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Cape Town Travel Guide

Cape Town is South Africa's crown jewel and the most European city you'll find on the continent. Founded by the Dutch East India Company in 1652, it was South Africa's first attempt at a modern metropolis, earning it the nickname "The Mother City." Because of its strategic location at the southwestern tip of Africa, for centuries it played an important role in global trade. Today it's one of South Africa's three capital cities. The metro area covers 950 square miles and is home to 3.5 million people. The city's setting, a dramatic coastline in the shadow of Table Mountain National Park, is as picturesque as its history is problematic. Like the rest of South Africa, Cape Town is still trying to recover from the apartheid era which ended in 1994. While crime and corruption are still issues, in 2010 the city helped host the FIFA World Cup and tourism has only grown since then.

Best Time to Go

Cape Town is worth visiting year-round. That said, it looks different each season. Late December through March is South Africa's summer. It's when Cape Town is alive with tourists escaping their own winters back home and locals enjoying the gorgeous weather. It's sunny, dry, and warm enough to warrant a dip in the ocean. The city's social calendar is packed with events, and while prices might be higher during this peak season, at least everything is open. If you're looking for lower prices and fewer people, visit during the winter, late June through late September. Pack a raincoat because winter means wet. If your goal is to see whales, check out the Hermanus Whale Festival usually held in late September. However, July and August are also considered great months for whale watching. Finally, the shoulder seasons can be just as unforgettable. Spring, September through early December, is when the wildflowers are in full bloom. Autumn, late March through early June, is thought to be the best time to go cage diving with great white sharks.

Things to Know

Currency : Rand (ZAR) ($1 USD = 14.27 ZAR; Check the current exchange rate )

Tipping: Tipping is greatly appreciated in Cape Town. If the service is good, 10% is customary. Sometimes gratuity is added at restaurants, especially for groups, so check your bill before accidentally tipping twice.

Language : Most sources say there are 11 official languages in South Africa (some say 12). Xhosa, English, and Afrikaans are among the most spoken. That said, most people speak English, and all signs in Cape Town are in English. There's no need for Google Translate. However, it can be helpful to know a few common terms.

Lekker: great or nice; "That was a lekker surf session."

Braai: outdoor barbecue; "If you're lucky, locals will invite you to their weekend braai."

Bru: friend/pal; "My bru works at a winery in Stellenbosch."

Calling Code : +27 21

Outlets : South Africa uses type C,D,M, and N plugs. Pack an adapter or be prepared to buy one in Cape Town. The voltage is 230V and standard frequency is 50Hz. So, you may also need to buy a converter if you're using an appliance requiring more voltage.

How to Get Around

Trains: Cape Town's trains exist as the Metrorail , but they're not particularly reliable. If you ask locals, they can also be unsafe. It's not recommended to ride them alone, especially at night. If you do want to take one, the most popular line is the South line running to Simon's Town. Tickets can be purchased at stations or from Metrorail officials with portable ticket machines.

Buses: While there are several local buses and minibuses, basically vans shuttling commuters, the best buses for visitors are the MyCiTi buses. They connect with the airport and serve scheduled stops in high traffic tourist areas. Fares are loaded onto myconnect cards which can be purchased at station kiosks and select retailers and ATMs. Another option is the City Sightseeing Bus. These Hop-On-Hop-Off buses also make scheduled stops at popular tourist destinations and include commentary in 15 languages. The Red Line covers the northern part of Cape Town, and the Blue Line goes all the way to Hout Bay in the south. Tickets can be purchased online .

Taxis/Rideshare: Ubers are everywhere in Cape Town. They're reliable, safe and extremely affordable. A 45-minute Uber from downtown Cape Town to a Muizenberg can cost as little as $12. They also service the airport. If you don't have Uber and want to use a traditional taxi, try to use a call ahead car service that is verified.

Best Hotels

12 apostles hotel and spa.

Address: Victoria Road, Camps Bay Phone: +27 21 4379000 Website

It's hard not to miss this five-star oceanfront property because it's the only building on its stretch of the scenic drive to Chapman's Peak. Each of its 70 rooms has either a sweeping view of the 12 Apostles mountain range or the Atlantic Ocean where it's not uncommon to see seals sunning themselves or whales breaching. Between the adjoining spa and the food and drinks served in the fabled Leopard Bar, guests never even have to venture into town.

The President Hotel Cape Town

Address: 4 Alexander Rd, Bantry Bay Phone: +27 21 434 8111 Website

This esteemed four-star hotel in the quiet residential community of Bantry Bay is just blocks from the beach. Dozens of shops and restaurants are within walking distance. The property, popular with business travelers and conferences, is also home to a restaurant, spa, salon, gift shop, and large outdoor swimming pool. Rooms are generous in size and include apartments available for long-term stays.

The One&Only

Address: Dock Rd, Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, Cape Town, 8001 Phone: +27 21 431 5888 Website

An urban resort you'd expect to find on a tropical island, the One&Only is one of Cape Town's top accommodations. The property boasts several swimming pools, including the largest infinity pool in the city. This pool is home to two private islands with several suites ideal for families. In terms of other amenities, the One&Only has a kids club, spa, fitness center, and an array of destination restaurants including Nobu.

Bliss Boutique Hotel

Address: 25 Albus Dr., Cape Town, 7441 Phone: +27 21 551 0441 Website

A popular choice among couples and honeymooners, this boutique hotel has just eight rooms. But they're so well-appointed they even feature pillow menus. The property is located along Sunset Beach (with exclusive beach access), 15 minutes north of Cape Town but close enough to have impressive Table Mountain views. Facilities include private viewing decks, a solar-heated pool and splash pad, and a restaurant serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

La Rose Bed & Breakfast

Address: 32 Rose St, Schotsche Kloof Phone: +27 21 422 5883 Website

The hearts and brains behind this budget-friendly retreat belong to the husband and wife team of Adheera Bodasing, a South African of Indian descent, and Yoann Nicolas, a Frenchman who fell in love with South Africa in his 20s. Each of the nine rooms is unique, paying homage to different cultures via art and décor collected by the couple on their travels. The property is located in the eclectic Bo-Kaap, formerly the Cape Malay quarters, neighborhood.

Best Restaurants

Mojo market (food court with local pop-ups).

Address: 30 Regent Road, Sea Point, Cape Town, 8060 Phone: +27 21 422 4888 Website

Open seven days a week, Mojo Market is Sea Point's trendy indoor market where diners can find more than 15 local food stalls and "traders." Choose from fresh mussels, artisanal pizza, build-your-own burritos, sushi, and even Cape Town's only macaroni and cheese joint. While there's live music every night and plenty of TVs, the best entertainment here is people watching.

Mzansi Restaurant (African)

Address: 45 Harlem Ave, Langa, Cape Town, 7455 Phone: +27 73 754 8502 Website

Reservations are definitely required at this popular African restaurant ranked #1 on TripAdvisor out of nearly 1,000 restaurants in Cape Town Central. Food is served buffet style with signature dishes being flavorful plays on traditional Xhosa meals. While the restaurant serves specialities like chicken feet and sheep's head (upon request), it's also vegetarian-friendly.

Die Strandloper (seafood)

Address: Jan Olfsen Str, Leentjiesklip, Langebaan, 7357 Phone: +27 22 77 22 490 Website

Family-owned and operated, Die Strandloper is famous in Cape Town for its 10-course seafood lunch or dinner served on the beach. Allow for at least three hours to enjoy everything from smoked angelfish to barbecued mackerel and even kreef, South Africa's spiny lobster. Reservations are required.

Wine Studio (wine pairings)

Address: Dock Rd, Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, Cape Town, 8001 Phone: +27 21 431 4511 Website

Brand new as of 2021, the One&Only's Wine Studio showcases the property's award-winning wine collection in a unique reverse pairing experience. Head sommelier Luvo Ntezo hosts these exclusive private dinners featuring rare vintages, special guests from local wineries, and even the opportunity to create your own signature blend. Reservations are required.

Café Caprice (contemporary café)

Address: 37 Victoria Road, Camps Bay, Cape Town, 8005 Phone: +27 21 438 8315 Website

Ask a dozen locals where the best place to sip a cocktail and watch the sunset in Cape Town is and at least half will mention Café Caprice. Open seven days a week, the café serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. It's also the best place to see and be seen in Camps Bay, so dress to impress or at the very least, be impressed.

Kauai (healthy fast food)

Multiple locations throughout Cape Town Website

Cape Town's best fast food option is this beloved South African chain serving fresh wraps, salads, omelettes, and smoothies. Ingredients are what you'd expect to find at a pricey health food store, still it's easy to get a filling meal for $5. There are several locations throughout Cape Town, and they're open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Things to Do

Surf at muizenberg.

Address: Beach Rd., Cape Town, 7950 Phone: +27 82 412 8781 Website

The ocean around Cape Town is cold, but it's also home to one of the best beaches in the world to learn how to surf. Muizenberg, a surfing community about 40 minutes from Cape Town, is famous for its historic colorful changing houses. It also boasts great beginner waves all day every day. While there are a number of surf schools in Muizenberg, if you're staying in Cape Town it's worth it to go with a mobile school like Stoked Surf School which includes roundtrip transportation.

See the penguins at Boulder Beach

Address: Kleintuin Road, Sea Forth, Simons Town, 7975 Phone: +27 21 786 2329 Website

Billed as the only place where you can get close to African penguins in the wild, Boulder Beach is a must if you find yourself on the False Bay side of Cape Town. For a small entrance fee, visitors can observe the comings and goings of the colony who live on this white sand beach named for its truck-sized boulders. It's also possible to swim with the penguins, but be forewarned; the water is frigid.

Hike in Table Mountain National Park

Address: 5821 Tafelberg Rd., Table Mountain, Cape Town, 8001 Phone: +27 21 424 8181 (aerial cableway) Website

Table Mountain is South Africa's most famous landmark and the namesake for this sprawling national park stretching from the city all the way down the cape peninsula to include the southernmost point of Africa. In addition to striking geological formations, it's home to incredible bio-diversity including distinct vegetation not found anywhere else in the world. Hike one of many trails to the top of Table Mountain (3,563 ft.) or ride the cable car to the top where even more trails converge and offer panoramic views for miles.

Visit Robben Island

Address: Private Bag Robben Island, Cape Town, 7400 Phone: +27 21 413 4200 Website

Located in Table Bay, visible from almost anywhere in Cape Town, Robben Island looms in the background much like Alcatraz in San Francisco. But this infamous island has 400 years of its own fascinating history. Once occupied by wildlife and indigenous peoples, it was important for trade and hunting during the Age of Exploration before later becoming home to everything from banished convicts to a whaling station and even an insane asylum. Today, it's where visitors can tour the former prison and see the cell where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned for 18 years. Other attractions on the island include a penguin sanctuary and lepers' graveyard.

Visit the Cape Winelands

Jess Macdonald/Travel + Leisure

Address: Stellanbosch, Franschhoek, and Paarl Website

There are hundreds of wine farms growing grapes in Cape Town's fertile backyard known as the Winelands. Most are within an hour's drive of the city and are open to the public for tastings and tours. This region, one of the oldest wine regions outside of Europe, is famous for its Pinotage, a bold red wine birthed in South Africa. Even if you don't drink alcohol, it's a scenic drive through pastoral communities including Stellenbosch, a 350-year-old university town filled with Cape Dutch architecture.

Best Shopping

V&a waterfront.

Address: 19 Dock Rd, Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, Cape Town, 8001 Phone: +27 21 408 7600 Website

A destination in itself, the V&A Waterfont is home to an indoor and outdoor mall featuring more than 450 retail stores. Whether you're looking for Adidas, Armani, or Crocs, Victoria Wharf Shopping Centre probably has it.

Address: Main Road, Kalk Bay, Cape Town, 7990 Website

This quiet former fishing village turned popular day trip is about a 45-minute drive from Cape Town, but it's worth it if you're into eclectic shops you won't find elsewhere. Spend the afternoon browsing in independent bookstores or hunting for antiques. Most shops can be found on Main Road, but you never know what treasure awaits in an alley in Kalk Bay.

Greenmarket Square

Address: Burg St &, Longmarket St, Cape Town City Centre, Cape Town, 8000 Website

Since 1696 when the cobblestones were laid Greenmarket Square has been a popular meeting space. Today, it's where locals and visitors alike barter with vendors who set up shops—from formal stalls to makeshift tables—filled with home goods and African arts and handicrafts. It's open every day, but the first Thursday of every month during Cape Town's city-wide First Thursdays celebrations is the best time to catch live music and street performances.

Neighbourgoods Market

Address: 373 Albert Rd, Woodstock, Cape Town, 7925 Website

A beautifully restored old biscuit mill couldn't be a more perfect setting for this farmers market open every Saturday. This is where shoppers find souvenirs that aren't mass produced. They're made by entrepreneurial locals selling everything from leather bags to soaps and sustainable fashions. Of course, there's also fresh seasonal produce and delicious street food.

Neighborhoods to Know

City Bowl : Nestled in a natural depression between the coast, Table Mountain and Signal Hill, City Bowl is the heart of Cape Town. It's home to the central business district, impressive municipal buildings, and several of Cape Town's oldest and most Insta-worthy streets. There's the well-preserved Dutch colonial architecture on Long Street, the colored houses lining the hills of the Bo-Kaap, and the V&A where you can paddleboard on canals winding through the bustling waterfront district.

Cape Flats : Although most tourists never step foot here, it would be remiss not to mention the Cape Flats. This lowland area is home to Cape Town's most infamous suburbs or townships. It's where the black and colored populations were forced to relocate during the Apartheid years. Although it's a bit off-the-beaten tourist path, it is possible to visit the townships with a guide and learn about life in them with the locals. Most visitors start with a walking tour of Imizamo Yethu in Hout Bay.

Atlantic Seaboard : Informally called Cape Town's Riviera, the Atlantic Seaboard is a string of oceanfront communities on Cape Town's west coast. This is where one finds the fanciest hotels (mostly boutique properties although there are chains like Radisson), high-rise luxury condos for rent, and of course the eye-catching mansions belonging to Cape Town's elite. Each community, centered around a beach, has its own character from the uber posh Camp's Bay to the fishing village vibes of Hout Bay.

Woodstock : Technically a part of City Bowl, Woodstock is like Cape Town's answer to Williamsburg in Brooklyn. If you're interested in art, theater or anything hipsters like, this former industrial area is a destination in itself. It's still a little rough around the edges, and you probably shouldn't wander the streets alone at night, but it's not to be missed. If nothing else, in 10 years you can say you visited Woodstock before everyone knew how cool it was and property developers ruined it.

Cape Town has four seasons although they're not as distinct as northern destinations. It has a Mediterranean climate. Summers are dry and not too hot, and winters are rainy, but mild. The highest temperatures occur in February when it can reach the mid-80s°F. The coolest temperatures occur in July when temperatures are typically in the mid-50s°F. June is usually the wettest month with around 14 days of rain. Cape Town is famous for its strong winds. Today, they're good for kitesurfing. Hundreds of years ago they were the cause of many historic shipwrecks.

Apps to Download

MyCiti App: Routes, schedules, live bus locator iOs | Android

Uber: Ridesharing, food delivery iOs | Android

Cape Town Tourism: "The official guide" to Cape Town, local recommendations iOs | Android

VoiceMap: Audio walking and cycling tours, GPS navigation iOs | Android

Related Articles

Cape Town   Travel Guide

Courtesy of Dimitri Otis | Getty Images

14 Best Things To Do in Cape Town

Updated Oct. 31, 2023

The real question here is what can't you do in Cape Town. This is a city brimming with adventure, culture, and culinary arts. Start your day with a morning trip up Table Mountain ; with clearer skies in the early hours, you'll be able to enjoy

• All Things To Do

Table Mountain Table Mountain

Easily the city's most recognizable landmark, Table Mountain towers over Cape Town just south of the city center. Having earned its name from its unique, flat-topped shape, the mountain is the most popular attraction found within Table Mountain National Park (which encompasses other top attractions like Boulders Beach and the Cape of Good Hope ).

There are numerous ways to experience Table Mountain. Adventurous travelers can hike to the summit along one of the mountains numerous trails, although the region's fickle weather can turn an on-foot excursion into an unpleasant, muddy walk. Recent travelers strongly recommend using the Table Mountain Aerial Cableway instead. These suspended cable cars rotate 360 degrees, offering passengers spectacular views of the city and the ocean. According to one TripAdvisor user, "We had to queue for over an hour to get our tickets so recommend booking on-line. The cable car floor rotates so everyone get a chance to see the views."

Constantia Valley Constantia Valley free

U.S. News Insider Tip:  If you can't get enough of South African wine, the Stellenbosch and Franschhoek areas just outside of Cape Town have even more to offer. What's more, Franschhoek offers a wine tram to take you from vineyard to vineyard. –  Elizabeth Von Tersch, Senior Editor

Today, South Africa boasts a flourishing wine industry, churning out crisp whites and robust reds. And Constantia Valley—located about 10.5 miles south of central Cape Town—is where it all began in the late 17th century. The region is characterized oak-lined streets and stunning historical mansions, in addition to its wineries. The oldest vineyard, Groot Constantia, features sweet dessert wines and has welcomed the likes of Napolean Bonapart, King Louis Philippe of France and Jane Austin. 

