About Cape of Good Hope

Located on the Atlantic coast of southern Africa, this majestic, stony peninsula courageously infiltrates itself into the open waters of the ocean. As part of the Table Mountain Park, this section of natural grandiosity offers its visitors a historical background as well: the name, Cape of Good Hope, originated from the first colony settled in this part of the country, dating back to the 1600s, back when the Dutch decided to build a new life in this stunning part of the world.

Home to hundreds of thrilling anecdotes and peculiar stories, shipwrecks and pirates, this piece of paradise continues to gift its visitors with grand memories of a past that has left its most valuable traces through a “history” that will always amaze all who dare to never stop exploring.

The gates of Cape of Good Hope open at sunrise and close at sunset, offering spectacular views and magical experiences all day. From dog-walking, paragliding, rock climbing, to horse-riding, mountain biking, and fishing, there is a lifetime of things to see and do at Cape Point. Full of spectacular viewpoints and the most isolated and scenic beaches, it is almost impossible to fit them all in one visit. Ride the Flying Dutchman Funicular to the top of the mountain and enjoy the jaw-dropping serine views. Watch the massive whales swim by the Cape Point on their annual migration (around June to October). Photograph the hundreds of bird species you encounter here. Legend has it that the ghosts of the Flying Dutchman haunt the land and its waters. So look out for the ghost ship while you explore the shipwrecks if you like the spoke. If you love hiking, trek through the rocky coastlines. It is also a perfect place for a treasure hunt as there are many shipwrecks on the beaches. The flora and fauna, in all its diversity, is stunning, indeed. 

Must See

  • Olifantsbos Point
  • Phyllisia
  • Buffels Bay
  • Cape Point 
  • Plant Life
  • Old Cape Point Lighthouse.

How to reach

It is almost 28 Km from the city center. If you take a taxi it will cost you R 450 - R 550.

You can also come by train. It is a 48 minutes train ride from Cape Town to Mitchells Plain and will cost R 8 - R 9.

The Cape Point Explorer red sightseeing bus offers a full day’s excursion with an English-speaking guide aboard a luxury air-conditioned coach. Tickets can be booked online from their website.

Self Drive - The Cape of Good Hope is located 70 km away from Cape Town. By car, it will take about an hour and a half to drive here from the city. Go by way of Chapman’s Peak and Noordhoek.

By Taxi / Uber - This will take you on the same route as a self-drive and will cost around R450 for the vehicle. Bear in mind, the taxi driver will have to pay entry fees as well, unless you’re dropped at the gate, which is 15km from the parking lot (bad idea).

By Train - The train from Cape Town takes you all the way to Simonstown for around R16 (one way). This journey is about 1h20. Sadly. Here you can hire a scooter or a bicycle in Simonstown from a company called Cycle Cape Point. 

By Bus
The Cape Point Explorer red sightseeing bus offers a full day’s excursion with an English-speaking guide aboard a luxury air-conditioned coach. It includes a stop at Boulders Beach (entry for your own account) and entry into the Cape of Good Hope (Cape Point). You’ll have to book your spot on the bus 24 hours in advance and it costs R550 per person.

 

Tips

  • Enjoy the most breathtaking ocean and mountain scenery in the world.
  • Ride the Flying Dutchman Funicular up to the viewing point.
  • Shop for curios and souvenirs at the shops.
  • There are great swimming spots, picnic sites and walks at the Bordjiesrif and Buffels Bay tidal pools.
  • Photograph the 1000+ indigenous plant species you will find nowhere else in the world.
  • Watch huge whales move past Cape Point on their annual migration (around June to October).
  • Keep an eye out for numerous bird species found here.
  • Explore the shipwreck trail. There are 26 recorded shipwrecks around Cape Point.
  • There are many exciting outdoor activities, such as sea kayaking and mountain biking.
  • Always keep a lookout for the legendary ghost ship – The Flying Dutchman!
  • Due to seasonal changes, the opening times change throughout the year to coincide with daylight hours.
  • Each early or closer to sunset to avoid the crowd and good photography opportunities.
  • Be careful of wild animals
  • A great place to enjoy a picnic away from the big crowds at Cape Point.
  • It’s home to a wide variety of plants and trees, many of which are rare. 
  • The old lighthouse has stood here since 1860 serving as a warning to those rounding 'the fairest Cape'.
  • Try to carry your own food and water
  • Wear comfortable footwear for long walking hours.
  • Vehicles leaving after the closing time are penalized, so adhere to the time indicated at the gate when entering the park.

Visit Time

Sunday: 5:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Monday: 5:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Tuesday: 5:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Wednesday: 5:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Thursday: 5:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Friday: 5:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Saturday: 5:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Time Icon

Waiting Time

No

 

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Entrance Fee

Yes

Entry to Cape Point costs R50 p/child and R105 p/adult.

It is free for Green Card holders.

A single ride on the Flying Dutchman Funicular is R16 p/child (aged 6 to 16) and is R39p/adult. 

A return ticket costs R21 p/child and R49 p/adult.

South Africans (with ID), Adults - R76, Kids - R39

SADC Nationals, Adults - R152, Kids - R76

International Visitors, Adults - R303, R152

Children: Cape of Good Hope ages 2-11, Flying Dutchman Funicular ages 6-16, South African pensioners get special funicular
rates on Wednesdays: R30 (return), R22 (single)

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Time you can spend

6 hours

 

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Weather

Overcast Clouds 24.55°C

 

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