Why does the 'tablecloth' cloud over Table Mountain disappear as it

The mountain that wears a tablecloth

Chapter 1

The ancient giant of the Cape

Chapter 2

The backyard plant kingdom

Chapter 3

Where two oceans collide

Chapter 4

Secret residents of the mountain

Ch 1 · The ancient giant of the Cape

What keeps us upright under pressure is the foundation hidden beneath.

Glossary

table mountain (noun)
A mountain characterized by a flat summit and steep, precipitous sides. Cape Town's iconic flat-topped peak is estimated to be over 260 million years old.

Fun Fact

Table Mountain's future: At its current rate of erosion, scientists estimate Table Mountain will be reduced to a small hill in about 10 million years.

Quiz

What is the exact elevation of Maclear's Beacon on Table Mountain?

Quiz

Who built the stone cairn marking the highest point on Table Mountain in 1844?

Quiz

Why does the 'tablecloth' cloud over Table Mountain disappear as it pours down the cliffs?

Gossip

Would you rather hike up Table Mountain or ride the cableway?

Quiz

Which mountain range is significantly younger than South Africa's Table Mountain?

Quiz

How old are the sandstone rocks that make up South Africa's Table Mountain?

Quiz

Where can visitors easily see the exposed granite foundation of the Table Mountain range?

Quiz

What wind direction is primarily responsible for creating the 'tablecloth' cloud over Table Mountain?

Quiz

What tough rock type forms the lower base supporting Table Mountain's sandstone cliffs?