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Table Mountain Aerial Cableway
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The Table Mountain Aerial Cableway is Cape Town's most iconic tourist attraction, providing a swift and scenic journey to the summit of the world-famous plateau. Since its official opening on October 4, 1929, the cableway has transported over 30 million visitors, evolving through several major upgrades to its current state-of-the-art system. The modern 'Rotair' cars, introduced in 1997, feature floors that rotate 360 degrees during the ascent, ensuring all passengers enjoy an unobstructed panoramic view of the city, the Atlantic Ocean, and the surrounding peaks. Reaching an elevation of 1,067 meters above sea level, the upper station serves as the gateway to the Table Mountain National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its extraordinary biodiversity. Table Mountain itself is celebrated as one of the New Seven Wonders of Nature, home to thousands of plant species found nowhere else on Earth. Operations are highly weather-dependent, with services frequently suspended during high winds to ensure maximum safety. A trip on the cableway is considered a must-do experience, offering a unique perspective on one of the oldest geological formations in the world.
- Location: South Africa
- Top sights: Sunset Rocks · Hottentotshuisiebaai · Grootkop
- Nearby: Llandudno (8 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 21 | 22 | 20 | 18 | 15 | 13 | 12 | 12 | 13 | 16 | 18 | 20 |
| Rain mm | 20 | 15 | 25 | 48 | 71 | 135 | 124 | 121 | 62 | 47 | 46 | 21 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The Table Mountain Aerial Cableway is an attraction that takes families to the top of Table Mountain. The ride is suitable for all ages, including children, as long as they are accompanied by adults.
Typical hours
The cable car typically runs daily from about 8:30 AM until sunset, depending on weather conditions. In winter months, operation may be restricted due to wind - check the website in advance.
Photography
Photography is unrestricted during the ride and on the summit - the panoramas are panoramic. For children, there are safe viewing platforms, though they lack high railings, so watch out.
Time needed
The ride up and down takes about 5 minutes each, plus time spent on the summit. Plan for a total of 1.5 to 2 hours to enjoy the view and walk the trails.
Combine with
At the foot of Table Mountain lies Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden, an excellent spot for a family outing. The Waterfront area with the Two Oceans Aquarium is also a short drive away.
Getting there
The cableway station is reachable by car from Cape Town in about 20 minutes; paid parking is available. MyCiTi public buses also stop near the base station.
Insider tip
Book tickets online to avoid queues - especially in peak season. Go early in the morning for the best visibility and the quietest time on the summit.
Geography
Facts
- The first cableway was officially opened to the public on October 4, 1929.
- The current rotating 'Rotair' cars were introduced in October 1997.
- Each car can carry up to 65 passengers and travels at 10 meters per second.
- The upper cable station is located at an altitude of 1,067 meters above sea level.
- Table Mountain was inaugurated as one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature in 2011.
- The cableway has a perfect safety record since its major 1997 upgrade.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Table Mountain Aerial Cableway (11)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is the easiest way up?
The Cableway (Table Mountain Aerial Cableway) is the fastest and most comfortable way.
Does the cableway run in wind?
In strong wind, operations are often suspended at short notice for safety reasons.
How long should I spend at the top?
Plan for about 2 to 3 hours to explore the viewpoints at leisure.
Is it cold at the top?
Yes, it is often much windier and cooler up top than in the city; bring a jacket.
Is there food available?
Yes, there is a cafe and a shop at the summit.
Table Mountain Aerial Cableway: where is it located?
Table Mountain Aerial Cableway is located in South Africa.
Table Mountain Aerial Cableway: what is there to see?
Highlights include Sunset Rocks, Hottentotshuisiebaai, Grootkop.
Table Mountain Aerial Cableway: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.
Table Mountain Aerial Cableway: why is it worth visiting?
The Table Mountain Aerial Cableway is Cape Town's most iconic tourist attraction, providing a swift and scenic journey to the summit of the world-famous plateau.
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