2 Best Sights in Cape Town, South Africa

Rising sharply to 1,086 meters (3,563 feet) and looming above the city center, flat-topped Table Mountain truly is one of the world's most beautiful and impressive natural wonders. Not only is it a sight to behold, but the top affords scintillating views stretching to distant horizons; it's said to be visible to sailors 65 km (40 miles) out to sea. Hiking to the summit’s wilderness via one of the trails, such as the popular stairway-like Plattekloof Gorge, up its rugged slopes requires two to three hours, depending on your fitness level, or you can zip to the top in 10 minutes with the cable car. Thrill seekers can abseil down a section of the mountain ( abseilafrica.co.za).

Apart from the stunning views from its summit, there's a world of unusual fynbos vegetation at the top and an atmosphere that's slightly surreal. If you hike up, be sure to take at least 2 liters (½ gallon) of water per person with you and exercise caution; it may be in the middle of a city, but it is a genuine wilderness. Many paths that look like good routes down the mountain end in treacherous cliffs. And, apart from the weather which can turn in an instant, you need to be mindful of the possibility of muggings and chances of losing your way. Hiking alone is never recommended, and engaging the services of a hiking or mountain guide is a great way to go beyond the obvious trails and also learn about the mountain's flora and fauna. However you choose to do the climb, wear sturdy shoes or hiking boots; always take warm clothes, including a windbreaker or fleece; take a mobile phone; and let someone know of your plans.  Do not underestimate this mountain: every year local and foreign visitors get lost, some falling off ledges, with fatal consequences.

The prominent peak to the right of Table Mountain is Lion's Head, a favorite hiking spot for locals. The hike takes about 1½ hours (each way), with 360-degree views of the city unfolding as you spiral up the "lion" as well as from the top. The trail is gorgeous and well-marked; unfortunately its charms have made it so popular that on good-weather days you will almost certainly find yourself in a hiker-jam. That said, it's a great hike, and though easier than climbing Table Mountain, the last quarter, when there are even chain-assisted sections of rock to haul yourself up, is pretty taxing. As always, don't hike alone, and keep alert, especially as sunset approaches. On full-moon nights, hundreds of people set off to summit the peak; the trail of headlamps alone will give you pause, though, since it is dangerously crowded. For those less inclined to sweat, Signal Hill is the smaller flat-topped hill extending from the northern lower slopes of Lion's Head, also sometimes called the "Lion's Rump." Once the location for signal flags communicating weather warnings to ships visiting the bay, Signal Hill is also the home of the Noon Gun, still operated by the South African Navy and South African Astronomical Observatory. Both Lion's Head and Signal Hill are accessed by Signal Hill Road, which ends at the Signal Hill parking lot and affords spectacular views of Sea Point and Table Bay.  Be careful especially after hours and/or if it's deserted. There have been incidents of violent crime.