It’s Whale season in Cape Town, which means that the Southern Right Whales are migrating into the coastal waters of the Western Cape to calve and nurse their young. This seasonal migration takes place during June- November, every year, with September usually being the peak period. 

Here are five of the best whale-watching spots in the Western Cape

Chapman’s Peak Drive

Chapman’s Peak Drive | Pixabay

Chapman’s Peak Drive is an excellent whale-watching spot in Cape Town. It happens to be one of the most spectacular coastal roads on the planet and runs between Noordhoek and Hout Bay. At #Chappies you will be able to experience a mountainside vantage viewing of the passing or calving whales. Keep a look out for Humpback whales, Brydes whales and dolphins too!

Cape Agulhas

The Cape Agulhas | Henri Steenkamp

The Cape Agulhas is known to be the perfect place for spotting the Humpback Whale. The Southern Right Whales are spotted along these shores, but not as frequently as the Humpback. If you’re timing is right, you may even spot some Orce’s on the coast.

De Hoop Nature and Marine Reserve

Image: De Hoop Collection

De Hoop is one of South Africa’s most diverse nature reserves, encompassing a mountain range , unspoilt beaches, towering sand dunes and a dreamy vlei. It is arguably the best land-based whale-watching destination in the Cape Whale Coast.

Witsand

Whale Watchers Inn | Image- Inside Guide

Witsand is often referred to as the “Whale nursery of South Africa”, due to the pods of Southern Right Whales who migrate and calve in Saint Sebastian Bay. This town is well-known as a special place for land-based, whale-watching only.

Gansbaai

Image: Inside Guide

The fishing village of Gansbaai is the only South African Town that boasts the Big 2, namely the Great White Shark and the Southern Right Whales. You can enjoy a whale-watching experience on land or join a boat-based and aerial tour.

If you’re planning a trip to the Western Cape this holiday, book a vehicle with cheap car rental Cape Town to accommodate your travel plans around this glorious province.

Chapman’s Peak runs between Hout Bay and Noordhoek and has been crowned the paradise of Cape Town. It is safe to say that a visit to South Africa’s Mother City is incomplete without being mesmerized by Chapman’s Peak drive. Here are three things you should know about ‘Chappies’...

The distance and its reward

Chapman’s Peak drive is 9 km long, stretching from Noordhoek to Houtbay. The drive has 114 curves and is often regarded as the most rewarding toll road in the country. On one side you have a panoramic view of the Atlantic Ocean and on the other the Western Mountains of the Cape Peninsula. On your way, there are plenty of stops you can make to take photos and take in the scenery. It is one of those drives you can never exhaust, every visit to Chappies is a reward. Share your experiences on Chapman's Peak Drive with us on your social media platform. 

You can pack a picnic basket

On your way, there are plenty of stops you can make to take photos and take in the scenery. There are also designated picnic spots and viewpoints for you to experience nature at its better. During the latter part of winter and early spring, you might even be able to spot the Southern Right Whale.

Chappies has been crowned SA’s most innovative road engineering project

Chapman’s Peak drive was constructed under the order of Sir Nicolas Frederick, the first administrator of the Cape Province. At the time, two possible routes were under consideration in 1910, however the low nek between the Chapman’s and Noordhoek Peaks was second to the more spectacular route along the vertical sea cliffs. The route took seven years to complete and was officially opened in 1922. In 2004, Chapman’s Peak Drive received an excellence award for rock fall protection.

Are you planning on visiting Chapman’s Peak drive on your next holiday? Most tourists opt for cheap car rental to accommodate their travel plans.

Photo Credit:  Landscape photography of the ocean and Chapman’s Peak | Jaques Burger

It’s that time of the year again, where local and international athletes and sporting enthusiasts gear up for the annual Old Mutual Two Oceans Marathon. The sporting event has earned a sterling reputation over the years and has been crowned the world’s most beautiful marathon.