Victoria & Alfred (V&A) Waterfront Victoria & Alfred (V&A) Waterfront free

U.S. News Insider Tip:  Don't miss The Watershed, a marketplace filled with goods from local traders, for great souvenir shopping. –  Elizabeth Von Tersch, Senior Editor

The Victoria & Alfred (V&A) Waterfront buzzes with activity at all hours of the day. This bustling harbor—built in the late 19th century by Queen Victoria's second son, Alfred—has acted as the stopover point for European ships for centuries. Today, the waterfront caters to tourists and residents alike, boasting beautiful views of Table Mountain and the Atlantic Ocean, a wide array of shopping venues, restaurants, and notable attractions, like the Two Oceans Aquarium . This is also the jumping off point for whale-watching tours and excursions to Robben Island . When the sun sets, the V&A Waterfront comes alive with music flowing out over the ships as steadily as cocktails are poured into glasses at the neighborhood's many bars.

Popular Tours

Table Mountain, Penguins & Cape Point Small Group Tour from Cape Town

(1299 reviews)

from $ 81.84

Cape of Good Hope & Boulder Penguins Full-Day Tour from Cape Town

(1468 reviews)

from $ 45.15

Aquila Game Reserve Wildlife Safari from Cape Town

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from $ 163.40

Camps Bay Camps Bay free

U.S. News Insider Tip:  When hunger strikes, you can't beat the Codfather for a no-frills seafood meal you'll never forget (try the butterfish). Cape Town is a reservation city (even for lunch), so be sure to book a table in advance. –  Elizabeth Von Tersch, Senior Editor

Skirting the western edge of Table Mountain is Camps Bay, a vast stretch of soft sand flanked by cute cafés and bustling bars. Like Clifton Beach , the Atlantic waves lapping this stretch of shoreline are too cold for swimming, but Camps Bay's non-windy climate and family-friendly atmosphere make this a great spot to soak up the sun and enjoy the outdoors. Also, the beach-side restaurants provide a great atmosphere for evening cocktails and people-watching. According to one TripAdvisor user, "The beach is truly beautiful and very close to many superb restaurants. Sipping cocktails while watching the sun set is amazing on this beach."

Boulders Beach Boulders Beach

On False Bay, this stunning beach earned its name from the massive boulders that lay scattered across the sands and separate the shoreline into peaceful, private coves. Swimming here is more inviting than it is at Clifton or Camps Bay : The waters of False Bay are enviably warmer than the Atlantic's waves. But as great as the scenery and swimming may be, the main reason to visit Boulders Beach is to get to know the locals: This beach is home to an ever-expanding colony of African Penguins. You'll see these tuxedoed sunbathers teetering around the sand. Although they have grown accustomed to human company, please do your best not to disturb them.

Recent visitors love getting up-close and personal with the penguins. According to one TripAdvisor user, "The penguins were everywhere! They didn't seem to mind if you got pretty close to them to take a picture."

Kirstenbosch National Botanical Gardens Kirstenbosch National Botanical Gardens

Resting on the eastern slope of Table Mountain , the Kirstenbosch National Botanical Gardens welcome thousands of visitors from around the world each year that come to explore the gardens' 89 acres. Kirstenbosch houses more than 7,000 species of indigenous species, many of them rare or threatened. As you peruse the gardens' colorful plant life, keep your eyes peeled for stunning sculptures scattered throughout the grounds.

Recent visitors recommend picking up a map from the Kirstenbosch office and devoting at least an hour or two to the gardens' walking paths. According to one TripAdvisor user, "The trails are stunning and beyond well maintained. You feel like you are in paradise!"

Cape of Good Hope and Cape Point Cape of Good Hope and Cape Point

Extending south from Cape Town is the Cape of Good Hope, the peninsula that divides the Atlantic Ocean and False Bay (featuring numerous beautiful beaches as a result). Formerly an independent nature reserve, the Cape now lays encompassed by Table Mountain National Park and features miles of tranquil walking trails lined with fynbos (a colorful shrub-like plant). While exploring the Cape of Good Hope, you're bound to run into some of the region's full-time residents, which include ostriches and baboons. But the highlight here is Cape Point, a jagged, narrow strip of land that juts out into the Atlantic and acts as the continent's southwestern-most point. Although the official "tip of Africa" is actually located about 100 miles southeast at Cape Agulhas, standing on the edge of Cape Point will feel like you've reached the edge of the world.

Recent visitors claim that the views from the Cape are unparalleled. According to one TripAdvisor user, this is "perhaps the most amazing sight on the planet (if you like seascapes). Wow is an understatement. It is a bit windswept so bring a jacket. And a good camera."

The District Six Museum The District Six Museum

Established in 1994, the District Six Museum commemorates and educates visitors about the people of District Six. During the first half of the 20th century, this part of town was home to one tenth of the city's population. But in 1966 when apartheid was in full swing, District Six was declared a "white" neighborhood, and more than 60,000 people were forced to move to the shanty towns established in Cape Flats, a barren area on the outskirts of the city. The museum memorializes these displaced citizens with exhibits that recount their stories and inform visitors about social justice. Visitors can also take a guided tour of the district, led by one of The District Six Museum Foundation's informative guides.

Tourists describe a trip to The District Six Museum as a somber visit. According to one TripAdvisor user, "You cannot understand Cape Town's history (and South Africa) without District 6 as a reference point, and this museum tells its history with passion and careful attention."

From Cape Town: Table Mountain, Cape of Good Hope & Penguins including Park Fees

(262 reviews)

from $ 279.39

Wine Tour to Stellenbosch & Franschhoek with Tastings & Lunch

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from $ 95.39

2 Day Safari Experience from Cape Town

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Clifton Beach Clifton Beach free

Separating the Atlantic Ocean from the decadent mansions of Cape Town's "Millionaire's Row" are the sugary-white sands of Clifton Beach. Divided into four beaches by huge stone boulders, Clifton draws the seen-and-be-seen crowd, as well as adrenaline-hungry surfers. This is one of the city's most popular shores thanks to its location: Sitting on the western edge of Table Mountain , Clifton stays protected from Cape Town's notoriously chilly winds. The water, however, remains cold throughout the year, which deters many swimmers.

Although this isn't the ideal place to doggy-paddle, recent visitors recommend spending some time at Clifton to stroll along the sand or people-watch from one of the nearby restaurants. As one TripAdvisor user puts it, "The water is cold but everything else is hot."

Greenmarket Square Greenmarket Square free

Located just a short walk from the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront , Greenmarket Square is one of South Africa's oldest public squares. Originally a slave market, this cobblestone plaza now fills with local vendors selling everything from painted fabrics to hand-crafted trinkets. While you're perusing the merchandise, various "buskers" will keep you entertained with music, dance, and even mime. Just be prepared: Greenmarket's merchants are extremely friendly, but they can also be aggressive when it comes to selling their wares. If you're not interested, do not approach the stall or say a polite but firm "No, thank you."

According to one TripAdvisor user, "Venture a block in each direction around the square if you have a bit of time—it is much the same sort of fare and also very interesting."

Bo-Kaap Bo-Kaap free

Sitting near the heart of the city at the foot of Signal Hill (one of Cape Town's most easily recognizable mountains), this vibrant neighborhood houses Cape Town's Muslim community. Bo-Kaap is truly a treat for the eyes, characterized by its brightly colored houses and fascinating community. The residents of Bo-Kaap are the descendants of "Cape Malays," slaves brought by Dutch settlers from Malaysia, Indonesia, and numerous African countries. To learn more about the origins of this neighborhood's residents, visit the Bo-Kaap Museum, which occupies the area's oldest building. For 10 ZAR (a little over $1 USD), visitors can explore this small yet fascinating museum between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday.

Recent visitors say that a visit to Bo-Kaap is worth it for the photo ops. But according to one TripAdvisor user, "Bo-Kaap is good to see because of the colorful houses and the diverse feeling of the place. However, there isn't much to do here."

Robben Island Robben Island

U.S. News Insider Tip:  The ferry ride to Robben Island can be quite choppy. If you tend to get queasy, visit the museum at the Cape Town ferry dock and also consider the free Apartheid to Freedom walking tour that starts in Church Square. –  Elizabeth Von Tersch, Senior Editor

Sitting several miles off the coast of Cape Town's V&A Waterfront , Robben Island stands as a reminder of South Africa's troubled history. Since the city was founded back in the 17th century, this UNESCO World Heritage Site has acted as a military base, a home for a leper colony, a mental institution, and, most famously, a prison. It was on this fairly desolate land mass that Nelson Mandela, militant anti-apartheid activist and former president of South Africa, was held captive. Today, Robben Island houses a fascinating museum detailing the history of the island and offering tours led by former inmates of the former prison, including Mandela's cell. The guides convey first-hand accounts of what the island used to be like.

Two Oceans Aquarium Two Oceans Aquarium

If you're visiting Cape Town with children, a trip to the Two Oceans Aquarium is a must. Located on the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront —near the meeting point of the Atlantic and Indian Oceans—this aquarium houses more than 3,000 creatures, including penguins, sharks, and turtles. Your kids will love learning about the different types of wildlife found in these two oceans and in bodies of water around the world. You can also watch animal feedings and even take a swim in the shark tank (don't worry, it's perfectly safe).

While some visitors rave about the diversity of wildlife found here, others have mixed feelings about the aquarium. As one TripAdvisor user puts it, "[The aquarium] offers a number of hands-on activities with helpful staff. [I] would only recommend if you had extra time in Cape Town as there is so much more to do."

Quad biking Atlantis Dunes Cape Town & Photo Shoot

(255 reviews)

from $ 31.04

Big-Five Safari + Breede River Valley Guided Day Trip

(413 reviews)

from $ 146.75

Full Day Cape Peninsula Tour in Private Car

(112 reviews)

from $ 240.00

Castle of Good Hope Castle of Good Hope

This star-shaped fortress at the heart of Cape Town is the oldest surviving building in South Africa. Constructed in the late 17th century by the Dutch East India Company, the Castle of Good Hope acted as the center of colonial Cape Town's administration and armed forces. While it's still the region's military stronghold, the Castle of Good Hope also houses a several museums. Guided tours are offered both on foot and by horse-drawn carriage. If you can, try to plan your visit around the Key Ceremony, which is marked by the firing of the Signal Cannon.

One TripAdvisor user says that the Castle of Good Hope is a great activity if you're traveling as a family. "Bring the kids to see the changing of the guards. Not Buckingham Palace […] but it has a charm of its own." 

Explore More of Cape Town

Best Hotels

When To Visit

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Referred to locally as the “Mother City,” Cape Town is the kind of sophisticated, coastal destination you’ll never want to leave. The scenery is spectacular, with not one but two oceans convening along the city’s picturesque beaches, and a majestic mountain that stands tall and proud as it watches over its 3.7 million inhabitants. Situated on a peninsula, the Western Cape capital is filled with quaint European touches, from architecture to cuisine. The South African city is bursting at the seams with so many things to see and do, including hiking Table Mountain and Signal Hill, spotting penguins in Boulders Beach, strolling Kirstenbosch National Botanic Garden, visiting Robben Island museum (the former prison that held Nelson Mandela) and much more.

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Best Things to Do in Cape Town

We’ve broken our guide down into four sections: our top recommendations, art and cultural activities, shopping and markets and beaches, hikes and outdoor spaces. If you’ve got only a short time in Cape Town, I recommend taking a look at our top options and seeing which ones take your fancy!

We have first-hand experience of each activity mentioned here, so feel free to ask in the comments if you have any questions.

Our Top Recommendations for Cape Town

• Paragliding off Lion’s Head
• Hop-on Hop-off Bus
• Beau Constantia Vineyards
• Whale Watching at Hermanus
• Table Mountain and Cable Car
• Boulders Beach Penguin Colony

Best Art and Cultural Activities in Cape Town

• National Gallery of South Africa
• District 6 Museum
• First Thursdays (plus Honest Gin Bar)
• Zeitz MOCAA
• Norval Foundation
• Bo-kaap Walking Tour
• Labia Theatre

Best Shopping and Markets in Cape Town

• V&A Waterfront
• Old Biscuit Mill
• Oranjezicht City Farm Market

Best Beaches, Hikes and Outdoor Activities

• Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens
• The Company’s Garden
• Big Bay Beach
• Lion’s Head
• Surf’s Corner in Muizenberg
• Kalk Bay’s Tidal Pools
• Sunset at Camps Bay
• Padel at the Mount Nelson

Our Top Picks of the Very Best Things To Do in Cape Town

Jaw-dropping, life-changing and intensely beautiful, Cape Town is a city of wonders and adventures that will excite even travellers who think that they’ve seen it all. If you have just a short time in Cape Town, I recommend trying to fit in as many of our six top picks as appeal to you. Our favourite activities listed here give you a real sense of Cape Town’s heady blend of fantastic nature, rugged landscapes and awesome wildlife.

1. Paragliding off Lion’s Head or Signal Hill

The views off Lion’s Head are breathtaking and there’s no better way to enjoy them than from the air. Paragliding is a fantastic activity, combining the tranquillity of gliding with the excitement of running off the side of a mountain. Even if you have no experience you can join a tandem dive where you are strapped to an experienced instructor. After the flight and a perfect landing by Camp’s Bay, I was completely buzzing with excitement.

You can book paragliding through Get Your Guide. After careful research, we went with Cape Town Tandem Paragliding, who seemed like the most reputable company. Technically due to the safety laws in South Africa, you are signing up as a student for a one-off lesson on paragliding. We met our paragliding team at Lion’s Head parking lot and after quite a lot of muddled waiting around and paperwork, we eventually walked half-way up the mountain to the launch site. Remember to weigh yourself before you set off, take some ID and pack some warm clothes.

If paragliding is something you’re interested in, I highly recommend booking it early on in your Cape Town trip, as it’s fairly likely to be cancelled if the weather conditions are bad. Our first attempt was cancelled due to poor weather and the weather wasn’t good enough for the next four days. Still, I was glad our experienced instructors weren’t taking any chances with the weather. As our instructor wisely said, it’s better to be on the ground wishing you were in the air, than in the air and wishing you are on the ground!

View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Charlie Marchant (@charlieontravel)

2. See Cape Town’s Top Sights with the Hop-on Hop-off Bus

I must admit, we used to roll our eyes at this kind of tourist activity, but the Hop-on Hop-off Bus in Cape Town is un-ironically brilliant. One ticket (275 ZAR) gets you all-day access to four different routes, including a shorter central route, a longer route that takes you past some stunning bays and beaches and another which is specifically for Cape Town’s vineyards.

Highlights include Table Mountain, Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, Beau Constantia Vineyard, Hout Bay, Camps Bay and the V&A Waterfront. I’d go so far as to say that if you only have one day in Cape Town, no other activity will enable you to see as much as the city in as little time and effort.

3. Try Locally-Grown South African Wine at Beau Constantia Vineyard

If you really want to inspire jealousy among friends and family back home, the place to take a smug holiday photo is Beau Constantia Vineyard, preferably with a glass of wine in hand. This vineyard is well positioned, with views of the vines rolling out in one direction and Table Mountain in the other.

You can choose between a more casual seat on the terrace which is open on the weekends, or an upmarket but still reasonable seat in the Chefs Warehouse restaurant. Wine can be bought by the glass or the bottle, to have there or take home, and needless to say, everything is of an excellent quality. I can also recommend both the oyster mushroom bao from their How Bao Now pop-up and the cheese board, both of which were superb.

If you’d like to learn more about South Africa wine, the best option is to get the tasting set of four small glasses of wine (110 to 130 ZAR). If you don’t have a car, you can get to the vineyard, which is about twenty minutes outside Cape Town, either by the hop-on hop-off bus or by Uber.

The Cape wine region including the Stellenbosch and Franschhoek areas is also a must-see when in Cape Town. They can be visited as a day-trip, but we would recommend spending at least a long weekend there to really soak up the views and wine! The Constantia wine region is comparatively much closer to Cape Town and smaller, so makes for a better day or half-day trip.

4. Watch Whales in Hermanus (Day Trip from Cape Town)

Watching a twenty-three thousand kilogramme animal launch itself out of the water before crashing back beneath the waves is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. If you’re in Cape Town between June and November, then you’re in luck because it’s the season of the Southern right whale.

Hundreds of Southern right whales come to Hermanus to mate each year. Female whales come back to this bay, the same one they were born in themselves, to raise the next generation. They use the safety of the bay to teach the young everything they need to know before making the nearly seven thousand kilometre trip to their feeding grounds in the antarctic.

The Southern right whale doesn’t sing, it instead communicates by slapping the water with its body. If you’re lucky, you’ll be able to see a whale leaping out of the water (breaching) either to communicate with others or to teach its calf the ways of the whale.

We booked our trip through Get Your Guide (2,200 ZAR) and our trip was provided by Ivanhoe Sea Safaris, who I highly recommend. Hermanus is a two hour thirty minute drive from Cape Town, but transport was arranged for us. We were picked up at 10 AM promptly by our driver from our accommodation. We stopped for a coffee in Hermanus town and were at the harbour in Gansbaai by 12:30PM.

The boat left at 1PM for a two-hour trip. We packed snacks, waterproofs, sea sickness tablets and sunscreen. We were quite nervous as our trip was on November 6th, which is near the end of the season. However, we were lucky enough to spot two whales with their calves.

The guides were very knowledgeable and the captain cut the boat’s engine engine a good distance from the whales. One of the curious calves came right up next to the boat to check us out, which was an awesome experience. The two hours flew by and it was reassuring to see how respectful the guides were in giving the whales plenty of space.

On the way back, our driver stopped in Hermanus so we could get some lunch. The town has a pleasant seaside vibe and you can see whales from the town itself if you are lucky. We noticed a crowd gathering and rushed over just in time to see a whale breaching in the distance!

Our driver took us on the coastal route back and took us to a beautiful lookout point over False Bay. This place used to be famous for its great white sharks and although we didn’t see any we did spot a final whale of the day in the bay as well as a troop of baboons on the roadside. We were dropped off back in Cape Town by 7 PM.

