Visitors planning a trip to Table Mountain at the end of July will need to make alternative arrangements as the Table Mountain Aerial Cableway Company (TMACC) prepares for its annual maintenance shutdown.

The popular cable car service will be closed from Monday 27 July until Sunday 9 August while technicians carry out routine inspections, testing and maintenance work.

Operations

Operations are expected to resume on Monday 10 August, subject to weather conditions.
According to TMACC managing director Wahida Parker, the annual shutdown forms an important part of the Cableway’s maintenance programme and helps ensure the system continues to operate safely and meets international safety standards.

During the two-week closure, both the Upper and Lower Cableway Stations will be closed to the public.

Visitors will also be unable to access the various facilities located at the stations and on top of the mountain, including restaurants, bars, retail outlets and ablution facilities.

Popular venues such as VIEWS by De Grendel, TEN67 Eatery, KLOUD Bar, TAP Bar and The Shop at the Top will remain closed until the Cableway resumes operations.

The annual maintenance programme has become a regular feature of the Cableway’s operating calendar and is undertaken each year to preserve the attraction’s strong safety record.

The Table Mountain Cableway transports millions of visitors annually and remains one of Cape Town’s most recognisable tourism attractions.

Although the cable car will not be operating, hiking routes on Table Mountain will remain open throughout the maintenance period.

Hikers are, however, reminded that they will need to make their own way down the mountain as no cable cars will be available for the return journey.

Visitors planning to hike are encouraged to prepare adequately by carrying enough drinking water, snacks, warm clothing and appropriate hiking equipment.

Weather

Weather conditions on Table Mountain can change quickly during winter, making it important for hikers to check forecasts and conditions before setting out.

While the temporary closure may affect some tourists visiting Cape Town during the school holiday period, many residents have come to view the annual shutdown as a necessary measure to ensure the long-term safety and reliability of the Cableway.

South Africans celebrating birthdays in July or August can still take advantage of the Cableway’s free birthday return ticket offer during their birthday month, provided they visit outside the maintenance period.

TMACC has advised visitors to plan accordingly and to check for updates ahead of the Cableway’s anticipated reopening on Monday 10 August.

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