Cape Town

Stay in luxury accommodation on the city’s Atlantic seaboard, sheltered from the winds that famously buffet the rest of the city.

Bantry Bay is a very small suburb at the foot of Lion’s Head, wedged between the beautiful beaches of Clifton and Camps Bay on one side and Sea Point, with its broad, paved promenade, on the other. It’s an affluent suburb, mostly residential, giving travellers the peace and quiet of suburban life while being conveniently close to some of Cape Town’s best attractions.

Apart from the luxury hotels on the seafront, with their views of rocky shores and the Atlantic Ocean, Bantry Bay has many upmarket self-catering apartments that are serviced daily. Grocery stores are within walking distance, giving travellers the option to cook for themselves or enjoy a night in instead of spending every evening out on the town.

Less than an hour east from Cape Town lies a stunning countryside region where stately farm mansions look out over sweeping vineyards that meet the dramatic jagged mountainscapes of the Cape Fold range.

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As the name suggests the district is primarily known for its wine production, a tradition that has existed here since the very first settlers came to the Cape more than 300 years ago. The region’s suited Mediterranean climate make it the largest wine producing region in South Africa and each year more than a million liters of wine is made here.

The epicenter of the Cape Winelands is the valleys that contain the towns of Stellenbosch, Franschhoek and Paarl. Stellenbosch, South Africa’s second oldest town after Cape Town, is situated on the banks of the Eerste River at the foot of the impressive Cape Fold mountain range. Its streets are lined with oak trees and prime examples of colonial buildings in the Cape Dutch style. Although Stellenbosch is famous for its wine culture and being a university town, it also boasts a range of boutiques, art galleries and museums.

Franschhoek, which translates as “French Corner”, was established in the late 17th century as French Huguenot refugees settled in the area. They brought with them their knowledge of vine cultivation and their original farmlands went on to become world-renowned wine estates. The town boasts beautifully preserved Cape Dutch architecture, dozens of outstanding restaurants, boutiques and contemporary art galleries.

Budget-focused accommodation such as backpacker hostels are less plentiful in the Cape Winelands than in the more central areas of Cape Town, but the region offers superb accommodation ranging from mid-range self-catering villas to bespoke guest houses and exclusive villas on its various wine estates.

Highlights

• With its collection of world-class wine farms, the Cape Winelands is the country’s top region for wine tasting tours. The famous open-air Wine Tram, which transports passengers between wine estates, is one of the most unique ways of exploring the Franschhoek Valley.
• Stellenbosch and Franschhoek play host to various annual festivals which are centered around the celebration of wine, champagne, art, literary and music.
• Franschhoek is home to some of the country’s premier art galleries, especially those that feature contemporary South African art and ceramics.
• Restaurants in Franschhoek and its surrounding wine estates rate amongst the best in the country and the town is often referred to as the food and wine capital of South Africa. Diners can look forward to exceptional cuisine featuring local favourite as well as international dishes.

Practical Advice

• The Cape Winelands are roughly 30 minutes from the nearest international airport and 45 minutes from Cape Town’s city center. Regular shuttle and taxi transfers are available while all major car rental companies have offices in both locations.
• Several sightseeing bus tours and private tour operators offer day trips to the Cape Winelands departing from Cape Town. Combination trips to other noteworthy tourist destinations are possible too.
• The Cape Winelands are notoriously hot in summer with average temperatures around 30C and some days as high as 40C. Bring appropriate light clothing, sunscreen and a hat.

Long before GPS, the sailors of old returning from long sea voyages to the east confused this picturesque bay with the more famous Table Bay a bit further along the coast, thus giving False Bay its name.

False Bay is an immense C-shaped curve in the coastline to the southeast of Table Mountain. At its widest point, it’s a staggering 30km (19mi) across the bay! Unsurprisingly, the bay is littered with numerous long sandy beaches, some of which have managed to escape any form of urban development.

Tucked in the western corner of False Bay lies the quaint fishing village of Kalk Bay. Its harbor is a popular destination not only due to some excellent seafood restaurants but also for the local fishermen who sell their catch of the day straight off the boat. There are even a few resident Cape fur seals who have formed a unique bond with the fishermen, often posing together for photographs. On Kalk Bay’s main road is a fabulous assortment of art galleries, vintage bookshops, antique dealers, and superb restaurants.

A few minutes up the road from Kalk Bay is the epicenter of Cape Town’s surf scene, Muizenberg. It’s a great training ground for anyone learning to surf and draws adventurous souls of all ages. Naturally, a laid-back surf culture exists in the town, and you’ll get a feel for the vibe on Surfer’s Corner, a seafront strip lined with restaurants, pubs, and surf shops.

From Muizenberg, the beach runs uninterrupted for 40km (25mi) along the inner curve of Table Bay, all the way to the Helderberg region, which includes the towns of Somerset West, Strand, and Gordon’s Bay. Somerset West, situated inland, is often seen as an off-the-beaten-track destination with several hidden-gem wine farms. While Strand is the area’s commercial hub, Gordon’s Bay offers some small, scenic, family-friendly beaches.

Highlights

• Muizenberg is one of South Africa’s top surfing spots since it has a consistent swell, especially in the winter. Conditions cater to all skill levels, and several surf schools offer lessons for young and old.
• Clarens Drive on the R44 road between Gordons Bay and Rooi-Els is a stunning coastal drive. The narrow 21km (13mi) long pass snakes along the coastline between the Atlantic Ocean and the towering Hottentots Holland mountains, offering spectacular views.
• Humpback, Bryde’s, and Southern Right whales can be seen in False Bay during the late winter when they migrate north to warmer climates.
• A visit to the Kalk Bay harbor is a must. It’s a tradition to eat fish and chips and watch the resident seals interact with the fishermen.
• The Cheetah Outreach, a conservation initiative in Somerset West, offers the opportunity to get up close and personal with the fastest land animals on the planet.
• Boulders Beach is famous for its colony of African penguins. Visitors can enjoy close encounters with these charming creatures in their natural habitat. The beach offers boardwalks and viewing platforms, making it a perfect spot for wildlife enthusiasts and families alike.

