Take the N2 to Caledon
Turn onto the R316 to Bredarsdorp
Turn onto the R319 to L’Agulhas
Want to touch the southern most tip of Africa? Figuratively not literally. Who doesn’t! And no, we are not talking about Cape Point. The southern most tip of this beautiful continent is where the Indian and Atlantic Oceans meet. The drive from Cape Town is spectacular and as you approach L’Agulhas on the R319, the road becomes ever so serene. If you are planning on taking a drive from Cape Town, I would recommend leaving early morning as the drive is quite long, plus or minus 3 hours and 30 mins one way.
From the N2, the first town is Caledon. This small town has a beautiful entertainment centre called the Caledon Casino. I had chanced my luck since it was my birthday month and I managed to win 4 times what I invested.
After Caledon, the next town is Bredasdorp. The shipwreck museum is a must see for sea enthusiasts. There is detailed history of shipwrecks dating year and years back as well as artifacts collected from the wrecks. It is fascinating to see the tools and equipment people used back in the days and how we still use the basic foundations laid by them.
After Bredasdorp, our final destination – the iconic Cape Agulhas. There is no entry fee which is great! Once you reach Agulhas National Park, you will notice two paths at the fork in the road –
1) lighthouse and boardwalk start
2) a road to drive to the tip of Africa.
The lighthouse is such a magnificent sight from the outside. It is the second oldest working lighthouse in South Africa. Inside there is an entry fee to climb the 71 steep stairs and view a small museum. The stairs are very steep and I would not recommend the weak jointed or elderly climbing as it can be quite daunting. If however you have the stamina, the climb is totally worth it as the views from top of the lighthouse are glorious overlooking the landscape in it’s entirety. It is quite scary mind you at the top.
Back on level ground, there is a brilliantly laid boardwalk next to the lighthouse where one can venture to the tip. I would highly recommend this walk if you have time. If not, then one can take the drive to the tip.
Once at the tip, you will notice the famous plaque where the two oceans meet. You are now officially at the southern most tip of Africa. Well done! In addition to this, a large map of the African continent has been added and it is a sight to behold. Be sure to take photo’s with the map as if you are physically touching the tip of Africa.
Other must-sees at the doorstep of Agulhas National Park include the Southern Wright Art Gallery which showcases oil paintings made by the locals. Another must see is Suidpunt Potpourri – a decor and gift store as well as a restaurant. You can be sure to collect memorable/unique souvenirs.
The Cape Agulhas is something unparalleled to the African continent and I encourage everyone to make the road trip to behold this fantastic sight.
Emil's Travel Blog 