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With summer in full swing, the festive season in Cape Town provides locals and visitors with an opportunity to enjoy everything from relaxing on the beach to wine tasting and a trip up Table Mountain.

According to industry bodies, Cape Town can expect an increase in visitor numbers over this period compared to last year. “The staff at the Table Mountain Aerial Cableway Company (TMACC) are looking forward to hosting the many anticipated tourists and locals this festive season,” says Wahida Parker, Managing Director of TMACC.

To help beat some of the holiday rush and queues, the company has launched early-access tickets that allow visitors to take the first cable car up at 7.30am – before the site opens to the general public.

The limited tickets are only available for purchase online and are valid between December 1, 2019 and January 15, 2020.

“For everyone visiting Table Mountain during this period, TMACC is providing an exciting entertainment and activity programme to get everyone in the holiday spirit,” Parker added.

Renowned local DJ, Hilton Carlse, will keep visitors entertained at the Lower Station, accompanied by the vibrant Siyabuya Marimba band. Father Christmas and the Fairies will also sleigh up the mountain, making the visitor experience extra special and memorable.

“Last-minute shoppers are able to purchase local products from our gift shop for Christmas and in the spirit of giving, we will also have twelve days of free giveaways on our social media platforms,” says Parker.

Here are a few tips to make the most of your festive season visit to the Table Mountain Cableway:

– There is high demand for parking during peak season, so visitors are encouraged to use public transport. A free MyCiTi shuttle service operates along Lower Tafelberg Road, between Kloof Nek and the lower cable station
– Tickets are cheaper between 1pm and 4pm when the cableway is generally quieter
– The Wi-Fi lounge at the upper station on the mountain provides free Wi-Fi for visitors to share their experience with friends and family
– Visitors wanting to learn more about Table Mountain can download free audio tours using their mobile phones
– Free 30-minute guided walking tours are available between 9am and 3pm daily
– Students with valid local or international student cards get a discount

“It’s a good idea to pack a small bag with essential items such as water to stay hydrated in the summer heat and sunscreen or a hat for protection, as well as a jacket in case the weather turns,” adds Parker.

Picture: Supplied

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Lucinda is a hard news writer who occasionally dabbles in lifestyle writing, and recent journalism graduate. She is a proud intersectional feminist, and is passionate about actively creating a world which is free of discrimination and inequality.