A Fusion of Scenery and Stamina Set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Cape Peninsula, the legendary Two Oceans Marathon takes runners on a physically demanding yet visually spectacular journey. One of the race’s most defining segments is Chapman's Peak Drive, a coastal masterpiece that winds its way along the cliffs, offering an exhilarating test of endurance coupled with unmatched natural beauty.

[Pic by Two Oceans Marathon]

Chapman's Peak Drive: The Jewel of the Cape Coastline Renowned as one of the most scenic routes in the world, Chapman's Peak Drive is a true marvel of engineering, carved into the mountainside overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. With its winding curves and steep inclines, this road is a favorite among outdoor enthusiasts, providing both a challenge and a reward in the form of panoramic ocean vistas.

The Two Oceans Marathon: A Race Like No Other Dubbed “The World’s Most Beautiful Marathon,” the Two Oceans Marathon attracts elite and recreational runners alike. Covering an intense 56-kilometer course, the race takes participants through diverse landscapes, from mountain passes to coastal roads, with Chapman's Peak Drive standing as one of the most iconic and demanding stretches of the route.

A Gritty Ascent: The Challenge of Chapman's Peak Drive One of the most pivotal moments in the Two Oceans Marathon is the ascent of Chapman's Peak. The winding climb, though rigorous, offers runners an inspiring perspective of the vast ocean on one side and towering cliffs on the other. With every step, the determination of the athletes harmonizes with the raw power of nature, creating a truly unforgettable experience.

[Pic by drivesouthafrica.com]

Views That Inspire Perseverance As runners push past their limits, they are rewarded with awe-inspiring views of Hout Bay and the Cape Peninsula’s rugged coastline. The sight of the shimmering waters under the morning sun serves as a source of motivation, propelling runners forward through the physically taxing but profoundly rewarding course.

[Pic by Two Oceans Marathon]

The Spirit of Community Along the Route More than just a race, the Two Oceans Marathon embodies the unity and enthusiasm of the local community. Crowds of supporters gather along the roadside, particularly near Chapman's Peak in Hout Bay, cheering and providing words of encouragement to fuel the determination of the runners. The energy and camaraderie along the route contribute to the unforgettable atmosphere of the event.

A Well-Deserved Moment of Reflection After completing this remarkable race, many participants take time to soak in the coastal charm of Hout Bay. Whether it’s enjoying a meal by the harbor or simply reliving the highlights of the run, the post-race experience is a fitting conclusion to a day marked by both endurance and beauty.

Important Information for Race Day For those planning to visit or participate, be sure to check the official Two Oceans Marathon website for route details and road closures: Two Oceans Marathon. Chapman's Peak Drive will be closed during specific hours on race day but will reopen afterward for visitors to enjoy a leisurely drive or a sunset picnic along this iconic stretch.

A Lasting Legacy of Strength and Scenic Splendour Chapman's Peak Drive and the Two Oceans Marathon are more than just locations on a map or events on a calendar; they represent the perfect fusion of natural wonder and human determination. Whether as a runner or a spectator, experiencing this incredible race is a moment that stays with you long after the finish line has been crossed.

[Pic by Two Oceans Marathon]

Note closing times and days for Chapman’s Peak Drive and route roads along the Cape Peninsula for the Two Oceans Marathon website here.

We kindly remind everyone that Chapman's Peak Drive will be open post-race for all road users to enjoy, and we look forward to seeing you come out to enjoy a lovely sunset picnic.

Stretching along the dramatic coastline of the Cape Peninsula, Chapman’s Peak Drive stands as an engineering masterpiece, offering cyclists and adventure seekers a thrilling and picturesque route. In this blog, we delve into the seamless connection between Chapman’s Peak Drive and the globally celebrated Cape Town Cycle Tour, where stunning natural beauty meets the excitement of cycling through some of the most captivating landscapes in the world.

Chapman’s Peak Drive: A Road of Remarkable Beauty Curving along the Atlantic seaboard, Chapman’s Peak Drive is an awe-inspiring road that snakes its way through towering cliffs, offering uninterrupted views of the vast ocean and the picturesque Hout Bay as you approach the suburb. For cyclists, this iconic route is a visual journey, with each bend revealing new vistas of rugged terrain and the endless horizon.

The Cape Town Cycle Tour: A Global Cycling Phenomenon Widely regarded as one of the most scenic cycling events on the planet, the Cape Town Cycle Tour draws thousands of cyclists from around the globe. Covering 109 kilometers, the route captures the diversity of Cape Town’s landscape, with Chapman’s Peak Drive standing out as a defining feature. Here, cyclists face both the challenge of a demanding ascent and the reward of stunning, panoramic views that showcase the beauty of the mountains and coastline in perfect harmony.