5. Hike to the Top of Table Mountain (and take the cable car back down!)

The views of Cape Town from Table Mountain are iconic and not to be missed. For the active and adventurous, it’s an enjoyable two-to-three hour hike to the top if you take the popular Platekipp Gorge route.

The Platekipp Gorge route is short and scenic but steep and reasonably challenging. We started hiking at 8:45 AM on a Saturday morning in November and the trail was pleasantly populated with other hikers. This is a bonus if you’re going without a guide as it means you can’t get lost and there are friendly faces around in case of an emergency.

Pack drinking water, sunscreen, a hat and a windbreaker for the top, which we found chilly even on an otherwise sunny day. At the top, you can take the cable car back down (ZAR 220, one way). Buy a ticket at the ticket office or online. It’s advisable to set off early to avoid the midday sun and the worst of the queues for the cable car.

You can use an app like Kamoot to navigate; this link will show you the exact route that we took . Note that starting and ending at the Table Mountain Aerial Cableway makes the route slightly longer than the standard Platekipp Gorge route, but I thought the additional stretch was worth it for the great views of Lion’s Head. The trailhead is fifteen minutes by Uber from the centre of town (ZAR 70).

6. See the Penguin Colony at Boulders Beach (Simon’s Town)

Standing on a white-sand beach, my feet in cool blue seawater and adorable penguins waddling all around — I found my happy place at Boulders Beach penguin colony . Nature lovers of all ages should not miss this experience when in Cape Town.

The Boulders Beach penguin colony is in Simon’s Town, which is a 45-minute drive from the CBD. If you’re coming from Cape Town, you’ll most likely stop at Foxy Beach first. It’s 176 ZAR for an adult ticket for an international visitor. Make sure you keep your ticket as it’s usable at two sites.

The Foxy Beach site consists of two short wooden walkways and a gift shop. When we visited (Saturday 3rd, December 2022) there were countless penguins! Most were just standing in the sun, but every now and then an individual or squad would come gliding out of the water at impressive speeds. Foxy Beach was fairly packed with tourists, so consider coming early in the day to beat the rush.

A short walk from Foxy Beach is Boulder’s Beach, which is where you can actually access the beach itself. On the walk to Boulders Beach, the thickets were filled with adorable dassies including many baby dassies that were trying out some limited independence under watchful parental supervision!

Boulder’s Beach is strewn with large boulders that the penguins dart between. There’s also sheltered swimming and it felt less crowded than Foxy Beach. You can safely swim here and if you’re lucky, a penguin or two might swim with you. Please keep a respectful distance from the penguins and don’t be tempted to crowd them, no matter how cute they might be.

Budget travellers can see the penguins without paying for a ticket by visiting Seaforth beach, which also has a smaller penguin colony. However, I’d recommend buying a ticket if you can afford it.

Culture vultures won’t find themselves short of things to do in Cape Town. From the architecturally unique Zeitz MOCAA, to the see and be-seen crowd of First Thursdays, there are plenty of artsy and culturally enriching activities to take part in.

7. See the Artwork in the National Gallery of South Africa

The National Gallery of South Africa is home to a varied collection of art of different types and from different time periods. The pieces on display included both traditional paintings and some striking sculptures. It’s well worth seeing Jane Alexander’s creepy but compelling Butcher Boys sculpture. Admission is inexpensive and it’s well worth a visit if you happen to be in the Company’s Garden.

8. Learn about the Heart-Breaking History of District Six

The District Six Museum records the history of District Six, a poor but vibrant multi-racial community that was forcibly removed during apartheid. The museum houses a collection of recorded statements, objects and photographs from the not-so-distant past. It’s worth visiting the museum, which is inside an old church building, and you can visit the site in around 30 minutes, though the stories you will hear will stay with you for much much longer.

9. Enjoy Cape Town’s Art Scene on First Thursday (and enjoy a gin afterwards!)

Every first Thursday of the month, the art galleries of Cape Town open late to allow artists and art students to showcase their work. It’s a loose, unstructured vibe with small galleries and bars taking part across the centre of Cape Town.

We wandered between four or five small art galleries and enjoyed the buzz for an hour or so before settling down with a fantastic gin cocktail at the Gin Bar). The Gin Bar is a brilliant space with rustic dark wood floors and high-framed industrial style windows. It’s a popular place to end the evening when you’ve had your fill of art. Their artful gin menu consists of five signature cocktails. I tried ‘The Ambition’ a gin cocktail with tonic, elderflower cordial, cucumber and thyme and enjoyed it so much I ordered a second. You can also add rooibos gin, a South African speciality, to any cocktail.

The Gin Bar shares both a building and a beautiful secret courtyard with Honest Chocolate Cafe, Bubbly Bar and Bodega Ramen, which is an unparalleled collection of my favourite things in one place.

Learn more and plan your route on the First Thursdays website .

10. Appreciate Contemporary African Art at the Zeitz MOCAA

The Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa (Zeitz MOCAA) in Cape Town is a must-see destination for anyone interested in contemporary art from Africa and its diaspora. Located in the historic Grain Silo complex at the V&A Waterfront, the museum is home to a world-class collection of contemporary art, including paintings, sculptures, installations and more.

In addition to its impressive collection, the Zeitz MOCAA is also a stunning architectural achievement. The museum is housed in a series of interconnected silos that have been converted into gallery spaces, providing a unique and visually stunning setting for the art on display. A ticket costs 230 ZAR.

11. Combine Art, Nature and Food at the Norval Foundation

Set on a picturesque 18-acre property around thirty minutes from the centre of Cape Town, the Norval Foundation is home to a world-class collection of contemporary African art, featuring works from some of the continent’s most celebrated artists.

While I enjoyed the gallery, the sculpture garden and the Skotnes Restaurant are what make the place really worth a visit. The gardens, which take around 15 minutes to walk through, are landscaped in such a way that enables you to appreciate each sculpture in turn.

The Norval Foundation is open 10 AM 5 PM every day except Tuesday. Admission is 180 ZAR. Mains at the Skotnes Restaurant start at 110 ZAR and go to 235 ZAR.

12. Wander the Colourful Streets of Bo-Kaap on a Free Walking Tour

The brightly coloured neighbourhood of Bo-Kaap is famous for its beautiful colonial buildings and its traditional Cape Malay community. We joined a Free Walking Tour to experience the neighbourhood and its rainbow streets.

The tours are a couple of hours long and leave from Church Square on Parliament Street everyday. There’s no need to book, simply look for the bright green umbrellas and tell one of the tour guides that you’d like to see Bo-Kaap. The knowledgeable tour guides are paid entirely by tips and do accept card payments.

We decided to stay in Bo-Kaap after the tour ended and enjoy a meal at Faeeza’s Home Kitchen . As the name suggests, it’s a kitchen run out of a lovely lady’s home and it specialises in home-cooked Cape Malay dishes. I had a delicious butter bean curry with roti and sambal that was quite possibly the best meal I ate in South Africa! Though I didn’t try it, I was also tempted by koesiester, which is a spicy doughnut-like treat.

Interested in Cape Town’s cuisine? Check out our guide to Cape Town’s best vegetarian food .

13. Enjoy an Arthouse Movie at Labia Theatre

The Labia Theatre – so named after Princess Labia who founded the theatre in 1949, and not at all relating to ‘skin flicks’ – is Cape Town’s oldest and best cinema screening arthouse and independent films. Though small, the cinema has four screens, all kitted out with red-velvet seats.

Tucked in the corner between Kloof Street and The Company’s Garden, a flowered arch leads you into the cinema’s courtyard. It’s well-worth arriving half an hour early to have a pre-film drink. Don’t forget to grab yourself a popcorn which is a novelty in itself as it comes unflavoured and you shake on your own flavours (very retro!)

We watched the beautiful documentary ‘ The Velvet Queen ,’ about explorers searching Tibet for a wild snow leopard, at the Labia, which we’d also highly recommend.

If you’re in need of gifts for friends and family back home, or just something to remind you of your time in South Africa, here are three of the best places to go shopping:

14. Eat, shop and enjoy the sea breeze at V&A Waterfront

If locally-made gifts and food are what you’re craving, then the Watershed at the V&A Waterfront has you covered. The V&A Waterfront (that’s Victoria and Alfred, not Victoria and Albert) is a glitzy part of town right on the waterfront. Once you’ve finished shopping, reward your stomach with something from the food hall next door, which stocks a wide variety of eateries including Hungarian, Cape Malay, dumplings and more!

15. Browse, eat and drink at the Old Biscuit Mill (Woodstock)

For Camden Market vibes in Cape Town, you can’t beat The Old Biscuit Mill. This popular community hub and creative draws in locals and tourists alike. Explore an array of shops and eateries, browse artisanal crafts, and relax afterwards with a drink and some live music.

I’d recommend going at lunchtime to enjoy something from the extensive food hall, which had falafel, barbeque, Korean food and much more, as well as plenty of beers and wines.

16. Treat your tastebuds at Oranjezicht City Farm Market (Waterfront)

Want to pick up fresh produce, shop for unique items and try locally-produced foods? The Oranjezicht City Farm Market in Cape Town is a great place to purchase fresh fruit and vegetables and artisanal goods.

We picked up a range of goodies, including locally-made hot sauces, spice mixes and freshly-ground coffee. To reward ourselves for a successful shop, we tucked into a fantastic vegan Cape Malay meal (ZAR 120) that included spiced chickpeas, cauliflowers, potatoes, rice, salad and fresh roti. There are plenty of food options available, including barbeque, burgers, Indian, Korean chicken, pizza and much more.

The Oranjezicht City Farm Market is open Saturday and Sundays until 2 PM, and on Wednesdays from 5 PM-9 PM.

Visit Cape Town’s Best Beaches, Hikes and Outdoor Spaces

Few capital cities on the planet can hold a candle to Cape Town; both the beauty and diversity of the landscapes are without rival. Mountains, forests, fynbos, vineyards, gardens and beaches, Cape Town has it all. Here are some of the best places to see:

17. Reconnect with Nature at Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens

Did you know that there are only six floral kingdoms in the world and one of them is unique to the cape of Africa? But it’s not just the “fynbos” (unique fine shrubland) that makes this botanical garden special, it’s also its jaw-dropping setting on the slopes of Table Mountain.

If you need a break from the big city, I highly recommend heading out to Kirstenbosch to enjoy a picnic or lunch at one of the on-site restaurants. These botanical gardens are vast and connect to several hiking trips if you plan to make a longer day of it. Just watch out for the baboons as they’ve been known to open bags in search of snacks! Standard adult tickets are 210 ZAR.

18. Take a Stroll in the Company’s Garden

The Company’s Garden is a pleasant tree-lined space in the middle of Cape Town, the oldest in the city in fact. It’s a pathway flanked by greenery that runs from the Iziko Slave Lodge through to Mount Nelson Hotel. The Company’s Garden is also home to the National Gallery of South Africa and the pair make for an interesting way to spend a couple of hours.

Make sure you’re out of the garden way before it gets dark, as it’s not a safe place at night time. Make sure to read our guide to safety in Cape Town .

19. Enjoy Views of Table Mountain from Big Bay Beach

Big Bay Beach is an idyllic stretch of white sand thirty minutes from the centre of Cape Town, boasting immaculate views of Table Mountain. The water is icy cold, but that doesn’t stop the surfers from braving the waves.

If you’re not into water sports, this is a great beach for a long walk — if you’re lucky, you might even have long sections of the beach completely to yourself. Blaauwberg Nature Reserve, about halfway along the beach, is a good spot to stop for a picnic or a braai. There’s parking, toilets and a selection of cafes, restaurants and bars by the Big Bay Surf Lifesaving Club.

An Uber to Big Bay Beach from the centre of Cape Town is 150 to 200 ZAR.

20. Hike Lion’s Head for simply stunning views of Cape Town and Table Mountain

I’ve been lucky enough to have climbed many mountains over the years, but the views from Lion’s Head are among the very best. That’s because you’ve got a 360 panorama which includes Table Mountain, Cape Town and several pearly-white stretches of African coastline.

Lion’s Head is a popular hiking route. We did the hike on a Monday morning in October and the trail had enough other hikers that we never felt lost or isolated. You can take an inexpensive Uber from the city centre to the Lion’s Head car park where the trail begins and follow the crowd right to the top.

Be warned, although the hike is mostly easy and doable in two to three hours, the route branches into an easy route and a harder route. The route we took became a challenging scramble involving ladders, chains and staples! The route we took would’ve been tricky, possibly even dangerous, for inexperienced climbers so make sure you take the easier of the two paths if you are scared of heights or are not in good physical condition.

21. Surf with the Sharks at Surfers Corner, Muizenberg

Surfers Corners is a popular beach and surfing spot located in the suburb of Muizenberg, about a forty-five minute drive from the centre of Cape Town. It is known as a great place for beginner surfers as the waves are gentle and the beach is well-protected from strong winds. The shoreline is lined with colourful beach huts, restaurants, and cafes, though the area just behind the shoreline gets residential very quickly.

We weren’t able to surf on this trip as we couldn’t fit everything in, but we visited the surf school, which rents boards and wetsuits (that you’ll definitely need) for 155 ZAR per 90 minutes. Note that because the waves can get crowded, group classes don’t run during the South African summer, though private lessons are still available.

22. Take a Dip at the Kalk Bay Tidal Pools

If swimming with sharks isn’t on your South Africa wish list, you’ll be pleased to know that all sharks can be 100% avoided at the Kalk Bay tidal pools. There are four tidal pools at Kalk Bay, which are popular with adults and kids as they provide shelter from the open ocean.

I recommend the Dalebrook Tidal Pool or the St James Tidal Pool . The water here is cold but not as freezing as the water on the north side of Cape Town. Entry is free. Kalk Bay is a thirty-minute drive from the CBD. For tidal pools closer to the CBD, you can also visit the Camps Bay tidal pools.

23. Gaze at a Spectacular Sunset in Camps Bay

If you’d like to find yourself with white sand beneath your feet and a magnificent orange sunset on the horizon, then head on over to Camp’s Bay. Rolling waves meet glitzy beach-front bars just a short, fifteen-minute drive from the centre of the CBD.

If time allows and you like walking, I’d recommend getting a taxi to the Sea Point Pool and strolling for an hour or so to Camp’s Bay, enjoying views of Clifton’s beaches as you wander.

We ate at two places in Camps Bay: Surf Shack which is a typical beachfront pizza place, and Cafe Caprice , which is a bougie beachfront bar with an excellent vegan mezze plate.

24. Play Padel at the Mount Nelson Hotel

For those looking to get active and also check out a Cape Town landmark, playing padel at the Mount Nelson Hotel is a great option. Padel is an up-and-coming sport that’s like tennis (but better!) You can rent a court, plus balls and a racket, and play at the iconic Mount Nelson Hotel, even if you are not staying at the hotel. The person supervising the court reminded us of the rules and even ran a few drills with us to help us up our game.

Those that are less active might alternatively enjoy a cream tea at the Nellie!

Have you tried any of the activities mentioned here? Let us know what you did and what you thought in the comments section below. If we’ve missed anything special from the list, please let us know!

Charlie Marchant

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The 40 Best Things To Do in Cape Town

By Inside Guide

Iconic sites and landscapes, from every perspective.

Cape Town draws the crowds not only for its beauty, but also for its heritage and cultural diversity. There is a rich bounty of things to do to suit every kind of adventurer. And the fact that it’s considered one of the top culinary destinations in the world only enhances its appeal.

With that in mind, we’ve compiled a list of things to do that showcase our magnificent city, from must-visit destinations to exhilarating outdoor activities.

Find your next adventure here: Table Mountain V&A Waterfront Sea Point Promenade Cape of Good Hope South Peninsula Don’t miss these things to do near Cape Town

Things to do on Table Mountain

Ride the cable car.

