Cape Point Lighthouse
Witness the dramatic meeting of the Atlantic and Indian Oceans from the iconic New Cape Point Lighthouse, a beacon of history and natural beauty.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds and enjoy serene views
Cape Point Lighthouse
Best Time
Beat the crowds and enjoy serene views

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Witness the dramatic meeting of the Atlantic and Indian Oceans from the iconic New Cape Point Lighthouse, a beacon of history and natural beauty.
"The New Cape Point Lighthouse offers panoramic views of rugged cliffs and vast oceans, a must-see in Cape Town."
🚗 Toll Fee & Entrance
There's a toll fee to enter the reserve. Budget for it!
🚡 Funicular Ride
Take the funicular for an easy trip up to the lighthouse.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

New Cape Point Lighthouse
Cape Point
The brightest lighthouse in South Africa, offering stunning panoramic views of the meeting oceans.

Flying Dutchman Funicular
Base of the lighthouse trail
A fun and convenient ride to the lighthouse, offering scenic vistas along the way.

Two Oceans Meet
Cape Point
Witness the dramatic confluence of the Atlantic and Indian Oceans, a truly unique natural spectacle.
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Getting to the Top
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Toll Fee & Entrance
There's a toll fee to enter the reserve. Budget for it!
🚡 Funicular Ride
Take the funicular for an easy trip up to the lighthouse.
👟 Comfortable Shoes
Wear good walking shoes for exploring the trails and lighthouse area.
☀️ Check the Weather
It can get windy and cold. Dress in layers!
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Toll Fee & Entrance
There's a toll fee to enter the reserve. Budget for it!
🚡 Funicular Ride
Take the funicular for an easy trip up to the lighthouse.
👟 Comfortable Shoes
Wear good walking shoes for exploring the trails and lighthouse area.
☀️ Check the Weather
It can get windy and cold. Dress in layers!
⏰ Arrive Early
Maximize your day by getting there at opening.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the breathtaking panoramic views from the New Cape Point Lighthouse and the dramatic scenery where the Atlantic and Indian Oceans meet. The funicular ride is a popular and convenient way to reach the top. However, some find the site very crowded, especially during peak season, and note that the area can be small and packed.
"Stunning place, the panoramic view is awesome! Next time we will come back and do the complete walk, but I do recommend the little train as well!"
Lars Maatman
"All very breathtaking and the funicular is a fun but laboured ride. Wish they accepted cash almost fainted from dehydration out there but otherwise good 😊"
Steph Kapfunde
"The New Cape Point Lighthouse, perched atop Cape Point, offers panoramic views of rugged cliffs, vast oceans, and the meeting point of the Atlantic and Indian Oceans.
Built in 1919, it replaced the old lighthouse for better visibility. A must-visit for history, nature, and incredible photo opportunities in Cape Town’s Cape Peninsula."
Oleg Potkin
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Cape Point Lighthouse is accessible by car within the Cape Point Nature Reserve. There's a toll fee to enter the reserve.
Once inside, you'll drive to the main parking area near the lighthouse. The drive from Cape Town can take about an hour to 1.5 hours, depending on traffic.Public transport options are limited and not very convenient for reaching Cape Point. Renting a car or joining a guided tour is generally recommended for ease of access.
From Cape Town, take the M4/M6 along the coast towards Hout Bay, then follow the M42 and M65 through Scarborough and Misty Cliffs. Continue on the M65 which becomes the Cape Point Road, leading directly to the reserve entrance.
The drive from Cape Town to Cape Point Nature Reserve typically takes between 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on your starting point and traffic conditions.
Yes, Chapman's Peak Drive offers spectacular coastal views and is a scenic route. There is a toll fee for this drive.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is an entrance fee for Cape Point Nature Reserve. For adults, it's R105, and for children, it's R55 (as of recent information).
It's advisable to check the official SANParks website for the most current pricing.While not always explicitly stated for the reserve, purchasing tickets in advance online is often a good strategy for popular attractions to save time. Check the SANParks website for any online booking options.
The reserve typically opens early, around 7 AM, and closes around 5 PM.
It's best to confirm these hours before your visit, as they can vary seasonally. Arriving early is recommended to make the most of your day.Yes, the entrance fee to the Cape Point Nature Reserve covers access to the lighthouse and the surrounding areas. The funicular ride to the lighthouse has a separate fee.
Discounts may be available for South African residents or specific groups. It's worth checking the SANParks website or inquiring at the entrance gate for any applicable concessions.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can walk up to the lighthouse from the parking lot, which takes about 15-20 minutes and involves some stairs.
Alternatively, you can take the Flying Dutchman Funicular, a short ride that brings you very close to the lighthouse.The walk is considered moderately easy, with some uphill sections and stairs. It's generally manageable for most visitors, but taking it slow is advised.
The Flying Dutchman Funicular is a short, scenic ride that transports visitors from the parking area to a point near the New Cape Point Lighthouse.
You can see the New Cape Point Lighthouse, enjoy panoramic ocean views, witness where the Atlantic and Indian Oceans meet, and explore the unique flora and fauna of the Cape Peninsula.
Yes, there are several hiking trails, including the Lighthouse Keeper's Trail connecting the old and new lighthouses.
Some beach walks are also available on the western side.Cape Point Nature Reserve is generally considered safe due to its access control and entrance fees.
However, as with any natural area, normal precautions apply. Stick to main tourist areas if you're alone, and for longer hikes, it's best to go with someone.📸 📸 Photography
The area around the New Cape Point Lighthouse offers incredible panoramic views for photos.
The viewpoint where the two oceans meet is also a prime spot.Early mornings or late afternoons often provide softer light for photography and fewer crowds.
Drone usage is typically restricted in national parks and nature reserves to protect wildlife and visitor experience. It's best to check the specific regulations for Cape Point Nature Reserve before flying a drone.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for spotting wildlife. Don't forget a polarizing filter for enhancing ocean and sky colors.
The viewing platform at the New Cape Point Lighthouse is the main attraction. There are also various points along the drive and walking paths that offer stunning photographic opportunities.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Lighthouses of Cape Point
The New Cape Point Lighthouse, completed in 1919, is located at a lower, more sheltered elevation. It's the most powerful lighthouse in South Africa, emitting a bright flash every 30 seconds, and is crucial for guiding ships along this treacherous coastline. The two lighthouses are connected by the scenic 'Lighthouse Keeper's Trail', a 3.5 km walk that's highly recommended for those who enjoy hiking.
Visitors often marvel at the contrast between the two structures and the dramatic history that led to the construction of the second lighthouse. The views from both are spectacular, offering a glimpse into the maritime importance of this region.
Navigating the Cape Point Nature Reserve
Upon entering, you'll drive towards the main attraction: the lighthouse. The roads within the reserve are generally well-maintained, but it's important to be aware of wildlife, particularly baboons, which are known to approach vehicles and picnic areas. Secure your food and belongings to avoid any unwanted encounters.
Beyond the lighthouse, the reserve offers opportunities for beach walks on the western side and tidal pools. Remember to check the weather, as it can change rapidly, and always inform someone of your hiking plans if venturing onto less-trafficked trails.
The Meeting of the Oceans
This meeting point is not a distinct line in the water but rather a dynamic zone where the characteristics of both oceans influence the environment. Visitors can experience the raw power of the ocean from the clifftops, with waves crashing against the rugged coastline. The rich marine life here makes it a significant area for conservation efforts.
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