A Nature Lover at Cape Point
To experience Mother nature in the mother city, I go to Cape Point. Nothing beats spending the day watching wild waves leap against rocky mountain cliffs, spotting lazy seals, (or even a breaching Southern Right whale in winter) and breathing in salty clean air while the wind tangles my tresses and sings through my ears.
Containing more than 11000 plant species, Cape Point (Table Mountain National Park) is the smallest but richest of the Worlds six floral kingdoms. The unique merging of two ocean currents, the Cold Benguela and the Agulhas current, has resulted in an extraordinarily rich marine life – a third of all marine species in Southern Africa occur here. It’s also home to a large chattering array of birds (250 different species), Cape mountain zebra, eland, and the only shellfish-foraging baboon population in the world.
Cape Point’s famous lighthouse, built in 1859, standing 249 metres above sea level, is surrounded by beautiful greenery and meandering rocky paths. There are many places to picnic and marvel at the magnificent views, but don't forget to bring along an extra layer as it's known to get very windy. Also take some time to explore little rock pools – underwater gardens where sea anemones show off, swaying their colourful clown heads. If you're feeling brave then join them, the icy water is exhilarating!
It's pure delight for a nature-lover.
Guest Blog by Rachel Lang
www.bushboundgirl.com