PROFILE WRITING OF TABLE MOUNTAIN

TABLE MOUNTAIN: A NATURAL WONDER OF SOUTH AFRICA 

by: Molebogeng V Mokgethi

Nestled in the heart of Cape Town, South Africa, Table Mountain is one of the most recognizable and breathtaking landmarks in the world. With its flat-topped peak, towering 3,558 feet above sea level, it is a natural wonder that attracts millions of visitors each year. But Table Mountain is more than just a mountain, it is an icon, a symbol of Cape Town, and a place of immense beauty and significance.

INTRODUCTION

Table Mountain is a geological masterpiece, formed over millions of years by volcanic and glacial activity. The mountain has become a symbol of South Africa and is a popular tourist attraction, boasting stunning views of the city and surrounding landscape. It is a place where visitors can experience the beauty of nature, learn about the history and culture of the region, and participate in a variety of activities that cater to all ages and interests. Let’s explore this magnificent mountain and everything it has to offer. The mountain, which is part of the Table Mountain National Park, overlooks the city and is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.

THE HISTORY OF TABLE MOUNTAIN

Table Mountain is a significant landmark located in Cape Town, South Africa and one of the most popular tourist attractions in the region. Table Mountain is estimated to be over 300 million years old and was once covered by an ancient sea. Over time, volcanic activity caused the mountain to rise, and glaciers shaped its flat top. The indigenous Khoikhoi people, who inhabited the region long before the arrival of Europeans, believed that the mountain was a sacred place and it was known as Hoerikwaggo, meaning "mountain of the sea." When the Dutch arrived in the 17th century, they named it Tafelberg, or Table Mountain, because of its flat top. The San people are also known to have lived in the area and left behind rock art that can still be seen today. This mountain is rich in history and geological significance, with many features that make it an attractive destination for tourists.

In terms of colonial history, the Dutch East India Company established a colony at the foot of Table Mountain in the mid-17th century, and the mountain was used by sailors as a navigation landmark. The British then took control of the area and the mountain was used as a strategic vantage point during the Boer War.

Geologically, Table Mountain consists of sandstone and granite and was formed over millions of years through erosion and uplift. The mountain has many unique features, including the Table Mountain sandstone Fynbos vegetation, a type of vegetation found nowhere else. The mountain is composed of sandstone, which was formed over 280 million years ago during the Permian period. The sandstone was laid down in layers and then uplifted and tilted, which has contributed to the steep cliffs and rugged terrain of the mountain. Over time, erosion has carved out the mountain's distinctive shape and created the deep gorges and valleys that are found in the area.

In addition to its geological history, Table Mountain also has a rich cultural history. It has been inhabited by humans for thousands of years, and there is evidence of early Stone Age settlements in the area. The mountain was also an important site during the colonial era, and it was used as a lookout point by European explorers and a site for religious rituals by the Khoikhoi people.

Today, Table Mountain is a popular tourist destination and is visited by millions of people each year. The national park surrounding the mountain is home to over 2,200 species of plants, many of which are endemic to the area. The mountain is also home to a diverse array of animals, including baboons, dassies, and the Table Mountain ghost frog.

The importance of Table Mountain to the local Cape Town and South African community is immense. As one of the most renowned natural landmarks in South Africa, the mountain acts as a cultural icon and an important part of the community's heritage. It provides a vital natural habitat for indigenous flora and fauna, offering a refuge from the expanding city. Additionally, it is a major tourist destination, with millions visiting each year, providing a significant boost to the local economy. Its spectacular scenery and scenic trails also offer an opportunity for recreation and relaxation for the community.

ATTRACTIONS AND ACTIVITIES ON TABLE MOUNTAIN

"Breathe In the Fresh Air: Hiking Trails at Table Mountain, Cape Town"

by : Molebogeng V Mokgethi

Table Mountain has over 350 hiking trails, ranging from easy walks to challenging climbs. The most popular route is the Platteklip Gorge, a steep climb cafes to enjoy. Table Mountain is a place of immense natural beauty, offering visitors a range of activities and experiences. There are rides that takes around two hours to reach the summit. The views from the top are breathtaking, with panoramic views of the city, the Atlantic Ocean, and the surrounding mountains.