The event attracts over 25 000 participants across South Africa and abroad and has become a national institution in our country. Although the marathon provides participants with the most breathtaking scenery, the race can be quite challenging and has been said to be a “gruelling test of fitness” for beginners and professional athletes. Athletes journey around the Cape Peninsula during the marathon, a highlight being their trip around the world renowned Chapman’s Peak Drive, located on the western side of Table Mountain, one of the world’s seven natural wonders.  

Race day and other events:

• The Ultra Marathon takes place on the 20th April 2019 and is a total of 56 km. This year is particularly special as the Ultra Marathon celebrates its 50th anniversary.
• The Half Marathon takes place on the 20th April 2019 and is a total of 21 km. This event is great for recreational to mid-level runners who are not quite ready to tackle the 56 km race yet.
• The Two Oceans Marathon caters for trail runners too. Participants can look forward to the nested pathways and dramatic landscapes of Newlands Forest to the lower slopes of Devil’s Peak. Trail runners have to be  18 years or older to participate in this race.
• If you’re planning on bringing the whole family to the Mother City for the marathon, you can look forward to the fun runs, specifically designed for toddlers, parents and the whole family on the 19th of April 2019. Most travellers opt for car hire to accommodate their travel plans.

If you’re not participating in this year’s race, find your way around the Cape Peninsula to spectate the world’s most beautiful marathon in full view.

Photo Credit: Chapman’s Peak Drive| Sharon Ang

OMTOM 56km Ultra Marathon - 20 April 2019

The Old Mutual Two Oceans Marathon is a 56 km (35 mile) ultra marathon held annually in Cape Town, South Africa on the Saturday of the Easter weekend. Self-proclaimed as “the world’s most beautiful marathon", the ultra-marathon will take place on Easter Saturday, 20 April 2019 in Cape Town. The 56km route will remain the same as usual. The race is run against a backdrop of spectacular scenery through the Cape Peninsula. It is as stunning as it is challenging.  The very popular half marathon is also held on the same day as the ultra marathon, but does not include Chapman's Peak Drive.  Route Information

Road Closure for Two Oceans Marathon 

Chapman’s Peak Drive will be closed to vehicular traffic for this iconic Cape Town event.  Chappies will also have a temporary road closure on Sat 20 April from 03h30 and should reopen betwee 12h00 and 14h00. 
See all Road Closures on 20 April 2019

Chapman's Peak Drive itself is the iconic climb of the Ultra Marathon, and it's one of the most beautiful sections of road anywhere in the world.  It also ushers in the tough second half of the race, coming shortly after the halfway mark in Noordhoek.  In order to assist the race organisers and to provide the competitors with a remarkable route, Chapman's Peak Drive will be temporarily closed for this annual Cape Town event. 

Two Oceans Marathon Race Organizers

087 742 0210 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Chapman's Peak Drive Enquiries  

021 791 8220 or email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

41st Cape Town Cycle Tour

The 2019 Cape Town Cycle Tour takes place on Sunday, March 10. The Cape Town Cycle Tour which was previously held under the name of one of the sponsors, the Cape Argus is a cycling event held in Cape Town, South Africa and it is the largest, timed cycling event in the world. Traditionally the race is held on the second Sunday in March.

The most beautiful bike race in the world circles the Cape Peninsula, starting and finishing in the shadow of Table Mountain, one of the seven natural wonders of the world. This is a large international event with more than 30,000 people taking part from all over the World. The route is 110km long and you will ride through various town and communities in the Western Cape of South Africa.

Cape Town Cycle Tour Route Description

After a ‘Hoopla’, and the crack of the starter’s pistol, the new start sees riders head past the Cape Town Castle for the first time in 35 years, before hitting the first challenge of the day – Nelson Mandela Boulevard – a little later than before. A swift swoop through Hospital Bend, before spinning past UCT and Newlands Forest, and suddenly you will be on Edinburgh Drive. Also called Wynberg Hill, this steep ramp reminds you why you needed to train, before the fast 25-odd kilometres to Simonstown restores the faith, a little.

