Where is it and how do you access it?
Located 69km from the Cape Town Waterfront, it is a road journey of roughly one hour 45 minutes, out of season. However, in peak season (May to October), it is recommended that tours take into account the up to an hour-long queues at the entrance gate to the Cape Point National Park.
What makes it a tourist destination?
Despite the wide-held belief, Cape Point is not actually the southernmost tip of Africa. It is however an extremely significant Cape Town attraction. Bartolomeu Dias, the Portuguese seafarer, is recognised as the first to sail around the Cape (in 1488). On his return voyage, Dias actually stopped at the south-western tip of South Africa, and named it Cabo Tormentoso, or Cape of Storms.
A steep funicular railway takes guests on a scenic trip to the view site near the old Cape Point lighthouse. The more energetic can take the steep stairs to the top.
Walks are also available to the Cape Point beaches below, while the Two Oceans Restaurant offers sweeping views of False Bay far below, looking back towards Simon’s Town. Tip: if there’s a tour bus around, get your order in fast.
What is unique about the destination?
The wilderness aspect of this national park – baboon, eland, ostriches, bontebok and zebra are common, with jackals a little less so, and excellent birdlife. In the waters below are Cape fur seals, whales in season, while on the beaches and inland are over 300 years of San, Khoi and pioneering history.
The Cape Point lighthouse is the most powerful on the South African coast, beaming out three flashes with a range of 63 kilometres every 30 seconds. The Cape Argus Cycle Tour – the largest timed road-race in the world – wheels its way down the main road alongside the Park every February.
What are the top activities for tourists?
· Walk the shipwreck trail at Cape Point.
· Vasco da Gama and Bartolomeu Dias monuments at Cape Point.
· The tidal pools at Cape Point.
· Game, whale and bird-watching at Cape Point.
· Barbecueing and picnicking at Cape Point.
· Sunbathing on the beach.
· The spring flowers are a beautiful sight, especially for photography enthusiasts.
Seasonality?
Hot in peak summer, especially vulnerable to the pumping south-easter in the months from January to March. Wet and cold in the winter months, which can last from May to October.
Travellers’ Tips
Suntan lotion and a wide-brimmed hat with a chin-strap are essential as the wind can be wicked. A good alternative is to visit mid to late afternoon during peak season, when the crowds have thinned out.
