Cape Town's biggest tourist attraction rises to 3,562 ft/1,086 m, and it's worth getting a close look. The most popular way of doing so is to ride the Table Mountain Cable Car, which whisks you to the summit. (You may want to ride the cable car one way and walk the other.) Once there, you're in for awesome panoramic views—provided the peak isn't shrouded in clouds. Keep an eye out for black eagles, Himalayan tahrs, smaller indigenous antelope such as duiker and klipspringer, rock hyraxes, and such striking flowers as the protea. There's also a decent self-service restaurant at the top of the mountain.
The mountain is part of the Table Mountain National Park, a vast protected area that has a network of hiking trails good for a brief stroll or an ambitious hike. There are more than 20 trails that run up the mountain from all sides—a leisurely climb takes about two hours. Areas of interest include the Valley of the Red Gods and Echo Valley. For details on the routes, purchase one of the trail guides available from newsstands. There are many available, although we recommend the titles by Mike Lundy. If you're planning to hike far, be sure you're well-equipped with a map, provisions and gear: The mountain sees some nasty weather, and it's easy to get lost. Sunny skies can turn foggy without warning—always check the weather report first and let someone know you're out walking on the mountain.
The cable car operates daily 8:30 am-5 pm (last car down at 6 pm); in winter, though, it usually closes for two-three weeks over the cusp of July-August for maintenance. Operation times are extended during the summer months, although service can be interrupted by bad weather. Round-trip tickets are R130 for adults, R68 for children. One-way tickets are half-price. The lower cable-car station is at Tafelberg Road, off Kloof Nek, Cape Town. Phone 021-424-8181. http://www.tablemountain.net.