Be whizzed to the top of the Table in a revolving cable car. It’s an exciting five-minute journey, especially as you get an up-close look at the rocky, fynbos-covered mountainside near the end of the trip. Once there, it’s all about the views – enjoy them from the restaurant, multiple viewpoints (including a couple of coin-operated binoculars) and three short trails on the “table” or plateau. Explore on our own, or join the free 30-minute guided walks (every hour on the hour, 9am – 3pm) to learn more and discover great photo ops. Good to know Buy tickets online to skip the queues; tickets are slightly cheaper after 1pm. Times Until 15 December 2023: Daily, 8.30am – 7pm 16 December – 31 January 2024: Daily, 8am – 8.30pm 1 February – 30 April 2024: Daily, 8am – 7.30pm 1 May – 31 August: Daily, 8.30am – 5pm Cost Return: R420 (adult), R210 (child); R120 (senior citizen); R250 (student) Contact 021 424 0015, [email protected] Cableway weather/operational updates: 021 424 8181 Book Now

Visit the highest point

At 21 metres above the Upper Cableway Station, Maclear’s Beacon is the official highest point on Table Mountain (1 085m) – and therefore the highest you can get in Cape Town! Signs at the cable station point you towards the beginning of the hike, and from there the 5.5km trail is marked by yellow footprints (around 2 hours, there and back). There is a short section of rocky steps on the edge of the mountain that needs to be negotiated using chains and handholds. If you do the Platteklip and Maclear’s Beacon trails in one go, then you can truly say you’ve hiked from the bottom of Table Mountain to the very top! Good to know A longer hike – heading southeast from Maclear’s Beacon – will take you to the five dams on top of Table Mountain: Woodhead, Victoria, Alexandra, De Villiers and Hely-Hutchinson, which famously has a white-sand beach (note: this can only be accessed if you ascend the mountain via Skeleton Gorge). Contact 021 422 1601 (SANParks Kloofnek Office) TMNP emergency numbers: 086 110 6417, 107 or 021 937 0300

Hike up Lion’s Head

The distinct slope next to Table Mountain, known as Lion’s Head, is Cape Town’s most popular hike and something of a pilgrimage. At 669m, it offers magnificent 360-degree views of the city, Table Mountain and the Twelve Apostles, Table Bay and the Atlantic Seaboard, making it a top spot for Instagrammers. It can get pretty busy, especially around sunset and full moon (bring a headlamp). The trail starts on Signal Hill Drive, at the base of the Forestry Road, and it takes two to three hours (up and down). It’s a fairly easy spiral ascent of 2km, with a bit of climbing near the top using handholds and chains to assist you. If you’d prefer to avoid the climbing and chains, a roundabout route (that’s still quite steep) adds half an hour to your hike. Good to know In the interests of safety, never hike the trail alone – crimes and accidents do happen. Contact 021 422 1601 (SANParks Kloofnek Office) TMNP emergency numbers: 086 110 6417, 107 or 021 937 0300

Explore on a mountain scooter

You may have travelled these mountain paths many times before, but have you ever done it on a freewheeler? Scootours’ eco-friendly, nonmotorised, off-road scooters are a unique way of enjoying Table Mountain and Signal Hill. Take in the views and fresh air as you traverse the slopes during a two-hour tour. The two-wheelers are extremely stable (developed to navigate the slopes of the Swiss Alps during summer) and easy to control, making for a family-friendly experience. Kids will love them, but that’s not to say adults won’t get a kick out of the experience as well. Good to know Kids younger than 10 can’t drive a scooter, but can still have a fun time doubling up with their parents (minimum age 4 years). Scootours also operates on wine farms in Franschhoek and Stellenbosch. Times Monday – Sunday, 10am; 12.30pm; 3pm Cost R750 (driver) R350 (passenger) Where to find it Kloof Nek Parking Area, Tafelberg Road, Cape Town Book Now

Paraglide over the city

Experience Cape Town’s magnificent topography from up high – and get your adrenaline pumping – on one of these tandem adventures. No previous experience of paragliding is necessary – your instructor will run through some guidelines, clip you in securely, and then you’ll be attached to an expert pilot. Once in the air, all you have to do is sit back and relax as you glide from Signal Hill or Lion’s Head to the Sea Point Promenade. Flights last between five and 30 minutes, depending on the wind. In perfect weather, the instructor will show you how to steer so you can fly the paraglider yourself! Good to know If you’d like inflight videos and photographs, bring R300 cash. Minimum age is 14 years, maximum weight is 135kg. Times Monday – Sunday, 7.30am – 6pm Cost R1 500 Where to find it At the end of Signal Hill Drive, Cape Town Book Now

Abseil down Table Mountain

The views from the summit of Cape Town’s iconic landmark are spectacular enough; just imagine what you’ll see as you rope your way down the side of Table Mountain. At 1 067 metres above sea level, this is the world’s highest commercial abseil, and it makes for an exhilarating experience as you are lowered 112 metres down the side of the cliff, the vast blue ocean below you, and Lion’s Head and The Twelve Apostles forming a panorama of splendour all around. It takes around an hour, including a safety demo, harnessing up and a 30-minute hike to get back to the top of the mountain afterwards. Good to know Children are permitted, but there is a 45kg minimum weight. (If a little lighter, a tandem abseil can be booked for an additional R300.) The price of the cable-car tickets is not included. Times Monday – Sunday, 9.30am – 3.30pm Cost R850 Where to find it Meet at the top of Table Mountain (next to the big wheel with cables). Book Now

Explore Kirstenbosch Gardens

Founded in 1913, Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden is 528 hectares of beauty and diversity, 36 hectares of which is cultivated and the rest being wild. Situated on the eastern slopes of Table Mountain, the garden has over 7 000 species of flora, plus many birds and small animals. It’s idyllic for scenic strolls in tranquil surrounds, with the Boomslang Canopy Walk a definite highlight for those views! Pack a picnic (or pick up a catered basket at the on-site eateries) and settle in for the afternoon, while the kids roam free, exploring streams, climbing rocks and enjoying the wide-open space. Kirstenbosch has five themed trails, which explore the forest and fynbos; it is also the starting point for the Skeleton Gorge and Nursery Ravine hikes to the top of Table Mountain. Good to know If you’re in Cape Town in summer, don’t miss the legendary sunset concerts on Sundays and the Galileo Open-Air Cinema screenings once or twice a week. Times Monday – Sunday, 8am – 7pm (September – March) Monday – Sunday, 8am – 6pm (April – August) Cost Adults: R100 (SA + SADC); R140 (other African residents); R220 (international) R40 (children 6 – 17 years) R60 (students over 18 years with a valid SA-institution card) Free (children under 6 + senior citizens on Tuesdays, except public holidays) Contact 021 799 8783, [email protected] Concert information: 021 799 8620 Dining or picnics: 021 797 4883 (Fynkos Tea Room); 021 762 9585 (Moyo) Where to find it Rhodes Drive, Newlands, Cape Town Book Now

Things to do in the V&A Waterfront

Tour the two oceans aquarium.

This world-class aquarium is a respected conservation and research facility that’s home to thousands of sea animals of all shapes, sizes and colours, uniquely covering both Atlantic and Indian Ocean species. It’s an exciting peek into life off our shores, with a mesmerising swaying kelp forest, schools of shiny fish swimming in unison, gliding turtles and even sharks, which can also be viewed from within a 10-metre glass tunnel. There are more curious creatures too, such as jellies, octopus, seahorses, pufferfish, moray eels and amphibians. The popular penguin exhibit is always a hit, and kids can get up close to anemones and starfish in the Touch Pool. Good to know You can learn to scuba dive in the tanks (PADI certification) or have a taste of it with the Discover Scuba experience (suitable for anyone age 10 and older). Times Monday – Sunday, 9.30am – 6pm Cost R235 (adults); R175 (adults after 3pm) R175 (teens, students, pensioners); R135 (after 3pm) R110 (children 4 – 13 years); R85 (after 3pm) Contact 021 418 3823, [email protected] Where to find it Dock Road, V&A Waterfront Book Now

See top art and architecture at Zeitz MOCAA

Touted as Cape Town’s “Tate Modern”, it’s impossible to miss the impressive circular structure that houses the Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa when visiting the Waterfront. Its signature raw-concrete bulk and convex windows tower over nearby buildings and ships in Cape Town’s docklands. Known for its cutting-edge exhibitions and for showcasing and researching modern African art, the building itself is a showstopper, too – 56 old grain silos that received an eye-catching makeover courtesy of the UK’s Heatherwick Studio in 2017. The Zeitz MOCAA’s many and varied spaces over nine floors include the cathedral-like Atrium, Centres for Costume, Photography and The Moving Image, a rooftop sculpture garden and a shop stocked with arty items, as well as a café and sixth-floor bar with fabulous views. Good to know Free entry on Wednesday mornings for SA and African citizens (with ID). Times Tuesday – Sunday, 10am – 6pm Cost R250 (adult) Free for children and teens Contact 087 350 4777, [email protected] Where to find it Silo District, S Arm Road, V&A Waterfront, Cape Town Book Now

Take a helicopter flip

To truly appreciate the grandeur of Cape Town’s mountain-strewn, fynbos-covered setting, you’ll need to get high – way up high, cruising at an altitude of around 2 500 feet in a helicopter. The Waterfront is the main heli-port for the Mother City, from where you can book a variety of trips. Cape Helicopters’s scenic flights vary in distance and duration, taking you over the city and harbour, along the Atlantic Seaboard, over Robben Island or all the way to Cape Point and False Bay. Trips to wine estates are available, too, as well special Experience trips such as up the West Coast for a seafood lunch on the beach, to Cape Point or the Winelands for a mountain-top picnic, or on a photographic safari. Good to know Flights can be shared or booked exclusively. Helicopter flights can also be combined with a boat cruise or other activities, such as mountain biking and golf. Times Daily, 9am – 5.30pm Cost R2 200 – R8 250 per person (Cape Town destinations) From R9 700 per person (Winelands destinations) Where to find it 36 East Pier Road, V&A Waterfront, Cape Town Book Now

Enjoy a sunset cruise

For quintessential Cape Town sundowners, hop aboard a luxury teak-decked catamaran to watch the sun go down. Recline on the trampolines in front, or relax on comfortable cushion seating and be sure to have a camera ready, as the cruise offers stunning views of the city with Table Mountain as its backdrop. The yacht leaves from the Waterfront and heads out into Table Bay and along the Atlantic Seaboard, returning 90 minutes later… in time to see the first stars appear and the moon rise in the velvety blue sky. Good to know A complimentary glass of bubbly is included, and the onboard cash/card bar serves other drinks (or BYO alcohol and pay corkage). Morning and midday trips, as well as private charters and a helicopter flight combo, can also be booked. Times Monday – Sunday, one hour prior to sunset Cost R550 per person (1.5 hours) Where to find it 36 East Pier Road, V&A Waterfront, Cape Town Book Now

Visit Robben Island

Hop on one of the ferries (once used to transport staff and prisoners) to Robben Island for a guided tour – some of which are conducted by former inmates. Once there, you’ll board a bus to visit historical sites such as Robert Sobukwe’s house, the quarries and leper cemetery, a church and Muslim kramat, and learn all there is to know about the island’s 500-year history, culminating in a visit to the prison and Nelson Mandela’s cell. Keep an eye out for dolphins and seals along the way, as they often swim alongside the boat. The views of the city and Table Mountain alone are worth the four-hour trip. Times Monday – Sunday, 9am; 11am; 1pm (all year) + 3pm (September – April) Cost South Africans: R400 (adult); R210 (children and teens) International visitors: R600 (adult); R310 (children and teens) Where to find it Nelson Mandela Gateway, Clocktower Precinct, Fish Quay Road, V&A Waterfront, Cape Town Enquire Now

SUP around the Waterfront

Stand-up paddleboarding (SUPing) has seen a surge in popularity over the past decade, and if you’d like to try your hand at it, the Waterfront’s calm, wave-free canals are the perfect training ground. You’ll be provided with all the gear and introductory training – expect a few tumbles into the shallow water – and once you’ve mastered the art of balancing on the board, it’s time to set off on a three-kilometre scenic loop of the private waterways. Should you require it, a guide will accompany you; if you already know how to SUP, you can simply rent a board and cruise the canals, or even rent one for a weekend getaway. Good to know Children under 16 years old will need adult supervision or hire an instructor. Times Daily, 8am – 6pm (summer); 9am – 5pm (winter) Cost R250 (1 hour) Where to find it Battery Park, V&A Waterfront, Cape Town (parking access from Alfred Road, just behind City Lodge) Book Now

Browse the Oranjezicht City Farm Market

Managed by the people who revived the Oranjezicht urban farm, OZCF is a cheerleader for local, home-grown produce. Take your pick from the rainbow harvest of in-season veggies, herbs and fruit (which may include some rare and heirloom beauties), alongside cheeses, breads and bakes, preserves, smoked fish, charcuterie and more. Stay for a leisurely meal, with a variety of global cuisines on offer (Korean fried chicken, bao, tacos, galettes, pizza, Vietnamese street food, traditional Jewish food, Richard Bosman’s meat pies, pastéis de nata ) – with special diets well catered for. There’s plenty of outdoor seating, a bar area for craft beers and cocktails, space for kids and dogs, and a real buzz. Good to know You can also visit the Oranjezicht farm at 87 Upper Orange Street on weekdays to stock up on fresh produce. Times Saturday, 8.15am – 2pm Sunday, 9am – 2pm Wednesday, 5pm – 9pm (October – March) Contact 083 628 3426, [email protected] Where to find it Haul Road, off Granger Bay Boulevard (or Beach Road), V&A Waterfront, Cape Town

Feast at the Time Out Market

Time Out Markets, which began in Lisbon in 2014 and spread to New York, Miami, Chicago, Montreal, Dubai and more, gather the best of the best under one roof to reflect the cool culinary and cultural trends of a city. On a quay overlooking Table Mountain, the Mother City’s Time Out Market will feature well-known chefs and mixologists wielding their magic in 13 kitchens and four bars. The names announced so far include Bertus Basson’s De Vrije Burger, John van Zyl’s The Melting Pot, Vusi Ndlovu’s ‘Fires Of Africa’ concept, Peter Tempelhoff’s Ramenhead, Matt Manning’s Culture Bar, Barakat (Cape Malay fine-dining from the chefs behind Happy Uncles), plus How Bao Now, YARD pizzas and Unframed ice cream. With a stage for live performances and plenty of seating inside and out, it’s sure to be a cooking spot this summer. Opening Sunday – Wednesday, 11am – 10pm Thursday – Saturday, 11am – 11pm Where to find it Dock Road, V&A Waterfront, Cape Town

Ride the Cape Wheel

An exhilarating experience for kids and a source of sweet nostalgia for adults, the Cape Wheel – in its new ocean-side location – delivers 360-degree views from 40 metres up. In the comfort of your air-conditioned glass cabin, play “I Spy” as you spot Waterfront landmarks, and see across the stadium, Signal Hill, Table Mountain and the city. It need not be said, but the views at twilight are perhaps the most magical. There is also a “Dine in the Sky” option, with a picnic basket (BYO food), table and double the time. Good to know Each cabin seats up to six adults and two are wheelchair accessible. No booking is required, except for the VIP gondola, with tinted windows, leather seats, a glass floor, music and a complimentary bottle of bubbly (or non-alcoholic option). Times Monday – Sunday, 10am – 10pm Cost R175 (SA adult); R250 (international adult) R95 (children 4 – 17 years + SA pensioners until 6pm) Free (children up to 4 years) Sky Dining: R320 (adult); R150 (child) Contact 087 470 0696, [email protected] Where to find it The Lawns, Breakwater Boulevard, V&A Waterfront, Cape Town Enquire Now

Have freewheelin’ fun at Battery Park + Rollercade

If your kid loves whizzing around on wheels – be it two, four or eight wheels – this 1.2-hectare urban park at the Waterfront is the perfect safe space to do it. Apart from the world-class skatepark (with a pump hump, quarter pipes, layback banks, ledges and rails), it also has a scooter path and space to rollerblade, a kiddies playground and a multi-court for basketball, netball or soccer games. Plus, for old-school roller-skating (or when the weather’s bad), inside the parking garage is Rollercade – a spacious rink complete with music, disco lights and mirror balls, a cafe, pool tables and games arcade. Good to know Rollercade operates two-hour sessions and booking is essential to reserve your skates. Times Park: Monday – Sunday, 6am – 6pm Rollercade: Wednesday – Friday, 1pm – 6pm Saturday + Sunday, 10am – 6pm Friday + Saturday, 7pm – 9pm (over-16s only). Cost Park: free Rollercade: R150; R80 (with own skates); R40 (spectators) Contact 021 408 7600, [email protected] 072 064 3963, [email protected] Where to find it Dock Road, V&A Waterfront, Cape Town Rollercade: P3 (third floor), Battery Park Parking (off Alfred Road or Dock Road) Book Now

Paddle the waterways at sunset

As adventures go, kayaking – by night – on the Waterfront canals may be the most tranquil and unexpectedly fascinating after-dark activity in town. At this time of day, you’ll share the water with very few other craft (but perhaps with a Cape otter, if you’re lucky). You’ll drift under bridges, past the glittering lights of upmarket apartments and hotels that line these waterways, stare up at the city’s high-rises and even catch glimpses of the harbour and Table Mountain. The kayaks sport colourful lights, adding to the romance as the water reflects your shimmering glow. The hour-long trip stretches between One&Only Cape Town and the Westin, adjacent to the CTICC. The paddling is easy and there are no waves or rough waters. Good to know Children 8 – 15 years are permitted if accompanied by an adult. Kayaks seat one or two people. Times Monday – Sunday, 6pm; 7pm; 8pm Cost R450 per person Where to find it Battery Park jetty, Dock Road, V&A Waterfront, Cape Town Book Now

Things to do on the Sea Point Promenade

Swim at the sea point pavilion.

