What to Do at Cape Point: Top 10 Adventures, Local Favourites, and Safety Essentials
Cape Point is one of South Africa’s most iconic destinations, offering jaw-dropping views, adrenaline-pumping hikes, historical gems, wildlife encounters, and gourmet delights. This guide shares 10 standout experiences, backed by local tips, safety essentials, real-time info, and personal stories to help you make the most of your visit.
1. Cape Point Nature Reserve: A Biodiverse Wonder
Why You Should Start Here
Cape Point forms part of the Table Mountain National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Home to over 1,100 indigenous plant species, rich fynbos, baboons, ostriches, and antelope, the reserve delivers a full sensory immersion into the Cape’s raw beauty.
Entry Fee:
| Visitor Type | Price (ZAR) |
|---|---|
| Adults | R400 |
| Children | R200 |
Operating Hours: 6 AM – 6 PM (summer); 7 AM – 5 PM (winter)
Google Maps: Cape Point Nature Reserve
My Take:
“Entering the reserve felt like stepping into a live documentary—an untouched harmony of sea cliffs, wildlife, and wind-whipped plains.”
Local Tip: Buy your ticket online via SANParks for faster entry: www.sanparks.org
2. Hike the Lighthouse Trail to Old Cape Point Lighthouse
Where History Meets Height
Built in 1859, the original lighthouse sits 238 meters above sea level. It’s a short but steep 15-minute hike with panoramic ocean views.
Duration: 15–30 minutes one-way
Difficulty: Moderate
Location: Old Cape Point Lighthouse
My Take:
“Every step echoed with history and wind. The final ascent revealed waves colliding below like they were choreographed.”
Important Note: Strong winds are common. Dress warmly and wear good hiking shoes.
3. Ride the Flying Dutchman Funicular
The Lazy Way Up
If you’re not in the mood for hiking, the Flying Dutchman is your scenic shortcut to the lighthouse.
Ticket Prices:
| Category | One-Way (ZAR) | Return (ZAR) |
|---|---|---|
| Adults | R90 | R135 |
| Children | R45 | R70 |
Operating Hours: 9 AM – 5 PM daily
My Take:
“It’s not just a ride—it’s an experience. You glide past cliffs and fynbos with an elevated view of both Atlantic and Indian Oceans.”
4. Soak in the Views from the New Lighthouse Lookout
The Unsung Hero
Often overshadowed by its older sibling, the New Lighthouse is more effective and accessible by trail or funicular.
Coordinates: 34°21′24″S 18°29′51″E
Pro Tip: Visit during golden hour (just before sunset) for unforgettable photos.
My Take:
“Watching the sea melt into the horizon with a mist of ocean spray was borderline spiritual.”
5. Dias Beach: Untamed, Remote, and Wildly Beautiful
For the Brave and the Bold
A secluded beach reached by a steep staircase. Dias Beach rewards you with thunderous surf, velvety sands, and near solitude.
Swimming Warning: Strong currents and no lifeguards
Best Time to Visit: Early morning to avoid winds
Google Maps: Dias Beach
My Take:
“It felt like discovering a secret. The kind of place you hesitate to post about because you want it all to yourself.”
6. Cape of Good Hope: Photo-Worthy Landmark
The Southernmost Point?
Not quite. It’s the southwesternmost tip of Africa—but iconic all the same.
What to Expect: Tour buses, queues for selfies, and spectacular cliffs
Google Maps: Cape of Good Hope
My Take:
“Yes, it’s touristy—but there’s something satisfying about standing at the edge of a continent.”
Pro Tip: Visit before 10 AM or after 3 PM to skip the crowds.
7. Surf & Swim at Buffels Bay and Bordjiesdrif
Family-Friendly Escapes
These tidal pools and braai spots are ideal for relaxing after a hike.
| Feature | Buffels Bay | Bordjiesdrif |
|---|---|---|
| Tidal Pool | Yes | Yes |
| Picnic/Braai | Yes | Yes |
| Shark Safety | Monitored area | Monitored area |
My Take:
“Nothing like a post-hike swim and fire-grilled meal with Table Mountain Park as your backdrop.”
Safety Tip: Always check surf and wind forecasts. Don’t swim alone.
8. Discover Shipwreck Trails: Hiking with History
Where Nature Tells Stories
Cape Point has over 20 shipwrecks, some of which are accessible via hiking trails like the Thomas T. Tucker Trail.
Popular Routes:
- Shipwreck Trail: 3–5 km roundtrip
- Kanonkop Trail: Moderate with epic views
My Take:
“Stumbling upon rusted ship skeletons feels cinematic—like you’re walking through an open-air museum of maritime mistakes.”
Safety Note: Stick to marked trails. Cell signal is limited.
9. Meet Wildlife on Land and Sea
The Unexpected Encounters
From baboons to bontebok and whales to seals, Cape Point teems with wildlife.
| Animal | Where Seen |
|---|---|
| Baboons | Near parking areas |
| Bontebok | Open fields along the drive |
| Ostriches | Beachfront paths |
| Whales | Offshore (June–October) |
My Take:
“A baboon stole my apple right from my backpack. They’re clever—don’t feed or provoke them.”
Phone Numbers for Emergencies:
Cape Point emergency: 021 780 9010
TMNP emergency: 086 110 6417 / 107 or 021 480 7700
Important Note: Avoid hiking alone in secluded areas. Always check weather conditions before heading out.
10. Eat, Shop & Relax at Cape Point Restaurants and Stores
Beyond the Trails
Refuel at Two Oceans Restaurant or grab souvenirs at the Cape Point Logo Store.
Two Oceans Restaurant (2025 Menu Highlights):
- Grilled Kingklip – R235
- Cape Malay Curry – R190
- Kids’ Fish Fingers – R80
Reservation Recommended: two-oceans.co.za
Phone: +27 21 780 9200
My Take:
“After 12,000 steps, that cold sauvignon blanc and seafood platter tasted like victory.”
Other Stores:
- Cape Point Logo Store
- Lighthouse Souvenir Shop
- Snack kiosks near parking areas
FAQs (Tap to Expand)
Is there an entrance fee to Cape Point?
Yes. the entry fees for Cape Point (within Table Mountain National Park) are:
| Visitor Type | Price (ZAR) |
|---|---|
| South African Citizens (with ID) | R105 (Adults), R55 (Children) |
| SADC Nationals | R210 (Adults), R105 (Children) |
| International Visitors | R400 (Adults), R200 (Children) |
Always confirm on the official SANParks website before your trip.
What is the best time to visit Cape Point?
The best months to visit Cape Point are from October to April during the dry season. Mornings are less crowded, and late afternoons offer golden-hour views. Avoid visiting during high wind warnings.
Is it safe to hike alone at Cape Point?
While many people hike safely, it’s strongly recommended to hike in a group. Check wind and weather forecasts beforehand. Save these emergency numbers:
- Cape Point Emergency: 021 780 9010
- Table Mountain National Park: 086 110 6417 / 021 480 7700
Can I use a regular car to drive to Cape Point?
Yes, a standard car can handle the road to Cape Point
Final Thoughts
Cape Point is where land ends and magic begins. It’s not just a tourist spot—it’s a feeling, a memory, and a moment of awe that stays with you. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, nature lover, or someone craving quiet beauty, Cape Point offers it all.
Disclaimer
WakaAbuja has made every effort to ensure that the information in this post was correct at the time of publication. However, we do not assume any liability caused by errors such as pricing, hours, or location details. Please consult official websites or social media pages for the most up-to-date information.
