Table Mountain National Park
Take in the panoramic views from the top of Table Mountain, and explore the diverse flora and fauna of the Cape.
Overview
Table Mountain National Park, located in Cape Town, South Africa, is a natural wonder that showcases the stunning beauty of the Cape Peninsula. The park is named after its most iconic feature, Table Mountain, a flat-topped mountain that offers panoramic views of the city and the surrounding coastline. Table Mountain is a popular destination for hikers and nature lovers, with numerous trails leading to the summit. The park is also home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including several endemic species. In addition to Table Mountain, the park also encompasses other notable landmarks such as Cape Point, the Cape of Good Hope, and the Twelve Apostles mountain range. Visitors to Table Mountain National Park can enjoy a variety of activities, including hiking, picnicking, and wildlife viewing, making it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Cape Town.
Things to Do
Hiking: Explore a variety of hiking trails, ranging from easy walks to challenging hikes, offering stunning views of the mountain and the city below.
Cable Car Ride: Take a ride on the Table Mountain Aerial Cableway for a scenic journey to the mountain’s summit, where panoramic views await.
Rock Climbing: For the adventurous, Table Mountain offers world-class rock climbing routes with varying levels of difficulty.
Flora and Fauna: Discover the diverse flora and fauna of the park, including unique fynbos vegetation and a variety of bird species.
Picnicking: Enjoy a relaxing picnic at one of the designated picnic areas, surrounded by the natural beauty of the park.
Abseiling: Experience the thrill of abseiling down the cliffs of Table Mountain, with experienced guides ensuring your safety.
What to See
able Mountain: Marvel at the iconic flat-topped mountain, a symbol of Cape Town, and take in the panoramic views from the summit.
Cape Point: Visit the southernmost tip of the Cape Peninsula, where the Atlantic and Indian Oceans meet, and explore the historic Cape Point Lighthouse.
Boulders Beach: Encounter a colony of African penguins at Boulders Beach, where boardwalks allow for close-up views of these fascinating creatures.
Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens: Explore the world-renowned botanical gardens, showcasing a diverse range of indigenous plants and stunning landscapes.
Chapman’s Peak Drive: Drive along one of the most scenic coastal roads in the world, offering breathtaking views of the ocean and mountains.
Robben Island: Take a ferry to Robben Island, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and tour the former prison where Nelson Mandela was incarcerated.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Table Mountain National Park is during the spring and autumn months (September to November and March to May), when the weather is mild, and the flora is in bloom.
Getting there
By Road:Â To reach Table Mountain National Park by road, you can take various routes depending on your starting point. If you’re coming from Cape Town city center, the most common route is via the Table Mountain Aerial Cableway. This route offers stunning views of the city and the ocean as you ascend. Alternatively, if you’re driving, you can take Kloof Nek Road or Tafelberg Road, which lead to the Lower Cable Station. From there, you can either hike up the mountain or take the cable car.
By Air:Â If you’re traveling from further afield, the closest airport to Table Mountain National Park is Cape Town International Airport (CPT). From the airport, you can rent a car and drive to the park, which takes approximately 20-30 minutes depending on traffic. Another option is to take a taxi or use a ride-sharing service, which are readily available at the airport. Some tour companies also offer shuttle services to the park for visitors.
Where to Stay
Mid-Range Accommodation:
able Mountain National Park CottagesÂ
Located within Table Mountain National Park, these mid-range cottages offer comfortable accommodations with easy access to hiking trails. The cottages feature basic amenities, self-catering facilities, and stunning views of the surrounding mountains and coastline.
Cape Point CottagesÂ
Situated near the entrance to Cape Point in the park, these mid-range cottages offer convenient access to the park’s attractions. The cottages are well-equipped with modern amenities, and guests can enjoy hiking, bird watching, and beach activities nearby.
Silvermine ResortÂ
Nestled in the Silvermine section of the park, this mid-range resort offers comfortable accommodations in a picturesque setting. The resort features self-catering chalets and a restaurant serving local cuisine. Guests can explore the surrounding nature reserve and enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking and mountain biking.
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Luxury Accommodation:
Table Mountain Luxury SuitesÂ
Located in the heart of Cape Town, these luxury suites offer elegant accommodations with breathtaking views of Table Mountain. The suites are well-appointed with modern amenities and guests can enjoy fine dining and spa treatments.
Cape Grace HotelÂ
Situated in the V&A Waterfront area, near the park, this luxury hotel offers luxurious accommodations with views of the harbor or Table Mountain. The hotel features elegant rooms, a spa, fine dining restaurants, and personalized services.
Tintswalo AtlanticÂ
Perched on the cliffs overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, this luxury lodge offers exclusive accommodations within the park. The lodge features luxurious suites, gourmet dining, and guided nature walks. Guests can enjoy stunning views of the ocean and mountains from their rooms.
Other Attractions in South Africa
Addo Elephant National Park
Augrabies Falls National Park
Garden Route National Park
Golden Gate Highlands National Park
Karoo National Park
Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park
Kruger National Park
Mapungubwe National Park
West Coast National Park
Drakensberg Mountains
General Knowledge Base
General information about Table Mountain National Park, South Africa.
Table Mountain National Park is located in Cape Town, South Africa, encompassing Table Mountain and the surrounding areas.
Table Mountain National Park is known for its stunning natural beauty, diverse flora and fauna, and rich cultural heritage.
The park covers an area of approximately 25,000 hectares (62,000 acres).
The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including dassies (rock hyraxes), Cape sugarbirds, and porcupines.
Visitors can enjoy hiking, rock climbing, mountain biking, and picnicking in the park.
Yes, the park is home to several historical sites, including the remains of early Stone Age settlements.
Yes, visitors can take a cable car ride to the top of Table Mountain for stunning views of Cape Town and the surrounding area.
The park is actively involved in conservation efforts to protect its unique flora and fauna, including invasive species control and habitat restoration projects.
