Cape Town is a city that proves you can really have it all. Endless sandy beaches, world class vineyards, gourmet restaurants or magnificent nature, Cape Town has got it. South Africa’s oldest city really is a stunner, helped by a dramatic natural setting that includes sunset views stretching over the undulating ocean.
Cape Town
A coming-together of cultures, cuisines and landscapes, there’s nowhere quite like Cape Town, a singularly beautiful city crowned by the magnificent Table Mountain National Park. Then there’s the pristine white beaches lapped by by giant granite boulders to bake on, and burbling mountain streams in dappled forests. No visit is complete without at least one full day exploring some of the surrounding vine-carpeted valleys, their rich terroir spawning not only award-winning wines but superb produce.
View of Table Mountain from Lions Head
Top Things To Do
Yacht Trip Cape Town
Activities
There are few better places to saunter aimlessly – and get a thrill out of it – than Cape Town. A fascinating blend of African, European and Malay influences, this wonderful city has emerged over the past two decades not just as one of the world’s great capitals, but also as South Africa’s thriving, diverse, exhilarating heart. The key is to approach this metropolis the way Capetonians do themselves: kick back at the beach, feast at one of many first-rate restaurants, knock back a glass of wine, and, above all, Moenie worry nie – relax and enjoy. Here’s our pick of the absolute best things to do in Cape Town.
Shimmy Beach – Cape Town
Robben Island – Cape Town
Robben Island
Robben Island is a must see attraction for anybody visiting Cape Town. Unesco declared Robben Island in the Western Cape a World Heritage Site in 1999 and is located in Table Bay, some 6km west of Bloubergstrand. Robben Island has been used as prison, most famously housing Nelson Mandela, and also a place where people were isolated, banished and exiled to for nearly 400 years. It was also used as a post office, a grazing ground, a mental hospital and an outpost.
Table Mountain
Whatever you do, don’t leave Cape Town without summiting Table Mountain. A trip up this iconic landmark is absolutely worth your time. The more energetic may prefer to hike, but nobody’s judging if you plump for the cable car. The views are simply spectacular (though be warned that cloud cover – known locally as the tablecloth – can swoop in very suddenly and obscure the panorama completely). There’s also a short circular walking route you can follow while you’re up there.
Table Mountain Cable Car
Franschhoek – One of the best places to wine, dine and relax.
Franschhoek Wine Valley
Franschhoek Wine Valley, home to breathtaking scenery, world-class cuisine, fine wines and a village atmosphere: these are the hallmarks of the beautiful Franschhoek Valley, settled more than 300 years ago by the French Huguenots.
Experience the Food and Wine Route, the Artisan Food Route, the Rond en Bont cultural route or the Cap Classique Route. Treat yourself to a Mystery Weekend or go to one of the festivals covering food and wine, art, literature and music.
Boulders Beach
Boulders and its surrounding beaches now form part of the Table Mountain National Park Marine Protected Area, thus ensuring the beaches are safe and clean, and the penguins protected. A couple of years ago three wheelchair-friendly boardwalks were constructed to accommodate the nearly 60,000 visitors that visit the beach each year. These boardwalks wind their way through the dunes and vegetation and not only provides great viewing spots, but also protects nesting penguins and their chicks. However, you can still spot one or two of the little fellas waddling through the parking lot from time to time.
Boulders Beach – Cape Town
Safari – Aquila Game Reserve
Wildlife in Cape Town
Going on safari is a must-do experience when visiting Africa. While Cape Town’s mediterranean climate doesn’t lend itself to the traditional African bush experience, the Big Five – lion, leopard, rhino, elephant and buffalo – are but a couple of hours’ drive from the city centre. The most famous being Aquila Game Reserve. One of the most popular game reserves near Cape Town, Aquila boasts a big five safari experience. Situated in the Klein Karoo, just two hours outside of the city centre, they offer a variety of experiences. Go on a traditional game drive or explore the reserve on horseback, quad bikes, or even from the air. Aquila caters to both day visitors and those who wish to stay overnight in one of their luxury chalet
Dining in Cape Town
Cape Town’s picturesque scenery and uniquely blended culture aside, another big draw to the region, in general, is the food and exclusive dining. When it comes to world-class cuisine, Cape Town has some of the most excellent restaurants on the globe. Local gastronomy has an authentic, homegrown identity at last, influenced by the global provenance-driven, farm-to-fork movement while incorporating regional culinary heritage and indigenous, often foraged flavors. Chefs are sharpening their inventiveness and creativity as much as their knives, so be sure to dine in style whilst in Cape Town!
View of Table Mountain from V&A Waterfront
When to visit
A Cape Town beach holiday is best during peak summer from December to February. Late April to early June has crisp and clear days, perfect for a hiking trip. A food and wine holiday is best from late June to August – dine at world-class eateries and go wine tasting in the gorgeous Cape Winelands.
Getting here
Cape Town is reachable with many international carriers flying daily.
How to get around
Cape Town is a sprawling city, but individual neighborhoods such as the city center (also known as the City Bowl), Bo-Kaap, and the Waterfront are walkable. Just make sure to carry a detailed map, as street names can be inconsistent. Although you’ll feel perfectly safe walking around during the daytime, try to avoid doing so after dark. Tourists can be targets of petty crimes, like pick-pocketing. If you are walking around after sunset, do so in a group.
