Table Mountain is Cape Town’s icon. The rotating cable car reaches the 1,067 m plateau in about 5 minutes, where you’ll find walking paths, a café and huge views over the city, Robben Island and the Atlantic. Wind is the big variable, because the cableway closes whenever it’s unsafe.
Table Mountain cableway prices (1 July 2026 – 30 June 2027)
| Ticket | Online | Ticket office |
|---|---|---|
| Adult return | R475 | R530 |
| Adult one way | R300 | R330 |
| Child (4–17) return | R230 | R270 |
| Child (4–17) one way | R165 | R180 |
| Fast Track return / one way | R1,200 / R750 | R1,200 / R750 |
| Student return (ticket office only) | n/a | R320 |
Prices are from the official Table Mountain Aerial Cableway site. Under-4s ride free, and South African seniors get a reduced rate. Tickets bought online, at the office or via WhatsApp are valid for 7 days.
Weather, wind and the best time to go
- The cableway closes in strong wind. The summer “Cape Doctor” south-easter is the usual culprit. Check the cableway’s website or social media for live status before you go.
- The “tablecloth” cloud can cover the top even on sunny days, so look up from the city first.
- Go early in the morning for the shortest queues and calmest air, or in the late afternoon for sunset in summer.
- Bring a jacket, because it’s often 5–10°C cooler on top.
Hiking up Table Mountain
| Route | Time up | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|
| Platteklip Gorge | 2–3 hours | Steep but straightforward, and the most popular route |
| Skeleton Gorge (from Kirstenbosch) | 2.5–3.5 hours | Ladders and streams, beautiful forest |
| India Venster | 2.5–3 hours | Scrambling, for experienced hikers only |
Hike in a group, start early, carry 2 litres of water and a jacket, and tell someone your route. Many people buy a one-way ticket to ride down. If you want company and local knowledge, compare guided Table Mountain hikes.
Getting to the lower cable station
An Uber from the City Bowl or the Waterfront takes 10–20 minutes. The hop-on hop-off bus also stops here. Parking along Tafelberg Road fills early in summer.
More Cape Town guides
- Cape Town travel guide
- 20 best things to do in Cape Town
- Cape Town itinerary: 3, 5 or 7 days
- Where to stay in Cape Town
- Cape Point and Boulders Beach day trip
- Robben Island tickets and tour
- Cape Town Airport to the city
- Best time to visit Cape Town
FAQ: Table Mountain tickets
Is it cheaper to buy Table Mountain tickets online?
Yes. An adult return costs R475 online versus R530 at the ticket office, and you skip the ticket queue.
What happens if the cableway is closed because of wind?
Tickets are valid for 7 days, so you can use yours on another day. Check the cableway’s official terms for refunds.
How long should I spend on top of Table Mountain?
Spend 1.5–2 hours to walk the short circular paths and enjoy the views. Add queue time in peak season.
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