Tokai, Cape Town

The Suburb of Tokai took its name from Tokaj, a range of Hills in Hungary. It was built in the late 1940's due to the urgent need for housing for South African soldiers, returning from World War II. A 'Tokai' is the ancient Malabaris's ( who originated from the State of Kerala) word for the tail of a peacock. (The name represents the importance of the Malabar region where, rumour has it, the British spotted a peacock for the first time. Hence the nickname of 'Blue'.) Tokai is alongside the M3 Blue Route highway, within easy reach of the City and the Coastal Road running towards to Cape Point. It only takes a mere 23 minutes via this M3 Highway, (21 Kilometers) to get there. This drive is very scenic as you pass: Tokai Forest; Pollsmoor Prison; University of Cape Town and see much of the Southern Suburbs of Cape Town. Tokai is a suburb in the Constantia valley, surrounded by majestic Mountains, South of the Cape Town City. It’s best known for the Forest that carpets the slopes of the Constantiaberg Mountain at the Western end, of the suburb. The forest is a hive of activity on most days ,with walkers enjoying the peace and quiet, hikers climbing the trails and mountain bikers attempting the tracks graded from novice to expert. The lovely arboretum was established in 1886. and planted with trees from around the World to find the best trees for repairing ships. Horse riding is popular in these parts. Baboon troops are common in the area. The Cape Dutch style Manor House was built in 1796 is a National Monument and currently occupied by the Table Mountain National Park admin offices.