Practical Advice

• By car, the western side of False Bay is about 50 minutes by car from Cape Town city center, while the far eastern end (Rooi-Els) is about an hour and a half by car.
• Public transport in False Bay is limited. Therefore, renting a vehicle is recommended if you intend to spend much time in the area.

The Cape Peninsula is a rocky outcrop that reaches into the icy waters of the Atlantic Ocean like a giant curved finger. At its southernmost point lies the Cape of Good Hope, so called because of the optimism it gave to early trading seafarers rounding the tip of Africa en route between Europe and the Far East.

Geographically speaking, the Cape Peninsula starts in Mouille Point near the city center of Cape Town, encompassing the Atlantic Seaboard, with the Table Mountain range running the length of the 52km (32mi) long outcrop. Ask any local, however, and they’ll point you to the tip of the peninsula between Hout Bay and Simons Town, commonly known as the South Peninsula.

The South Peninsula is best known for Cape Point Nature Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site within the southern section of the Table Mountain National Park. The 77,5km2 (30 square mile) reserve contains dramatic scenery of the Atlantic coastline, several pristine footprint-free beaches, several hiking trails, and two lighthouses with incredible views of the peninsula’s southernmost point. You might even spot some game here – keep an eye out for zebra, eland, bontebok, and ostrich.

The small-town feel of Noordhoek, Kommetjie, and Scarborough on the peninsula’s western side is favored by visitors who want to escape the city’s busy suburbs and popular beaches. At the same time, surfers are equally fond of the less crowded surfing conditions.

On the eastern side of the peninsula lies Simon’s Town, a historical maritime town and headquarters of the South African Navy. The town is steeped in centuries-old naval history, and the picturesque St George’s Street is lined with preserved Dutch-style buildings now home to boutiques, eateries, antique shops, and coffee shops.

The most famous attraction in Simon’s Town is the African penguin colony, which calls Boulders Beach home. The beach is part of the national parks network, and visitors can view the penguins from an elevated platform or swim alongside them at the adjacent Foxy Beach.

Highlights

• During whale season from June to November, it’s possible to spot migrating Humpback, Southern Right, and Bryde’s whales rounding Cape Point. These gentle giants can also be spotted from elevated coastal vantage points like Boyes Drive, Chapmans Peak, and Clarens Drive. For an up close and personal experience, boat trips are available from Simon’s Town harbor.
• Chapmans Peak Drive on the western side of the Southern Peninsula sits right at the top of South Africa’s most scenic coastal drives. The pass is a feat of engineering, and the views will leave you breathless.
• Boulders Beach in Simon’s Town is a protected coastal habitat for a resident penguin colony and one of the only places in the world where you can get close to African penguins. Swimming alongside these unique sea creatures is certainly a bucket list experience!

Travel Tips

• Cape Point is about 70km (43mi) from the center of Cape Town, and there is no public transport connection, so you’ll need to take a bus, taxi, or self-drive to get there. The drive itself takes about an hour and a half. It is a great self-drive destination and a spectacular scenic drive that is best undertaken as a day trip. If you head out early, you can also visit nearby coastal towns such as Hout Bay, Simon’s Town, and Kalk Bay.
• If you prefer not to self-drive, numerous sightseeing bus companies and private tour operators offer half and full-day sightseeing tours to the tip of the peninsula and its surrounding towns and points of interest.

The easiest way to understand where the southern suburbs are is to imagine Table Mountain in front of you: the southern suburbs are right behind the famous mountain. It contains nearly two dozen suburbs on either side of the M3 highway, all framed by the lush eastern slopes of the Table Mountain range.

The leafy suburb of Newlands, nestled on the eastern slopes of Table Mountain, is one of the city’s greenest neighborhoods. It is known for being the home of two of South Africa’s favorite sports, cricket and rugby, with many nail-biting matches taking place at the two stadiums.

The most famous destination in the Southern Suburbs is the Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, which has served as an important conservation area for some of South Africa’s most unique biomes for over a century. Its sprawling lawns, various indigenous gardens, hiking trails, restaurants, open-air concert stage, and 130m (427ft) long treetop canopy walkway make it a popular year-round destination.

The “Boomslang” is an aerial walkway that snakes its way through the tree canopies in Kirstenbosch and affords visitors an entirely new vista of the breathtaking gardens.

The Southern Suburbs also contain one of Cape Town’s more surprising features: it has several superb wine farms a mere 20 minutes from the city center. Situated in the suburb of Constantia are a collection of small wine estates, some of which are more than 300 years old. Apart from award-winning wines, you can also look forward to fine dining, quaint coffee shops, and exclusive boutiques.

Holiday accommodation is plentiful in the southern suburbs and ranges from budget-conscious backpacker-style lodgings to superb guest houses, private home rentals, luxury 5-star hotels, and wine estates. Solo travelers, families, and couples alike will enjoy staying in this region. The southern suburbs enjoy a more relaxed atmosphere than Cape Town’s CBD, yet are close enough to the city center and the surrounding beaches for you to enjoy the best of both worlds.

Highlights

• The Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens Summer Sunset Concerts are a highlight on Cape Town’s social calendar. The venue hosts South Africa’s top musical acts and some internationally recognized artists from November to March.
• The scenic Constantia Wine Route, a stone’s throw from the city center, has a portfolio of eight wine estates to visit, including the oldest wine producer in the country, Groot Constantia.
• The Baxter Theatre Centre in Rondebosch is a performing arts complex that hosts multicultural performances throughout the year. It’s one of the cornerstones of South Africa’s performing art scene and well worth a visit.
• In January, South Africa’s oldest horse racing event, the Sun Met (formerly known as the J&B Met), takes place at the Kenilworth Racecourse. This prestigious event is not just an equestrian affair but is also an important soiree on the social calendar of the country’s grandest celebrities and fashionistas.

