Table Mountain is one of the most iconic landmarks in the world, standing tall over Cape Town.
Tourists and locals alike marvel at its flat-topped beauty, but there’s more to this mountain than meets the eye.
Here are five surprising facts you might not know about Table Mountain…
1. It’s older than the Himalayas
While the Himalayas are a mere 50 million years old, Table Mountain is estimated to be 600 million years old, making it one of the oldest mountains on Earth. It has withstood millions of years of erosion, shaping the unique flat surface we see today.
2. Home to more plant species than the UK
Table Mountain is a biodiversity hotspot, boasting over 2 200 plant species, many of which are found nowhere else in the world. That’s more plant diversity than the entire United Kingdom! This rich flora forms part of the Cape Floral Kingdom, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
3. The tablecloth phenomenon
One of the most famous sights in Cape Town is the “tablecloth”, a thick layer of cloud that drapes over Table Mountain. This occurs when moist air from the ocean rises up the slopes, cools, and condenses into fog. According to local legend, it’s the result of a smoking contest between the devil and a pirate named Van Hunks!
4. It has a network of caves
Despite its solid appearance, Table Mountain has numerous caves, some of which are quite large and deep. The most famous is Wynberg Cave, one of the biggest sandstone caves in South Africa, attracting adventurous explorers and geologists alike.
5. Hidden reservoirs at the summit
Most visitors don’t realise that five reservoirs sit atop Table Mountain. Built in the 1800s, these reservoirs were designed to supply water to Cape Town. They are still in use today, quietly serving the city while remaining hidden in plain sight.
