Table Mountain in Cape Town, South Africa, is considered one of the Seven Wonders of the World; a natural wonder, and a must-see for any nature-loving tourist. The mountain, which is a flat-topped plateau, stands at 1,086 meters above sea level and is one of the most photographed landmarks in the world.
It is a cocktail of fun activities for anyone hoping to experience a lifetime of breathtaking encounters with nature; either on foot, on a bike, or in a vehicle. Whichever way they choose to have their experience, tourists wouldn’t miss any of the stunning views Table Mountain offers. The weather on the mountain can be unpredictable, it could be cold in one minute, and hot in a split second. This offers puzzling trails to explore the mountain with some good food.
The landmark’s unique shape is due to its composition of hard sandstone and shale, which have been eroded over time by wind and rain. It is also home to a diverse array of flora and fauna, including over 1,500 species of plants, many of which are endemic to the area. One of the best ways to experience Table Mountain is by driving a cable car to the top.
The cable car, which was first opened in 1929, takes visitors on a 5-minute ride to the summit to enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding area. On a clear day, visitors can see as far as Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned for 18 years.
Art lovers are enthralled by the artistic expressions of the landmark; including the sculpture, ‘Mother and Child’ by artist Lizza Littlewort, and the ‘Table Mountain Mural’ by Michael Rothenstein, which captures South African history from the arrival of Jan van Riebeeck in 1652 and the Battle of Blaauwberg in 1806, according to fun times magazine.
For those who are more adventurous, there are a number of hiking trails up Table Mountain, ranging from easy walks to more challenging hikes. These trails offer visitors the chance to see the mountain up close and experience the natural beauty of the area.
Aside from its natural beauty, Table Mountain is also steeped in history and mythology. The mountain has been the site of many important events throughout South Africa’s history, including the first recorded ascent of the mountain in 1503 by Portuguese explorer, António de Saldanha.
Additionally, the mountain is considered a sacred site by the indigenous Khoi people, who believe that the mountain is the home of their god, Tuk-Tuk. Legend has it that Tuk-Tuk was angered by the arrival of the Dutch colonizers and threw a tablecloth over the mountain, thus creating a flat top.
Overall, Table Mountain is a truly unique and beautiful sight that should be beheld by all travelers to South Africa. Whether you choose to take the cable car or hike to the top, the experience is sure to be unforgettable.