 

"Unleash Your Inner Adventurer: Cable Car Rides at Table Mountain, Cape Town"

For those who prefer a more leisurely way to reach the summit, the Table Mountain Aerial Cableway is an excellent option. The cable car rotates as it ascends, offering visitors 360-degree views of the mountain and the surrounding landscape. The cable car takes around five minutes to reach the summit.

"Discover the Wild Side: Flora and Fauna of Table Mountain, Cape Town"

Table Mountain is home to a diverse range of plant and animal species, many of which are found nowhere else in the world. The mountain is part of the Cape Floral Kingdom, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and is home to over 2,200 species of plants. Visitors can see a range of animals, including baboons, dassies (rock hyrax), and over 100 species of birds. Fauna and flora are basically the different species of animals and plants present in the mountains. Some of them are found all over South Africa while others are found only on Table Mountain. Due to the rarity of some of them, there is a need to protect them. And with the establishment of Table Mountain National Park, we can all see that these creatures and plants will be well taken care of for many years to come. Table Mountain as we know is home to a rich flora and fauna.

 Needless to say, there can be too much to see in one day. When it comes to flora, Table Mountain plays host to a variety of plant species, especially Fynbos (delicate or fine bush in English). Fynbos consists of four plant groups, the Proteas, Erica’s, Restios and Geophytes. Fynbos is a very unique vegetation type and has developed over millions of years. It is a fire-adapted vegetation and certain Fynbos needs fire every few years to promote production and dispersing of their seeds.

"Scale New Heights: Rock Climbing at Cape Town's Iconic Table Mountain"

Table Mountain is a popular destination for rock climbers, with a number of challenging routes to choose from. The rocky surfaces of Table Mountain make it a popular destination for rock climbing enthusiasts. Visitors can try their hand at climbing some of the challenging routes available.

“ Discovering the Many Wonders of South Africa's Iconic Table Mountain"

by : Molebogeng V Mokgethi

The views from Table Mountain are simply stunning, and visitors can see for miles in all directions. At sunset, the mountain is bathed in a golden glow, creating a magical atmosphere. Many visitors choose to visit the mountain at night, when the city lights twinkle below.

 

"Adventure Awaits: Cycle and Mountain biking at Table Mountain, Cape Town"

    

The ride is around 7KM or 4.3 Miles one way and is a great introduction to mountain biking Table Mountain. The ride is easy and requires medium fitness to complete and is a nice mix of tar and a little gravel to give you an introduction to riding your mountain bike off road. The first part of the mountain bike ride is relatively flat and on tar and you will see plenty of other Table Mountain bikers, hikers and runners. You will want to stop along the road numerous times to take in the spectacular views of Cape Town and the South African west coast. Further down the road as you get closer to Devil’s Peak you get stunning views of Lion’s Head and Table Mountain.

Facts and Statistics which support the writer’s opinion

Table Mountain is a stunning natural wonder situated on the outskirts of Cape Town. It is a popular tourist destination, with around three million visitors annually, and is home to diverse flora and fauna, including an abundance of animal species and plant life. The mountain and its surrounding scenery are a major attraction to both locals and tourists, providing unique views of both Cape Town and the surrounding area. It is one of the seven wonders of South African and an iconic feature in Cape Town. The mountain is over 1,000 meters tall. Table Mountain Aerial Cableway transports over 1 million visitors to the top of the mountain each year. The mountain is home to over 2,200 species of plants, many of which are endemic to the Cape Floral Kingdom.

Personal Viewpoints

I have personally been to Table Mountain during my birthday and I am absolutely in love with its breathtaking views. The mountain is a breathtaking feature in Cape Town, South Africa and it is a must-see for any visitor to the area. I adore the scenic trails and the variety of wildlife that can be seen on the mountain. It's a true natural wonder that I would definitely recommend anyone visit. One visitor to Table Mountain, a traveler from Germany, said: "The views from the top of Table Mountain are absolutely breathtaking. It's definitely worth taking the cable car up, but if you have the time and energy, hiking to the top is an amazing experience too."

