What to do in Cape Point

A walk down towards windswept Diaz beach. Photo: Bernd M. Schell / Unsplash

What Cape Point is truly famous for, besides the wind-raw beach walks past old Khoisan caves, is the meeting place of the warm Agulhas current and the cooler, Benguela current. Two Oceans, locked in a grand guignol game of table tennis, waves and temperatures crashing at each other in a display of dominance. The most popular way to view the massive peninsula and to fully grasp its vastness, is with wings. Daily helicopter excursions take it one step further by offering morning shuttle services before and after the trip, making it a sure and safe way taken by many tourists. Cape Point also offers up some of the most beautiful beaches around, as well as thrilling beach-based activities too.

Ride the Flying Dutchman

Inside the Flying Dutchman Funicular, Cape Point. Photo: Jean van der Meulen / Flickr

Why you should experience it: Also called the Cape Point Funicular, the Flying Dutchman, offers a fun, unique mode of transport up towards the spectacular views at Cape Point.

How much does it cost: An adult return ticket will cost you R75 (R50 for one way) and R45 for kids (R35 one way).

Hiking and beach trails

Cape Point hiking trail overlooking the lighthouse, Cape Peninsula. Photo: Lucile Noiriel / Unsplash

Why you should visit: The Reserve is home to a range of hiking trails, some overnight, which will take you along white Atlantic beaches and through the intricate fynbos vegetation. Explore the beaches of Buffels Bay, Maclear, Olifantsbos, Platboom, and the stunning Diaz which is surrounded by sheer cliff faces. The walkway down to Diaz is on a charming, slightly challenging, wooden pathway. Once at Diaz, you’ll find kayaking, mountain biking, chilly swimming spots, bird-watching and, in season, whales passing the point in their annual migration journey.

How much does it cost: It’s free to visit any of the trails, just expect a bit of a long walk. Not to worry though, the exceptional views make it well worth it.

Visit the Cape Point shipwrecks

Nolloth Shipwreck, Cape Point. Photo: Jenny Hallward / Flickr

Why you should visit: The Cape Point shoreline is littered with the unfortunate shipwrecks of days gone by. There are two main shipwreck trails that offer a glance into the maritime history of the area; the Thomas T. Tucker trail and the Sirkelsvlei trail. The trails vary in distance and difficulty and pass through a variety of terrain. Bring snacks, water, sunscreen and comfortable shoes!

How to get there: The Thomas T. Tucker trail starts out at the Olifantsbos parking lot in the Cape Point Nature Reserve. The Sirkelsvlei trail starts at the entrance to the Cape Point Nature Reserve.

How much does it cost: Both trails are free.

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