It’s the most wonderful time of the year! Or as we have heard in South Africa; Ke Dezemba Boss, cos it’s a way of life in Mzansi.
So with that said, we all know December is here and the festive season has started. With 2022 having given us some form of normality again and seeing things flow along and tick by we are happy to see so many out here enjoying all that is Chapman’s Peak Drive. We can’t wait to see the picnic sites packed and fun and merriment being the order of the day. Enjoy the beautiful scenery and outdoor spaces with fresh air and amazing views like only we know you can, but do so responsibly and safely.
[Pic by @empireviewloft on Instagram]
Chapman’s Peak Drive has so much to offer whether you love the outdoors and nature and just soaking it all in, spending time having leisurely picnics any time of the day or especially at sunset, want to be quite extreme and hike up to the top of the mountain and enjoy the views, or just cruise along in your own car or rent a cobra for the day; we can’t wait to see you having a good time.
[Pic by @axel_donata_tamburrini on Instagram]
[Pic by @carinroos_1 on Instagram]
Being in one of the best cities in the world and one of the most scenic drives too and being able to have celebrated 100 years earlier this year, we are sure you agree that we can continue celebrating during December. Though as is found anywhere in the world, you have to be aware and alert and enjoy it all with some safety and precaution in mind. Here are a few tips to take into consideration to keep you and your loved ones safe as you enjoy Ke Dezemba.
Be a responsible driver:
Adhere to the rules of the road and the speed limit/s. Do not drink and drive and remember Chappies is an absolutely spectacular drive but be cautious as the road is narrow and winding, so please respect the speed limit. You can expect and need to respect all users on the drive, whether you’re a walker, runner or a cyclist or motor cyclist or driver of a car, truck or tour bus. Especially at this time of year we are expecting many more out and about and not forgetting to at times keep an eye out for any wildlife too. We request that cyclist also adhere to the road rules and keep in single file as per signs and road markings and that all motorised users have some patience and to pass cyclists when it is safe to do so.
Stay in demarcated areas and routes:
It is very important to stay behind the fence and clearly marketed demarcated areas and on routes to avoid any incidents or accidents. The main view point is on steep cliffs and when exploring this section be sure to follow all rules as indicated and or if any officials are around to share information. There are times when the extremely strong winds of the Cape of storms can push you along so it’s important to not get too close to cliff edges and especially where there are fences and signs do not cross them at all.
Keep your valuables safe
Unfortunately there has been criminal activities all over the world and we have had our share of incidents too. Thus we advise you to keep your valuables locked up and out of sight in your vehicle/s when you exit them. Be sure to look after your belongings. We advise not carrying large sums of money and expensive devices and jewellery to not be flaunted. Do not leave any belongings unattended.
Should any suspicious behaviour and or incidents occur, please report it to our control centre with as much detail as possible on: 021791 8220.
We are in Table Mountain National Park so enjoy all activities with safety at all times:
When hiking be sure to hike in groups, or book a registered and qualified guide or use an updated and proper route map.
Chapman’s Peak Drive is bounded by Table Mountain National Park as part of SANParks and there are various rules and regulations in place as well as officials who are likely to patrol and also keep some form of order. Though we would like you to enjoy our scenic natural beauty; Chapman’s Peak itself is a key reason in Hout Bay being established and we highly recommend this peak as a hike which will afford you of the most stunning views of Hout Bay and Noordhoek. Always follow all hikers’ rules and safety precautions, never hike alone and always hike in a group and always keep to the paths. Make sure someone has been informed and knows where you are hiking and what time you’re expected back and do not hike in the dark.
[Pic by @loreleionthebeach on Instagram]
Prepare for the heat and cold when out and about
Cape Town has been known to have ‘four seasons in one day’, where the weather pattern and conditions changes during the course of the day. A day at the beach, out hiking or even just enjoying a picnic at one of our sites can turn out to be a bit of a challenge at times. So be prepared, always have a jacket or warm clothes, sun hat, sun block, and enough cool/cold drinking water.
Useful Emergency Numbers:
- Emergencies from a mobile: 112
- Emergencies from a landline: 107
- South African Police Service: 10111
- Medical & Fire Emergencies: 021 535 1100
- Table Mountain NP Emergencies: 021 480 7700
- Sea & Mountain Rescue: 021 948 9900
- National Sea Rescue Institute: 082 911
- Shark Spotters: 078 174 4244
- Ambulance: 10177
Will you be out and about on the drive quite regularly this festive season? Then do sign up to be a frequent user, visit the Entilini office at the tollgate, you’ll see designated parking for visitors, and fill out the registration form. You can also download the Frequent User Card Registration form from the website, fill it out at home and hand it in at the Chappies office. It saves you money every time you use Chappies. The card can also be linked to your credit card; you’ll receive a progressive discount that kicks in on your third trip in a month. Every time you use the drive during that month, the discount increases. It works on a month-to-month basis, so your trips will resent to zero again at the beginning of a new month.
Wishing all safe and happy holidays from the entire Chapman’s Peak Drive team. Thanking all who have enjoyed the road regularly and those who have visited only once, we are happy that you got to experience this majestic icon of Cape Town.
