Two historic lighthouses stand at Cape Point, the most south western point in Africa, one of them still fully operational. The lighthouse viewpoint is reached on foot up the paved path from the car park, with panoramic views over the Cape Peninsula.
Two historic lighthouses stand at Cape Point, the most south western point in Africa, and between them they give visitors some of the finest views on the Cape Peninsula. SANParks describes the viewing opportunities from both as excellent, and confirms that one of the two remains fully operational.
The lighthouse viewpoint is reached on foot up the paved path from the car park. The Flying Dutchman Funicular, which normally carries visitors up to the upper station, is closed for scheduled maintenance until 1 September 2026, and a paid shuttle is running between the car park and the lighthouse area in its place. From the top the view runs out across the meeting of ocean and cliff, with coastal trails and marine wildlife viewpoints below.
The lighthouses sit inside the Cape of Good Hope section of Table Mountain National Park, which is the only fenced section of the park because of the wildlife it holds. Look out for eland, red hartebeest, bontebok and zebra on the drive in, and allow time for the Buffelsfontein Visitor Centre.
Highlights
- Two historic lighthouses stand at Cape Point
- The lower lighthouse remains operational
- The lighthouse viewpoint is reached on foot up the paved path from the car park
- Panoramic views over the Cape Peninsula
- Coastal trails and marine wildlife viewpoints
Tips
Entry is through the Cape Point gate, which takes card payments only and charges one payment per vehicle. The Flying Dutchman Funicular is a separate paid experience, so budget for it if you would rather not walk up. Gate times are seasonal, so check before a late afternoon visit.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost?
Entry is charged as a daily conservation fee for Table Mountain National Park at the Cape Point gate. For 1 November 2025 to 31 October 2026 it is R110 for South African adults and R55 for children, R225 and R115 for SADC nationals, and R515 and R250 for international visitors. Card payments only, and one payment per vehicle.
Do I need a separate ticket for the lighthouse?
No. Reaching the lighthouse viewpoint on foot is covered by your park entry. The Flying Dutchman Funicular is a separate paid experience, and it is closed for scheduled maintenance until 1 September 2026. The replacement shuttle is also charged separately.
What are the gate hours?
The Cape Point gate is open 06:00 to 18:00 from January to March and from October to December, and 07:00 to 17:00 from April to September. SANParks notes that times may change without notice.
How do I get up to the lighthouse?
On foot up the paved path from the car park. The Flying Dutchman Funicular is closed for scheduled maintenance until 1 September 2026, and a paid shuttle is running between the car park and the lighthouse area in its place.
Is the lighthouse viewpoint wheelchair accessible?
Not at present. The Flying Dutchman Funicular is the only wheelchair accessible route to the lighthouse area, and it is closed for scheduled maintenance until 1 September 2026. The replacement shuttle and the walking route cannot accommodate wheelchairs.
Are there really two lighthouses?
Yes. Two historic lighthouses stand at the point, and one of them is still fully operational.
When is the best time to visit?
Mornings for clearer skies and fewer visitors, late afternoon for the best photography light.
