Cape of Good Hope
The southwesternmost point of Africa, offering dramatic cliffs, rich history, and abundant wildlife within a protected nature reserve.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Cape of Good Hope
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
The southwesternmost point of Africa, offering dramatic cliffs, rich history, and abundant wildlife within a protected nature reserve.
"Absolutely breathtaking! The Cape of Good Hope is a must-visit – stunning ocean views, dramatic cliffs, and the fresh sea breeze make it unforgettable."
🚗 Rent a Car for Freedom
Essential for exploring the reserve. Pre-book for best rates and convenience .
🥾 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and hiking. Good grip is a must!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Cape of Good Hope Sign
Cape of Good Hope
Snap a photo at the iconic sign marking the southwesternmost point of Africa. A must-do for any visitor!
Cape Point Lighthouse
Cape Point
Ascend to the historic lighthouse for panoramic ocean views. The funicular offers an easy ride up!
Wildlife Encounters
Cape Point Nature Reserve
Keep an eye out for ostriches, baboons, and various bird species roaming freely within the reserve.
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Navigating the Reserve
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Rent a Car for Freedom
Essential for exploring the reserve. Pre-book for best rates and convenience.
🥾 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and hiking. Good grip is a must!
☀️ Sun Protection is Key
Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. The sun can be intense!
💧 Pack Plenty of Water
Stay hydrated, especially during hikes. Limited facilities inside the park.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Rent a Car for Freedom
Essential for exploring the reserve. Pre-book for best rates and convenience.
🥾 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and hiking. Good grip is a must!
☀️ Sun Protection is Key
Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. The sun can be intense!
💧 Pack Plenty of Water
Stay hydrated, especially during hikes. Limited facilities inside the park.
🐒 Beware of Baboons!
Secure your food and belongings. They are known to raid picnics.
📸 Camera Ready!
Breathtaking views everywhere. Don't forget your camera or phone!
💰 Entrance Fee
Be prepared for an entrance fee. It's worth it for the experience.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Cape of Good Hope for its breathtaking natural beauty, dramatic cliffs, and historical significance. The chance to see wildlife and the iconic lighthouse are major highlights. However, some find the entrance fee steep and warn about the unpredictable weather and strong winds.
"The Cape of Good Hope, situated on the Atlantic coast of the Cape Peninsula in South Africa, marks the most south-western point of the African continent. For centuries it has been a place of both fear and fascination—known for its treacherous waters where the Atlantic and Indian Oceans converge, creating powerful currents, sudden storms, and unpredictable weather. Originally named the “Cape of Storms” by the Portuguese explorer Bartolomeu Dias in 1488, it represented one of the greatest challenges of early maritime exploration. Later renamed to the “Cape of Good Hope”, symbolizing the promise of a new sea route to the riches of the East—India and beyond. This renaming reflected optimism that the route would open unprecedented opportunities for trade and expansion during the Age of Discovery. Today, the Cape of Good Hope forms part of the Table Mountain National Park, renowned for its dramatic cliffs, rugged coastline, and rich biodiversity, including baboons, ostriches, and many bird species. It is located about 30 miles (48 kilometers) south of Cape Town, easily accessible for visitors who wish to experience both its natural beauty and its layered history. Two lighthouses stand sentinel here: the old lighthouse, built in 1859 at the summit of Cape Point, and the new lighthouse, constructed in 1919, located 162 meters lower near the tip of the promontory. The new one was built because the old lighthouse, though higher, was often obscured by fog and cloud cover, making it invisible to ships in peril. From the car parking, where you can find souvenir shops, you can take a cable car up to the old lighthouse or you can also walk (about 20 minutes). Visiting the Cape is more than a scenic outing—it is a journey through time. Its cliffs and windswept shores recall the daring of explorers who risked everything to expand the world’s horizons. A trip to the Cape of Good Hope is indeed worth every moment, offering panoramic views, natural wonders, and a deep connection to one of the great turning points of global history."
Philippe Jacques Kradolfer
"My visit to the place was very beautiful. I saw the famous Cape of Good Hope point with the waves hitting the rocks and the clouds covering it. The view and the place were really beautiful and I hope to visit it again with my family and friends. It is a historical and heritage landmark that is worth visiting. I spent two hours contemplating the beauty of the place.
I recommend visiting it and visiting the entire park, as you will find beauty everywhere on every path you take, with ostriches on the road and ibex running in the place."
Abdulaziz Alramadhani
"Lovely day trip. We started at boulders beach to see the penguins, headed to Cap of good hope and ended at the two oceans light house. We took the furnicular ride as well. Tickets here readily available and reasonably priced. The views were breathtaking. We hiked up the mountain at Cap of good Hope which was rewarded with extraordinary views. Highly recommended."
Aisha Rawert
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Getting to Cape Point without a car can be challenging. While Ubers might drop you off, getting a return ride is difficult due to patchy cell signal. It's best to pre-arrange a taxi or private transfer, or consider hiring a car for the day. Some travelers suggest befriending a local Uber driver and getting their number for a return trip.
