Scenic road · Cidade do Cabo, Cabo Ocidental
Chapman's Peak Drive
About a 9 km road cut into the cliff between Hout Bay and Noordhoek, with curves over the Atlantic and viewpoints along the way.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Chapman's Peak Drive
Chapman's Peak Drive links Hout Bay to Noordhoek along the Atlantic side of the peninsula. It is about 9 km long with more than a hundred curves cut into the cliff, between the mountain and the sea, opened between 1915 and 1922. The peak that gives the road its name is about 593 metres high.
On the Hout Bay side, the first lookouts show the bay, the fishing harbour and the Sentinel, the rock that guards the entrance. Further on, the sea appears directly below the road, with rock strata exposed on the cliff. On the Noordhoek side the view opens out onto the long stretch of Long Beach.
The road is tolled and may close in heavy rain or when there is a rockfall risk; there are protective nets and short tunnels on the most exposed sections. It is part of the route around the peninsula toward Simon's Town and the Cape of Good Hope.
There are parking areas at the viewpoints, and the section is popular with cyclists.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
30 minutes to 1 hour, including stops at the viewpoints.
Best time
Late afternoon, with the sun over the Atlantic. Check that the road is open in case of rain or strong wind.
How to get there
It starts in Hout Bay, about 20 km from the centre along the Camps Bay coast, and ends in Noordhoek. It can only be travelled by car, bicycle or tour.
Tip
Drive it Hout Bay–Noordhoek if you are heading to the south of the peninsula. Stop at the marked viewpoints; do not park on the roadway.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Chapman's Peak Drive
Where is Chapman's Peak Drive?
Between Hout Bay and Noordhoek on the Atlantic side of the peninsula, about 20 km from Cape Town centre.
Is Chapman's Peak Drive tolled?
Yes, there is a toll. Check the current rates on the road’s website.
Does Chapman's Peak Drive close?
It can close due to heavy rain or rockfall risk. Check before you go.
