Cape Point, the most south-westerly tip of Africa, is a spectacular, narrow finger of land, covered in endemic fynbos and home to picturesque bays, beaches, rolling green hills and valleys.
Cape Point falls within the Cape Floral Region, a World Heritage Site, and is the most southerly point within the Good Hope section of Table Mountain National Park. The Cape Floral Region is one of the richest areas for plants in the world – it is home to nearly 20% of Africa’s flora.
Plan a picnic in the park or on the beach, hike or mountain bike, have lunch in the upmarket Two Oceans Restaurant (bookings essential; +27 (0)21 780 9200) high above the crashing waves of False Bay, or simply catch The Flying Dutchman funicular to some superb lookout points over the Atlantic Ocean.
Apart from the spectacular view, you’ll be able to see the most powerful lighthouse on the South African coast, which helps guide ships safely through perilous waters that have seen to the end of many a vessel.
Look out, too, for pelagic birds of which there are a large variety, zebra, eland, and the many species of reptiles and small mammals. Chacma baboons are common here, especially at the point itself. Don’t be tempted to feed the baboons and rather stay well away, as they can be aggressive. Cape Point is open daily and is a must-see. Enter via the access gate to the Cape Point Nature Reserve. Tickets cost R85 per adult and R30 per child. The reserve is open from 06h00 to sunset in summer and 07h00 to 17h00 in winter. It is not necessary to book beforehand.
Cape Point, the most south-