Practical Tips

• The southern suburbs are about 30 minutes drive from Cape Town International Airport and only 10 minutes from the city center. Regular taxi and shuttle services operate between the airport and the southern suburbs, and all major car rental companies have offices in both locations.
• If your stay is mainly in and around the southern suburbs, you might be better off using taxi services rather than renting a vehicle. Cape Town is a relatively small city yet quite congested, so traffic and parking can be a headache.

When you first experience the view from Table Bay, you realize where it gets its name from – a postcard-perfect view of Table Mountain frames the sweeping curve of the coastline.

Table Bay is home to a seaside stretch of suburbs situated on the coastline north of Cape Town’s city center. Once you travel past the industrial neighborhoods of Paarden Eiland and Milnerton, you find numerous picturesque beaches, with the most popular destinations being those of Bloubergstrand and Big Bay. Both offer spectacular views of Table Mountain, especially at sunset. It is a popular holiday destination for photographers and those looking for one of the most scenic sundowner spots in Cape Town.

Due to its regular windy days, Bloubergstrand is one of the country’s best kite and windsurfing spots. Several operators offer gear rental and lessons for all levels of experience, and on windy days, you’re likely to see the skies filled with colorful kites.

The charming seaside village of Melkbosstrand on the northern outskirts of Table Bay is worth a visit too. Several seaside restaurants offer exceptional seafood, while the nearby Koeberg Nature Reserve and Grotto Bay have easy and scenic hiking trails.

Highlights

• The annual Red Bull King of the Air is held at Kite Beach in Table View from end of January through mid-February. The event draws hundreds of the world’s best wind and kite surfers and their colourful kites fill up the skies over the beach.
• The links-style Milnerton Golf Club is incredibly scenic. Tucked between the Diep River and the Atlantic Ocean, nearly every hole offers scenic views of Table Mountain with the sound of the ocean waves only a stone’s throw away.
• The South African Foundation for the Conservation of Coastal Birds (SANCCOB) offers behind-the-scenes tours of their seabird rehabilitation center in Table View. It offers a unique experience to get up close and personal with these cute seabirds.

Practical Tips

• Table Bay is about 30 minutes by car from the nearest airport, Cape Town International. Regular shuttle and taxi services run from and to the airport and public transport connects Table Bay with Cape Town city center. Renting a vehicle is a good option if you plan to spend most of your time in Table Bay and its surrounds.
• If you’re coming to surf, kiteboard or windsurf and have a bunch of gear, renting a vehicle is advised. Several car rental companies offer vehicles with roof racks and extra storage.
• Table Bay is known for having very windy days as it’s exposed to strong ‘southeaster’ winds, especially during the summer months from October to March. Keep that in mind if you plan to spend days on the beach!

The Atlantic Seaboard is a narrow band of suburbs sandwiched between the Table Mountain range and the Atlantic Ocean on Cape Town’s western coastline. The area’s proximity to the ocean and the inner city makes it a well-loved destination for locals and visitors alike.

Green Point is closest to Cape Town’s city center and is home to a world-class sports stadium, several sports clubs and gymnasiums, a century-old golf course, and a huge public park. Built in 1823, the eye-catching lighthouse at the northern edge of Green Point is the oldest operational lighthouse in South Africa.

Near the lighthouse starts a promenade that runs along the coast leading to the sea-facing suburb of Sea Point. The Sea Point Promenade is somewhat of an institution amongst Capetonians as its wide walkway, and sprawling lawns are favored by casual walkers, joggers, skaters, cyclists, and dog walkers alike.

Clifton and Camps Bay’s upmarket suburbs are home to the country’s most luxurious and expensive real estate and the city’s top-ranking beaches. Clifton has four beaches with crystal clear water, named 1st to 4th, shielded from the regular southeasterly wind making it a popular sunset destination. The white sandy beach at Camps Bay is wide and flat and bordered by a bustling promenade with excellent restaurants and cocktail bars.

About 10km (6mi) south of Camps Bay lies the equally upmarket but much more secluded suburb of Llandudno. Steep cliff sides hug a small but beautiful beach popular among surfers and has a much more intimate feel than those further up the coastline. Llandudno is strictly residential, and there are no shops or restaurants to be found, so it’s best to bring a picnic basket for a day on the beach.

Finally, on the southernmost end of the Atlantic Seaboard lies the historic fishing village of Hout Bay, framed by a sharp mountain peak that juts up into the air like a rhino horn called The Sentinel. Hout Bay means “Wood Bay,” so called because much of early Cape Town’s construction material was sourced in the area. Today Hout Bay offers visitors an excellent collection of seafood restaurants, bustling weekend markets, and boat trips to Duiker Island, the home of a resident seal population.

Highlights

• Restaurants along the Atlantic Seaboard, particularly those in Camps Bay and Hout Bay, offer exceptional seafood menus coupled with quintessential seaside charm.
• Cape Town’s premier beaches are found on the Atlantic Seaboard. The white sandy beaches and crystal clear waters of Clifton and Camp’s Bay are the most popular, but there are also many secluded spots like Beta Beach, Bakoven, and Sandy Bay if you want to escape the crowds.
• Accommodations in Camps Bay and Clifton are consistently rated as the most exclusive, luxurious, and scenic in Cape Town. While renting here comes at a premium, you’ll experience the very best in accommodation that Cape Town has to offer.
• Chapman’s Peak Drive, starting on the southern edge of Hout Bay, is world-renowned for its scenic beauty and engineering achievement. Don’t forget to bring your camera!

Practical Advice

• The Atlantic Seaboard can be reached by a 30-minute car journey from Cape Town International Airport. All major car rental companies have counters at the airport, and regular taxi and shuttle services offer transfers to any destination on the Atlantic Seaboard.
• Unless you intend to drive out of Cape Town, renting a car isn’t necessary, as getting around on the Atlantic Seaboard is often much more convenient by taxi than searching for parking everywhere you go.
• Book accommodation well in advance for the peak holiday seasons during December and January, as the Atlantic Seaboard is a popular destination.

