Geographical Landmarks in and near Cape Town

Cape Point

The Cape Point is the most southwesterly point of Africa. It is here where the cold Beguela current on the West coast and the warm Agulhus current on the East coast merge. It is also one of the highest sea cliffs in the world. ... more

With its diverse and spectacular landscape, South Africa offers the traveller several beautiful geographical landmarks worth including on your itinerary.

The Ukhahlamba Drakensberg Park offers the highest peaks south of Mount Kilimanjaro. This area, close to Bergville, has been declared a world heritage site and is one of the prime ecotourism locations in South Africa. Of special note are the numerous caves and outcrops where you can view San Rock paintings. The park has the highest concentration of this ancient form of art south of the Sahara. Even if you can't stop over, it is a lovely location to stretch your legs with a short hike or enjoy a picnic on a river bank.

L'Agulhas's claim to fame is the fact it is located at the most southerly tip of Africa and the place where the Indian and Atlantic Oceans meet. The plaque proclaiming the exact spot is a prime photographic location.

Cape Town's most famous landmark is, of course, Table Mountain. It's location right on the shore of the Atlantic is unique in the world. Visitors can choose to climb the mountain on foot, or take the cable car and explore the “table” of the summit with numerous walking trails available. Also of note in Cape Town is Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela and other political prisoners were sent during apartheid.

Other geographical marvels to think about including in your route are The Big Hole in Kimberley, the largest hand-dug hole in the world; the Cango Caves in Oudtshoorn; the St Lucia Wetland Park, proclaimed a World Heritage Site; and the Big Baobab tree in Tzaneen which, at an estimated age of 6000 years, is one of the oldest living things on earth.