Table Mountain Cableway Visitors Guide & Review
TL;DR
Planning to visit the iconic Table Mountain in Cape Town? The Table Mountain Cableway is your gateway to panoramic views, quick ascents, and an unforgettable experience. Opened in 1929, this state-of-the-art aerial cableway carries 65 passengers per trip, covers a vertical interval of 765 meters in just 4–5 minutes, and is operated by the Table Mountain Aerial Cableway Company. Prices range from R200–R420, with free rides on your birthday. This guide covers everything you need to know—from ticket prices to insider tips.
Why the Table Mountain Cableway is a Must-Do
If you’re in Cape Town, skipping the Table Mountain Cableway is like visiting Paris and ignoring the Eiffel Tower. It’s not just a ride—it’s an experience.
“The rotating floor blew my mind. One second I was looking at Lion’s Head, and the next, I was staring straight down at the Atlantic!” — My Table Mountain Diary
From sunrise to sunset, the views are jaw-dropping. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a family with kids, or a romantic couple, this is one activity that transcends age and interests.
A Brief History: From 1929 to Today
- Inaugurated: 4 October 1929
- Manufacturer: Adolf Bleichert & Co
- Modernization: Several upgrades since, most recently in 1997 with new rotating cabins
- Operator: Table Mountain Aerial Cableway Company
Built over a century ago, the cableway was a marvel of its time—and it still is. It’s gone from wooden cabins to sleek, rotating pods that cater to 21st-century adventurers.
Cable Car Details and Tech Specs
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Carrier Capacity | 65 passengers per cabin |
| Trip Duration | 4–5 minutes |
| Vertical Interval | 765 meters (2,510 feet) |
| Type | Rotating Aerial Cableway |
| Speed | 10 meters per second |
| Accessibility | Wheelchair-friendly |
This isn’t your average cable car—it’s a feat of engineering, offering 360° views thanks to its rotating floor.
What Makes the Table Mountain Cableway Unique
- Rotating Floors – No need to fight for a window seat.
- Eco-Friendly Operations – Solar panels, water-saving initiatives.
- World Wonder Status – Part of the New7Wonders of Nature.
- Quick & Smooth Ride – Covers a vertical climb of 765 meters in minutes.
- Historical Significance – Operating for nearly 100 years.
“I’ve ridden gondolas across the Alps and the Rockies, but nothing compares to this smooth ascent and that wraparound view of Cape Town.” — Traveler Review
Table Mountain Cable Car Ticket Pricing
| Ticket Type | Price (ZAR) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Adult Return | R420 | Valid from morning to evening |
| Child Return (4–17) | R200 | Under 4 ride free |
| One-Way Adult | R240 | For hikers descending on foot |
| One-Way Child | R150 | |
| SA Senior Citizens | R100 | Wednesdays only (ID required) |
| Birthday Ride | FREE | Must show ID or birth certificate |
Tip: Book online to skip queues and enjoy discounted off-peak pricing.
Cable Car Hours of Operation
| Month | Opening Time | Last Up | Last Down |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 08:00 | 19:30 | 20:30 |
| April | 08:00 | 17:30 | 18:30 |
| July | 08:30 | 16:00 | 17:00 |
| October | 08:00 | 18:30 | 19:30 |
Hours vary seasonally, and operations depend on weather conditions. Always check the official website before your visit.
How Long is the Ride Up?
The ascent takes just 4 to 5 minutes—but those few minutes are nothing short of magical. The rotating cabin ensures every person gets a panoramic view without elbowing for position.
Free Birthday Rides: What You Need to Know
Yes, you ride for free on your birthday! Here’s how to claim:
- Present a valid South African ID or birth certificate.
- Offer valid only on the exact date.
- Available for return trips only.
“I turned 30 on Table Mountain. The ride was free, but the memories? Priceless.”
How to Buy Tickets + Official Links
You can purchase tickets online or at the lower cable station. For convenience, online booking is recommended.