The Victoria and Alfred Waterfront, situated in the oldest operating harbor in Africa, is the most visited destination in all of South Africa. The waterfront attracts a staggering 24 million visitors annually! It’s hardly surprising when you consider its setting because this isn’t just any old fishy-smelling, seagull-ridden harbor: The iconic flat-topped Table Mountain provides a stunning backdrop for the various quays, canals, and repurposed industrial buildings.

The V&A Waterfront, as it’s more commonly known, is divided into nine precincts. The Quays District is the most visited area with its shopping center of luxury brands, a collection of quay-side restaurants, and outdoor entertainment areas that include an amphitheater, Ferris wheel, and performance spots for various buskers.

The Dry Dock District is a close second with its indoor food market, the Watershed craft and design market, aquarium, and popular comedy club. The nearby Silo District is home to a collection of designer outlets, prestigious hotels, and Africa’s most significant contemporary art museum, the Zeitz MOCAA. The recently opened Battery Park in the Canal District houses a piazza alongside a canal, a park, and sports fields and offers watersports in the canals.The V&A Waterfront is a well-loved destination for all types of travelers due to its central location and extensive collection of hotels, restaurants, and retail outlets.

Highlights

• Various boat, yacht, and ferry tours operate daily (weather dependent) from the V&A Waterfront. The most popular tours visit Robben Island, where Nobel Peace Prize winner Nelson
• Mandela was famously imprisoned for 18 years during Apartheid before becoming South Africa’s first democratically elected president.
• The V&A Waterfront houses a collection of world-class museums, including the continent’s largest contemporary African art museum, the Zeitz MOCAA, the historical Robben Island museum, the Iziko Maritime Museum, and the popular Springbok Experience Rugby Museum.
• Some of the city’s most prestigious hotels are situated in the V&A Waterfront. Stay here, and you’ll not only experience the very best in hospitality, but you’re also at the epicenter of Cape Town’s social hub.
• A visit to the Two Oceans Aquarium is a must, especially for children. The aquarium is home to over 3000 sea creatures including sharks, sea turtles, and penguins. Daily penguin feeding times, usually between 12h00 and 14h00, are particularly special and include an information session by the staff.
• Scenic helicopter flights around Table Mountain and the Cape Peninsula depart from the V&A Waterfront.

Practical Advice

• From Cape Town International Airport, a short 25-minute drive on the N2 highway delivers you straight to the V&A Waterfront. All major car rental companies have counters at the airport, and regular shuttle, bus, and taxi services connect directly to the V&A.
• Unless you plan to drive often or far out of Cape Town, a rental car is not necessary to get around the inner city effectively. The city has an extensive network of public buses (called MyCity) that regularly call at all points of interest. Alternatively, various taxi services provide the most instant transport from A to B.
• The V&A Waterfront is at its busiest during the summer holiday season in December and January. While it’s at its liveliest during this time with events, festivals, exhibitions, live music, and art performances, you can also expect the Waterfront to be very crowded.

Cape Town is a vibrant city with diverse neighbourhoods and stunning landscapes, each offering unique experiences and attractions. Here’s a detailed guide to the key areas within Cape Town and what makes them special:

1. City Bowl

Overview: The City Bowl is the bustling heart of Cape Town, located between Table Mountain and the harbour. It’s the perfect base for exploring the city’s vibrant culture, history, and nightlife.

Key Highlights: The iconic Table Mountain offers panoramic views of the city and beyond. The Table Mountain Aerial Cableway provides an easy ascent to the top, where visitors can enjoy hiking trails, spectacular views, and a variety of flora and fauna. 

The V&A Waterfront, a bustling harbour, combines shopping, dining, and entertainment with stunning views and is also the departure point for Robben Island tours.

Exploring the colourful streets of Bo-Kaap, a historic neighbourhood known for its vibrant houses and rich Cape Malay culture, is a must.

Unique Facts: Table Mountain is one of the New Seven Wonders of Nature and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The V&A Waterfront attracts more than 24 million visitors annually, making it one of Africa’s most-visited destinations. Bo-Kaap is home to the oldest mosque in South Africa, Auwal Mosque, built in 1794.

2. Atlantic Seaboard

Overview: The Atlantic Seaboard, also known as Cape Town’s “Riviera,” stretches from the V&A Waterfront to Hout Bay, offering stunning coastal views and upscale beachside neighbourhoods.

Key Highlights: Camps Bay is famous for its beautiful powdery beach, vibrant nightlife, and trendy cafes and restaurants. Clifton Beaches, four pristine beaches known for their clear waters and white sands, are perfect for sunbathing and picnicking. The Sea Point Promenade offers a scenic walk or bike ride along the coastline, with views of the Atlantic Ocean and public art installations.

Unique Facts: Camps Bay Beach is a Blue Flag beach, recognized for its cleanliness and safety. Clifton’s beaches are divided into four coves, each offering a slightly different vibe, from family-friendly sporty vibes of Clifton first, to Clifton third which is a favourite for  LGBTQ+ couples. The Sea Point Promenade is a popular stroll, loved for its relaxed atmosphere and stunning sunsets.

3. Cape Peninsula

Overview: The Cape Peninsula is a dramatic landscape of rugged cliffs, sandy beaches, and scenic vistas, offering some of the best natural attractions in the region.

Key Highlights: Cape Point, located at the southern tip of the Cape Peninsula, provides breathtaking views and a historic lighthouse. Boulders Beach is famous for its colony of African penguins, offering unique wildlife encounters and picturesque views. Chapman’s Peak Drive is one of the most scenic coastal drives in the world, offering stunning views of the ocean and mountains.