One of Cape Town’s most prized public spaces, the Pavilion and its pool have been serving the community since 1914. On the very edge of the Atlantic Ocean, the city’s only Olympic-sized saltwater swimming pool comes to life early in summer. Triathletes, squad swimmers and, rumour has it, even actual Olympians, train here. Later, the leisure swimmers, sunseekers, families and pensioners filter in to enjoy the pools, picnic on the surrounding lawns and enjoy the view. Besides the large main pool, there are two shallower pools perfect for kids to splash around in, and a diving pool. There are change rooms with lockers, toilets and showers on site, and lifeguards on duty to ensure things remain safe and above board. Good to know Up Cycles runs a bike-hire booth at the Pavilion, and there are several food vendors. Times Tuesday – Sunday + public holidays, 7am – 7pm (8am – 5pm in winter) Monday from 12pm; closes at 1pm on 24 + 25 December Cost R34,50 (adult); per month R421 R20 (child under 16 years old); per month R184 Free (pensioners and toddlers) Contact 021 814 1051 Where to find it Lower Beach Road, Sea Point, Cape Town

Ride a tandem bicycle

Looking for a novel way to start or finish your day? Hire a bicycle built for two (with your partner, bestie or kid) and take a gentle ride to your favourite spot along the Promenade, soaking up the fresh air and the sights and sounds. Or explore further along the stunning Atlantic coastline and head to Cape Town’s iconic beaches. These fabulous freewheeling experiences are offered by Atlantic Outlook (also known for its guided hiking trips and kayaking with dolphins experience). For the tandem rides, choose your route and your stops within your time slot, setting off from the base at Granger Bay at the Waterfront and going as far as Camps Bay if you like. Good to know Children from age 8 are welcome to join the ride, partnering with an adult. Snacks and drinks at the stops are not included in the price. Times Daily, 9am – 6pm Cost R400 for two people (Classic Promenade Cruise) R1 250 for two people (Kayaking & Bike Experience) Where to find it Granger Bay parking garage (next to the Oranjezicht City Farm Market), Granger Bay Boulevard, V&A Waterfront, Cape Town Book Now

Kayak along the Atlantic Seaboard

Paddling on the open ocean evokes a sense of freedom and adventure. This two-hour guided kayaking trip departs from Three Anchor Bay beach below the Sea Point Promenade and ventures along the coastline to Bantry Bay or, in the other direction, into Table Bay and towards the Waterfront – depending on the weather and your preference. You’ll cruise past shipwrecks and dolphins, perhaps encountering penguins, seals and sunfish. Plus, you’ll get to see what the city and its glorious mountains look like from the sea. The Sunset Adventure adds the magnificent skyscapes of sundowner time. Good to know Minimum age is 6 years old, maximum weight is 120kg, and “average” fitness levels are required (no previous paddling experience needed). Times Daily, 7am; 9am; 5pm Cost R500 Where to find it 179 Beach Road, Three Anchor Bay, Cape Town Book Now

Explore the Lion Trail

A five-hour urban nature adventure, this guided excursion is designed to take in the best views of the Mother City – heading through Sea Point, up the slopes of Signal Hill, skirting Lion’s Head and descending through the forests of The Glen, before ending up on the seashore at Maiden’s Cove near Clifton (an icy dip in the Atlantic is optional). The final leg is an e-scooter ride along the stunning coastal road and Sea Point Promenade. Along the way you’ll stop for two gourmet picnics, complete with mimosas and Insta-worthy vistas. The tour is brought to life through fascinating stories on Cape Town’s history, nature and people, ensuring that even locals will learn a lot about the city’s character. Good to know Minimum age is 10 years old. Minimum booking of two people required. Times Monday – Saturday, 8am – 1pm Cost R1 050 per person (including picnics and e-scooter ride) Where to find it Green Point Lighthouse, 100 Beach Road, Mouille Point, Cape Town Book Now

eScooter along the Promenade

A battery-powered, fat-tyred electric scooter is just the thing for cruising Sea Point’s glorious seaside strip – you’ll cover more ground in less time, with less effort. Breeze past the dog walkers, joggers and skaters while taking in the scenery. The scooters come in different sizes, and are suitable for anyone five years and older. The entire Promenade, from Granger Bay to Bantry Bay and beyond, is yours to explore, or pop into the Green Point Park for a change of scenery if you like. ElecTrek also offers a guided Cape Town food tour on your escooter, stopping at some popular spots, or in the Winelands with stops at three Helderberg farms. Good to know An ID is required to rent scooters. E-bikes are also available to hire. Times Daily, 9.15am – 6pm Cost R200 (1 hour) R300 (2 hours) Contact 082 494 3720, [email protected] Where to find it Queens Beach Circle parking lot, Beach Road, Sea Point Shop: Surrey Place, off Beach Road, Mouille Point Book Now

Cruise the coast on an efoil

It’s a little like surfing, but more hi-tech… and less strenuous. Electric hydrofoils (or efoils) are surfboards with an electric propeller attached to a large fin underneath, that allows a foiler to ride above the water – or “fly” (to use the lingo). It takes about an hour-and-a-half to learn the ropes – you’ll be supplied with a wetsuit, helmet and lifevest, and after a short intro and safety briefing, head into the water for your lesson with the pro. Before you know it, you’ll be standing up, cruising and carving above the ocean on your emission-free Fliteboard. Once you know what you’re doing, you can take two-hour guided tours of the coastline. Good to know Efoiling is also available in the Winelands, at Devonbosch Dam in Stellenbosch. The minimum age is 11 years and maximum weight 100kg. You don’t need to be especially fit or athletic for this activity. A 6-hour package can be used on a single day or split up into multiple lessons. Times Daily, 8am – 6pm Cost R1 500 per hour per person R7 500 for 6 hours Where to find it Various locations including Clifton, V&A Waterfront, Hout Bay or Simon’s Town, Cape Town. Book 5 hours Book 10 hours

Things to do in the Cape of Good Hope

Visit cape point.

The 7 750-hectare Cape Point Nature Reserve protects the extraordinary landscape of the Cape of Good Hope. The main attraction is Cape Point, where visitors catch the Flying Dutchman funicular to visit the lighthouses, and follow walking paths to viewpoints – one looks over the actual “Cape of Good Hope”. Elsewhere in the reserve, you can learn about the rich history, flora and fauna of the area at the Buffelsfontein Visitor Centre, enjoy a stroll on one of the many stretches of pristine beach, or head out on a more adventurous hike (where you might encounter some wildlife such as buck or ostriches). Good to know The resident chacma baboons can be aggressive – keep your food hidden and do not feed or threaten them. There are no lifesavers on duty, and the sea is generally not suitable for swimming due to strong currents. Times Daily, 6am – 6pm (October – March); 7am – 5pm (April – September) Cost Cash-free entry SA residents: R100 (adult), R60 (child, 2 – 11 years) SADC nationals: R200 (adult), R100 (child) International visitors: R400 (adult), R200 (child) Contact Visitor Centre: 021 712 7471 Funicular: 021 780 9010, [email protected] Where to find it Plateau Road (M65), via M4 from Simon’s Town, Cape Town Book Now

Hike in the Cape of Good Hope

There are several hiking trails in the Cape Point Nature Reserve. There are three in particular we’d recommend: Lighthouse Keeper’s Trail (1 hour): This dramatic path affords invigorating high-angle views of the rocky cliffs that drop away to a wild, battered coastline. Starting just behind the Upper Funicular Station (at the lighthouse), it’s overlooked by most tourists rushing to get to their next stop. At 3.4km, it’s an easy walk along a narrow path, with historical bunkers, two lighthouses (old and new), thick fynbos and some of that world’s-end atmosphere that makes Cape Point so special. Antoniesgat Trail (2.5 hours): This trail from Buffels Bay beach leads south to an amazing sea cave in the red- and orange-tinged Rooikrans cliffs. The 3.5km hike is a thrilling walk along one of the wildest sections of the False Bay coastline, beside pounding waves and along the cliffs (with caves and tunnels to explore, if that’s your thing). Note that viewing of Antoniesgat is from above, on a small platform with a sheer drop of around 30 metres (climbing down into the cave is dangerous and not advised unless you’re a skilled rock climber.) Farmer’s Cliffs Trail (3 hours): This easy-to-follow 8km stone path reveals fantastic views that cannot be seen from your car. It starts 1km outside the reserve at the Smitswinkel Viewpoint parking area and ends on Buffels Bay Beach. The path winds up and down a number of hills – including Kanonkop, with its cannon used back in the day to warn Simon’s Town of approaching ships – and includes some rock-climbing (or boulder-hopping, if you prefer). (Take two cars, leaving one at Buffels and taking the other to the start point.) Good to know Other day-hiking trails in the reserve include the Shipwreck Trail along the beach at Olifantsbos, the circular Kanonkop Trail (which can include Venus Pools) and the Gifkommetjie Trail. SANParks runs a two-day Cape of Good Hope Trail (34km) with overnighting in the reserve. Contact Cape Point Buffelsfontein Visitor Centre: 021 712 7471 SANParks Tokai Office: 021 712 7471 TMNP emergency numbers: 086 110 6417, 107 or 021 937 0300

Go beach-hopping

Surrounded by ocean and stunning seascapes, Cape Point has many unspoilt beaches. These are must-sees: Diaz Beach: Without a doubt one of Cape Town’s most stunning shores – it is literally at the tip of Cape Point (on the western side) and encircled by dramatic cliffs and wild waves. Best of all, it remains largely undisturbed thanks to the 20-minute walk down steep wooden stairs to the white sands. Swimming is off-limits due to the strong currents – also, keep an eye out for baboons along the path. To find it, from the main car park at Cape Point, follow the gravel footpath (the ‘Cape of Good Hope’ walk), which then swings right and becomes a wooden boardwalk. Buffels Bay: This half-moon bay is on the calmer eastern side of Cape Point, so swimming is possible – and it’s top-notch; you might even be joined by a surfing seal or two. There is also a large tidal pool, great for younger children; rock pools to explore; and braai and picnic spots aplenty on a stretch of lawn (bring your own grid and wood). With powder-soft sand and ocean as far as the eye can see, this rhapsody in blue is well worth the drive and entry fee on a midsummer’s day when all other beaches are crowded. Platboom: Afrikaans for “flat tree”, Platboom is perhaps the wildest yet most accessible (but also deserted) beach in the Cape Point Nature Reserve, on the western flank of the promontory. If you’re feeling energetic, explore the chalk-white sand dunes and rocky outcrops, or simply take a long, undisturbed stroll along the spellbinding coastline. It’s also a great spot for birdwatching and picnicking (don’t feed the wildlife!). Access runs past Dias Cross, though some folk recommend the hike south from the Gifkommetjie viewpoint.

Explore kelp forest (with seals)

Only visible off our Cape shores, the Great African Seaforest is an underwater wonderland of giant, swaying bamboo kelp, home to myriad creatures, big and small (including pyjama sharks, shy sharks, cat sharks, gully sharks – and octopuses). Immerse yourself in this world on a guided scuba-diving excursion at Pyramid Rock and Partridge Point in False Bay, just a few miles up the coast from Cape Point. The maximum depth is 12 metres, which makes for great visibility and a good choice for beginner divers. The outing is also available as a snorkelling experience, where curious, playful seals play with swimmers on the surface. Afterwards, look forward to a hot shower and lunch. Good to know Wetsuits and gear are supplied for divers and snorkelers. A scuba certificate is required for diving (you can sign up for a PADI course). Times Tuesday – Sunday, 9am – 2pm Cost Diving: R2 700 (two dives) Snorkelling: R1 200 (one session); R2 200 (two sessions) Where to find it Pisces Divers, 1 Main Road, Simon’s Town Book Now

See Cape Point from the water

For an exhilarating open-ocean adventure, why not visit Cape Point by boat? There are various trips available , suited to different interests and occasions. The scenic eco-tour along the coastline to Cape Point will appeal to leisure travellers (with a visit to Seal Island included), while serious fishermen will relish being in the nutrient-rich waters, up to 40 nautical miles off Cape Point, where tuna abound; there’s also yellowtail and snoek to be hooked (and crayfish in summer). Bait and tackle are provided, and an experienced guide and photographer are optional. Snacks and refreshments are served on board. Good to know The trips and charters, all sustainability-focused, allow six to seven passengers at a time. All trips are subject to weather conditions; fish species are seasonal. When Daily, your choice of time Cost Marine eco-tour: R1 200 per person (two hours); R5 500 per person (private hire) Fishing: R3 500 per person; R13 500 (private hire) Contact 083 544 6748, [email protected] Where to find it Yacht Club Jetty, Wharf Street, Simon’s Town, Cape Town Enquire Now

Tour on two wheels

Sign up for a full-day cycle tour of the Cape of Good Hope. The relaxed e-bike safari in the Cape Point Nature Reserve will have you spotting the resident species – baboons, ostriches, buck and Cape mountain zebra – and hopping off your bike for a closer look at the landmarks and views. Then it’s on to Cape Point itself, where you can visit the lighthouses and enjoy the surroundings at your own pace. Once done, you have the option of going to see the penguins at Boulders Beach in Simon’s Town. Good to know Included in the 8-hour guided tour is the entrance fee to the reserve, the services of a professional guide, pick-up and drop-off at your accommodation, water and the rental of a helmet and the electric bike. Minimum age is 12 years. Times Daily, 8.30am –  5pm Cost R2 150 per person (full-day tour) Where to find it Cape Point Nature Reserve Enquire Now

Things to do in the South Peninsula

Visit the penguins at boulders beach.

The preferred haunt of some of the last African penguins on the planet is world-famous and a top tourist spot. Their sanctuary is actually next door, on Foxy Beach, where boardwalks and viewing platforms keep their nests undisturbed. However, the birds also hang out on Boulders Beach, waddling between sunbathers and speeding past swimmers like torpedoes. Apart from the penguins, this wonderful wind-sheltered beach offers amazing swimming: gentle and about as warm as you get in Cape Town. Come early to claim your patch of sand – it’s a small beach, and depending on the tide, it can get even smaller. It’s part of Table Mountain National Park, so there is an entry fee (cashless), and numbers are restricted to prevent overcrowding. Good to know A kayaking tour to Boulders will give you a different perspective – and be less busy. Penguins can also sometimes be seen at Seaforth Beach and nearby Windmill Beach. Times Daily, 8am – 6.30pm (October, November, February + March); until 5pm (April – September) 7am – 7.30pm (December + January) Cost SA citizens: R45 (adult), R25 (child) SADC nationals: R95 (adult), R50 (child) International visitors: R190 (adult), R95 (child) Book Now

Learn to surf in Muizenberg

Riding the waves is a rush, no matter your age. To learn how, all you need to bring is a swimming costume, towel and a bucket of enthusiasm – Surf Emporium provides the wetsuits and boards. The clubhouse is at Surfers Corner, the best spot in Cape Town (and among the top 10 in the world) to learn the ropes because of the gentle rolling waves, sandy bottom and warmer water. The 90-minute sessions are suited to your skill level, proceed at your pace and can be booked as a private group session (a family, for example). Groms under 10 get special one-on-one “freezer” lessons. Good to know They also do SUP lessons and rent out surfboards, bodyboards, SUP boards and wetsuits (hourly, daily or weekly rates). Times Daily, 7am – 6pm Cost R350 – R450 per person per lesson R900 – R1 350 per person (four-lesson package) R385 per child “freezer” lesson; R1 540 per child (5-lesson package) Enquire Now

Explore Kalk Bay Harbour

The colourful fishing boats and red-and-white-striped lighthouse at the tip of a bustling pier is one of the enduring images of this coastline. A popular spot for an early morning or evening amble during summer, in winter the harbour sheds its laidback image and gives new meaning to the phrase “Cape of Storms”, as large waves crash against the jetty and lighthouse. But most days, this is an idyllic spot – you’ll encounter playful resident seals, thieving seagulls and colourful characters, be able to buy fresh-off-the-boat fish to take home for dinner, and indulge in some of the best fish and chips in town at one of the picturesque harbourside restaurants. You’ll come for the harbour, but be tempted to linger longer… The village of Kalk Bay is irresistible with its buzzy, bohemian vibe and myriad shops, galleries and eateries. Where to find it Main Road, Kalk Bay, Cape Town

Go tidal-pool hopping on the False Bay seaboard

The False Bay coastline has several heavenly tidal pools – all pilgrimage sites for the morning/cold-swim tribe and Instagrammers (the early birds know these east-facing pools are one of the best places to be at sunrise). On hot summer days, they attract families – the calmer, sheltered pools make for safer swimming if you have little ones in tow, and the adjacent rock pools are great for exploring. St James is Cape Town’s most famous tidal pool – the one you’ll see on the postcards. The Victorian-style bathing huts add a bright splash of happy colour that, along with the aqua waters and children playing in the sand, paints an idyllic seaside-holiday scene. (For a lovely walk, head along the ocean-hugging catwalk to Muizenberg.) You’ll find Dalebrook nestled between St James and Kalk Bay; it is the most like a “swimming pool”, with steps into the water and no beach. Its unique feature is the large boulder in the middle of the pool, inviting bathers to make like mermaids contemplating the horizon… Wooley’s Pool is hidden from view, just as you’re leaving Kalk Bay en route to Fish Hoek. It’s smaller and often quieter; it also has a shallow “splash” pool built into a corner of the main pool. Beautiful and remote Miller’s Point, about 5km beyond Simon’s Town, is a boulder-dotted beach with a stunning tidal pool (complete with water slide), incredible views across the rocky bay, changing rooms and a grassed picnic and braai area. There is a small entry fee on weekends and during peak season.

