WATCH: Riding a Cable Car to the Top of Table Mountain in Cape Town

Yahoo Travel
Updated

A view of Table Mountain from the water. (Photo: Brittany Jones-Cooper)

The first thing you see when driving into Cape Town, South Africa, is Table Mountain.

This flat-topped landmark can be seen from most locations in the city, and it’s such a part of the region that it even appears on Cape Town’s flag.

From the moment I entered the city, it seemed like Table Mountain was all anyone could talk about. The standard conversation with the locals sounds something like this.

Local: Have you been to Table Mountain?

Me: No.

Local: You have to go to Table Mountain.

Me: OK.

So after 10 of those conversations, I decided to make the trip. But don’t worry, you don’t need to be an expert hiker to reach the top.

Locals call the white cloud that sometimes forms over Table Mountain the tablecloth. (Photo: Brittany Jones-Cooper)

Nearly 800,000 visitors ride the cable car to the peak of Table Mountain every year. There are two cable cars that run constantly, so in just one hour, 800 people can enjoy the trip.

Not going to lie, I wasn’t excited to cram into this metal bubble with 65 other people. But honestly, it was quite spacious. Plus, the cable car spins 360 degrees as you ascend, so you get amazing views no matter where you stand.

A view of Capetown from the top of Table Mountain. (Photo: Brittany Jones-Cooper)

The top of Table Mountain is serenely quiet, with gentle winds and a variety of vegetation. Walking paths have been carved out, and there are dozens of different lookout spots to view the city below. This aerial glimpse also provides beautiful views of Lion’s Head peak and Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned.

Lion’s Head peak and Robben Island out in the water. (Photo: Brittany Jones-Cooper)

The views are always stunning, but sunset is a popular time to make the journey to the top. Wait times will increase as it gets closer to sundown, so it might be worth it to head up a little early to soak in the beauty below.

Table Mountain selfie from the top. (Photo: Brittany Jones-Cooper)

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