Table Mountain

Overview

Table Mountain is a flat-topped mountain forming a prominent landmark overlooking the city of Cape Town. Designated a New7Wonder of Nature in 2011, it rises 1,085 metres above sea level and is part of the Table Mountain National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Highlights

• Cableway: The revolving cable car rotates 360° during the ascent, offering panoramic views of the city, Robben Island, and the Atlantic.
• Summit Walks: Several easy trails traverse the flat summit plateau, giving views in every direction.
• Flora: Home to over 1,470 flowering plant species, many found nowhere else on Earth.

History

The mountain has been a navigational landmark for sailors since the Portuguese first rounded the Cape in the late 15th century. The Khoekhoen people called it Hoerikwaggo ('Mountain in the Sea'). The Table Mountain Aerial Cableway was opened in 1929 and has carried over 30 million visitors.

Visitor Tips

• Weather: The summit is frequently covered by the 'tablecloth' cloud. Check the webcam before going up.
• Hiking: The Platteklip Gorge route takes approximately 2 hours up.
• Duration: 2–4 hours including the cable car and summit walks.