Cape point south africa

The Cape Point Lighthouse, at the southern tip of the Cape Peninsula, is one of South Africa's most iconic landmarks, guiding ships since the 19th century.

About this subject

Cape Point, located on the Cape Peninsula about 60 km from Cape Town, is often mistaken as the southernmost tip of Africa, but that title belongs to Cape Agulhas, 150 km east. The area is part of Table Mountain National Park and boasts rich biodiversity, with over 250 bird species and endemic fynbos flora.

The first lighthouse at Cape Point was built in 1860 atop the promontory, 238 meters above sea level. Due to its height, it was frequently shrouded in clouds, reducing visibility. After the wreck of the SS Lusitania in 1911, a second, lower lighthouse was built in 1919 at 87 meters altitude. This one remains in operation, with a light visible up to 58 km.

The old lighthouse was converted into a visitor center and offers panoramic views of the Atlantic and Indian Oceans meeting. The area is famous for turbulent currents and the legendary "Cape of Storms," named by Bartolomeu Dias before being renamed Cape of Good Hope by King John II of Portugal. It is a popular tourist destination for hiking, whale watching, and picnics.

Interestingly, Cape Point is one of the few places where one can symbolically see the convergence of two great oceans, though the actual boundary lies further east at Cape Agulhas. The lighthouse, with its red-and-white striped tower, is a classic example of 20th-century lighthouse architecture and remains vital for navigation along the Cape Route, one of the busiest shipping lanes in the Southern Hemisphere.

Frequently Asked Questions

How tall is the Cape Point Lighthouse?

The current lighthouse sits at 87 meters above sea level, with a tower height of 9 meters. The original lighthouse, built in 1860, was at 238 meters altitude.

How many lighthouses are at Cape Point?

There are two historic lighthouses: the first from 1860, now decommissioned and turned into a visitor center, and the second from 1919, which remains active.

Is Cape Point the southernmost tip of Africa?

No. The southernmost point of the African continent is Cape Agulhas, about 150 km east. Cape Point is famous for its scenery and the symbolic meeting of the Atlantic and Indian Oceans.