Pedal a water-bike in Simon’s Town

These state-of-the-art water bikes make “walking on water” as easy as pie. All you need to do is take a seat and pedal away, exactly like you would on a normal bicycle. It’s the best way to view marine life, including seals, penguins (and even whales in season), as well as the picturesque scenery of False Bay. Besides being fun, water bikes are super-stable and don’t require fuel, making them ecofriendly and quiet way to cruise the ocean. The crew are close by, on a nearby guide boat, to take you from Simon’s Town pier, past the naval base, on an ocean adventure. The standard tour is one hour, but 30-minute and two-hour tours can be arranged. Good to know Minimum age is 13 years, and teens must be accompanied by an adult. Minimum height (to reach the pedals) is 1.5 metres tall; maximum weight is 110kg. Times Daily, 8.30am; 10am; 11.30am (one-hour tours) Cost R590 (1 hour) Where to find it Jetty at 1 Wharf Street, Simon’s Town, Cape Town Book Now

Try coasteering in False Bay

If sunning yourself on the beach or wading on the shore is a little tame for your tastes, how about a pirate-style seaside adventure? You’ll make your way along a section of the False Bay coastline, swimming, snorkelling, rock-scrambling and jumping off boulders into the water – all while getting up close to the marine life (and a few penguins) in the wilder sections of the bay. Think kloofing or canyoning, but in an ocean environment. You don’t need to be an athlete but you’ll need to be reasonably fit and agile. You’ll be accompanied by a guide and equipped with a PFD (personal flotation device) and helmet. A wetsuit and booties can be rented. Good to know Minimum age is 8 years, and there is a 10% discount for under-18s. Private group bookings are available on request, and a picnic lunch can be included. Times Daily, 9am – 11am Cost R680 per person (minimum 4 people) R100 (optional wetsuit hire) Where to find it Windmill Beach, Simon’s Town Book Now

Ride a horse on Long Beach

This enticing sweep of dazzling white sand (stretching over eight kilometres from Noordhoek to Kommetjie) is one of the most beautiful in the Cape. Glimpsing it from Chapman’s Peak Drive, few can resist the urge to stop and explore it. Probably the best way to do this is on horseback. Saddle up at Imhoff Farm in Kommetjie, where you’ll head through the wetlands and onto the beach for a 90-minute outride. You’ll get to see the ruins of the Kakapo shipwreck poking out of the sand and possibly spot a few marine creatures while your horse splashes through the shallows. Good to know All levels of riders are welcome; minimum age is 12 years old; maximum weight is 95kg. For younger kids, there are pony rides on the farm. Times Monday – Sunday, 9am; 12pm; 3.30pm Cost R750 Contact 082 774 1191, [email protected] Where to find it Imhoff Farm, Kommetjie Road, Kommetjie, Cape Town Enquire Now

Cruise Chapman’s Peak Drive in a convertible

Cape Town is a city made for road-tripping: the Peninsula creates the ideal circular itinerary offering awe-inspiring scenery and stops in every direction… the Atlantic Seaboard, Chapman’s Peak Drive, Cape Point, Boulders Beach, the False Bay coast, Constantia Winelands. Sure, you could take a tour bus or drive an ordinary rental car – but it’ll be much more fun in a classic Cobra sports car with the wind in your hair. Various self-drive options are available, or enquire about chauffeur-driven tours that take in all the iconic spots. Good to know Self-drive is for over-23s only, and you’ll need to pay for extra fuel and a deposit. Times Daily; depends on option booked Cost R2 200 (sundowner trip) R2 850 (day hire self-drive) R3 550 (24-hour self-drive) Contact 083 376 0376, cobraexperience.co.za Where to find it 19 Solan Road, Gardens, Cape Town Book Now

Swim at Silvermine Dam

Less than an hour’s drive from the city centre, this large, glistening, mountain-top reservoir is easily accessible to everyone and is hugely popular for leisurely swims and picnics. The water is a little warmer than the ocean, and there’s a one-kilometre boardwalk trail around the dam (wheelchair and pram friendly). It’s also the starting point for various hikes, the most popular of which are Elephant’s Eye Cave, Silvermine Ridge and Sentinel View. Good to know Entry is cash only. ID or passport required. Dogs are allowed with a Level 1 My Activity Permit (R340 for a year). Contact SANParks Tokai Plantation Office on 021 712 7471. Times Daily, 7am – 5pm (summer); 8am – 4pm (winter) Cost SA residents: R40 (adult); R20 (child, 2 – 11 years) SADC nationals: R80 (adult); R40 (child) International visitors: R160 (adult); R80 (child) Day dog walking permit: R90 Where to find it TMN Silvermine Section, Gate 1, Ou Kaapse Weg (M3), between Tokai and Noordhoek, Cape Town

Don’t miss…

Catch the steam train to elgin.

Few things are more evocative than a steam-train ride… Ceres Rail’s grand old locomotives make a full-day round trip to Elgin in the Overberg on weekends, departing from the city and travelling up and over Sir Lowry’s Pass (one of the steepest rail lines in South Africa). Enjoy breathtaking mountain and ocean scenery, and views of fynbos-covered hills, farmlands and orchards, while you sit back in the Bar Lounge car and sip on a cocktail or glass of wine. There’s also a wine-tasting option, with the onboard sommelier. Prefer privacy? Book a family coupé. The destination is the steampunk-style Elgin Railway Market, where live music and street-food stalls create a fun day out, and kids can let off a little steam of their own in the play area. Times Saturdays + some Sundays, 7.30am – 6pm Cost From R625 (adult); R450 (child) Contact 079 401 9353, ceresrail.co.za Where to find it Harbour Bridge Hotel platform, Dockrail Road, Foreshore, Cape Town Book Now

Soar on a mountain zipline in Elgin

Soar Tarzan-style through an aerial playground of fynbos, forests, majestic gorges and thundering waterfalls on this half-day zipline adventure . Based in the Hottentots-Holland Nature Reserve, the Cape Canopy tour has opened up previously inaccessible parts of this craggy wilderness. It all kicks off with a 4×4 ride high into the mountains, where guests are attached to cables that run from platform to platform, and supervised by professional guides. There are 11 slides in total – the longest is 320 metres. Including a walk across a suspension bridge that spans a gorge with a majestic double waterfall. Good to know Maximum weight is 120kg. Tandem rides are available for those under 50kg. Times Daily, 8am – 2pm Cost R995 R1 790 (adult-child combo) Where to find it Hottentots-Holland Nature Reserve, R321, Elgin-Grabouw Book Now

Go Kloofing in Kamikaze Kanyon

The name says it all! This full-day nature excursion starts with breakfast and ends with cold beers; in between you’ll be ticking off your adventure wishlist: jumping off cliffs (from three to 22 metres high) into crystal-clear rock pools, abseiling down the spectacular 65-metre Thunder Falls, not to mention hiking amid gorgeous scenery with incredible sea views. It all takes place in the Steenbras River Gorge, part of the Kogelberg Biosphere Reserve renowned for its rich fynbos and craggy mountains. Run by qualified guides, this outing is suited to novice and seasoned adrenaline junkies alike. Good to know Minimum age is 10 years old. The price includes permit fees, guiding, breakfast and a drink afterwards; bring your own snacks and beverages for the hike. Times Wednesday – Sunday, 8am – 5pm (8.30am in winter, May – September) Cost R2 250 Where to find it Pitstop/Grille Shack, Clarence Drive (R44), Gordon’s Bay Book Now

Visit the Mother City’s wine estates

Right on the doorstep, less than 20 minutes’ drive from the city centre, you’ll find historic and modern estates producing excellent wines in two “Wine of Origin” regions: Constantia Winelands: A leafy enclave hidden on the back slopes of Table Mountain, there are nine estates forming this beautiful wine route. The signature varietal is Sauvignon Blanc. Groot Constantia is where it all started – the oldest wine estate in South Africa. Its neighbours are Klein Constantia and Buitenverwachting (also a fine-dining destination), and further up in the hills are Eagles’ Nest, Constantia Glen, Beau Constantia (a boutique winery famed for its excellent restaurant) and organic estate Silvermist (home to world-famous La Colombe restaurant). There’s also Steenberg (with a hotel, great dining options and golf) in the Tokai area, and Constantia Royale in the Alphen area. Durbanville Winelands: In the opposite direction from the city, this wine valley lies adjacent to Stellenbosch. It has 15 wine estates to explore, many steeped in history and offering fantastic wines and an array of restaurants, country kitchens and deli-style eateries. These hills are also a mountain-biking mecca, and many farms have those picture-perfect iconic views of Table Mountain. We recommend starting your exploration with De Grendel, Groot Phesantekraal, Durbanville Hills, Diemersdal, boutique winery Klein Roosboom and family-run Maastricht. Bloemendal, Meerendal and D’Aria are great for active types too.

See modern art at the Norval Foundation

This family-friendly haven of art and nature in the Constantia winelands needs time to be appreciated, so make a half-day of it. Inside the purpose-designed building you’ll find a bouquet of exhibitions in nine galleries, showcasing top South African and African modern art in a variety of mediums, including painting, photography, sculpture and media art. Outside is an interactive sculpture garden amid the indigenous flora and wetlands, and a children’s playground. The onsite restaurant has seating indoors or outside, with views across the gardens and to Table Mountain. Picnics are available in summer. Times Wednesday – Saturday + Monday, 9am – 5pm Sunday + public holidays, 10am – 4pm Cost R200 (SA + African); R300 (international) R100 (students 18 – 24) Free (under 18 years) Contact 087 654 5900, [email protected] Where to find it 4 Steenberg Road, Tokai, Cape Town Book Now

Tackle a treetop obstacle course

Within the Constantia Nek forests, in the shadow of the misty mountains, this treetop playground has all the ziplines, cargo nets and elevated platforms a budding Indiana Jones could wish for. Acrobranch has four aerial obstacle courses – two of which are suitable for young children, and two geared towards tweens, teens and adults (you’ll need a head for heights for the High Flying course) – with trained instructors on hand to provide a safety briefing on each one. Good to know Climbing gloves are available at reception (R25). There is a restaurant on site and the entire facility is a cash-free zone. There is also an Acrobranch course in Stellenbosch. Times Wednesday – Sunday, 9am – 6pm (last slot 4pm) Cost R160 (Acro-Twigs) R200 (Monkey Moves) R240 (Swinging Tarzan) R300 (High Flying) Where to find it 1 Hout Bay Main Road, Constantia Nek, Cape Town Book Now

What are your favourite things to do in the Cape? We’d love to hear from you in the comments below.

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Disclaimer:

The Inside Guide has made every effort to ensure that the information in this post was correct at the time of publication. However, we do not assume any liability caused by errors, such as price, cost, time, and location.

Time of publication: 06 September 2023

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8 responses to “the 40 best things to do in cape town”.

Tauriq Allie

Hi Guys, also try checking out a place called cool runnings.. it is a fun bobsledding activity in which you ride a sled down a hill of bladed grass on a high speed trail. It goes about 25kmp/h and is one of a kind. The expirience is exciting and family friendly for all ages. Recommended for adrenaline seekers but also safe for children.

Jeffrey Matthew Cohen

Great ideas and information! Thank you.

Madelein van der Berg

Cape hidden gems weekly news

good recommendation and follow in 2024

Please send me the list prices of all the activities you have

Inside Guide

You’ll notice that the cost of each activity is listed with the relevant activity.

Candice Engel

Festive specials

thank you for forwarding your newsletter

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Cape Town travel guide

What to do, where to stay, and why you’ll love it.

A rguably the most naturally beautiful city in the world, Cape Town has beaches, mountains, wildlife, history, street art, and a slick foodie scene. Whether you’re travelling as a family or on honeymoon, the Mother City is bound to deliver, with highlights that might include leisurely wine farm lunches, sundowners overlooking the Atlantic Ocean and foodie tours around the city.

Discover the complex history of South Africa in some of the city’s excellent museums or on local-led walking tours. Active types can keep busy from dawn to dusk with kayaking at sunrise, hiking Table Mountain, and ending the day with a sunset swim in one of the tidal pools.

Eating and drinking options are endless, from fine-dining restaurants to cool brunch spots with excellent coffee (Cape Town takes its joe seriously). And did we mention the gin bars and craft beer breweries?

This article contains links from which we may earn revenue. These links are signposted with an asterisk. More information here .

Lion’s Head might be the best place to start — this distinctive little peak is the most popular place for Capetonians to watch the sunrise over the city. The short, steep hike is well worth the expended calories for its panoramic views. There are dozens of other hiking options along the Table Mountain range — go with a guide who knows the trails.

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Wildlife lovers can visit the Boulders Beach African penguin colony along the Cape Peninsula or go to the Two Oceans Aquarium at the V&A Waterfront.

There’s plenty for a culture fix, too. The artwork at the Zeitz Museum of Contemporary African Art (MOCAA), also at the V&A Waterfront, provides insight from all over the continent and the diaspora. Even the building itself — a restored grain silo — is something of a marvel. From the waterfront, you can catch the ferry to Robben Island, where anti-apartheid activists, including Nelson Mandela, were incarcerated — ex-prisoners lead the tours.

The District Six Museum documents mass forced removals from this inner-city neighbourhood during apartheid, and the 18 Gangster Museum in Khayelitsha is run by ex-offenders to shed light on the cycle of crime and how it can be broken; each tour allows one local schoolkid to visit the museum for free.

• Best things to do in Cape Town

Where to stay

There’s a vast array of accommodation in Cape Town, from budget backpackers and comfy guesthouses to seriously slick luxury hotels. The Atlantic Seaboard is one of the most popular places to stay, including suburbs such as busy Sea Point with its independent cafés, restaurants and boutiques, access to the promenade, and only a short Uber or bus ride into the city; and wealthy Camps Bay with its popular beach and tidal pools (note of warning: Camps Bay is super-windy in the summer).

There’s a smattering of high-end boutique hotels along the coast with stellar ocean views, such as the art-filled Ellerman House. The city centre has a range of business hotels and basing yourself here makes you well placed for evenings of wining and dining; just a little further up the city bowl, the more residential Gardens is home to boutique hotels, Airbnbs and maybe one of SA’s most famous and oldest hotels, The Mount Nelson — a pastel-pink grande dame with pretty gardens, a big art collection and a vast afternoon tea spread.

Woodstock is the city’s hipster ’hood, with street art everywhere, craft beer bars and the Old Biscuit Mill market. Around False Bay — for those who want to spend time in the water — top spots to stay include trendy little Kalk Bay and the larger suburb of Simonstown, with its naval history.

• Best hotels in Cape Town

Food and drink

It’s not hard to find good food and drink in Cape Town. There’s a slew of good coffee and brunch joints to try throughout Sea Point, Green Point, in Gardens and the city centre. There are long-established, no-frills fish and chip shops in Hout Bay (such as Fish on the Rocks) and around False Bay (such as Kalky’s, in Kalk Bay).

Burgers and craft beers are best paired in Woodstock — try some local Fynbos gin here, too. Cape Town has a real thing for small-plate fine dining and, for international tourists, many of these restaurants are excellent value — there are new places springing up all the time, mostly in the city bowl, but established award-winning restaurants include the Test Kitchen (probably the most expensive of the bunch) in Woodstock and La Colombe in leafy Constantia.

But you needn’t be confined to establishments — visit a deli such as Giovanni’s in Green Point and put together a picnic to eat in a park, on a beach or on a mountain perch. Some wine farms offer picnics as well, and many also have excellent dining and wine-tasting options — Constantia Glen’s views of rolling fields of vines backed by the mountain are among the best in the city.

Cape Town’s kelp forests are a hidden and magical world to be discovered by those who can brave the cold water (a wetsuit is recommended!). Book a freediving course or snorkelling tour with a diving operator in False Bay for a chance to swim among the golden kelp, maybe spotting octopuses (you’ve seen Oscar-winning Netflix documentary My Octopus Teacher, right?), Cape fur seals, harmless little sharks, nudibranchs or rays. There are many more ways to enjoy the saltwater, too — make time for a sunrise dip in one of False Bay’s tidal pools (Dalebrook is a local favourite), paddle out for a surf at Muizenberg, or, pretty much anywhere along CT’s coast, you can hire a kayak or SUP board to spot dolphins or whales.

Know before you go

South Africa’s currency is the rand; small change is useful for tips and markets, but most places take card.

Although Cape Town is generally safe for tourists, crime is a problem in South Africa — be vigilant, don’t flash your valuables, don’t hike alone, and do take an Uber after dark. If you’re driving, you can tip car guards (self-employed people in high-vis vests who will often help you park and then watch your car) and petrol attendants; locals generally tip about R5-10. Tipping (10 per cent is the norm) is also appreciated in restaurants.

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• There are loads of types of vacations in Cape Town and the cost will depend on what type of trip you’re taking and for how long you’d like to stay. Here are the latest prices for a 3 night trip for 2 travelers: Top vacation $665; Family vacation $606; Romantic vacation $698; Luxury vacation $794; Budget vacation $522.

Why should you book a vacation package to Cape Town?

But activities tend to cost money. So why not save some cash with a vacation package to Cape Town? Cut the cost of accommodation and flights, and put the rest towards enjoying the vacation of a lifetime.

When should you book a vacation package to Cape Town?

Cape Town's long, dry and hot summer lasts from October through to April, but peak season really kicks in around December, so you might find affordable deals in the late fall. April is another good month, especially if you don't mind a couple of rainy days here and there.

Where should you stay in Cape Town during your vacation?

For any vacation type in cape town:.

The President Hotel is the kind of place that everyone seems to enjoy. Located in beautiful Bantry Bay, it balances the beach and downtown Cape Town, with a foot in the world of city breaks and another in the sea. Taxis from the airport will get you there in 15 mins.

Lagoon Beach Hotel is also close to the beach, and convenient for the city. Spa facilities add a relaxing element, along with multiple pools, a gym and conferencing options for business parties. Expect taxis to take 20 minutes to and from Cape Town Airport.

For family vacations in Cape Town:

The Cape Town Lodge Hotel has everything families could need. The views of Table Mountain are incredible, sports venues and shopping streets are nearby and there's secure underground parking. Airport shuttles make getting in and out of the city simple.

Hotel Verde is another exceptional family hotel. Totally carbon neutral, this central hotel offers sustainable gourmet eats at its acclaimed restaurant and the friendly team is always willing to arrange tickets. Being 400 meters from the airport, it couldn't be more conveniently located.

For romantic vacations in Cape Town:

Housed in a 19th century manor on the slopes of Table Mountain, the Vineyard is a gorgeous hotel and the ideal retreat for couples. Zone out with yoga, unwind at the spa, hike nearby and join guided wine tours. The airport is just 16 mins away by road.

A city center option which oozes romance, the Taj Cape Town is opulence personified. Share afternoon tea with your partner on the roof terrace, sip fine wines or relax at the spa. As the hotel says "the guest is God." Airport transfers by road shouldn't take more than 20 mins.

For luxury vacations in Cape Town:

Icon Luxury Apartments are perfect for luxury travelers who want a home away from home in Cape Town. These city center serviced properties feature an on-site sauna, casino, restaurants, and exquisitely furnished rooms. Complementary airport pick-ups are available, too.

The Westin Cape Town delivers in the brand's customary style, with breathtaking vistas of Table Mountain, indoor and outdoor pools, and one of the finest spas anywhere in South Africa. It's handy for the airport as well, with a transfer time of around 18 mins.

For budget vacations in Cape Town:

Places like Signal Hill Lodge make it easy to balance the books when you book Cape Town travel deals. Located in a nature reserve, the lodge has a commanding position above the city, but isn't too far from the center that it makes sightseeing a chore. The airport is just 20 mins away by road.