[Pic courtesy of @bicycling_sa on Instagram]

The Challenge of Chapman’s Peak For participants in the Cape Town Cycle Tour, the ascent of Chapman’s Peak is one of the race's most anticipated moments. The climb demands both physical endurance and mental determination, yet the breathtaking vistas and the engineering brilliance of the road make it a memorable highlight. With each pedal stroke, cyclists conquer the peaks while embracing the challenge of this iconic stretch of road.

Unforgettable Views Along the Way As cyclists make their way up Chapman’s Peak, they are treated to some of the most spectacular views in the region. The rugged cliffs, the sparkling azure ocean, and the vibrant town of Hout Bay create a stunning backdrop. On a clear day, the sunlight casts a golden glow over the landscape, creating a truly magical atmosphere that transforms the cycling experience into a sensory symphony of sights and sounds.

[Pic courtesy of @thenewspapersa on Instagram]

Community Spirit and Support The Cape Town Cycle Tour is more than just a race—it’s a celebration of community. Along Chapman’s Peak Drive and throughout Hout Bay and Noordhoek, locals and businesses unite to cheer on the cyclists. This vibrant atmosphere enhances the race experience, fostering a sense of camaraderie that turns each cyclist’s journey into a shared adventure.

Post-Race Relaxation in Hout Bay After conquering Chapman’s Peak, cyclists descend into the charming village of Hout Bay, where they can relax and recharge. Local cafés and eateries offer a warm welcome, providing cyclists with the perfect opportunity to unwind and savour some of the region’s finest culinary offerings. The serene coastal ambiance is the ideal way to cap off an exhilarating cycling journey, especially for those who have made Hout Bay their base during race week.

The combination of Chapman’s Peak Drive and the Cape Town Cycle Tour creates an unforgettable experience, where scenic beauty, challenging terrain, and community spirit converge. From the demanding ascent and the spectacular vistas to the post-race relaxation in Hout Bay, this iconic route is a symphony of exploration, endurance, and natural wonder—an emotional crescendo set against the stunning backdrop of the Cape Peninsula.

For more details about road closures and times along Chapman’s Peak Drive and the Cape Peninsula, be sure to visit the official Cape Town Cycle Tour website: https://www.capetowncycletour.com/.

Safety Reminder: Given the narrow and winding nature of Chapman’s Peak Drive, safety is a top priority. Visitors are encouraged to adhere to all road safety rules and regulations as outlined in South African provincial and national legislation. For more information on road safety and cycling etiquette, please refer to our previous blog, "Chappies for All: Let’s Share the Road Responsibly," which offers a comprehensive guide to safe cycling practices on this iconic route. You can also find the Pedal Power Safety tips here: https://pedalpower.org.za/ppa-safe-cycling-course/

[Pic courtesy of @versussocks on Instagram]

At Chapman’s Peak Drive, we are committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of all road users. To uphold this commitment, we would like to announce the work being done for exploratory drilling aligned to improvements aimed at enhancing the safety and efficiency of the road.

Proposed Safety Improvements

Our team of experts has been diligently working on a comprehensive plan to upgrade various aspects of the Chapman’s Peak Drive infrastructure, both post the severe storm incidents as well as planned improvements which include:

1. Enhanced Signage: With updating our payment systems, we will be improving on some signage to help share information accordingly
2. Safety Catch Fences: Fixing and replacing damaged fences that occurred during the severe storms.
3. Slope stability repairs: Permanent repairs following the September 2023 mudslides.

Exploratory Drilling in August

Included in these improvements, we will be conducting exploratory drilling during the month of August. This drilling is essential for assessing the ground conditions and ensuring that proposed enhancements are feasible and cost effective.

Drilling Schedule:

• Dates: August 2024
• Days: Monday 08h00 to Friday 17h00
• Time: Daytime hours

The exploratory drilling will involve temporary disruptions to road users on portions of the road. A 24-hr stop and go traffic accommodation system will be in place during this time. The stop and go system must be obeyed by All road users. We will strive to minimize any inconvenience to road users and the team/s will work diligently to complete this phase as swiftly and efficiently as possible.

Commitment to Safety

We understand that roadworks can be an inconvenience, but these measures are crucial for long-term safety improvements. Our top priority is to create a safer driving environment for everyone using Chapman’s Peak Drive. We appreciate your patience and cooperation during this period.

