Travellers visiting Cape Town should be aware that firefighting operations are continuing on the slopes of Table Mountain National Park after a vegetation fire broke out above Kloof Nek Corner and Tafelberg Road.
The fire, first reported on 02 August 2026, prompted the evacuation of visitors from the Table Mountain Aerial Cableway's Lower Station as a precaution while firefighters moved in to contain the blaze.
Firefighting continues on Table Mountain
South African National Parks' (SANParks) Fire Management Team, supported by the City of Cape Town Fire and Rescue Service and Volunteer Wildfire Services, worked throughout the night to contain the fire and monitor hotspots.
Although cooler overnight conditions helped slow the fire's spread, SANParks says rising daytime temperatures could cause flare-ups, particularly on steep, rocky slopes that are difficult for ground crews to access.
To strengthen firefighting efforts, two Single Engine Air Tanker (SEAT) aircraft operated by Kishugu Aviation and AG Aviation have been deployed to target hotspots identified through thermal imaging. Around 43 firefighters and three water tankers remain on the incident, with additional helicopters available if required.
What travellers should know
If you're planning to visit Table Mountain over the coming days:
- The Contour Path between Kloof Nek and the Lower Cableway Station remains closed until further notice.
- Nearby hiking trails around the affected area are also closed.
- Visitors should avoid Tafelberg Road while emergency operations continue.
- Aerial firefighting aircraft are operating over the mountain, so it's important to stay clear of the affected area and follow all instructions from SANParks and emergency personnel.
At the time of writing, SANParks has not announced the cause of the fire.
Before heading to Table Mountain
Wildfires are a regular occurrence on the Cape Peninsula during the dry, windy months, and temporary trail closures are not uncommon while crews work to protect visitors, infrastructure and the unique fynbos vegetation.
If you are planning to hike or use the Table Mountain Aerial Cableway (closed until 09 August 2026 for scheduled annual maintenance), it's advisable to check the latest operational updates before setting out, as access restrictions can change at short notice depending on weather conditions and firefighting progress.
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