The long drag up to Smitswinkel and the entrance to the Cape Point Nature Reserve almost brings you to the halfway point and, if the South Easter is pumping, some welcome relief from the niggly headwinds. The traverse through Scarborough and Misty Cliffs is restorative, after your guaranteed too-fast start, with a cool breeze and the best view of the ocean all day. Then it all gets hard again, with the flat run back to Fishhoek straight into the South Easter softening the legs for the Chapman’s Peak/Suikerbossie double-feature to come. Chapman’s Peak is a two-part trial; Little Chappies is short and steep, but over quickly and buoyed by the spectator support at its foot. The main climb is longer, but flatter, and offers distractions aplenty (force yourself to look) as you ride one of the world’s most beautiful roads. After a speedy descent into Hout Bay, it is time to face the demons of Suikerbossie. Chappies is one of the highlights of the race.

A kilometre-and-a-half of purgatory – it is the same for everyone, dig in and use the spectators for inspiration and distraction – will be over sooner than you think, and then it is fifteen glorious downhill and flat kilometres to the finish, through Bakoven, Camp’s Bay (the little kick up to the old finish in Maiden’s Cove will wake your legs up), Clifton and Sea Point.  ROUTE DESCRIPTION 2019 

#Chappies Road Closure 

Due to race logistics Chapman's Peak Drive will be temporarily closed for 24 hours for preparation and the event.  Chappies Road Closure for Cape Town Cycle Race - Saturday 09 March at 18h00 until Sunday 10 March 2019 at 17h00.

All Road Closures for Cape Town Cycle Tour 2019 

Please share the road

We all love Chappies! Lets not compromise access or usage. There are few more beautiful spots in this gorgeous city of ours than Chapman's Peak Drive Loved by all who use #Chappies for the sheer joy & pleasure of it - the walkers, the runners, the cyclists, the Sunday Drivers, the tour buses and the gobsmacked self-drive visitors who join the daily commuters. Please share the road and be considerate of other users who have the same right to be there as you. Many cyclists and runners will be training on Chapman's Peak Drive during February, March and April - let's give them space to be their best. 

• Motorists please be reminded that the speed limit on Chapman's Peak Drive is 40km/hour and stay wider of the rider.
• Cyclists please stay in single file.

February - Month of Love

Valentine's Day on the 14 February each year is the highlight of the month of love. Cupid and hearts and couples holding hands seem to be everywhere!  February however is no different to other months on Chappies - though our fabulous neighbours in Noordhoek and Hout Bay have some sensational Valentine's Day offers for you or your loved one. 

Location Location Location

Some destinations seems to inspire romance and we are fortunate to be one of them.  A popular destination for wedding photographs, a destination for engagement proposals, a popular destination for a romantic roadtrip, a romantic picnic or a one of the top 10 sunset destinations in Cape Town (if not the globe!). Chapman's Peak Drive is a Valentine's Day Dream! 

A Picture Says a Thousand Words  

We have thousands of pictures to say thousands of words. On #Chappies - love stays in the air. 
#HappyValentine's Day 

Alien Vegetation Clearing is Back

Frequent Users of Chapman's Peak Drive will be familiar with our periodic road closures for Alien Vegetation clearing. This is essential to protect our delicate eco-systems and prevent the alien plants from stealing ground water or destroying our natural fynbos.

SANParks Table Mountain HAT Teams in conjunction with Working on Fire send out specialized teams to clear these aliens using ropes and technology to chop and clear the slopes of Chapman's Peak Drive and protect them from the alien threat.  Whilst they are at work, the drive below will be encounter falling debris, making it dangerous for passage.

The Alien Vegetation Clearing Unit will tackle the slopes of Chappies between  09h30 and 15h00 every Wednesday in February and March 2019 - weather permitting. 

Start Date: Weds 6 Feb 2019 
Completion Date:  Weds 27 Mar 2019 

Chapman's Peak Drive is committed to protecting our slopes and as such Chappies will be closed to all traffic as per the schedule whilst the Alien Vegetation Clearing Team takes to the slopes of the mountain above our drive to remove as many aliens as possible on the above mentioned dates.   