Stay Informed

We will keep the community updated on the progress of the exploratory drilling and subsequent improvements. Regular updates will be posted on our social media channels. If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Thank you for your understanding and support as we work towards making Chapman’s Peak Drive a safer place for all.

Perched along the rugged coastline of the Western Cape, Chapman's Peak Drive stands as a testament to engineering prowess and natural beauty. Beyond its breath-taking views, this iconic route holds a rich history that weaves together tales of perseverance, innovation, and the enduring allure of the Cape Peninsula. Join us on a journey through time as we unravel the captivating history of Chapman's Peak Drive.

Early Exploration: Long before the construction of Chapman's Peak Drive, the indigenous Khoi and San people traversed the Cape Peninsula, leaving behind traces of their ancient presence. European explorers, including Bartholomew Diaz in 1488 and later Jan van Riebeeck, contributed to the exploration and mapping of the region.

Table Mountain Sandstone: Chapman's Peak Drive winds its way through the Table Mountain Group Sandstone, a geological formation that dates back millions of years. The sandstone not only shaped the landscape but also played a crucial role in the construction of the road.

Construction Challenges: The idea of a coastal road along Chapman's Peak was conceived in the early 1900s, but the challenging terrain and financial constraints delayed the project for decades. Construction officially began in 1915 and faced numerous setbacks, including World War I and the Great Depression.

Thomas Bain's Legacy: Renowned South African engineer Thomas Bain, known for his expertise in road construction, took charge of designing Chapman's Peak Drive. Completed in 1922, the road showcased Bain's ingenuity, featuring impressive cuttings into the cliffs and a series of breath-taking curves.


A Modern Marvel: Chapman's Peak Drive quickly gained fame for its stunning vistas and engineering marvels. However, the road's maintenance became a constant challenge due to rock falls and unstable slopes. In 2003, the route underwent a significant upgrade, introducing modern safety measures and securing its status as a National Monument.


Cultural Significance: Beyond its engineering significance, Chapman's Peak Drive holds cultural importance for the local community. The route passes through areas with historical ties to fishing villages, shipwrecks, and early settlers, providing a glimpse into the region's maritime past.

Scenic Delights and Preservation: Today, Chapman's Peak Drive is not merely a road but a scenic journey that offers panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean along the Cape Peninsula. The surrounding fynbos and diverse flora add to the visual splendour, emphasizing the importance of environmental conservation.

[Picture: Courtesy of Fuad Peters | I AM CAPE TOWN]

Challenges and Closures: Despite its enduring charm, Chapman's Peak Drive has faced occasional closures due to safety concerns related to rockfalls and adverse weather conditions. These challenges underscore the ongoing efforts to balance accessibility with the preservation of this natural treasure.

Over a century of the most scenic drive: On 6 May 2022, we celebrated a century of scenic wonder as Chapman's Peak Drive, one of South Africa's most iconic coastal routes, marking its 100th anniversary. Nestled along the rugged coastline of the Cape Peninsula, this engineering marvel has stood the test of time, captivating travellers with its breath-taking beauty and awe-inspiring views. As we reflect over a century of winding roads and panoramic vistas, we pay tribute to the visionaries and engineers whose ingenuity brought this masterpiece to life. From its inception in 1922, Chapman's Peak Drive has remained a testament to human perseverance and the enduring allure of nature's splendour. Join us in commemorating this milestone as we embark on a journey through history, celebrating over 100 years of Chapman's Peak Drive – a timeless treasure etched into the heart of South Africa's landscape.


Chapman's Peak Drive stands as a testament to human ingenuity and the enduring beauty of the Cape Peninsula. As you traverse its winding curves and gaze upon the breath-taking views, remember that each turn holds a story—a story of exploration, perseverance, and the timeless allure of this historic coastal route.

Nestled along the picturesque Cape Peninsula, Chapman's Peak Drive becomes the challenging yet enchanting stage for the iconic Two Oceans Marathon. Join us as we embark on a journey that combines the breath-taking beauty of Chapman's Peak with the unparalleled endurance showcased in the Two Oceans Marathon, creating an extraordinary tapestry of athleticism and natural wonder.

Chapman's Peak Drive: A Spectacle of Serpentine Grandeur: As one of the world's most scenic drives, Chapman's Peak Drive unfolds its serpentine curves along the Atlantic coastline. The road's dramatic twists and turns offer unparalleled vistas of the ocean, making it an ideal setting for a marathon that demands both physical prowess and mental fortitude.