Unique Facts: This region is part of the Cape Floral Kingdom, one of the world’s six floral kingdoms, known for its incredible biodiversity with many plant species found nowhere else on Earth. The Peninsula is also a hotspot for marine biodiversity, including sightings of Southern Right Whales during migration season. The area’s unique geography creates a microclimate that supports diverse ecosystems, from fynbos vegetation to rich marine life. 

4. Southern Suburbs

Overview: The Southern Suburbs offer a more relaxed and leafy environment, perfect for nature lovers and those looking to explore historic estates and gardens.

Key Highlights: Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, set against the eastern slopes of Table Mountain, feature a stunning variety of indigenous plants. 

The Constantia Wine Route allows you to explore South Africa’s oldest wine-producing region, home to some of the world’s best vineyards and historic wine estates like Groot Constantia and Buitenverwachting. 

Newlands offers refreshing hikes in Newlands Forest or the excitement of rugby or cricket matches at the iconic Newlands Stadium.

Unique Facts: Kirstenbosch is the first botanical garden in the world to be included within a natural World Heritage Site. The Constantia Wine Route dates back to 1685 and includes the famous Groot Constantia, the oldest wine estate in South Africa. Newlands is known as the “green heart” of Cape Town due to its lush, forested areas.

5. Winelands

Overview: Just a short drive from Cape Town, the Cape Winelands offer picturesque vineyards, historic wine estates, and some of the finest wines in the world.

Key Highlights: Stellenbosch is known for its historic buildings, oak-lined streets, and top-rated vineyards. Franschhoek, a charming town with a strong French influence, is famous for its gourmet cuisine and award-winning wines. Paarl, home to the iconic Paarl Rock, boasts several renowned wine estates.

Unique Facts: Stellenbosch University is one of the leading research universities in South Africa and the oldest university in the country. Franschhoek was founded by French Huguenots in 1688, and its name means “French Corner” in Dutch. Paarl is the third oldest European settlement in South Africa, after Cape Town and Stellenbosch.

These regions within Cape Town each offer unique experiences and opportunities to see diverse attractions. To find out more about each area and plan your perfect holiday, explore our detailed guides linked above. Cape Town’s blend of vibrant city life, stunning natural beauty, and rich cultural heritage makes it a compelling destination for every traveller.

Your adventure in the colourful Bo-Kaap starts with a photographic walking tour before enticing you into the kitchen to cook a traditional Cape Malay meal.

The Bo-Kaap at the foot of Signal Hill in central Cape Town is known for its photogenic, brightly colored houses and cobbled streets. This is the spiritual home of the Cape’s Muslim community. There are many Muslim kramats (shrines) and beautiful mosques, including the first Muslim mosque in South Africa, but there is a blend of cultures.

Many residents are descendants of slaves from Malaysia, Indonesia, and various African countries who were imported to the Cape of Good Hope by the Dutch in the 16th and 17th centuries.

Cycle through the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve, hike from the Cape Point lighthouse, and visit a penguin colony – a fun day on the Cape Peninsula.

On this full-day Cape Peninsula tour, you’ll follow the Atlantic coast past Clifton, Camps Bay, and Llandudno to the fishing village of Hout Bay, where you have the option of doing a 30-minute boat cruise to Duiker Island (which many people also call Seal Island) to visit a Cape fur seal colony.

Then it’s over scenic Chapman’s Peak Drive, through Noordhoek, Kommetjie, and Scarborough to the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve.

See the towering headland known as Cape Point, magnificent beaches, and breathtaking views from Chapman’s Peak Drive, Simon’s Town, and Kirstenbosch Gardens in a single day.

The Cape Peninsula, which stretches from the city center to Cape Point, is one of the world’s most scenic areas.

Visit Table Mountain, the Castle of Good Hope, Company Gardens, Greenmarket Square, the V&A Waterfront, the Bo-Kaap and District Six Museum.

Experience a full day in the Mother City with a private guide. Visit star attractions like the world-famous Table Mountain and lesser-known places like the Adderley Street flower market and the Eastern Food Bazaar.

The Mother City’s Central Business District is the heart of Cape Town, with a vibrant soul and many attractions and activities.

Gain insight into South Africa’s past and present by visiting District Six, Langa, and other Cape Town townships, including a ferry ride to Robben Island.

This full-day tour combines the richness of township life with an insight into the daily lives of many South Africans as you interact with people from different cultures and communities. Witness everyday life in a harsh environment, which tells of the people’s struggles, hopes, and achievements.

Round off your cultural experience by visiting Robben Island in the afternoon.

Visit up to four first-class Stellenbosch wine estates situated 50km (31mi) outside Cape Town. Access is by quiet tree-lined streets and private farm roads that take riders through vineyards, with dazzling views along the way.

A cycling tour that embodies the culture and spirit of adventure in the Cape Winelands, Bikes ‘n Wines caters to all ages and fitness levels, offering personalized tours and adventures for private and corporate groups.

Charge your camera batteries: the Cape Winelands are among the most beautiful places you’ll ever photograph.

On this photographic tour of the Winelands, you’ll visit the historical towns of Stellenbosch, Franschhoek and Paarl. You’ll photograph a variety of wine farms, concentrating on the elements that make a good landscape photograph – and of course you’ll enjoy wine tasting too.

The itinerary of the tour may be adapted to suit your interests. Please let us know if there’s a particular type of photography you enjoy, and we’ll customise a tour especially for you.

Travel in a chauffeur-driven World War II vintage sidecar to the best wine estates in the heart of the Cape Winelands.

Do something different and visit Stellenbosch, Paarl and Franschhoek in the Cape Winelands in a chauffeur-driven sidecar. Enjoy wine tastings and a cellar tour without having to worry about drinking and driving. Feel like king of the road as superb mountain ranges, lush vineyards and Cape Dutch homesteads roll by.

From Cape Town you’ll take a leisurely drive towards the historical town of Stellenbosch.

The City Sightseeing hop-on hop-off tour bus experience happens from open top buses that allow you to experience the sights, sounds, colours and rich heritage of the city. 

