Have you ever dreamed of standing at the edge of a continent, where the sea roars and cliffs stretch into the clouds? That’s exactly what we can experience at Cape Point and the Cape of Good Hope in South Africa.

Often confused, these two stunning spots are neighbors within Table Mountain National Park—but each offers something unique. Let’s dive into a fully detailed guide so we can plan the perfect trip!

Where Are They?

Both Cape Point and the Cape of Good Hope are located inside Table Mountain National Park, about 70 km (43 miles) south of Cape Town. They’re situated on the Cape Peninsula, and although close together (about a 10-minute drive apart), they each have distinct features. Cape Point is known for its lighthouse and funicular railway, while the Cape of Good Hope is famous for its scenic hiking and historic “end of the world” atmosphere.

Opening Hours & Entrance Fees

The Cape of Good Hope Section of Table Mountain National Park is open daily from:

- 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM (October–March)

- 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM (April–September)

Entry fees (as of 2025):

- International Adults: approx. $13 USD (R400)

- International Children: approx. $6 USD (R200)

- SA Residents: lower local rates apply with ID

Tickets can be purchased at the gate (card payments preferred), and the fee covers access to both Cape Point and the Cape of Good Hope.

How to Get There

By Car (Self-Drive):

This is the most flexible option. From Cape Town, drive via M4 (Main Road) or M3 + M65, passing through scenic spots like Chapman's Peak Drive and Simon’s Town. The route is paved and well-maintained. There's ample parking at both Cape Point and the Cape of Good Hope.

By Guided Tour:

Day tours from Cape Town cost around $40–$80 USD, often including hotel pickup, a visit to Boulders Beach (penguins!), and Chapman's Peak. Great if you want a relaxed day without driving.

Public Transport:

There is no direct public bus service to Cape Point. For budget travelers, a combo of train (to Simon’s Town) + Uber can work, but it’s less convenient.

Cape Point Funicular Details

The Flying Dutchman Funicular takes visitors from the lower station up to near the old lighthouse.

- Length: 585 meters

- Elevation Gain: 87 meters

- Ticket Price: ~$5 USD (R100) round trip

- Departures every 3 minutes

- Operating hours: same as park hours

From the upper station, we can walk a short distance to the lighthouse and enjoy epic views over the Atlantic Ocean.

What to Do at Cape Point

- Visit the Old Lighthouse (1860): Perched high on the cliffs.

- See the New Lighthouse (1919): Located closer to sea level for better visibility to ships (trail may be under maintenance).

- Enjoy the Views: The cliffs here are among the most dramatic in Africa.

- Watch for Wildlife: Look out for ostriches, antelope, seabirds—and yes, baboons!

What to Do at the Cape of Good Hope

- Take the Iconic Photo: There’s a signpost here marking the “Most South-Western Point of Africa.”

- Hike the Cape of Good Hope Trail: About 1.5 hours round trip, with gorgeous sea views and wildflowers.

- Spot Wildlife: You might see dassies (rock hyrax), lizards, and even whales offshore during the season.

Important Tips for Visiting

1. Arrive Early: Especially in summer—parking fills up quickly.

2. Bring Layers: Even in warm months, it gets windy at the top.

3. Watch Your Food: Chacma baboons are known for stealing snacks. Never feed them, and don’t leave bags unattended.

4. Wear Comfortable Shoes: You’ll be doing some walking.

5. No Restaurants Inside the Park: Bring water and snacks, or eat at the Cape Point restaurant near the lower funicular station.

Best Time to Visit

- October to March is ideal, with dry and sunny weather.

- April to September brings cooler air and occasional mist—still beautiful but wear a jacket!

- Late morning to early afternoon is best for lighting and ocean visibility.

Our Experience at the Edge

We started our trip early from Cape Town, drove along the coast, and reached the park just as it opened. After snapping some pictures at the Cape of Good Hope, we hiked up to Cape Point, where we caught the funicular. The views from the lighthouse were jaw-dropping—the Atlantic stretched endlessly in every direction. Despite the baboon drama (one tried to unzip a backpack!), the experience was wild, raw, and unforgettable.

Ready for Your Next Adventure?

So Lykkers, if you're heading to South Africa, don’t miss these iconic coastal spots. The roaring ocean, towering cliffs, and playful wildlife at Cape Point and the Cape of Good Hope create an unforgettable adventure. Let’s keep chasing horizons together—where should we go next?