Travel Plan
Table Mountain

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ATTRACTION GUIDE · CAPE TOWN

Table Mountain

Cape Town's flat-topped mountain, reached by a rotating cable car, with views over the city and ocean.

Tickets & tours Open in Google Maps
Time needed
Half a day
Entry
Paid (cable car)
Best time
Clear mornings
Area
City Bowl

Take the rotating cable car to the flat top for huge views.

Where it is & how to get there

Address: Tafelberg Rd, Table Mountain, Cape Town

  • Cable car: The rotating cableway takes about 5 minutes; it closes in strong wind.
  • Hiking: Platteklip Gorge is the most direct trail (2–3 hours up).
  • Weather: Check the cableway status on the day; the "tablecloth" cloud can roll in quickly.

The story of Table Mountain

Table Mountain rises about 1,085 metres above Cape Town. Its flat summit stretches for around 3 km, often covered by a layer of cloud called the "tablecloth".

It is part of Table Mountain National Park and the Cape Floral Region, a UNESCO site with thousands of plant species found nowhere else.

Best time to visit

Best season

October to April (summer).

Best time of day

Early morning, before wind and cloud.

Winter

More frequent closures for weather.

Tips before you go

  • Check the wind; the cable car closes in strong wind.
  • Buy cableway tickets online and check the weather.
  • Walk the easy summit paths for views of Robben Island and Lion's Head.

Best hotels near Table Mountain

Well-known hotels within easy reach. Check prices and availability for your dates.

One&Only Cape Town

Luxury hotel at the V&A Waterfront.

See prices

Belmond Mount Nelson Hotel

Historic pink hotel below Table Mountain.

See prices

The Silo Hotel

Design hotel above the Zeitz MOCAA museum.

See prices
All hotels near Table Mountain

What's around Table Mountain

  • Lion's HeadNeighbouring peak.
  • KirstenboschBotanical garden.
  • Bo-KaapColourful Muslim quarter.
  • Camps BayBeach below the mountain.

Questions travellers ask

How high is Table Mountain?

About 1,085 metres.

Does the cable car close?

Yes, in strong winds.

Can I hike up?

Yes, Platteklip Gorge takes 2–3 hours.

More in Cape Town

Bo-Kaap

Bo-Kaap

Read the guide
V&A Waterfront

V&A Waterfront

Read the guide
Lion’s Head hike

Lion’s Head hike

Read the guide
Back to the Cape Town guide
Travel Plan · Table Mountain Travel times, prices and opening hours change. Check official sites before you go. Photos: Unsplash. Privacy & disclosure