We understand the inconvenience but appreciate your assistance in the process of removing these aliens during which time Chapman's Peak Drive will be closed to all traffic - vehicles,  bicycles and pedestrians.  Please try and travel before 09h00 or after 15h30 on Wednesdays.  

Should you need to travel between Noordhoek and Hout Bay between those times, kindly use Ou Kaapse Weg as an alternative route.  We thank you for your co-operation and trust the mild inconvenience will be worth everyone's time to rid our slopes of Alien Vegetation.  

Should you have any queries please call 021 791 8220

Chapman’s Peak Drive Toll Plaza Office Hours:

The Toll Plaza is open Monday - Friday from 08h00 - 16h30 for registration as a Frequent User.
Address: Toll Plaza, Chapman’s Peak Drive, Hout Bay, Cape Town
Plaza Tel: 021 791 8220

With an average of 15 hours of sunlight during Cape Town summer days – the city is a magical destination with Table Mountain forming the backbone and backdrop of the peninsula. Endless ocean views and golden beaches surround the mountains, and in between there is a vibrant modern city. Considered one of the most beautiful cities on the planet, it is a cosmopolitan city and like any city has it’s share of dangers and crime. A few precautions and some universal common sense should keep you safe whilst you enjoy the magnificence of the Mother City.

Safety on Chapman’s Peak Drive

Chapman’s Peak Drive is an area of natural and scenic beauty and wide open space. We welcome all our visitors but ask everyone to respect the rules of the road and all signage and look after your belongings.

Keep to the speed limit – it’s there for a reason! Chappies is a narrow, winding road with many road users. We ask cyclists to keep in single file and motorists to pass when safe to do so.

Chapman’s Peak has steep cliffs and Cape Town is notorious for it’s South-Easterly Wind that can blow over the summer period. There is signage at the main viewpoint stating: "CAUTION! Strong winds and steep cliffs. Please stay behind the fence at all times." and we ask our visitors to adhere to the rules particularly in dangerous areas or in strong winds.

Please take care of your belongings. Avoid carrying large sums of cash, and try not to have expensive electronic devices or jewelry in plain sight. Try not to leave your belongings unattended.

Lock your car doors and keep valuables hidden – this includes the viewpoint at Chapman’s Peak Drive. If possible do not leave valuable items in your car – but if this unavoidable, ensure they are locked and hidden in the boot (trunk) of your car.

Chapman’s Peak Drive has CCTV cameras in key areas, however it is not possible to cover the entire drive.

Should you encounter any suspicious behaviour – please report activity to our control centre 021-791 8220 with as much detail as possible.

Safety In Table Mountain National Park

Chapman’s Peak Drive lies within a sector of Table Mountain National Park and the peak itself is a very accessible and beautiful day hike that is highly recommended.

If you are going hiking, we recommend you hike in a group or use the services of a qualified mountain guide. If you are going without a guide, make sure you take a map, keep to demarcated paths. Always let someone know where you are going and when you expect to be back. Ensure you have returned well before dark.

Although the Table Mountain Chain seems like an easy stroll – the weather can change your casual day hike into a serious challenge. In the heat of the day, make sure you have a hat, sunscreen and always carry some water with you. The weather can also change quickly so it is advisable to take something warm with you.

Useful Emergency Numbers

Emergencies from a mobile: 112

Emergencies from a landline: 107

South African Police Service: 10111

Medical & Fire Emergencies: 021 535 1100

Table Mountain NP Emergencies: 021 480 7700

Sea & Mountain Rescue: 021 948 9900

National Sea Rescue Institute: 082 911

Shark Spotters: 078 174 4244

Ambulance: 10177

Happy Holidays

Season's greetings from the merry team at Chapman’s Peak Drive. Wishing you all the joys of the season and happiness throughout the coming year. One of the real delights this holiday season is the opportunity to say thank you to our regular users and welcome our visitors. We wish all of you the very best for the new year. Warmest thoughts and best wishes for a wonderful safe holiday.

