Picnic sites at Table Mountain National Park reopen

TABLE Mountain National Park has reopened all previously closed trails and sites, following the adverse weather conditions experienced in the Cape.

South African National Parks (SANParks) previously issued a travel advisory cautioning visitors to exercise extreme caution if planning to visit Table Mountain National Park.

This was because the Cape area was battered by heavy rain and strong winds. The park's management advised that the Newlands Forest picnic site was temporarily closed until further notice due to water supply disruption resulting in the ablution facilities being out of service.

SANParks previously closed the Oudekraal and Newlands picnic sites, Deer Park, Rhodes Memorial, and Lions Head trails for safety reasons.

“Wet, slippery surfaces and gusty winds pose risks to your safety. If possible, please postpone your visit until weather conditions improve,” said SANParks.

The body responsible for the upkeep and management of South Africa's national parks kept the Cape of Good Hope (Cape Point, as it's commonly known) and Boulders Penguin Colony open while the funicular service was suspended due to high winds.

The South African Weather Service issued a notice of cold temperatures, widespread rainfall, and possible flooding over parts of South Africa last week which prompted SANParks to issue a cautionary advisory for the past weekend.

On its X account, Table Mountain National Park management cautioned tourists against visiting affected areas and said all hiking trails, mountain biking routes, and horse riding trails had been closed due to adverse weather conditions.