Shipwreck Trail

Easy

Cape Point

Main risk: wind

At a glance

Distance

5 km circuit

Time

1.5–2.5 hr

Elevation gain

115 m

Summit

150 m

Child friendly

No dogs Parking SANParks Cape Point — R110 SA adult, R515 international, card only

This is an exposed Atlantic coastline. Do not stand close to the water on the rocky sections — sneaker waves are unpredictable and can be lethal. Never turn your back on the ocean.

Shoreline trail

Rogue waves sweep people off Cape rocks every year. Stay off wet, dark rock, keep well back from the water's edge, and never turn your back on the sea. Take extra care at spring tide and in big swell.

Know before you go

Two WWII-era shipwrecks on route: the SS Thomas T. Tucker (1942) and the SS Nolloth (1965).
Ostriches, bontebok, Cape mountain zebra, and African black oystercatchers regularly sighted.
Cape Point entrance fee applies — card only, no cash.

If you need help

The trail is easy but the coastal exposure is real. Wind on this side of the peninsula can be severe. Bontebok and Cape mountain zebra roam freely — give all wildlife a wide berth.

Emergency exit

Return to Olifantsbos parking. Emergency: SANParks 086 110 6417.

Cell reception

Very limited. Remote western side of Cape Point.

Start point

Olifantsbos parking area — off the main road through Cape Point, well-signposted. Cape Point entrance fee (card only, no cash) applies.

Get directions to trailhead

Parking: Olifantsbos parking inside Cape Point. Card only at gate.

Elevation profile

Peak

150 m

Total ascent

115 m

Trail length

5 km

Best time of year

Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec

Year-round. Wildlife sightings best in cooler months.

Build your checklist for this trail

Check turn-around time

Tell someone where you are going

Share your plan with a friend or family member before you set off.

Last reviewed May 2026

Report incorrect information