- Buy Online: tickets.tablemountain.net
- Contact: +27 (0)21 424 8181
- Email: [email protected]
My Personal Review & Insider Tips
Personal Experience
“I took the first ride up at 8:00 AM. The golden light kissed the city below while the cable car ascended like a dream. Pro tip? Avoid weekends if you hate long queues.”
Insider Tips
- Go early: First trip = fewer crowds.
- Check weather: Wind = closed cableway.
- Combine with hike: Take the cable car up and hike down.
- Bring a jacket: It gets cold at the summit, even in summer.
- Photography: The best shots are just before sunset.
Is the Table Mountain Cableway Open Today?
The cableway is usually open daily, weather permitting. For real-time status updates:
- Check live status: tablemountain.net/live-status
- Social Media: Follow their Twitter or Facebook
Contact Details & Social Media
| Contact Type | Details |
|---|---|
| Phone | +27 (0)21 424 8181 |
| [email protected] | |
| Google Maps | View Location |
| @TableMountainCableway | |
| Table Mountain Cableway |
FAQs
How much is a cable car ticket to Table Mountain?
Return tickets cost around **R420 for adults** and **R210 for children (4–17 years)**. **One-way tickets** are also available. Special discounts apply early in the morning and on birthdays. For the latest prices, visit the official Table Mountain Cableway tickets page.
Is the Table Mountain cable car free on your birthday?
Yes! South African citizens enjoy a **free cable car ride on their birthday**. Just bring a valid South African ID or birth certificate and redeem your ticket at the Lower Cable Station. It’s a popular treat—arrive early to skip queues.
What are the Table Mountain cable car operating hours?
Operating hours vary seasonally: – **Summer (Nov–Feb)**: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM – **Spring/Fall (Mar–May / Sep–Oct)**: 8:00 AM – 6:30 PM – **Winter (June–Aug)**: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM Last car down is typically 30–60 minutes after the last ascent. Check today’s hours on the [live status page].
How long does the cable car ride to Table Mountain take?
The ride takes about **4 to 5 minutes** from base to summit, covering a vertical rise of **765 meters**. During the ascent, the cabin rotates 360 degrees, offering unbeatable panoramic views.
Is Table Mountain Cableway open today?
Operations depend on **weather conditions**. High winds, rain, or poor visibility can cause sudden closures. Visit the [official live updates page]or call **+27 (0)21 424 8181** for current status.
Where can I buy Table Mountain cable car tickets?
You can buy tickets: – Online at the [official website] – On-site at the Lower Cable Station (expect longer queues) – Via trusted tour operators or third-party vendors Online booking is highly recommended to avoid wait times.
Can I use the cableway in bad weather?
No. The cableway **does not operate** during **unsafe weather conditions** such as strong winds or thunderstorms. Always check the daily operational status before planning your trip.
Is there parking at Table Mountain Cableway?
Limited parking is available near the Lower Cable Station on **Tafelberg Road**. During peak seasons, use the **MyCiTi shuttle service** from the city or V&A Waterfront for convenience.
Can you hike up and take the cable car down?
Absolutely. Many visitors **hike up via Platteklip Gorge** and enjoy a relaxing **cable car descent**. Be sure to buy a **one-way ticket** for the return. Hiking is free, but plan for 2–3 hours uphill.
Are there restaurants or shops at the top?
Yes! At the summit, you’ll find **Table Mountain Café**, a gift shop, viewing decks, and restrooms. It’s a great place to relax, refuel, and enjoy Cape Town from above.
Is the Table Mountain cableway wheelchair-accessible?
Yes, both the lower station and the cable cars are **fully wheelchair-friendly**, including ramps, accessible restrooms, and priority entry.
How do I contact Table Mountain Cableway?
Here are the official contact details: – 📞 Phone: **+27 (0)21 424 8181** – ✉️ Email: [[email protected]](mailto:[email protected]) – 🌐 Website: [www.tablemountain.net] – 📍 Google Maps: [Table Mountain Cableway]
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.
