South Africa vacations

The easiest way to enjoy Table Mountain is to take a five-minute ride in the Cable Car that runs between the Upper Cable Station and Tafelberg Road.

Since it’s opening in 1929, over 18 million people have ridden the cable car. The new cable cars, which were introduced in 1997, have a revolving floor that allows passengers to enjoy a 360-degree view of the city, coastline and mountains as they travel to the top.

On Table Mountain, walking paths, incredible views, a self-serve restaurant and a gift store keep visitors entertained. An hour-long walk from the cable station to Maclear’s Beacon – the highest point on Table Mountain – is also a good way to pass the time.

The cable car is fast and easy but if you have the time and energy, what you really want to do is hike up the mountain. There are a handful of main routes up Table Mountain, any of which you can self-explore. However, be sure to read up on safety tips and pack appropriately. Don’t be misled by the mountain’s proximity to the city: the weather is unpredictable and hiking can be very dangerous if you don’t take the right precautions.

The fastest, most popular and most direct hiking route is Platteklip Gorge – a two-hour trek that takes you up the mountain face. Other popular hiking routes are Skeleton Gorge, The Pipe Track Walk from Kloof Nek, Constantia Nek towards Maclear’s Beacon, and Kasteel Poort from the Camps Bay side.