Money saving is also a possibility at the Holiday Inn Express Cape Town City Centre, which keeps room costs low despite being at the heart of the city. It's a no-frills hotel, but doesn't cut corners, and its central location is a godsend for getting around.

Where to stay in Cape Town

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Cape Town is one of Africa’s most beautiful, most romantic and most visited cities. Its physical setting is extraordinary, something its pre-colonial Khoikhoi inhabitants acknowledged when they referred to Table Mountain as Hoerikwaggo – the mountain in the sea. Even more extraordinary is that so close to the national park that extends over much of the peninsula, there’s a vibrant metropolis with nightlife to match the city’s wildlife. Swim with penguins at Boulders Beach, see the continent’s southwestern tip at Cape Point, enjoy lunch on the chichi Atlantic seaboard and taste fine wines on a historic Constantia estate, before partying the night away in a Long Street club. It’s all in a Mother City day.

Why you must visit Cape Town

16 things to do in cape town, where to stay in cape town, where to eat out, how many days do you need in cape town, how to get here, the best time to visit cape town, travel ideas for south africa, created by local experts.

Cape Town and Garden Route - a luxury guided tour

Cape Town and the Garden Route have it all - a fascinating culture, safaris, chocolate and wine tasting, and much more. Discover the coastal city of Cape Town and the Peninsula before heading out to the Garden Route with Knysna and Mossel Bay, where you'll experience some game drives.

The Cape Peninsula and Safaris in Kruger and Pilanesberg

Wildlife in South Africa is still truly wild, a fact that you'll be able to discover in this fascinating two weeks trip. Enjoy whale watching in Cape Town and first safaris in Aquila before heading up north: the famous Kruger and Pilanesberg national parks with all its wildlife await.

Explore the North of South Africa: Sun City and Madikwe game reserve

For those short on time, staying close to Johannesburg may make sense. On this trip, you'll arrive and depart in Johannesburg and then transfer to the theme park Lost City before continuing to Madikwe for a few days of game drives to spot plenty of wildlife.

Secret gem in South Africa - Northern Cape Self Drive

Embark on an epic self-drive adventure from Cape Town to the Northern Cape. Witness the breathtaking floral displays of Namaqualand, marvel at the diverse wildlife in Karoo National Park, and be captivated by the awe-inspiring cascades of Augrabies Falls.

A family self drive in South Africa & Swaziland

Take the family on an African adventure in your own rental car, it's the ideal companion to discover Kruger National Park at your own pace. Further on to Swaziland and then Hluhluwe, this trip focuses on wildlife and exploration, all at your leisure.

A Kruger adventure

Kruger National Park is one of the best known national parks in South Africa and always worth a visit. Starting and ending in Johannesburg is the most convenient one, the perfect stop to then take a domestic flight towards George or Cape Town for the rest of your trip.

Welcome to the vibrant and colorful city of Cape Town, South Africa ! Located on the southwestern tip of the African continent, Cape Town is a city like no other. With its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and endless activities, it's no wonder that Cape Town is consistently ranked as one of the top tourist destinations in the world.

From hiking Table Mountain to exploring the colorful streets of Bo-Kaap, there is something for everyone in this bustling metropolis. Join us as we take you on a journey through Cape Town, sharing our favorite sights, sounds, and experiences along the way.

Cape Town is a destination that truly has it all, from breathtaking natural landscapes to a rich and diverse cultural heritage. The city is a melting pot of different cultures and traditions, with influences from Europe, Africa, and Asia.

This mix of cultures is reflected in Cape Town's architecture, food, and art, creating a unique and vibrant atmosphere that is unlike anywhere else in the world.

Start planning your trip to Cape Town today! With the help of our local experts and carefully crafted South African itineraries , you're guaranteed an outstanding experience.

Cape Town, South Africa © Mark Van Overmeire/Shutterstock

From art and architecture to culture, nature and vineyards, Cape Town travel is diverse and rewarding.

Here are the best things to do in Cape Town.

#1 Explore to colours of Bo-Kaap

Bo-Kaap is a colorful and vibrant neighborhood in Cape Town, famous for its brightly painted houses and rich cultural heritage. The neighborhood is located on the slopes of Signal Hill, and is home to a predominantly Muslim community with roots in Southeast Asia, India, and East Africa.

The houses in Bo-Kaap were originally built by slaves and political exiles brought to the Cape by the Dutch in the 18th and 19th centuries. The residents of Bo-Kaap began painting their houses in bright colors in the 1970s as a form of protest against the oppressive apartheid government.

Today, the colors of Bo-Kaap are a symbol of the neighborhood's rich history and cultural diversity. The houses are painted in shades of pink, blue, green, yellow, and purple, creating a rainbow-like effect that is truly unique.

In addition to its colorful houses, Bo-Kaap is known for its mosques, minarets, and cobblestone streets. The neighborhood is also home to several museums and cultural centers that celebrate the history and heritage of the community.

If you're visiting Cape Town, a visit to Bo-Kaap is a must. Take a walking tour of the neighborhood to learn more about its history and culture, and don't forget to take plenty of photos of the colorful houses!

Bo-Kaap in Cape Town © Shutterstock

#2 Visit Robben Island

Lying a few kilometres from the Waterfront, flat and windswept Robben Island is suffused by a meditative, otherworldly silence. This key site of South Africa's liberation struggle was intended to silence apartheid's domestic critics, but instead became an international focus for opposition to the regime. Measuring six square kilometres and sparsely vegetated by low scrub, it was Nelson Mandela's "home" for nearly two decades.

The ferry trip from the Waterfront takes about half an hour to reach the island. After arrival you are taken on a bus tour around the island and a tour of the prison . The bus tour stops off at several historical landmarks, the first of which is a beautiful shrine built in memory of Tuan Guru, a Muslim cleric from present-day Indonesia who was imprisoned here by the Dutch in the eighteenth century. On his release, he helped to establish Islam among slaves in Cape Town. The tour also passes a leper graveyard and church designed by Sir Herbert Baker.

Robert Sobukwe 's house is perhaps the most affecting relic of incarceration on the island. It was here that Sobukwe, leader of the Pan Africanist Congress (a radical offshoot of the ANC), was held in solitary confinement for nine years. 

No other political prisoners were allowed to speak to him, but he would sometimes gesture his solidarity with them by letting sand trickle through his fingers as they walked past.

Entrance Robben Island Prison where Nelson Mandela was held © DarenP/Shutterstock

#3 Rotate up Table Mountain

The revolving cable car is the city’s easiest route to the summit, where you’ll be rewarded with spectacular views across town to Table Bay and the Atlantic. Table Mountain , a 1086m flat-topped massif with dramatic cliffs and eroded gorges, dominates the northern end of the Cape Peninsula. Its north face overlooks the city centre, with the distinct formations of Lion’s Head and Signal Hill to the west and Devil’s Peak to the east.

The massif’s west face is made up of a series of gable-like formations known as the Twelve Apostles. The southwest face towers over Hout Bay, and the east gazes over the Southern Suburbs. Fabulous hikes weave up and along Table Mountain, while the highly popular cable car offers dizzying views across town to Table Bay and the Atlantic.

Reckoned to be the most-climbed massif in the world, Table Mountain has suffered under the constant pounding of hikers – although the damage isn’t always obvious. Every year the mountain strikes back, taking its toll of lives. 

There are also full-day guided hikes tailored to your level of fitness. You may choose to come back the easy way by cable car, or partially abseil.

Table mountain cable way, Cape Town, South Africa @ Shutterstock

#4 Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden

Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and garden enthusiasts visiting Cape Town. Located on the eastern slopes of Table Mountain, Kirstenbosch is one of the most beautiful botanical gardens in the world, with a stunning array of flora and fauna on display.

The garden covers an area of 528 hectares and is home to over 7,000 plant species, many of which are indigenous to South Africa. You can take a leisurely stroll along the winding pathways that meander through the garden, taking in the colorful displays of flowers, shrubs, and trees.

One of the highlights of Kirstenbosch is the Centenary Tree Canopy Walkway, also known as the Boomslang. This elevated walkway snakes through the treetops, offering visitors a unique and immersive experience of the garden's flora and fauna.

Kirstenbosch National park in cape town, South Africa © Shutterstock

#5 Spend a day on the beach

Cape Town is known for its beautiful coastline and stunning beaches, which offer a wide range of activities and experiences for visitors. Here are some of the best beaches in Cape Town:

Clifton Beaches

The four Clifton Beaches, known as 1st, 2nd, 3rd and 4th Beach, are some of the most popular beaches in Cape Town. These beaches are known for their crystal-clear waters, soft white sand, and picturesque surroundings. 1st and 2nd Beach are particularly popular with the younger crowd, while 3rd and 4th Beach are quieter and more family-friendly.

Camps Bay Beach

Camps Bay is a trendy and fashionable area located just a short drive from Cape Town's city center. The beach is famous for its palm-lined promenade, stunning views of the Twelve Apostles mountain range, and its golden sand beach. Visitors can enjoy a variety of water activities, such as swimming, surfing, and kayaking, as well as a range of cafes, bars, and restaurants along the promenade.

Muizenberg Beach

Located on the False Bay coastline, Muizenberg Beach is known for its long, wide, and sandy beach, as well as its colorful beach huts. The beach is particularly popular with surfers, as it offers consistent waves that are perfect for beginners.

Llandudno Beach

Llandudno Beach is a secluded and picturesque beach located on the Atlantic Seaboard. The beach is surrounded by large granite boulders, which provide shelter from the wind and create a natural amphitheater. Visitors can enjoy the crystal-clear waters, soft white sand, and stunning views of the mountains and ocean.

View over Camps Bay South Africa © Marisa Estivill/Shutterstock

#6 Spot African penguins at Boulders Beach

Boulders Beach is a unique and picturesque destination located in Simon's Town, just a short drive from Cape Town. This beach is home to a colony of African penguins, making it one of the few places in the world where you can get up close and personal with these charming birds.

The penguin colony at Boulders Beach started in 1982, when a pair of penguins took up residence on the beach. Today, the colony has grown to over 2,000 birds, making it one of the largest in South Africa. You can observe the penguins in their natural habitat, watching as they swim, play, and waddle along the sand.

There are several wooden boardwalks and viewing platforms that offer visitors a close-up look at the penguins without disturbing their natural habitat. The boardwalks also wind through the unique boulder formations that give the beach its name, creating a stunning backdrop for photographs.

Penguin watching can be an unforgettable experience for your kids. To get the most out of your family holiday, read everything you need to know about visiting South Africa with kids .

African penguin in Boulders colony © Shutterstock

#7 Visit Cape Point

Cape Point is the treacherous promontory of rocks, winds and swells braved by navigators since the Portuguese first "rounded the Cape" in the fifteenth century. Plenty of wrecks lie submerged off its coast, and at Olifantsbos on the west side you can walk to a US ship sunk in 1942, and a South African coaster that ran aground in 1965. 

The Old Lighthouse, built in 1860, was too often dangerously shrouded in cloud, and failed to keep ships off the rocks, so another was built lower down in 1914. It's not always successful in averting disasters, but is still the most powerful light beaming onto the sea from South Africa.

Most visitors make a beeline for Cape Point, seeing the rest of the reserve through a vehicle window, but walking is the best way to appreciate the dramatic landscape and flora.

There are several waymarked walks in the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve. If you're planning a big hike it's best to set out early, and take plenty of water, as shade is rare and the wind can be foul. 

One of the most straightforward hiking routes is the signposted forty-minute trek from the car park at Cape Point to the more westerly Cape of Good Hope. For exploring the shoreline, a clear path runs down the Atlantic side, which you can join at Gifkommetjie, signposted off Cape Point Road.

Cape Point, South Africa © Shutterstock

The beaches

A single main road runs from the Cape Point entrance to the car park, restaurant and funicular. A number of roads branch off this, each leading to one of the series of beaches on either side of the peninsula. 

The sea is too dangerous for swimming, but there are safe tidal pools at the Buffels Bay and Bordjiesrif beaches, which are adjacent to each other, midway along the east shore. Both have braai stands, but more southerly Buffels Bay is the nicer, with big lawned areas and some sheltered spots to have a picnic.

#8 Explore all there is to see on Long Street

Long Street is one of the most iconic streets in Cape Town, and a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the city's vibrant culture and history. This bustling street is located in the heart of Cape Town's city center, and is lined with beautiful architecture, trendy shops, colorful street art, and a diverse range of restaurants, bars, and cafes.

One of the highlights of Long Street is the vibrant nightlife . The street comes alive after dark, with a wide range of bars and nightclubs catering to all tastes and preferences. From trendy rooftop bars with stunning views of the city to laid-back jazz clubs and dance floors.

During the day, Long Street is a great spot for shopping and exploring. The street is home to a variety of shops selling everything from vintage clothing to locally-made crafts and artwork.

Long Street is also known for its vibrant street art scene. You can take a self-guided walking tour of the area to discover colorful murals and graffiti art on the walls of buildings and alleyways.

Long Street, cape Town South Africa

#9 Go wine tasting

Cape Town and its surrounding areas are known for their world-class wine regions, with a variety of vineyards and wineries offering wine tasting experiences for visitors. Here are some of the best places for wine tasting around Cape Town:

Stellenbosch

Located just a short drive from Cape Town, Stellenbosch is one of the oldest and most prestigious wine regions in South Africa. With over 170 wine estates to choose from, visitors can enjoy a wide range of wines, from rich reds to crisp whites, while taking in the stunning scenery of the vineyards and surrounding mountains.

Franschhoek

Known as the food and wine capital of South Africa, Franschhoek is a picturesque town located in the Cape Winelands region. Visitors can sample a variety of wines from over 50 vineyards, while also indulging in gourmet cuisine from award-winning restaurants and cafes.

Located just a short drive from Cape Town's city center, Constantia is the oldest wine region in South Africa, with a history dating back over 300 years. Visitors can enjoy a range of award-winning wines, including the region's famous dessert wine, while taking in the beautiful views of the vineyards and surrounding mountains.

Durbanville

Situated just 20 minutes from Cape Town's city center, Durbanville is a relatively small wine region, but one that offers a unique wine tasting experience. Visitors can sample a variety of wines, including the region's famous Sauvignon Blanc, while enjoying the peaceful countryside setting.

Cape vineyard Buitenverwachting, South Africa © Gareth Weeks/Shutterstock

#10 Explore the city centre

The Upper City Centre contains the remains of the city’s 350-year-old historic core. The neighbourhood has survived the ravages of modernization and apartheid-inspired urban clearance to emerge as South Africa’s most charming city centre. 

It is a place where Europe, Asia and Africa meet in the markets, alleyways and mosques, while a jigsaw of Georgian, Cape Dutch, Victorian and twentieth-century architecture pieces together its complex history.

Among the drawcards here are Parliament, the Company’s Garden and a cluster of museums. North of Strand Street to the shore, the Lower City Centre takes in the still-functional Duncan Dock.

Cape Town, South Africa @ Shutterstock

#11 Go shopping in Cape Town

The V&A Waterfront is Cape Town’s most popular shopping venue, with a vast range of shops in a lovely harbour setting. Nearby, the Cape Quarter, accessed off Somerset Road on the border of Der Waterkant and Green Point, is smaller and more exclusive. While most South African malls tend to follow the American model, the city centre offers much more variety.

Long Street is good for crafts, antiques and secondhand books, while Bree Street and Kloof Street are perfect for unique designer goods. For something edgier, the increasingly gentrified city-fringe districts of Woodstock and the East City have clusters of cutting-edge design shops and markets.

Cape Town’s Green Map is a great source of information about ethical shopping and organic markets

V&A Waterfront in Cape Town © Shutterstock

#12 Visit the Cape Flats and the townships

East of the northern and southern suburbs, among the industrial smokestacks and the windswept Cape Flats, reaching well beyond the airport, is Cape Town’s largest residential quarter, taking in the coloured districts, African townships and shantytown squatter camps. 

The Cape Flats are exactly that: flat, barren and populous, exclusively inhabited by Africans and coloureds in separate areas, with the M5 acting as a dividing line between it and the southern suburbs.

Cape Flats of Stellenbosch © Shutterstock

#13 Go on one of the township tours and homestays

Several projects are under way to encourage tourists into the townships but, as a high proportion of Cape Town's nearly two thousand annual murders take place here, the recommended way to visit is on a tour operated by residents of the Cape Flats, or in cooperation with local communities, emphasizing face-to-face encounters with ordinary people.

They include visits to shebeens, nightclubs and a township restaurant, chats with residents of squatter camps and the Langa hostels, and meetings with traditional healers and music makers, township artists and craftworkers. Some tours also take in "sites of political struggle", where significant events in the fight against apartheid occurred.

If you want to really get under the skin of the townships, there's no better way than staying in one of the township B&Bs which offer pleasant, friendly and safe accommodation.

Khayelitsha Township Shacks, Cape Town © Shutterstock

#14 Go on a tour at the Cape Flats

Stretching east of the M5 highway and sprawling out past the airport, the windswept Cape Flats are Cape Town’s largest residential area. It takes in the coloured districts, African townships and informal settlements (shanty town squatter camps).

Once the apartheid dumping ground for black and coloured people, these township-covered flatlands now offer rewarding experiences of everyday African life and are best visited on a tour.

#15 Go whale-spotting

Whale watching is a popular activity in Cape Town, particularly during the winter months from June to November, when southern right whales migrate to the coastal waters of South Africa to mate and calve. Here are some of the best places for whale watching in Cape Town:

Located just a short drive from Cape Town, Hermanus is known as the whale-watching capital of South Africa. Visitors can enjoy shore-based whale watching from the cliffs or take a boat tour to get up close to these magnificent creatures.

