Table Mountain to Cape of Good Hope: Full-Day Coastal Drive with Penguins and Chapman's Peak
Drive from Table Mountain's broad summit views to Chapman's Peak and the penguin colony at Boulders Beach. This full-day coastal tour packs geology, culture and wildlife into one accessible eight-hour loop.
The Experience
Before You Go
Go early for clearer summit views
Start in the morning to reduce the chance of Table Mountain cloud cover (the "tablecloth") and to hit Chapman's Peak before heavy traffic.
Layer up for microclimates
Temperatures shift quickly between mountain, coast and cape; a windproof layer and packable fleece will keep you comfortable.
Respect the penguin colony
Stay on designated walkways at Boulders Beach, avoid sudden movements and never feed the penguins to protect their health.
Wear sturdy shoes for rocky paths
Short walks at viewpoints and Cape Point use uneven, sometimes steep trails — supportive shoes reduce slips and fatigue.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Coffee roaster and bakery stop in a farm village near Chapman's Peak for locally roasted beans
- •Drive viewpoint at the lesser-used Noordhoek beach access for long coastal vistas and horse paddocks
Wildlife
- •African penguin
- •Chacma baboon
Conservation Note
Table Mountain National Park protects unique fynbos biodiversity; visitors should stick to paths, avoid feeding wildlife and support local park fees that fund conservation.
The Cape's headlands were pivotal for early European exploration and 19th-century maritime navigation; the Cape of Good Hope marked a turning point in sea routes to Asia.
What to Bring
Windproof jacketEssential
Protects against strong coastal winds, especially on Chapman's Peak and Cape Point.
Sturdy walking shoesEssential
Required for uneven trails and rocky boardwalks around viewpoints and Boulders Beach.
Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, SPF)Essential
High UV on open coast and at altitude makes sun protection essential.
Binoculars or camera with zoom
Helps spot penguins, seabirds and distant headlands for photography and observation.
Common Questions
Is the Table Mountain cableway included?
Cableway usage varies by operator and weather — confirm with the tour provider; many tours offer viewpoints if the cableway is closed or operationally restricted.
Can I get close to the penguins at Boulders Beach?
You can view penguins from boardwalks that run through the colony for safe, regulated observation; direct contact is not permitted to protect the birds.
Are there restroom and food stops?
Yes — the itinerary includes cafes and rest stops in towns like Hout Bay and Simon's Town, and bottled water is typically provided on the vehicle.
Is this tour suitable for children and strollers?
Yes — the route accommodates families; some walking sections have steps and uneven surfaces, but stroller access is possible in limited areas.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
8 hours
Location
Cape Town, Western Cape
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Minimal fitness required — mainly short strolls and boarding the vehicle; expect some uneven terrain at viewpoints.
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