A 9 km scenic road cut into cliffs between Hout Bay and Noordhoek, with 114 curves and sea views over Hout Bay.
Chapman's Peak Drive is a 9 km toll road carved into the cliffs of the Cape Peninsula between Hout Bay and Noordhoek, in South Africa's Western Cape, and is often listed among the world's most spectacular coastal drives. The road was built between 1915 and 1922, with 114 curves cut into the sheer face of Chapman's Peak, and it climbs to about 160 m above the Atlantic, with sweeping views over Hout Bay, the Sentinel peak and the long white curve of Noordhoek Beach. Visitors pay a toll at a booth at either end and then drive, cycle or taxi along the route, stopping at marked viewpoints and picnic spots along the way. The most popular stop is the Chapman's Peak viewpoint at the top, where the road curves around the cliff and Hout Bay opens out below, with fishing boats and the Sentinel in the distance. The drive takes about 45 minutes to one hour with stops, longer if combined with lunch in Hout Bay or Noordhoek. The best photo angles are from the lookout points on the northern side, looking back at Hout Bay, and the road is especially beautiful in late afternoon when the low sun lights the rock face and the sea turns gold. Sunset is the most popular time, and traffic can be heavy on summer weekends. The road is closed in rockfall, storms and strong wind, so checking the official site before setting out is wise. Cyclists and runners use the road, particularly early on weekends, and drivers should take care on the blind bends. There is no public transport on the pass, and the toll is charged per vehicle.
| Admission | Adult Toll for a car about R70 (approx $4.24) each way (confirm) · Child Toll is charged per vehicle |
|---|---|
| Hours | Toll road open daily about 6:00AM-8:00PM; closes in rockfall or strong wind (see chapmanspeakdrive.co.za) |
| Typical visit | 45 minutes-1 hour with stops |
| Best time | Late afternoon for sunset light; closed after rockfall or storms |
| Getting there | Car, taxi or cycle; some tours include it; there is no public transport on the pass |
| Address | Chapman's Peak Drive (M6), Hout Bay to Noordhoek, Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa |
Location
Chapman's Peak Drive (M6), Hout Bay to Noordhoek, Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa
-34.0750, 18.3590 View on map
Highlights
- 114 curves cut into the cliffs above the Atlantic
- Views over Hout Bay and the Sentinel from the lookout points
- Sunset light on the rock face and sea
- Noordhoek Beach stretching away at the southern end
- Viewpoints and picnic stops along the route
Tips for visiting
- Check the official website for closures after rockfall or storms
- Drive in late afternoon for the best light, but expect traffic on summer weekends
- Keep cash or a card ready for the toll
- Use the marked lay-bys and avoid stopping on the road
- Watch for cyclists and runners on the blind bends
- Combine with lunch in Hout Bay or Noordhoek
When to visit
Late afternoon for sunset light is best, and clear, calm days give the best views. Avoid the road after storms or rockfall.
Accessibility
The drive can be enjoyed from a car, and several lay-bys offer short, level access to viewpoints. Walking trails on the peak are steep and not suitable for wheelchairs.
Visit, book or contact
Frequently asked questions
How long does the drive take?
The drive takes about 45 minutes to one hour with stops for photographs.
Is there a toll?
Yes, a toll is charged per vehicle at the booths; confirm the current price on the official site.
Is the road always open?
No, it closes in rockfall, storms and strong wind, so check the official website before travelling.
Can visitors cycle the road?
Cyclists use the road, and many go early on weekends, so drivers must take care.