In Cape Town, you can visit Cape Town’s Groot Constantia, Constantia Bay and Eagles Nest to name a few, or choose to experience the vibrant city of Joburg’s attractions that begin at the Gautrain Park Station.

Sit back, relax and enjoy night-time screenings of killer flicks in an outdoor setting. Galileo Open Air Cinema gives you a weekly dose of classics, drama and action movies. These after-sunset, summertime screenings can happen at Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, the V&A Waterfront, in the Cape Winelands and at Hillcrest Quarry. With a bucket full of popcorn and fine wine (which you’re more than welcome to bring with you). If you’d prefer to buy food at the venue, Argies, the Mexican Nacho, Maggino Bros and the Daily Grind will be on site to satisfy your grumbly-tummy needs.It’s the perfect what-should-we-do-tonight place to gather with family or friends to enjoy a new-age drive-in concept, where your cinema’s roof provides more stars than the movie does.

See the spectacular breaching behaviour of great white sharks as they hunt for Cape fur seals in False Bay, or go cage diving to get up close.

Great white shark diving and viewing expeditions operating out of Simon’s Town harbour on the Cape Peninsula are designed to show you some of the most spectacular behaviour seen anywhere in the animal kingdom, and to educate you on the white shark behaviour you’ll see at Seal Island.

Enjoy the electric atmosphere of a passion-filled summer concert in the most relaxed setting you can imagine.

If you’re in Cape Town between November and April, then you simply have to attend at least one of the Kirstenbosch Summer Concerts. It’s where families, friends and musos gather to enjoy soul-moving beats in a botanical garden setting – picnic basket close at hand.

The Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens setting lends to an extremely unique venue, where the arena’s walls are made of trees and mountain, not brick and mortar.

If the idea of a day outdoors surrounded by nature as you hike up a mountain gets you excited, you’ll love these guided day hikes.

Discover the magic of Cape Town’s Table Mountain and surrounds while hiking with our experienced nature guides who will interpret the wonders of the unique Cape Floral Kingdom and regale you with stories of local legends. Find out what it feels like to experience one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World.

Routes can be tailor-made to your hiking experience and preferences, and we can take you hiking anywhere on the Peninsula – from Table Mountain to the Kalk Bay mountains and caves, Muizenberg Peak or in the Silvermine area.

Combine whale watching in the little town of Hermanus in Walker Bay with wine tasting in the green and beautiful Hemel en Aarde Valley.

Marvel at the scenery on Clarens Drive, a coastal road that gives spectacular views of False Bay. When you arrive in the holiday town of Hermanus, dubbed the whale-watching capital of South Africa, you’ll search for whales from the cliffs. This tour operates only during whale season from July to November. There’s no guarantee you’ll see whales, but your guide will make every effort to find the best viewing point.

Whether you’re a discerning tippler or simply game for a day out in wine country, come along to enjoy wine tasting, vineyards and history.

This tour takes you to the best wine estates around Cape Town, including Stellenbosch, Paarl and Franschhoek. It starts at 8:30am as you head north to one of the Cape’s first farming districts – Paarl. Your first stop of the morning is a local wine estate for a cheese and wine tasting.

You’ll continue to Franschhoek with a photo stop at Groot Drakenstein Prison, where Nelson Mandela was released in February 1990.

On the southern tip of Africa sits an almost impossibly picturesque city at the foot of a great flat mountain. The thriving waters of the Atlantic Ocean wash onto its stunning beaches, as pristine today as when the first Europeans set foot on them hundreds of years ago. Little did those early explorers realise this spot would become the birthplace of a country and many of its peoples and cultures. It’s no wonder Cape Town is affectionately known by its inhabitants as the Mother City.

The very first mention of the Cape in the annals of history was by the Portuguese explorer Bartholomeus Diaz who in 1488 found the oceans offshore very unforgiving, dubbing the peninsula the Cape of Storms. Subsequent Portuguese sailors came to view it in a more positive light as it became an important landmark on their sea journeys between Europe and the East, thus renaming it the Cape of Good Hope.

In 1652 the Dutch explorer Jan van Riebeeck established a trading post here to serve as a way station for trade routes. He built the first settlement, planted a range of useful crops and before long an economy grew into what became known as Cape Town. The very, very abbreviated historical record of the next 300 years tells that the Cape kept expanding, although not without a fair share of political and social conflict, into what today is one of the most culturally diverse cities in Africa.

Cape Town’s diversity extends to its natural environment too. In fact, the prominent landscape is the most striking feature that makes the city one of a kind. The iconic flat-topped Table Mountain dominating the city skyline is world-renowned as a symbol of South Africa, but it is also home to an important biosphere. The whole of the Table Mountain range, including the rocky Cape Point peninsula to the south, is protected as a national park and contains rich vegetation types including unique fynbos, renosterveld, Afromontane forests, rivers, fountains and wetlands.

Healthy populations of fauna are present too, although you won’t find the Big Five here. Keep an eye out instead for the tiny klipspringer, cute rock hyrax (or “dassie” in the local tongue) or cheeky chacma baboons. On the peninsula larger antelope like eland, red hartebeest and bontebok roam and you might even spot a Cape mountain zebra or two.

The oceans of the Cape Peninsula are incredibly rich and diverse. It sustains a thriving fishing trade as well as playing an important role in tourism. Cape fur seals are abundant and bottlenose dolphins are often spotted surfing in the waves around the peninsula. Migrating Southern Right, Blyde’s and Humpback whales breed in the area during the late winter months and the infamous great white shark can be spotted, especially in False Bay to the southeast of the city.

The suburbs of Cape Town are equally diverse thanks to the lay of the land. The inner city is relatively small and surrounded by the peaks of Table Mountain, Devils Peak and Lions Head which separates it from the Atlantic Seaboard, a long stretch of seaside suburbs overlooking the ocean. The eastern slopes of Table Mountain see a lot of precipitation, turning the leafy neighborhoods of the Southern Suburbs vibrant and lush year-round.

