Walk Up Table Mountain - Cable Car Down

Table Mountain rises up (1086m or 3363ft) from the coastline below and surely dominates every view from Cape Town at any angle

. The mountain was always the first sight that the early explorers and traders would see when approaching Cape Town and its sheer size still astounds tourists today. What makes it more impressive is the fact that you have this massive wilderness area slap in the middle of Cape Town's bustling metropolis.

Table Mountain was formed about 300 million years ago. Silt and mud, layer upon layer created the sedimentary sandstone mountain which was pushed up from bellow the sea into its present position about 70 million years ago. The shape we see today is a result of water and wind erosion over time.

This majestic mountain is part of a greater nature reserve that is used by locals and tourists for hiking. There are numerous paths to the top of the mountain, some only for the very experienced. There is one path however that is very safe - (platteklip gorge) , the start of this route is approximate 1km along from the lower cable car station and takes about 2,5 hours . Besides the incredible views, keep a look out for dassies (rock hyrax) - these are small rodent-like mammals that live among the rocks and bushes.

The Cable Car ride from the base of the mountain is an absolute must on the list for all visitors to this beautiful part of the world. Two cable cars work in opposition to one another and the trip takes about 3, 5 minutes with the floor of the car revolving 360 degrees and affording guests with some of the most dramatic scenery in the world. Once on top, the many view points are all linked by a series of easy to use paths. There is a well stocked restaurant and bar on top which is the perfect place to enjoy sun-downers overlooking the Atlantic Ocean.

Weather conditions can change very quickly with the table cloth cloud moving over the top and rain moving in without warning. Be sure to take warm clothes with you even if the weather is good at the base of the mountain. If you do decide to walk to the summit be sure to pack a warm jacket, sun screen, hat and sufficient drinking water - please remember that even the easy route up is not recommended unless you are of at least average fitness.

by: Jason Wiltshire

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