The Himalayan Tahrs, that are found on Table Mountain, were imported into South Africa by Cecil John Rhodes in the early 1900’s. Initially they resided in a zoo on the slopes of Table Mountain, but in 1936, they managed to escape. About the size of a large goat, with the males sporting a shaggy mane. Their rubber like hooves proved ideal for the rocky terrain, so they adapted to the environment, and made it their home. 

However, since 2000, there have been several attempts to erradicate the population. This due to the erosion they cause and the desire to reintroduce the indigenous klipspringer to the mountain. It was felt, the Tahr, was now filling the niche, the klipspringer would need to slot into. Since the decision was made, there have been at least 2 attempts by sharp shooters to eliminate them.

However, I have certainly seen a last remaining Tahr, on at least 3 occasions in the past year.

I do hope he’s not the only one left. Must be pretty lonely if so !!

One of the most wonderful things about Table Mountain National Park, is that it is accessible to everyone. Although there is a separate charge for certain areas, such as Cape Point, for most of the park there is no charge at all to enter. So whether you go for a gentle amble in Newlands forest, or an energetic hike up Kasteelspoort, anyone and everyone, is welcome at any time, at no cost.

Whilst the lack of charge, may or may not, be unusual, what is unusual, for a national park, is that dogs are also permitted through most of the park. There are a couple of areas, for example, Orange Kloof, which are kept dog free, but for the most part, dogs are welcome to roam freely, and enjoy nature as much as their owners. Dog walkers are required to buy a wild card, and specify dog walking as one of their activities. They are also required to keep their dogs under voice control, and not walk more than 3 dogs to one person. (for information on wild cards contact National Parks (012) 426 5011)

All the dogs pictured below walk regularly on  Table Mountain, and enjoy every moment of every walk.

Judy. Nursery ravine

Ria. Posing on Constantia Ridge

A scottie pose. Agathas gulley

During the Summer months of November to February, the last cable car down from the mountain is at 8pm. This allows the opprotunity to see the sunset from the mountain top. After 6pm, the tickets are half prace. Making this a well worth while trip.

Can you imagine a more perfect way to spend the evening. Either walk up, or get the cable car. Meet some friends up there, and have a glass of wine, or a full blown picnic, whilst the sun sinks below the horizon over Camps Bay.

The sundews on Table Mountain, are generally found in damp areas. Belonging to the family Droseraceae, these beautiful, and dainty little plants, spell death to any unsuspecting insect that alights on their leaves.

These leaves, (or tentacles) are covered in tiny hairs, and secrete and sticky mucus. Any fly landing there, is instantly stuck, and enclosed in the leaf. Which then secretes enzymes to break down the body of the fly, so it can be absorbed. 

 The plants are named sundews, due to the appearance of the leaves. The sticky secretion gives them the  permanent appearance of having morning dew on them                                                                                                                 

There are 130 species of Droseraceae found throughout the world. 2 of those commonly found on Table Mountain are pictured below.                       

Veronica from the UK, has proved, that you don’t have to be young and bouncingly fit, in order to climb Table Mountain. Just keep going slowly, and you will get there.!!

Veronica, (aged 60 something) and her friend, Melonie, signed up with Ridgway Ramblers, for a half day walk up Platteklip gorge.  They were collected at 3pm, from their backpacking lodge, with an aim to summiting and taking the last cable car down at 7pm.

The first 100m were tough. Going straight into the steep gorge, quickly informed the ladies, this would not be a “walk in the park” However, once the legs and lungs were warmed up, progress continued at a steady pace. With lots of stops to catch our breath and have a chat. By 6.30 we were almost there. Approaching the narrowing gorge that leads to the top.

Only, I (the guide) knew that there is a final little haul, up about 10m, to reach the cable car station. I kept very quiet about this, and ran off, at 6.40pm, in order to buy the tickets, and ensure the last cable car didn’t leave without us. This left Veronica and Melonie, to walk from the Gorge, to the cable car. Apparently, the mountain resoounded with a few choice words, when they saw the final scramble. However, they made it without difficulty.

Reaching the cable car, bang on 7pm for the last car down, and a chance to see the first time the lights were switched on in the new stadium in Green Point.

A few gin and tonics later, and all the muscle aches were forgotton.

At the bottom of the gorge. Ready to climb!

Nearly there

A visit to the Cape Of Good Hope, is a must for all visitors to Cape Town. A hours, beautiful scenic drive from the centre of Cape Town, will bring you to the entrance. Almost immediately a change in scenary is apparent. It is somehow wilder and even more harsh once you enter the reserve.

One tar road, bisects the reserve for 13km, taking you straight to the lighthouse and to Cape Point itself. Here there is a restuarant, and a funicular railway to transport people right up to the old lighthouse itself.

However, for those tourists, not wanting to tread, that much worn path, there are numerous hiking trails, throughout the reserve. From these, one can get away from the crowds, and really appreciate the lonliness and wildness of the region. There is a huge range of hikes available, from a short stroll from the Rooikraans parking area, which will bring you to one of the best whale viewing spots in Cape Town. To day long hikes, and even overnight trails.

Echo Valley, is the name of the valley leading from Boyes drive into the Silvermine Nature Reserve, above Kalk Bay. As with all walks in the Table Mountain Nature Reserve, within minutes, you feel as if you are miles from anywhere with only nature all around.

The Echo Valley, leads into one of the best preserved and ancient indigenous forests, found anywhere in the Cape. On entering one is transported back to childhood stories of enchanted forests. Filled with trees such as rooiels, yellow woods and milkwood, you have to duck your head on several occasions to avoid the interlinked and spreading branches creating the canopy. Moss hangs from the branches, whilst the backdrop is the steep cliffs of the echo valley, providing the shade for the forest.

A well maintained boardwalk, both protects the trees roots and directs your walk. Leading you on a meandering path until you emerge from the forest, into the pristine fynbos above.