Day77 :Cape of Good Hope: Wild Baboons & the End of the World

Discover the Cape of Good Hope with a baby. A family adventure to Africa’s edge in Cape Town.

Main Journey
Events
Tips for Traveling with a Baby
Local Travel Tips
Travel Reflections

Main Journey

On Day 77 of our world travel journey, we headed toward the legendary Cape of Good Hope—the southwestern tip of Africa, a place that’s inspired explorers, sailors, and now… us, a small family with a baby and a rental car.

The weather was perfect for exploring—clear skies, a cool breeze, and the thermometer bouncing between 12 to 16°C. With Sweetie snug in the backseat, we followed the signs into Table Mountain National Park, toward one of the most iconic landmarks on the continent.

A Road Through Wild Beauty

Even before reaching the main attractions, the road was full of character—wide open skies, green landscapes you wouldn’t expect in “typical” Africa, and funny little signs along the way, including one we absolutely loved: Watch for Tortoises! 🐢

South Africa really surprised us with how alive the land felt. From lush plants to monkey warnings and rocky coastlines, every kilometer felt like a discovery.

Events

Wild Baboons and a Close Call

Just as we were nearing Cape of Good Hope, we saw the first troop of baboons. Not just one or two, but whole groups walking the road like they owned it. Some were even climbing into cars parked near the ocean!

One of the windows on a nearby car was completely gone—and the baboons were casually going in and out like it was their summer beach house. I couldn’t tell if it belonged to someone or if the baboons had just claimed it. Either way… wild.

As we parked, an older Western lady suddenly rushed over, warning us not to let the baby out. “Baboons can attack babies,” she said. “Go back inside and lock the doors!” She wasn’t exaggerating. Moments later, a big baboon appeared by our window, and the same kind-hearted older couple helped shoo it away with some firm stomping.

We quickly put Sweetie back in the baby carrier—no risks when it comes to wildlife.

The Cape of Good Hope Sign

Safely out of the car and with the coast clear, we made our way to the famous Cape of Good Hope sign. There was a bit of a line, mostly big happy families from overseas, laughing and taking group photos like a scene from a feel-good drama.

Our turn came, and one of the guides from the group kindly offered to take our picture. We quickly took Sweetie out of the carrier and stood together, wind blasting, camera snapping, Sweetie throwing in her signature baby poses. 💕

There we were—at the end of the world.

Cape Point & the Lighthouse

But wait, the adventure wasn’t over. We hopped back in the car and drove deeper into the park to Cape Point, where the old lighthouse stands tall on the cliff. You can see it from the road, perched way up like a tiny crown on the mountain.

We debated whether to climb it, but eventually decided—when will we ever be back here again?

So, Julie strapped Sweetie to her chest in the baby carrier, and we started hiking.

The trail up was wild and beautiful. Unfamiliar plants lined both sides, their shapes and colors unlike anything we’d seen before. The wind was stronger now, the sea below crashing against the cliffs. When we reached the top, we gasped.

From the summit, we saw the vast waters of False Bay, which had been hidden from view on the climb. The fog hugged the sea like a blanket, blurring the lines between land and ocean. It felt like looking at the edge of the Earth.

There was a world cities signpost at the top—pointing in all directions, showing how far we were from cities like London and New York. Sadly, Seoul wasn’t there. Still, standing up there with Julie and Sweetie in the wind? It didn’t matter.

Tips for Traveling with a Baby

1. Be Prepared for Wildlife

Keyword: travel with baby near wildlife

Baboons aren’t afraid to get close. Always keep your baby in the car if you see monkeys around, and never leave windows open. Animals can behave unpredictably, especially if they sense food or weakness.

2. Use a Secure Baby Carrier for Hikes

Keyword: Cape Point with a baby

The lighthouse trail is steep and not stroller-friendly. A secure front-facing carrier was the only way we could comfortably make the climb with Sweetie—and she enjoyed the ride with the best views.

3. Wind Protection is Key

Keyword: travel gear for baby in Cape Town

It’s very windy at Cape Point and the Cape of Good Hope. Make sure to have a beanie or hood for your baby, and dress in wind-blocking layers—even if the sun is out.

Local Travel Tips

1. Visit Both Cape Point and Cape of Good Hope

Keyword: Cape of Good Hope travel tips

They are not the same spot! They’re both inside the same national park, but a short drive apart. Do both—you won’t regret it.

2. Watch for Signs – They’re Adorable and Important

Keyword: wildlife warning signs

Tortoise crossing, baboon alerts, plant conservation signs… They’re not just for decoration. The park is full of life, and it’s part of the experience.

3. Stop at Viewpoints Like Simon’s Town

Keyword: Cape Town coastal drive

On the way back from Cape Point, we pulled over near Simon’s Town. The mist rolling over False Bay made the sea and sky blur into each other—it was haunting and beautiful. Totally worth the pause.

Travel Reflections

Respect the Wild, Even on a Family Trip

We didn’t expect to come face-to-face with wild baboons—and we definitely didn’t expect them to know how to open car doors. But this is the beauty of Africa: it reminds you how alive everything is. Travel with a baby doesn’t mean avoiding adventure. It means adapting with awareness.

The Wind Made Us Feel Small—and Free

Cape Point wasn’t just another tourist stop. It was dramatic, bold, wild. As Sweetie giggled in the wind and looked out over the ocean, we realized she might not remember this moment—but we will, for the rest of our lives.

There’s Something Special About the “End of the World”

That sign at the Cape of Good Hope feels symbolic. For us, it wasn’t the end—it was a milestone in this long, winding journey. We stood at the edge of a continent with our child, laughed in the wind, and felt hope for every place yet to come.