Opinions from authorities and experts

Experts and authorities have recognized the unique value of Table Mountain, with UNESCO declaring it a World Heritage Site in 2004. The mountain is also a part of the Table Mountain National Park, which was established in 1998 to protect the natural beauty and ecological diversity of the area. The South African National Parks Authority classifies the mountain as a reserve and has taken measures to protect the mountain and the surrounding area. Likewise, organizations such as the World Wildlife Fund and BirdLife South Africa have been actively involved in protecting and preserving the mountain and its biodiversity. Experts in geography, biology and tourism also praised the mountain, its unique landscape and its importance to South Africa.

Anecdotes and stories about Table Mountain

Table Mountain is also steeped in folklore and legend. One story tells of the devil challenging a local man to a race to the top of the mountain. The man won by taking a shortcut through a secret tunnel, which the devil then sealed off, trapping the man at the top of the mountain. Another legend tells of a giant who lived on the mountain and would throw stones at passing ships. There are many interesting stories and anecdotes associated with Table Mountain. One such story is that of the Table Mountain Ghost, a mysterious ghost that is said to haunt the mountain. Several eyewitnesses have reported seeing a young girl wearing a white dress roaming around the trails. These sightings have been reported for decades and there are even reports of the ghost having been photographed. Although there is no scientific evidence confirming the existence of the ghost, it has become a part of the mountain's folklore and culture. Table Mountain and the Great White Shark, there are stories of white sharks swimming up to Table Mountain in search of food, making it a popular dive location. The Origin of Table Mountain, According to folklore, Table Mountain was formed when the Great Great Spirit broke off a piece of rock and threw it to the sea.

Fast forward to today and there are still plenty of stories surrounding Table Mountain, including ghost stories and everything in between. Some people claim that the mountain is made of crystal which accounts for the quiet and comfortable character of the town, while others are certain that the top of the monument was once invaded by goats (which apparently threatened fynbos and must therefore be destroyed). Residents of the Mother City even go so far as to say that the mountain is a sacred place, where God's angels occasionally visit, making it an extremely peaceful place.

Overall, Table Mountain is a place of natural wonder, steeped in history and culture. It is a symbol of Cape Town and a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to South Africa. With its range of activities, stunning views, and unique flora and fauna, Table Mountain offers something for everyone. Table Mountain is an attractive destination with a rich combination of history, geology and natural beauty. Whether you enjoy hiking, exploring history, or just taking in beautiful views, there's something for everyone on this iconic mountain. Whether you choose to hike to the summit, take the cable car, or simply enjoy the views from below, Table Mountain is an experience you will never forget. Its stunning natural beauty, rich history, cultural and environmental significance make it a beloved, iconic destination and a real source of pride for locals.

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REFERENCES

- https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:South_Africa_relief_location_map.svg

- Table Mountain Wikipedia Page: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Table_Mountain

- https://images.app.goo.gl/mz9fgtRYsjvewuog6

- https://images.app.goo.gl/HbN2coVvt38SE5cp9

- Table Mountain - Flora and Fauna - Hike Addicts

 - Table Mountain National Park Website: https://www.sanparks.org/parks/table_mountain/

 - Discover South Africa Website - Table Mountain: https://www.discoversouthafrica.co.za/attractions/table-mountain/

https://www.google.com/images? -TableMountainAerialCableway2018.jpg

 - Lonely Planet Guide - Table Mountain: https://www.lonelyplanet.com/south-africa/cape-town/attractions/table-mountain/a/poi-sig/389347/361854

- National Geographic - Table Mountain: https://www.nationalgeographic.com/travel/world-heritage/table-mountain/

- South African National Parks. (n.d.). Table Mountain National Park. Retrieved from https://www.sanparks.org/parks/table_mountain/

- UNESCO World Heritage Centre. (n.d.). Table Mountain National Park. Retrieved from https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/1007

- Table Mountain Aerial Cableway. (n.d.). Table Mountain Cableway. Retrieved from https://www.tablemountain.net/