To the south the rocky tip of the peninsula culminates at Cape Point, an important landmark for early seafarers and now a protected nature reserve. Bookending the peninsula to the north and east are the panoramic coastlines of Table Bay and False Bay, both home to a number of quaint fishing towns. Finally, to the interior the sweeping vineyards of the Cape Winelands are home to the oldest and most prestigious wine farms in all the land.

Now, with such an impressive resume, only one question remains: where to first?

Imagine if you could escape with a loved one to a place where you can watch the sunrise from the top of a mountain before having breakfast in Africa’s oldest harbour.

You then spend the rest of the morning sunbathing on a beach populated by wild penguins, grab lunch at a boutique bistro and taste globally acclaimed wines at a wine estate in the afternoon.

Dinner is served in an intimate 5-star restaurant followed by cocktails at a rooftop bar overlooking the shimmering lights of the cityscape. Couples are spoilt for choice when it comes to romantic spots to celebrate love on a Cape Town honeymoon.

Cape Town has a reputation for being an excellent destination for couples. Firstly, it is a relatively small city with great transportation networks and an international airport only 30 minutes from the city centre, meaning accessibility to any destination in greater Cape Town is quick and easy.

All major car rental companies have counters at the airport and self-driving is a popular option that gives couples the freedom to explore the city and its surrounding areas. If you’d rather not deal with traffic on your Cape Town honeymoon it is quite feasible to get around Cape Town using a combination of public transport services and private taxi’s.

Secondly, the city’s location, tucked between the Table Mountain range and the Atlantic Ocean, provides scenic settings for accommodation, restaurants and cocktail bars in pretty much every suburb. In fact, nature is seamlessly integrated into Cape Town and nature-lovers can look forward to more outdoor destinations and activities than you are likely to fit into a single holiday.

Cape Town’s mountains are filled with dozens of hiking trails, mountain biking and rock climbing routes while the coastline is dotted with exceptional surf breaks, wind and kitesurfing beaches and underwater dive sites. If you really want the adrenaline pumping on your honeymoon in Cape Town you can also paraglide, go shark cage diving or take a helicopter flight over the city.

The budget-conscious couple might choose to stay at one of the various self-catering chalets, guest houses or hotels in the city and self-drive to destinations further out on the Cape Peninsula. However, for the ultimate in privacy and luxury on your Cape Town honeymoon, look no further than the exceptional 5-star hotels in the V&A Waterfront, Clifton, Camps Bay and Constantia.

For a more relaxed seaside village feel the suburbs of the Southern Peninsula are a popular option on a Cape Town honeymoon.

Travel tips

• The ultimate in private luxury villas are found in Clifton and Camps Bay with unparalleled panoramic views over the city’s premier beaches and sunsets over the Atlantic Ocean.

• Combine a trip to Cape Town with a visit to one or more of Southern Africa’s other top attractions like the Kruger National Park, Victoria Falls and Mauritius. Several hotels, lodges and tour operators offer such combo packages for couples for their honeymoon.

Cape Town is arguably the most popular family-friendly holiday destination in all of South Africa for locals and international visitors alike. The city’s collection of stellar beaches, mountain ranges, botanical gardens and urban parks offer plenty of outdoor activities while the various museums, theatres and entertainment centers provide plenty to do when the weather is miserable.

Accommodation suited to families is plentiful in all of Cape Town’s suburbs, with many establishments catering specifically for groups. Your family’s interests and age groups play a role in which region you should consider.

The inner city, called the City Bowl, is filled with vibrant and trendy neighborhoods packed with busy shops, markets, museums, rooftop bars, restaurants and nightclubs that appeal strongest to urbanites and young adults. That being said, the inner city shouldn’t be overlooked as it still offers plenty of family-friendly destinations and quieter, more spacious accommodation options are available in the suburbs on the upper slopes of the mountain such as Tamboerskloof, Gardens, Oranjezicht and Vredehoek.

The V&A Waterfront is a popular destination for its central location in the city. The harbor and canals offer a variety of outdoor family-orientated activities like kayaking, paddleboarding and even pirate-themed boat trips, while the quaysides host year-round entertainment in the form of exhibitions, concerts, festivals and more. The much-loved Two Oceans Aquarium is one of Cape Town’s top destinations for families and should not to be missed.

Clifton and Camps Bay are affluent seaside suburbs and home to the city’s top beaches, beachfront restaurants, cocktail bars and the best ocean sunset views. Accommodation here is both popular and pricey, but if glamorous living is what you’re after there is no better place in Cape Town. Teenagers are especially fond of this area for a good reason. After all, this is where the rich and famous hang out.

For a more relaxed seaside village feel the suburbs of the Southern Peninsula are a popular option. Here families can enjoy less crowded beachfront, roads, shops and restaurants while accommodation is generally cheaper and more spacious.

Travel Tips

• Getting around Cape Town city by public transport and taxi is easy, but a rental car may be more convenient for exploring the outer regions as a family. You can pick up a rental at the airport, only about 20 minutes from the city center, or in the city center itself.
• Make use of the Hop on-Hop off sightseeing bus routes that operate between all the major tourist attractions of greater Cape Town. It is an excellent way of exploring the city as a family and makes moving between destinations as a group hassle-free.
• South Africa’s peak holiday season is during the summer school holidays over December and January. Accommodation and flights are cheaper in the months before and after, while Cape Town is less crowded and the weather is still pleasant.

Cape Town ranks among the best cities in the world for solo travelers. It is a truly multicultural city since it is not only home to a melting pot of local peoples and cultures, as Cape Town also sees a steady influx of international visitors year-round.

Getting to the city is a breeze: it is only 25 minutes from the nearest international airport. Once within the city, most major attractions are virtually on your doorstep and getting around is easy. In the inner city, public transport routes and taxi services are reliable, while in the outer regions a rental car is a better option.

