The Cape of Good Hope
So named by Portugal’s King John II this area has captured the imagination of European sailors such as Dias who first named it the Cape of Storms in 1488 and later in 1580 Sir Francis Drake who called it the “The Fairest Cape in all the World”.
Rich in cultural and natural heritage this is one of the top tourist destinations in South Africa. Due to the variety of wildlife that occurs here it is the only section of the TMNP that is fenced and visitors should look out for Eland, Red Hartebeest, Bontebok and Zebra.
Be sure to visit the Buffelsfontein Visitor Centre that showcases all the plants and animals to look out for in a particular season and is full of informative signage. At the point, visitors are treated to excellent viewing opportunities from both lighthouses that adorn the most south western point in Africa, one still fully functional. The lighthouse is accessible by foot or one can catch the Flying Dutchman funicular to the top. For those who wish to grab a bite to eat or do some souvenir shopping, Cape Point Partnership runs the stunning Two Oceans Restaurant and the Tigers Eye Curio Shop.
Accommodation
There are three beautiful self-catering cottages available for hire within the Cape of Good Hope – Olifantsbos Guest House and Eland and Duiker Cottages. This accommodation can be booked through SANParks.
Cycling and Activities
Cape of Good Hope is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and offers hiking, surfing, angling, picnicking, beaching and cycling opportunities against the spectacular backdrop of the mountains and coastline of the Cape Peninsula.
A cyclist’s paradise, the reserve is trans-versed by a meandering network of smooth tarred roads and rambling dirt roads that connect natural and cultural heritage sites. For more information on cycling in the reserve, read our Adventure Report.
ADVENTURE REPORT & CYCLE ROUTES MAP
Important Notes:
- Cape of Good Hope is one of TMNP’s pay points where a daily conservation fee is payable.
- The Cape of Good Hope entry and exit times
- Please note we do not allow swimming at Diaz Beach due to the strong rip currents. There are no life guards on duty at any of the beaches at Cape Point.