[Pic by drivesouthafrica.com]

Two Oceans Marathon: A Running Odyssey: The Two Oceans Marathon, often dubbed as the world's most beautiful marathon, attracts runners from around the globe. The race encompasses a challenging 56-kilometer route that traverses the Cape Peninsula, taking participants through diverse landscapes, and Chapman's Peak Drive serves as a pivotal segment in this running odyssey.

[Pic by capetown.today] 001

The Ascent of Chapman's Peak Drive: A Test of Endurance: Runners in the Two Oceans Marathon face the formidable ascent of Chapman's Peak Drive. The climb, though demanding, offers runners an opportunity to immerse themselves in the unparalleled beauty of the coastal landscape. The rhythmic sound of footsteps blends with the crashing waves, creating a symphony of determination and natural splendour.

Breath-taking Coastal Views: As runners conquer the ascent, they are rewarded with panoramic views of Hout Bay, the azure Atlantic Ocean, and the rugged cliffs of the Cape Peninsula. The sight of the sun casting its golden hues on the water becomes a motivating backdrop, urging runners onward through the challenging course.

[Pic by Two Oceans Marathon]

Community Spirit along the Route: The Two Oceans Marathon is not just a race; it's a celebration of community spirit. Spectators line the main road coming from Chapman's Peak Drive, offering encouragement and support to the runners. The lively atmosphere, coupled with the breath-taking surroundings, creates a unique ambiance that fuels the athletes on their journey.

Post-Race Reflection in Hout Bay: After conquering Chapman's Peak and completing the Two Oceans Marathon, runners who opted to stay in Hout Bay, return to where the village's charm welcomes them. The post-race reflection amidst the coastal beauty becomes a poignant moment, marking the culmination of an extraordinary feat of endurance.

Chapman's Peak Drive and the Two Oceans Marathon form a symbiotic connection, blending the awe-inspiring beauty of the landscape with the physical and mental resilience of marathon runners. Together, they create an unparalleled experience that transcends the boundaries of sport, showcasing the indomitable spirit of those who dare to conquer the heights and distances of the Cape Peninsula.

[Pic by Two Oceans Marathon]

Note closing times and days for Chapman’s Peak Drive and route roads along the Cape Peninsula for the Two Oceans Marathon website here.

We kindly remind everyone that Chapman's Peak Drive will be open post-race for all road users to enjoy, and we look forward to you coming out to enjoy a lovely sunset picnic.

Nestled along the rugged coastline of the Cape Peninsula, Chapman's Peak Drive stands as a testament to engineering marvels, offering a breath-taking route that captivates the hearts of adventurers and cyclists alike. In this blog, we explore the harmonious union of Chapman's Peak Drive and the world-renowned Cape Town Cycle Tour, where the beauty of the landscape meets the thrill of pedal-powered exploration.

Chapman's Peak Drive: A Road Less Ordinary: Snaking its way along the Atlantic seaboard, Chapman's Peak Drive is a serpentine masterpiece that weaves through towering cliffs, providing unobstructed views of the vast ocean beyond as well as Hout Bay as you cycle north into this suburb. Cyclists embarking on this journey are treated to a visual feast, with each hairpin turn revealing a new panorama of natural splendour.


[Pic courtesy of @bicycling_sa on Instagram]

The Cape Town Cycle Tour: A Global Cycling Icon: Dubbed one of the world's most scenic cycling events, the Cape Town Cycle Tour attracts enthusiasts from across the globe. Spanning 109 kilometres, the route showcases the diverse landscapes of Cape Town, and Chapman's Peak Drive stands out as a highlight, offering cyclists a challenging yet rewarding ascent against a backdrop of mountainous and coastal beauty.

The Challenge of Chapman's Peak: Cyclists participating in the Cape Town Cycle Tour eagerly anticipate the ascent of Chapman's Peak Drive. The challenging climb tests their endurance, but the promise of unparalleled vistas, engineering ingenuity and the sense of accomplishment make it a sought-after segment of the race. The winding road becomes a canvas for the rhythmic dance of pedals and the determination of cyclists conquering the heights.

[Pic courtesy of @thenewspapersa on Instagram]

Spectacular Views along the Route: As cyclists ascend Chapman's Peak, they are treated to panoramic views of Hout Bay, the azure ocean, and the rugged cliffs. The sight of the sun casting (depends on the weather forecast of the day) its golden glow on the water creates a magical ambiance, turning the cycling experience into a sensory symphony of sights and sounds.

[Pic courtesy of @capevelo on Instagram]

Community Engagement and Support: The Cape Town Cycle Tour is not just a race; it's a celebration of community spirit. Local residents and businesses along Chapman's Peak Drive and in Noordhoek, as well as in Hout Bay, come together to support and cheer on the cyclists. The lively atmosphere adds an extra layer of camaraderie, turning the race into a shared experience.