If you want to have your finger on the heartbeat of the city, look for accommodation in the City Bowl. Here you’ll be within walking distance of retail outlets, grocery stores, museums, restaurants, bars and nightclubs. The nearby suburbs of Green Point and Sea Point are equally favoured by solo travelers for their proximity to the city, as is the leafy neighborhoods of the Southern Suburbs.

If instead your internal rhythm flows with the ebb and flow of the ocean, consider Sea Point, Camps Bay, Hout Bay, Kalk Bay, Muizenberg or Blouberg where you can feel the sea breeze and hear the sound of waves breaking through your windows. While being slightly more removed from major tourist attractions, these regions have more close-knit seaside communities and relaxed atmospheres.

Travel Tips

• You do not need a vehicle if you are staying within the City Bowl, Atlantic Seaboard and the Southern Suburbs as it is a relatively small area and tourist destinations are close together. Save yourself the headache of dealing with traffic and parking – instead make use of public transport and taxi services.
• If you plan on exploring greater Cape Town, such as the Cape Winelands, False Bay and the Southern Peninsula, consider renting a vehicle. In these areas traffic is less congested you are likely to travel farther distances between destinations. Besides, some of the most scenic roads can be found here and therefore self-driving is the way to go.
• A myriad of operators offer sightseeing tours, wine, beer and gin tastings, outdoor activities and cultural experience in and around the city. These are great options for the solo traveler as you’ll get to meet locals and fellow travelers alike while maximizing your itinerary in Cape Town.
• South Africa has an unfortunate reputation for being unsafe, although in reality the statistics are often exaggerated. However, as a solo traveler you should still apply common pre-emptive safety measures when visiting Cape Town. It is not advised to hike alone in the mountains nor in less populated areas at night.

Planning the best time to visit Cape Town can significantly enhance your holiday experience. Here’s a detailed guide to help you choose the ideal time based on weather, events, and overall conditions:

Summer (December to February)

Overview: Summer is peak tourist season in Cape Town, with warm, sunny days perfect for beach activities and outdoor adventures. This is the best time for enjoying Cape Town’s vibrant nightlife and numerous events.

Weather:

• Temperature: Daytime temperatures range from 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F), while nighttime temperatures are mild, averaging around 15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F).
• Rainfall: This period sees very little rain, making it ideal for beachgoers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Events and Activities:

• Beaches: Enjoy the pristine beaches of Camps Bay, Clifton, and Muizenberg.
• Festivals: Experience the Cape Town Minstrel Carnival, Kirstenbosch Summer Concerts, and the Cape Town International Jazz Festival.
• Outdoor Adventures: Perfect time for hiking Table Mountain, paragliding, and exploring the Cape Peninsula.

Pros:

• Warm, sunny weather ideal for beach activities.
• Vibrant nightlife and numerous festivals.
• Excellent conditions for outdoor adventures.

Cons:

• Peak tourist season with higher prices and crowded attractions.
• Higher UV index, requiring sun protection.

Autumn (March to May)

Overview: Autumn offers a more relaxed and comfortable climate, with fewer tourists and beautiful foliage. This is a great time for wine tasting and scenic drives.

Weather:

• Temperature: Daytime temperatures range from 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F), with cooler evenings around 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F).
• Rainfall: Rainfall starts to increase, but the weather remains mostly dry and pleasant.

Events and Activities:

• Wine Harvest Season: Visit the vineyards of Stellenbosch and Franschhoek for wine festivals and tastings.
• Scenic Drives: Enjoy the autumn colors along Chapman’s Peak Drive and the Garden Route.
• Cultural Events: Participate in the Cape Town Carnival and the South African Cheese Festival.

Pros:

• Mild, comfortable weather ideal for outdoor activities.
• Fewer tourists, leading to a more relaxed experience.
• Wine harvest season with numerous wine-related events.

Cons:

• Variable weather with occasional rain.
• Cooler evenings require warmer clothing.

Winter (June to August)

Overview: Winter is the off-peak season in Cape Town, characterized by cooler, wetter weather. This is the best time for budget travellers and those looking to experience Cape Town’s indoor attractions and festivals.

Weather:

• Temperature: Daytime temperatures range from 15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F), with nighttime temperatures dropping to 7°C to 12°C (45°F to 54°F).
• Rainfall: This period sees the most rainfall, with frequent showers and occasional storms.

Events and Activities:

• Indoor Attractions: Explore museums, galleries, and the V&A Waterfront’s indoor activities.
• Whale Watching: June to November is the prime season for whale watching along the coast.
• Winter Festivals: Enjoy the Cape Town International Film Market & Festival and the Franschhoek Bastille Festival.

Pros:

• Lower prices and fewer tourists.
• Excellent whale watching opportunities.
• Cozy indoor activities and winter festivals.

Cons:

• Cooler, wetter weather.
• Fewer outdoor activities due to rain.

Spring (September to November)

Overview: Spring is a beautiful time to visit Cape Town, with blooming flowers and mild weather. This is the ideal time for nature lovers and those looking to enjoy outdoor activities without the summer crowds.

Weather:

• Temperature: Daytime temperatures range from 17°C to 25°C (63°F to 77°F), with nighttime temperatures around 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F).
• Rainfall: Rainfall decreases, and the weather becomes more stable and pleasant.

Events and Activities:

• Flower Season: Experience the blooming wildflowers along the West Coast and in Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens.
• Outdoor Activities: Ideal for hiking, biking, and exploring Cape Point.
• Spring Festivals: Participate in the Cape Town Flower Show and the Hermanus Whale Festival.

Pros:

• Beautiful blooming landscapes.
• Mild, pleasant weather for outdoor activities.
• Fewer tourists than in summer.

Cons:

• Weather can still be unpredictable.
• Transition period with variable temperatures.

Each season in Cape Town offers unique experiences and opportunities for visitors. Whether you’re seeking vibrant summer festivals, cozy winter retreats, colourful spring blooms, or the relaxed charm of autumn, Cape Town has something to offer year-round. Plan your visit to make the most of this incredible destination.