South Africa recorded 991,696 international tourist arrivals in July 2026, a 12.5% increase compared to the previous year, with total arrivals reaching 6,576,169 in the first seven months of 2026, up 12.4% year-on-year, according to Statistics South Africa. African markets contributed a 14.3% growth, while overseas arrivals increased by 5.7%.
TMACC Introduces WhatsApp Ticketing and Refund Policies
The Table Mountain Aerial Cableway Company (TMACC) has introduced WhatsApp as a new ticket sales channel via Webtickets to accommodate rising visitor numbers. Visitors can purchase return or one-way tickets by selecting the “Buy via WhatsApp” option on the ticket page or scanning QR codes at the Cableway’s Lower Station.
Tickets bought through WhatsApp remain valid for seven days, with full refunds available within that period. However, concession and special-offer fares continue to be sold through existing channels and are not available on WhatsApp.
Expanded Accessibility With Universal Access Walkway and Facilities
In April 2026, TMACC partnered with SANParks to open the Universal Access Walkway, enabling visitors using wheelchairs, prams, and mobility aids to access the summit plateau edge. TMACC also provides dedicated parking bays at the Lower Station for disabled visitors, priority access at the ticket office, and lifts serving the Cableway. Wheelchairs are available upon request, and mobility scooters can be accessed at the Upper Station
following safety assessments. Summit facilities include ramps at TEN67 Eatery and a lift servicing the VIEWS by De Grendel wine bar and restaurant. A detailed route map of accessible pathways is available through TMACC.
Real-Time Information and Responsible Cableway Operations
TMACC’s website and mobile app offer live updates on operating status, weather conditions including temperature, visibility, wind, and wait times at both Cableway stations. The Cableway operates responsibly to accommodate rapidly changing mountain weather, sometimes suspending operations for safety. These real-time information tools help visitors plan visits according to current conditions.
Fare Concessions and Special Offers for Diverse Visitors
TMACC provides multiple concession fares to improve affordability. Children aged 4 to 17 pay R230
online or R270 at the Ticket Office for return tickets valid from 1 July 2026 to 30 June 2027, with children under four traveling free. South African senior citizens aged 60 and older qualify for a R130 return ticket year-round. Students aged 18 and above pay R320 return or R200 one-way with valid student identification. The “Local is Lekker” special, running until 31 October 2026, offers return tickets at R265 for adults and R135 for children with South African ID. Birthday month visitors can claim a free return ticket upon presenting valid ID. Frequent visitors can use the Virtual Cable
Card, with options for adults, children 4-17, and South African pensioners aged 60 and older, offering year-round access.
Educational Programs and Operational Details
TMACC’s Class in the Clouds education program, active since 2001, reaches more than 15,000 Grade 1 to 12 learners annually until 30 October 2026. The program offers discounted educational visits that explore the mountain’s environment, including fauna, flora, history, and geography. Sessions accommodate groups from 10 to 100 learners at a time.
The Cableway’s operating hours are from 8:30 am for the first car up, with the last car ascending at 6:00 pm and descending at 7:00 pm. Visitors are encouraged to
use the free Park & Ride shuttle running between the Lower Tafelberg Road parking area and the Lower Station.
Official Statements on Visitor Access and Tourism Growth
Wahida Parker, Managing Director of TMACC, stated, “Table Mountain serves two audiences at once. It is often the first experience an international visitor has of Cape Town, and it is a mountain that Capetonians treat as their own.” She emphasized the company’s focus on improving the entire visitor journey—including planning, ticket access, and summit reach—while maintaining affordability for diverse groups.
Parker added, “Mountain weather can change quickly, and operating responsibly means that sometimes the Cableway has to stop. Providing people with
accurate information in real time means they can plan around that rather than arriving without knowing what to expect.” She also noted the natural limitations to accessibility on the mountain but stressed transparency and continuous improvements.
The South African Reserve Bank highlighted that the arrival growth during the first half of 2026 was largely driven by SADC markets, with arrivals remaining above pre-pandemic levels. The South African Tourism Services Association (SATSA) reported that overseas arrivals from January to July 2026 reached 94.7% of 2019 levels, underscoring the importance of both regional and international visitors to attractions like the Cableway.
