Platteklip Gorge, you will often find yourself taking in the view. You can just drive up Tafelberg road, park your car, and take in the breathtaking view of Cape Town City. That said, nothing beats the view from the top of Table Mountain. Be sure to take your camera or smartphone with you to capture the view.
Take a Free Guided Tour
Once you reach the top of Table Mountain, the amazing people at Table Mountain Aerial Cable Way can take you on a free guided tour. They offer two walks daily, one at 10 AM and one at noon. It is a comfortable 2km walk and you will be treated with amazing views of the surrounding areas like Clifton, Sea Point and Camp’s Bay. You will also be able to see Robben Island where Nelson Mandela spent 27 years in prison.
TOP TIP: Always take a bottle of water with you and make sure that you apply high SPF sunblock to protect you from the sun’s harmful rays.
Abseil down Table Mountain
This one is for the adrenaline junkies out there. Abseil Africa gives visitors the chance to abseil off Table Mountain where you will be treated with amazing views of Camps Bay and the Atlantic Seaboard. This entire experience lasts around 45 minutes and is guaranteed to your heart racing.
TOP TIP: Take the cable car to the top instead of hiking up. You will need to strength and energy for the abseil experience.
