As the Table Mountain Aerial Cableway Company (TMACC) gears up for its annual maintenance closure from 28 July to 3 August 2025, hikers and trail runners are advised to prepare thoroughly before exploring the iconic landmark.
Image: Supplied
While the cableway will not be operational and all commercial facilities at both the Upper and Lower Stations will be closed to the public, the mountain itself remains open to adventurers on foot or by bike.
“During this annual maintenance period, all operational and commercial facilities at the Lower and Top Stations – including ablution facilities and restaurants – will be closed,” said TMACC’s Executive Director, Selma Hercules.
“Additionally, the cable car service will be unavailable, meaning hikers and trail runners will need to plan for a return hike. As an added safety measure, it is essential to save emergency contact numbers on your phone and ensure it is fully charged before setting out.”
Explorers are encouraged to save the main emergency number on their mobile phones and follow the “Ten Basic Rules of Mountain Safety” as outlined by SANParks.
- Don’t hike alone; four is the ideal number.
- Choose your route carefully and stick to it. Allow yourself enough time – start early. Inform someone of your route and what time you’re expected back.
- Choose a hike leader and walk at the pace of the slowest member.
- If lost – don’t split up. Rather try to retrace your steps. Remember that climbing down is more difficult than climbing up.
- Always take waterproof clothing, even in mid-summer, and wear walking shoes or hiking boots. Wear a hat or cap and sun block in summer. Weather changes rapidly.
- If lost or forced to stop because of bad weather, stay together and remain in one place. Find the closest shelter from wind and rain.
- In case of injury, take time to assess the situation. Then send two people for help and let the third remain with the injured person. If possible, mark the position on a map and send it with those going for help.
- Stick to well-used paths, which will be indicated on the Park’s hiking map and read the warnings on this map. Don’t take shortcuts and especially don’t wander into ravines.
- Always take enough water, especially in summer, and food in case of a delay. Watch the weather and time and turn back before you start running late or if bad weather threatens.
- Take along a fully charged mobile phone. Some parts of the mountain do not have cell phone reception, but you will always be able to reach a place where you can use a cell phone more quickly than you’ll get to a landline.
Visitors are reminded to be self-sufficient, especially with no cable car service to assist in emergencies or descents. TMACC recommends that all mountain users adhere to SANParks’ “Ten Basic Rules of Mountain Safety,” including hiking in groups (preferably four), sticking to marked routes, packing enough water and weather-appropriate clothing, and starting hikes early to avoid being caught out after dark.
Safety tips for hikers:
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Plan ahead: Know your route, let someone know your itinerary, and begin early.
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Watch the weather: Conditions can shift quickly; always check forecasts and dress appropriately. A space blanket can add an extra layer of security.
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Be self-sufficient: Bring enough water, food, a fully charged phone, and ideally a power bank.
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Know what to do in emergencies: Save key emergency contacts and be familiar with the closest shelters.
“Safety is our top priority,” Hercules added. “We want everyone to enjoy the beauty of Table Mountain, but it’s crucial to be prepared, especially when facilities are limited. Plan your hike carefully, stay informed about trail conditions, and monitor the weather.”
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