Up, up and away! Table Mountain Aerial Cableway reopens after a tune-up

IOL News

a day ago

South Africa's Table Mountain Aerial Cableway is back in operation after being closed for maintenance.
Image: Supplied
The iconic Table Mountain Aerial Cableway Company (TMACC) has officially reopened its doors to the public following a week-long maintenance shutdown designed to ensure optimal safety and operational efficiency.
The annual maintenance was scheduled from July 28 to August 3, with visitors welcomed back on August 4.
During the maintenance period, all operational and commercial facilities at both the Lower and Top Stations, including restaurants and ablution facilities, were closed.
However, the natural beauty of Table Mountain remained accessible for hiking, walking, and cycling enthusiasts eager to explore the picturesque landscapes.
TMACC's Executive Director, Selma Hercules, expressed excitement about the reopening, stating, 'Our annual shutdown allows us to carry out essential upgrades and make sure the Cableway runs at the highest possible standards. We're delighted to welcome visitors to the mountain!'
The annual maintenance shutdown happens in the middle of the year, after the mid-year school holidays, during South Africa's winter season, which is a generally quieter period for tourism.
This year's closure was brief compared to last year's extended shutdown, which lasted an unprecedented seven weeks from July 15 to September 1.
This longer duration was necessary to align with global safety protocols and ensure comprehensive maintenance that met the rigorous Swiss BAV regulations for cableways.
Significantly, the maintenance work included a full track cable replacement for the first time since 1997, along with meticulous inspections of the operating equipment, cable cars and their component mechanisms.
All four of the 1.5 km-long track rope cables were replaced as per OEM (Doppelmayr Garaventa) specifications, underlining TMACC's commitment to safety and performance.
Notably, TMACC has garnered attention for its sustainability efforts, recently winning a silver medal in the Managing Waste category at the 2025 WTM Africa Responsible Tourism Awards, as well as a nomination for the Best Tourist Attraction in the Best of the Cape Awards 2025.
TMACC offers an unforgettable experience, providing stunning panoramic views of Cape Town, the majestic ocean, and the surrounding landscapes.
The cable cars rotate a full 360 degrees on the ascent, ensuring every passenger enjoys a magnificent view as they journey to the summit, where the rich biodiversity of the World Heritage site awaits exploration.