Chapman’s Peak Drive Toll Plaza Office Hours:

The Toll Plaza is open Monday - Friday from 08h00 - 16h30 for registration as a Frequent User.
Address: Toll Plaza, Chapman’s Peak Drive, Hout Bay, Cape Town
Plaza Tel: 021 791 8220

Photo credit: Instagram User @fabiankern_ (8 Sept 2018)

Chapman’s Peak Drive has reached a new milestone - 10,000 likes on our Facebook page! Thank You for your overwhelming support. It’s great to know that Chapman’s Peak Drive is so loved and cherished by so many.

A huge shout out to our frequent users – the locals who live and breathe the drive, the air and the views on their daily commutes and travels in Cape Town. Your support and returning patronage is unprecedented – we appreciate you coming back for more news, more updates and more drive-time.

We thank our visitors far and wide across the globe who have enjoyed and experienced our little piece of magic at the south-western tip of Africa. We invite you to come back and look forward to your return.

10,000 Likes – WOW, WOW, WOW. Thank you one and all.

PS:  If you are not Facebook Folk - we invite you to follow us on Instagram or Twitter 

Chapman’s Peak Drive Toll Plaza Office Hours:

The Toll Plaza is open Monday - Friday from 08h00 - 16h30 for registration as a Frequent User.
Address: Toll Plaza, Chapman’s Peak Drive, Hout Bay, Cape Town
Plaza Tel: 021 791 8220

Be Inspired on Chapman's Peak Drive - an area of natural beauty, scenic wonders, natural attractions, wildlife, active adventures, walks and wellness. Take the drive, take the scenic route, we invite you to be inspired on Chappies 

Natural Attractions

Chapman’s Peak Drive extends from Hout Bay on the north side and Noordhoek on the south side and is one of the major routes for visiting the Cape of Good Hope Section of Table Mountain National Park. Explore nature at it’s best on any scenic drive in the Mother City of South Africa – Cape Town, whether you are heading to Cape Point, visiting the penguins at Boulders Beach or hitting the beach for some rest and relaxation with sunshine and sand.

Wildlife

Keep your eyes peeled! Chappies offers many different wildlife experiences in their natural habitat – on land, in the water and in the air. From whales, dolphins and seals in the ocean, to insects, butterflies and beetles that pollinate the vegetation, to reptiles such as the endangered Western Leopard Toad (especially on the Noordhoek side), lizards, tortoises and sometimes snakes. Small mammals can be spotted - baboons; rodents, ranging from the porcupine to mice and dassies (hyrax). In the air marine birds – gulls, terns, waders, cormorants and gannets – can be seen along the coast and at any time of year. Keep a look out for fynbos endemics such as the Cape Sugarbird and orange-breasted sunbird and the commonly spotted red winged starlings. Raptors such as the jackal buzzards are often spotted.

Active Adventures

Be invigorated by being active in the great outdoors. Enjoy the tranquility of a sea-kayak, the restorative benefits of a great walk or the adrenalin rush of surfing some big waves or the thrill of cycling on mountain passes. All you have to do is."Pick Your Pace!"

Walks

Chapman’s Peak Drive and surrounds is a nature paradise for walking, hiking, rambling or ambling, whatever your ability or experience level. There's no better way to communicate with nature and checkout the scenery, than to lace up you comfy shoes, strap on a backpack and hit the trail. Our top pick – Chapman’s Peak of course!

Natural Wellness

Restore life balance, nothing makes you remember your alive like feeling the salt in your hair, the sand in your toes and sea air in your lungs. When Mother Nature created this region she had your well-being in mind.

Village Inspiration

The landscape and the lifestyle has inspired artisans of all disciplines to explore their craft and follow their passion in the surrounding towns and villages. Enjoy the riches of their honed skills from chefs and producers to artists and entrepreneurs.

Be inspired on Chapman’s Peak Drive.

Photo Credit: Millie Heaven

Chapman’s Peak Drive Toll Plaza Office Hours:

The Toll Plaza is open Monday - Friday from 08h00 - 16h30 for registration as a Frequent User.
Address: Toll Plaza, Chapman’s Peak Drive, Hout Bay, Cape Town
Plaza Tel: 021 791 8220