Climbing Table Mountain

Chris catching his breath on the way up Table Mountain
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So, we made it to Cape Town.  Our flight yesterday was delayed and then the line for passport control was like 2 hours long - so we didn't make it to our hostel until almost 3 o'clock.  We managed to get settled and then headed off for the V&A waterfront.  On the way, we stumbled across the Cape Town Harley Davidson shop and stopped in to talk to the locals - peruse the shopping, buy some souvenirs, etc.  Made it to the waterfront and had some dinner and a few drinks before turning in for the night.

We made it!
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However, this morning we were ready and raring to go!  Got up, had some breakfast, and headed for Cape Town's centerpiece - Table Mountain.  We had the option to pay for a guided hike up the mountain but opted to do it on our own - completely worth it.  We climbed the Platteklip Gorge to the top of table mountain in around 2 hours.  Honestly, the most grueling physical activity we've ever undertaken.  We were both exhausted, sun burnt, and drenched with sweat by the time our (i.e. April's) shaking legs made it to the top.  But we can not even put into words the sense of accomplishment we felt having made it all the way up.  Once up there we had a completely panoramic view of the city and coastline.  We got a couple of icees and another bottle of water, relaxed for a bit, and then took off on getting as many pictures as we could.  The scenery was simply breathtaking - and you could see so far!

"We climbed the Platteklip Gorge to the top of Table Mountain. . ."

Cheesing it at the top
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After Table Mountain, we headed back down to the V&A waterfront to try and head out to Robben Island only to find they are completely booked through next Tuesday - and unfortunately we leave here on Friday!  We did wait in line hoping there might be enough returns for the both of us to get to go but it didn't happen today.  We might try to head back down there again before we go.  April's actually just finished reading the abridged version of Nelson Mandela's biography in preparation for visiting Robben Island!  She's completely gutted but we both know we'll be back to Cape Town some day - so if not this trip, it'll definitely make the next one!

Well, the Hostel is doing a braii (i.e. BBQ) tonight, so guess we better head off.  Hope all is well in your neck of the woods and know we're thinking of you all!

Love and Miss- April & Chris