Post-Race Relaxation in Hout Bay: After conquering Chapman's Peak, cyclists descend into Hout Bay, where the village's charm and hospitality await. Cyclists can unwind, refuel with local delicacies, and relish the coastal ambiance—a perfect conclusion to the cycling adventure. Especially with those who opted to make Hout Bay their base for cycling week or weekend and return her from the finishing line.

The synergy between Chapman's Peak Drive and the Cape Town Cycle Tour creates an unforgettable experience for cyclists and spectators alike. The challenging yet scenic route, coupled with the community support and post-race relaxation in Hout Bay, makes this cycling journey a symphony of exploration, endurance, and natural beauty—a crescendo of emotions etched against the backdrop of the Cape Peninsula.

Note the closing times and days for Chapman’s Peak Drive and route roads along the Cape Peninsula on the Cape Town Cycle Tour website here.

We kindly remind everyone that Chapman's Peak Drive, characterized by its narrow, winding path and breath-taking vistas, prioritizes safety above all else. Therefore, we urge all visitors to adhere strictly to the rules and regulations outlined in the Provincial and National legislation of South Africa while driving along this route.

Here is a reminder to visit our previous safety blog, "Chappies for all: Let's share the road responsibly," which comprehensively covers the rules and regulations outlined by legislation, along with detailed information provided by Pedal Power and others with the links provided. It serves as a valuable resource for ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience while traveling along Chapman's Peak Drive.

[Pic courtesy of @versussocks on Instagram]

Chapman's Peak Drive is frequently listed as one of "the best" things to do or places to visit in Cape Town, and it is such an iconic experience, destination, and activity that many people include it on their bucket list and simply cannot get enough of it, whether visiting or living here.

“The route starts at the picturesque fishing harbour of Hout Bay and the climb winds steeply up to Chapman's Point, revealing breath-taking views of the sandy bays down below, until the road reaches lower levels again at Noordhoek.” Read more on our website here.


[Image courtesy of I AM CAPE TOWN by Fuad Peters]

Chapman’s Peak Drive is more than just a drive to commute, offering frequent users ease of access between Hout Bay and Noordhoek but also for those who like to explore regularly and enjoy the beauty of the Cape Floral Kingdom, coming to use natures gift for fitness, breathing of the freshest air, and exploring the historical value of this iconic space. There is so much to offer that you will want to return more than you thought you would; and if you use Chapmans Peak Drive frequently, there are perks to becoming a frequent user.

During the winter period safety is paramount and we follow a strict road closure protocol. This is guided by triggers activated by high risk weather conditions and linked to specific thresholds such as high wind speed gusts and also the amount of rain within a particular time frame. Thus the road can be closed within seconds and especially from the Hout Bay side once you have passed the electronic signs indicating the open and close notices by the time you reach the toll and you are informed the road has been closed. We do understand that this could be very frustrating but the safety of all users and our team is high on our operational requirements and status. A wind trigger would mean a minimum waiting period of 3 hours to determine whether the road can reopen. A rain trigger minimum wait is 12 hours and a combination of this with at times rock falls and clean up with further safety checks, makes for extended closure times. We thank you for your patience during these times.


[Image courtesy of I AM CAPE TOWN by Fuad Peters]

In order to manage and maintain this valuable asset as well as working closely with partners such as the Government of Western Cape and SANparks as major stakeholders, we are obligated through our contractual agreement and in line with inflation to increase the toll tariffs annually.

The toll tariffs increase from 1 July 2023 to 30 June 2024 are as follows:

Category       Tariff             Description
Category 1     R40               Motor Bikes
Category 2     R61               Kombi / Minibus / Big 4X4 / Car / Bakkie
Category 3     R245             Midibus / 2 axle truck
Category 4     R613             Tourbus / 3 axle bus

We are happy to confirm that the Minister approved a special rebate for “small delivery vehicles” as from 1 July 2023. This is specifically for vehicles with a double wheel axle like the Kia and Dyna or small delivery vehicles that were previously restricted from Noordhoek. These vehicles will be classified as a Category 2 vehicle and able to travel in both directions from 1 July 2023. Note, they will not be able to register as Frequent Users.

All users of Chapman's Peak Drive are encouraged to drive, enjoy the fresh air and open responsibly with all road users, from cyclists to buses and especially our visitors who might not be familiar with our road rules. Also please ensure no litter or graffiti is left behind.


[Image courtesy of I AM CAPE TOWN by Fuad Peters]