You can take the train to Simon's Town and then an Uber to Boulders Beach and potentially Cape Point, but this requires multiple transfers and can be time-consuming. Renting a car is generally recommended for easier access and exploration within the reserve.
A popular scenic route is via Chapman's Peak Drive, offering stunning coastal views. From Cape Town, you can head towards Hout Bay, then take Chapman's Peak Drive towards Noordhoek, and continue to Cape Point. Ensure you check road conditions and potential closures for Chapman's Peak Drive.
The Cape of Good Hope is approximately 48 kilometers (30 miles) south of Cape Town. The drive can take anywhere from 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on traffic and the route taken.
You might be able to get an Uber to Cape Point, but getting one back can be very difficult due to limited service and drivers being unwilling to make the return trip. It's advisable to have a backup plan or pre-book transportation.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is an entrance fee to the Cape Point Nature Reserve, which includes access to both the Cape of Good Hope and Cape Point. Prices can vary, but expect it to be around R300 for adults and R150 for children. It's advisable to check the official Table Mountain National Park website for the most current pricing.
Tickets are generally available for purchase at the entrance gate. However, booking in advance might be an option through tour operators or online platforms, especially if you are part of a guided tour.
The reserve typically opens early, around 7 AM, and closes around 5 PM. Arriving early is recommended to make the most of your visit and avoid crowds.
While specific discounts aren't widely advertised, visitors with Green Card access might be able to use their remaining visits. It's always worth inquiring at the gate or checking the Table Mountain National Park website for any available concessions.
The entrance fee is typically per person. If you are driving your own vehicle, you will pay the per-person fee for each occupant. Tour operators will include this in their package price.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can visit the iconic Cape of Good Hope sign, hike to the Cape Point Lighthouse (or take the funicular), explore the dramatic coastline, spot wildlife like baboons and ostriches, and enjoy picnic spots. There are also beaches and tidal pools to discover.
Yes, the hike between the Cape of Good Hope and Cape Point is doable and considered safe. It's a beautiful trail, and you can also opt for the funicular to reach the lighthouse at Cape Point.
The funicular is a convenient and fun way to reach the Cape Point Lighthouse, especially if you have mobility concerns or want to save time. It offers great views on the way up.
The reserve is home to various wildlife, including baboons, ostriches, antelopes, and numerous bird species. Remember to keep a safe distance and never feed the animals.
Yes, there are designated picnic spots within the Cape Point Nature Reserve. However, be very cautious with your food due to the presence of baboons.
📸 📸 Photography
The iconic signpost, the lighthouse at Cape Point, the dramatic cliffs overlooking the ocean, and any scenic viewpoints along the drives are fantastic photo opportunities. The coastline offers stunning backdrops.
The wind can be very strong at Cape Point, making it challenging to hold your phone or camera steady. Using a phone leash or a tripod can be helpful. Be sure to secure loose items.
Early mornings or late afternoons offer softer light and potentially fewer crowds. However, the dramatic, often cloudy skies can also create stunning, moody photographs at any time of day.
Drone usage is generally restricted within national parks to protect wildlife and ensure visitor safety. It's best to check the specific regulations for Table Mountain National Park before attempting to fly a drone.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife spotting. A sturdy tripod can help with windy conditions, and a polarizing filter can enhance the ocean views.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Lovers
📸 Photographers
The rugged coastline provides endless opportunities for dramatic landscape photography. Be prepared for strong winds, which can make handheld shots challenging, so a tripod might be beneficial. The changing weather can also create incredible moody skies, perfect for capturing the raw beauty of the location.Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Significance of the Cape of Good Hope
Today, the Cape of Good Hope is part of the Table Mountain National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It's not just about the historical narrative; the area is a biodiversity hotspot. Visitors can encounter diverse flora and fauna, including the iconic baboons, ostriches, and a variety of bird species. The park offers a chance to connect with nature while stepping back in time, making it a truly unique destination that blends natural beauty with profound historical context.
Navigating Cape Point Nature Reserve: Tips from Travelers
Once inside the reserve, be prepared for a lot of driving to reach the main attractions like the lighthouse. Arriving early is crucial to avoid crowds and make the most of your day. The reserve offers various activities, including hiking trails, scenic drives, and opportunities for wildlife spotting. Remember to pack essentials like water, snacks, sunscreen, and a hat, as facilities can be limited. And always be mindful of the local wildlife, particularly the baboons, which are known to be bold and can raid unattended picnics.
The Iconic Lighthouses of Cape Point
To address this, a new lighthouse was constructed in 1919, situated significantly lower down, closer to the promontory's tip. This new lighthouse was designed to be more visible to passing vessels, even in challenging weather conditions. Visitors can reach the old lighthouse by walking (a scenic 20-minute trek) or by taking the convenient funicular. The views from both locations are spectacular, offering a glimpse into maritime history and the raw beauty of the South African coastline.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit