A Point with Many Views

There are many ways to explore the Cape Point Nature Reserve. You will find busloads of tourist making their pilgrimage to the old lighthouse but there is so much more to see. Just a few steps away from the beaten track, you will discover deserted beaches, shipwrecks, African animals and the richest floral kingdom on the planet.

The Cape Point Nature Reserve

The southern tip of the Cape Peninsula is nestled between False Bay and the Atlantic Ocean. Whether you’re approaching the reserve from Simonstown or Hout Bay, the drive is spectacular. At the gate you will have to pay an entrance fee before you can drive your vehicle into the reserve.  The main attraction is the old lighthouse where you can gaze at tranquil views and look down dramatic drops onto the rugged cliffs. Even though Cape Point has rewarding views, two of the attributes often associated with it are false – Cape Point is not the southernmost point of Africa and it is not the place where the Atlantic meets the Indian Ocean. Both these properties belong to Cape Agulhas, which is 150km down the coast. Nonetheless there are enough reasons to visit Cape Point.

The best way to explore the nature reserve is hiking. There are many trails that will lead you along rugged cliffs and deserted beaches. There is also some wildlife such as zebra, antelope and ostrich but no large predators which makes it safe to walk. The best thing about being on foot is that you can truly appreciate the beauty and diversity of the Cape’s floral kingdom. Among the 1100 species of indigenous flora are proteas, ericas, daisies, lilies and irises. So tread carefully – in Cape Point there is so much beauty to be found in the small things! Also keep an eye out for lizards and colourful birds.

How to Get There

With so many grand views and hidden beauty to explore you should make Cape Point a day trip. Your best bet is to rent a car and take the M3 to Muizenberg. From there you just follow the dramatic coastal road all the way the park entrance.