Table Mountain

About Table Mountain

Table Mountain is Cape Town's defining flat-topped landmark, recognised globally as the city's most iconic natural feature. Its distinctive horizontal summit plateau, approximately three kilometres in length, rises dramatically above the city bowl and Table Bay. The mountain forms part of the Table Mountain National Park and has been a central element of Cape Town's identity since the city's founding. Visitors consistently identify it as the essential first stop when exploring the Western Cape region. Adult Cableway fares valid 1 July 2026–30 June 2027: online R475 return or R300 one-way; Lower Station ticket office R530 return or R330 one-way.

Checked 2026-08-31 · Source

What's inside

The summit of Table Mountain offers panoramic views across Cape Town, Table Bay, Robben Island, and the Atlantic seaboard. The flat top contains rocky terrain, endemic fynbos vegetation, and several walking paths. The upper cable station provides facilities including a restaurant and viewing decks. The mountain's slopes contain numerous hiking trails of varying difficulty, from the popular Platteklip Gorge route to longer paths starting from Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens. The national park status protects significant biodiversity. Adult Cableway fares valid 1 July 2026–30 June 2027: online R475 return or R300 one-way; Lower Station ticket office R530 return or R330 one-way.

Checked 2026-08-31 · Source

How long to spend

A visit to Table Mountain typically requires a half-day commitment. The cable car ascent takes approximately five minutes each way, though queue times vary considerably depending on visitor numbers and weather conditions. Hikers should allow between two and five hours for summit routes depending on fitness level and chosen trail. Many visitors combine the experience with nearby attractions in the city bowl or along the Atlantic seaboard. Sunset timing influences departure planning for those seeking evening views. Adult Cableway fares valid 1 July 2026–30 June 2027: online R475 return or R300 one-way; Lower Station ticket office R530 return or R330 one-way.

Checked 2026-08-31 · Source

Season and crowds

Table Mountain operates subject to weather conditions, which change rapidly and affect both cable car service and hiking safety. Cloud cover, known locally as the tablecloth, frequently obscures the summit. Morning conditions generally offer clearer visibility before afternoon wind patterns develop. Seasonal variations in temperature and rainfall affect visitor comfort. Daily cableway schedule: 1 Feb–31 Mar, first up 08:00, last up 19:00, last down 20:00; 1–30 Apr, 08:00/18:30/19:30; 1 May–31 Aug, 08:30/17:00/18:00; 1 Sep–31 Oct, 08:30/18:00/19:00; 1–30 Nov, 08:00/19:00/20:00; 1 Dec–31 Jan, 08:00/20:00/21:00.

Checked 2026-08-31 · Source

Tickets

The Table Mountain Aerial Cableway operates as the primary commercial access to the summit. Ticket structures exist for return and single-journey options, with differential pricing typically applied for certain visitor categories. Online purchase options may reduce queue times. Hiking routes incur no direct access charge beyond any applicable national park conservation fees. Adult Cableway fares valid 1 July 2026–30 June 2027: online R475 return or R300 one-way; Lower Station ticket office R530 return or R330 one-way. Ramps and elevators provide step-free access through the Lower Cable Station and to the cable cars.

Checked 2026-08-31 · Source

Getting there

The lower cable station sits on Tafelberg Road, accessible by private vehicle, rideshare services, and organised tour transport from central Cape Town. Parking availability fluctuates with demand. MyCiti bus services operate in the broader city area with connections requiring onward walking or transfer. MyCiTi routes 106 and 107 run between the Civic Centre and Camps Bay and stop at the top of Kloof Nek Road. From the Lower Tafelberg Road stop, take the free Cableway shuttle to the Lower Station. Drivers can use the free Lower Tafelberg Road park-and-ride area and continue by the same shuttle. E-hailing passengers should also request the Lower Tafelberg Road bus stop as their drop-off point.

Checked 2026-08-31 · Source

What to watch out for

Weather conditions deteriorate rapidly with temperature drops, wind acceleration, and sudden cloud formation at altitude. The summit lacks extensive shelter from elements. Hikers must carry adequate water, sun protection, and layered clothing regardless of conditions at sea level. Trail surfaces include loose rock and steep sections requiring appropriate footwear. Mobile telephone coverage varies across the mountain. Solo hiking carries inherent risks. Ramps and elevators provide step-free access through the Lower Cable Station and to the cable cars. Wheelchairs can be requested from staff in exchange for an ID document or driving licence.

Checked 2026-08-31 · Source

Photography

The summit offers extensive photographic opportunities across multiple compass points. North-facing views capture the city bowl and harbour infrastructure. Westward perspectives include the Atlantic coastline toward Camps Bay and the Twelve Apostles mountain range. Sunrise and sunset produce dramatic lighting conditions when visible. The cable car's rotating floor provides 360-degree aerial perspectives during ascent and descent. Tripod use requires stability assessment due to wind exposure. The distinctive flat summit profile photographs most recognisably from lower elevation vantage points around the city. Mobility scooters are available from the manager on duty at the Upper Station after signing an indemnity form and receiving an operating demonstration.

Checked 2026-08-31 · Source

Where it is

• 20 min

  25 min walk

  Kloof Corner

  • Must see
  • Viewpoint
• 20 min

  33 min walk

  Devil's Peak

  • Must see
  • Viewpoint
• 1 hour

  38 min walk

  Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden

  • Must see
  • Nature site

External links

• View on Wikidata