Full-Day Cape Peninsula: Table Mountain, Chapman's Peak, Cape Point & Penguins
Spend a full day circumnavigating the Cape Peninsula: ride the Table Mountain cable car, drive Chapman’s Peak, visit Boulders Beach’s penguin colony and stand at Cape Point. Expect dramatic coastal drives, short guided summit walks and close-up wildlife viewing with practical logistics handled.
The Experience
Before You Go
Layer for sudden wind
Table Mountain summit is exposed—bring a windproof outer layer even on warm days.
Respect the penguins
Stay on boardwalks and keep at least several meters from the African penguins to avoid stressing the colony.
Footwear for uneven terrain
Wear sturdy shoes with good grip for the rocky paths at Table Mountain and Cape Point.
Allow extra time for traffic
Chapman's Peak and the coastal roads are scenic but busy; factor in pickup windows and possible delays.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Early morning at the top of Table Mountain for calmer winds and soft light on Table Bay
- •The quieter western viewpoints near Cape Point for pewter-colored surf and historical wreck markers
Wildlife
- •African penguin
- •Chacma baboon
Conservation Note
Boulders and Cape Point are managed to protect vulnerable species; visitors should follow boardwalks and waste rules to minimize disturbance and support SANParks' conservation funding.
The peninsula has long maritime and colonial history—Table Mountain formed over 300 million years from sand and sediment, while Simon’s Town became a strategic naval base in the 18th–19th centuries.
What to Bring
Sturdy hiking shoesEssential
Provides traction on sandstone slabs, boardwalks and rocky Cape Point trails.
Windproof jacketEssential
Blocks strong summit winds and sudden coastal gusts.
Sunscreen & sunglassesEssential
Essential protection from strong UV, especially when exposed on the plateau and beaches.
Binoculars or zoom lens
Helps view seabirds, penguins and distant coastal features without approaching wildlife.
Common Questions
Are cable car tickets to Table Mountain included?
Yes — this tour typically includes cable car admission; you'll queue at the lower station for the five-minute ascent.
Can I swim with the penguins at Boulders Beach?
Swimming is allowed in the sheltered inlets but do not attempt to touch or feed penguins; use boardwalks to observe from a respectful distance.
Is lunch included on the tour?
Lunch is optional—there is usually a scheduled stop in Simon’s Town where you can buy a meal or bring your own provisions.
Will I encounter wildlife other than penguins?
Yes—Cape Point and nearby fynbos can reveal chacma baboons, various seabirds and occasional small antelope like bontebok in protected areas.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
7–10 hours
Location
Cape Town, Western Cape
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Basic to moderate fitness—walking on uneven surfaces and short uphill sections; suitable for most travelers.
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