False Bay, located on the eastern side of the Cape Peninsula, is a popular spot for whale watching, particularly during August and September. Visitors can take a boat tour from Simon's Town or enjoy shore-based whale watching from Boyes Drive in Kalk Bay.

Cape Point, located at the southern tip of the Cape Peninsula, is another great spot for whale watching. Visitors can enjoy stunning views of the ocean from the cliffs, while keeping an eye out for southern right whales, humpback whales, and dolphins.

Walker Bay, located on the southern coast of the Western Cape, is another popular spot for whale watching. Visitors can take a boat tour from the town of Gansbaai or enjoy shore-based whale watching from the cliffs at De Kelders.

© Shuttestock

#16 Visist False Bay

In summer the waters of False Bay are several degrees warmer than those on the Atlantic seaboard, which is why Cape Town’s most popular seaside towns line this flank of the peninsula. A series of historic, mountain-backed suburbs are dotted all the way south from Muizenberg, through St James, Kalk Bay, Fish Hoek and down to Simon’s Town.

Each has its own character with restaurants, shops and places to stay. Simon’s Town, one of South Africa’s oldest settlements, makes either a pleasant day-trip or a relaxing base for visiting Boulders Beach and the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve.

Fish Hoek Beach at False Bay, Cape Town © Shutterstock

Cape Town has plenty of accommodation to suit all budgets, though booking ahead is recommended, especially over the Christmas and Easter holidays. The long peninsula offers many different locations, all with hotly debated advantages and varying physical beauty.

You’ll need to choose whether you want to be central, with nightlife on your doorstep, or would prefer a quieter setting closer to the ocean, in which case you’ll travel further to get into the city. The greatest concentration of accommodation is in the city centre, City Bowl and the Atlantic seaside strip as far south as Camps Bay.

Traditional south african lamb chunks © Shutterstock

Eating out is one of the highlights of visiting this world-class culinary destination, where the Mediterranean climate nurtures farms, vineyards and small producers galore. Prices are inexpensive compared with Western countries. 

For the cost of an unmemorable meal back home, you can eat imaginative dishes by outstanding chefs in an upmarket restaurant. This is the place to splash out, and you’ll find the quality of meat, from steaks to springbok, is high, with many vegetarian options also available.

A few restaurants are dedicated to Cape Malay or African cuisine, though other genres are generally prepared more skilfully. Expect fresh Cape fish at every good restaurant as well as seafood from warmer waters. 

Try the delicious local fish such as yellowtail, which is not endangered. Also check out the fun neighbourhood markets, one of the top places to visit in Cape Town for local food.

The number of days you need in Cape Town depends on your interests and the activities you plan to do.

If you're interested in exploring the city's cultural attractions, such as the District Six Museum and the Bo-Kaap neighborhood, and taking in the views from Table Mountain, you could probably see the highlights in two or three days.

If you want to explore the surrounding natural beauty and outdoor activities, like visiting the Cape of Good Hope and the Boulders Beach penguin colony, hiking in the nearby mountains, or going on a wine tour in Stellenbosch or Franschhoek, you might need five to seven days.

For a more leisurely pace and to experience all that Cape Town has to offer, including its many restaurants and nightlife options, you could easily spend ten days or more.

The most common and fastest way to get to Cape Town from the UK is by flying. Many airlines offer direct flights from major UK airports, such as London Heathrow, to Cape Town International Airport. The flight time is approximately 12-14 hours.

Lion's Head, Cape Town, South Africa © Richard Cavalleri/Shutterstock

Johannesburg to Cape Town

If you arrive in Johannesburg , your best options to get to Cape Town are:

• By plane: This is the fastest and most convenient way to get from Johannesburg to Cape Town. There are several airlines that operate daily flights between the two cities, including South African Airways, Mango, Kulula, and British Airways.
• By car: If you prefer to drive, you can rent a car in Johannesburg and take the N1 highway to Cape Town. The drive takes approximately 14 hours, but you can break it up with stops along the way. Make sure to plan your route carefully, as there are some areas that are not safe for driving at night.
• By bus : There are several bus companies that operate daily trips between Johannesburg and Cape Town, including Greyhound, Intercape, and Citiliner. The journey takes approximately 24 hours, so it's a good option if you're on a budget or prefer to travel overnight.
• By train: The Shosholoza Meyl train service operates between Johannesburg and Cape Town, and offers a comfortable and scenic journey. The journey takes approximately 26 hours, and there are several classes of accommodation available, including sleeper cabins.

Cape Town has a Mediterranean climate, the warm, dryish summers balanced by cool wet winters. The best time to visit Cape Town depends on the kind of trip you’re planning; come prepared for hot days in winter and cold snaps in summer, and always pack a jumper and jacket.

For sun and swimming, the best time to visit is from October to mid- December and mid- January to Easter, when it’s light long into the evening and there’s an average of ten hours of sunshine a day.

Between mid-December and mid-January, the whole region becomes congested as the nation takes its annual seaside holiday. In Cape Town, this is serious party time, with plenty of major festivals and events; if this is when you plan to visit, arrange accommodation and transport well in advance, and expect to pay considerably more for your bed than during the rest of the year.

Despite its shorter daylight hours, the autumn period, from April to mid- May , has a lot going for it: the southeaster drops and air temperatures remain pleasantly warm and the light is sharp and bright. For similar reasons the spring month of September can be very agreeable, with the added attraction that following the winter rains the peninsula tends to be at its greenest.

Although spells of heavy rain occur in winter ( June and July ), it tends to be relatively mild, with temperatures rarely falling below 6˚C. Glorious sunny days with crisp blue skies are common, and you won’t see bare wintry trees either: indigenous vegetation is evergreen and gardens flower year-round. It’s also in July that the first migrating whales begin to appear along the southern Cape coast, usually staying till the end of November .

Find out more about the best time to visit Cape Town .

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Cape town holiday packages.

Without a doubt, a holiday to Cape Town in the Western Cape of South Africa is sure to be one for the memory box! This vibrant city is popular among locals and international visitors alike, due to its vibrant entertainment, breathtaking natural beauty, adventure activities and gorgeous beaches.

No trip to Cape Town is complete without spending time in the wonderful Cape Winelands , and for those looking to explore further afield, the magic of the Overberg and then the Garden Route is just a few hours up the southeast coast. Browse our affordable Cape Town holiday packages and check out our flights to Cape Town page for great deals.

Cape Town Holidays

If you’re looking for a Cape Town holiday package for 2024, you’ve come to the right place! Looking for a holiday break with family? Visit popular sights like Table Mountain, the V&A Waterfront, Boulders Beach and Kirstenbosch Gardens. If you’re looking for a romantic getaway with your loved one, why not explore the Cape Winelands — there’s really something for everyone.  

Kids also love a Cape Town holiday! Families can enjoy beautiful blue-flag beaches, adventure experiences in the ocean and up the mountain, leisurely drives along scenic Chapman's Peak or a superb relaxed or fine-dining experience at one of the city’s many eateries.  

From wine-tasting to mountain biking, shopping to lazy beach days, a Cape Town holiday is not to be missed! Browse our holiday packages for couples and families and find the perfect Cape Town vacation that suits you. 

Looking for more Cape Town inspiration?   Cape Towns Coastal Charms: Where Sunshine, Sand, and Spectacular Scenery Converge Cape Towns Best Beaches Most Romantic Things to do in Cape Town

• Table Mountain Cable Car: Overlook the Mother City with a ride up the 360 degree rotating cable car to the top of Table Mountain.
• Visit the V&A Waterfront: This popular shopping and entertainment destination also offers excellent dining options, and is the base from which to visit Robben Island and enjoy canal kayaking and sunset boat trips.
• Penguins at Boulders: Famous Boulders Beach in Simonstown is home to dozens of black and white African penguins, a popular wildlife activity among families. Go Wine Tasting:  From the scenic rolling slopes of the Constantia Winelands to the multitude of award-winning estates in the Cape Winelands (Stellenbosch, Franschhoek and Paarl), there’s a wine for everyone.
• Explore Kirstenbosch: This exceptional botanical garden is situated on the slopes of Devil’s Peak, and is both an educational destination, as well as offering the perfect spot for a garden picnic. Don’t forget to walk the Boomslang canopy walk!
• Hike, Bike and Adventure: Table Mountain is there to explore: hike one of the various moderate to difficult routes to the top, go mountain biking (with a Wild Card) on the Tokai section, or enjoy abseiling down the front!
• Go To The Beach: In Cape Town, you’ll be spoiled for beaches. Dip your toes in the chilly Atlantic then relax on the beautiful white-sand beaches of Camps Bay, Clifton, and Llandudno on the Atlantic Seaboard. Or head over to False Bay and enjoy swimming, surfing and SUP-ing in the warmer Indian Ocean.
• At least 5 days in and around Cape Town will give you a good feel for the city; there’s so much to do, though, you could spend two weeks!
• Make sure to pack sunscreen, a hat and walking shoes if you’re arriving in the summer months.
• Bring along your camera, or camera phone! Your Instagram will love you for it.
• Support local. Buy from local artisans, visit smaller niche restaurants, and take in the local lingo.
• Be aware and be safe. Keep your valuables locked away and out of sight!
• Make sure you’ve got your reusable water bottle with you, and pack extra bags for shopping.
• Check out the daily weather – sometimes wind or rain will only affect one side of the mountain, and this may determine your daily plans.

Facts about Cape Town Travel

• Cape Town is one of the most popular travel destinations in South Africa . The city is renowned for its natural beauty, with the Table Mountain and Cape Point reserves being particular highlights.
• It's also a great place to enjoy some winter sun, with average temperatures of around 20 degrees Celsius in December and January.
• For South Africans, Cape Town is a relatively affordable holiday destination. There are plenty of budget-friendly accommodation options available, and the city has a wide range of restaurants to suit all tastes and budgets.
• The Mother City, as it is affectionately known, is also home to many free attractions, making it a great option for those on a tight budget.
• Cape Town is also a great place to visit if you're interested in wine tasting. The region is home to some of the best wines in the world, so be sure to sample some while you're there.
• This is an incredibly popular travel destination, so be sure to book your tickets and accommodation well in advance.

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Destinations

Local destinations, themed holidays, about thompsons, cape town holidays.

Welcome to Cape Town! Indescribably beautiful, vibrant and inspiring, Cape Town has become popular with visitors from all over the world because of its scenic attractions, cultural activities and exciting entertainment. The city is one of South Africa ’s most popular destinations for family holidays , romantic getaways   and touring with friends, especially in the summer months, with its beautiful beaches, variety of restaurants, upbeat vibe and unmissable tourist attractions.

Read our guide on the best beaches in Cape Town .

For families, it doesn't get much better than Cape Town. The Mother City is packed with activities that will keep the kids entertained for days. Culture and history enthusiasts will love Cape Town too.  Home to the most welcoming people from diverse backgrounds and cultures, Cape Town's rich history and heritage can be explored through its cuisine, historical architecture and collection of museums.

Cape Town is also a haven for adventure-seekers, with activities from hiking and biking to surfing and kayaking readily available. With the mountain and the beach at your fingertips, activities in the Mother City are endless, but what makes these activities even more worthwhile are the breathtaking views. With Table Mountain as a backdrop, you are always in an idyllic setting. Even when you travel further afield, beyond Table Mountain through gorgeous seaside suburbs, you’re in for a visual feast.

Did we mention the Cape Winelands ? Just a short drive from the city, you can stroll through vineyards, dine on gourmet dishes in unmatched settings and enjoy a variety of activities from leisurely to adventurous.    

Why we love Cape Town holidays 

• It’s world-renowned for its beauty.   
• The beaches are legendary – and there are so many to explore.  
• Travelling around the peninsula is a delight. Scenic drives in Cape Town and surrounds are unparalleled!
• You can go wine tasting on your doorstep.   
• The city is home to some of South Africa’s best restaurants, from pub grub to fine-dining.   
• To find out about its remarkable history.   
• To visit Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela was incarcerated.   
• To explore all that this famous city has to offer.   

As if Cape Town isn’t the full package already, it is also known as one of the most romantic cities in the world. And this comes as no surprise – couples and honeymooners can enjoy long strolls on beautiful beaches, wine and dine at award-winning restaurants, see the city from above on a romantic ride on the Cape Wheel, or take a drive around one of the world’s most magnificent passes, Chapmans Peak.

With a wide choice of beaches, urban parks and entertainment centres to choose from, every day in Cape Town is a new experience. It's a colourful melting pot of culture, history, art, fashion and food. So book your Cape Town holiday package for 2024 and discover why the Mother City never goes out of style.    

Explore other exciting affordable  city holidays that Thompsons Holidays has to offer in 2024 such as Johannesburg holiday packages , Durban holiday packages and Port Elizabeth holiday packages .

Things to do in Cape Town

Get ready for the holiday of a lifetime in Cape Town, one of the most sought-after travel destinations in the world. There are so many fascinating and exciting places to visit in this magnificent city, it’s hard to know where to start. 

Cape Town tourist attractions abound, from taking the cableway to the top of Table Mountain to lazing on the beach in Camps Bay or Clifton. The city also offers free walking tours for those who want to explore in-depth. And there are numerous activities at the famous V&A Waterfront, including the Two Oceans Aquarium, shops, restaurants and entertainment options. 

Travelling with kids? Enjoy a picnic at the Green Point Urban Park & Biodiversity Garden, experience the incredible marine life at the Two Oceans Aquarium and visit the African penguin colony at Boulders Beach in Simons Town. 

Looking for a culture trip? Take a tour through Bo Kaap where you will see most beautiful colourful houses, and indulge in the Cape Malay cuisine prepared by locals. Visit Robben Island where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned and take a trip down memory lane at the District Museum. 

For active travellers, there's no shortage of things to do in Cape Town.  Hike to the top of Table Mountain or Lion's Head, catch waves at the iconic Surfer's Corner in Muizenberg, or kayak along the Atlantic Seaboard. Take a short drive from the city centre to explore the picturesque Southern Peninsula along the False Bay coast, or head inland to the Cape Winelands. Where will you start your Cape Town adventure?   

Places to visit in Cape Town 

• Get a snapshot introduction to Cape Town on the hop-on hop-off sightseeing bus.
• Enjoy a day trip to Boulders Beach in Simons Town to swim and sunbathe with the penguins.   
• Explore the colourful Bo Kaap in the city centre.   
• Discover incredible natural beauty at Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens.   
• Visit the Castle of Good Hope to find out all about the city’s history.  
• Take the ferry to Robben Island to see where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned.   
• Sunbathe on a choice of exquisite beaches.   
• Travel by cableway or hike to the top of Table Mountain.  
• Take a helicopter flip for a bird’s eye view of the city.   
• Visit the fascinating Zeitz MOCAA – Museum of Contemporary Art Africa.
• Spend a morning perusing the artisanal ware and organic fare at the Neighbourgoods Market.  
• Enjoy fish and chips in charming Kalk Bay.   
• Hike to the top of Lions Head.   
• Drive to the top of Signal Hill to watch the firing of the Noon Gun.  
• Enjoy a coffee and browse quirky shops in Long Street.   
• Drive along scenic Chapman’s Peak.   
• Walk along the Sea Point promenade,  or be adventurous and ride to the V&A Waterfront with a rental e-bike  

These are just a taste of what to do on holiday in the Mother City. Whatever you choose to do, adventures in Cape Town promise to be unforgettable. Take time to explore the city’s numerous attractions on a cheap travel package with Thompsons Holidays.    

Weekend Getaways in Cape Town

Weekend getaways near Cape Town are always top-of-mind so  why not swing into the Mother City for a  recharge and some fun. Hike  i n Table Mountain  National Park by day , shop at the vibrant  V&A  Waterfront  and  end the day with  din n e r  at a beachfront restaurant .  Rest easy in a fabulous Cape Town hotel   and in the  morning  take a  scenic  drive to Cape Point  Nature Reserve, visit the African penguins at Boulders and walk  the white beaches at Kommetjie.  

Getaways near Cape Town   are jam-packed with  invigorating outdoor  activities, fine dining and great wines. Try Hermanus for  seasonal land and water-based  whale watching, Stellenbosch for  the ambience  of an old Cape  village, Franschhoek for  award-winning wine-tasting  and the  West Coast  for delectable seafood  and a feeling of being somewhere in the Mediterranean!  

For family fun take the  kids  on a  road  trip to charming Montague , Swellendam ,  with its well- preserved heritage , the W est  C oast  with   its  fishing vill age  of  Paternoster ,  Piketberg  in the  rolling wheat fields and  Clanwilliam  at the foot of the Cederberg   for  fun outdoor pursuits, climbing and  rockpooling !   Tulbagh is the place to go for superbly restored Cape buildings , and the old-world charm is delightful.  

If you’re looking for a weekend getaway that either includes Cape Town or is just an hour or two away, there are plenty of exciting local travel options out there.

Know before you go...

When is the best time to visit?    

• Cape Town enjoys a Mediterranean climate, with hot, dry summers and rainy winters.   
• Visit Cape Town from November to February to experience the city’s famous buzz, or to avoid the crowds, visit Cape Town between March and  October.   
• Cape Town’s winter is rainy, but this can be a magical time to holiday in the city and take advantage of all the seasonal specials.  
• Whenever you visit, always remember the saying: "If you don’t like the weather in Cape Town, wait five minutes."  

Getting there & getting around   

• Flight duration from Johannesburg to Cape Town: 2 hours, 5 minutes.  
• Cape Town is one of South Africa’s most popular tourist routes, so transport is excellent. The city is serviced by buses, trains, rapid bus transport, taxis, ride-hail taxis and more.   
• In the city, you can rent a scooter or a bicycle, or explore on foot.  

What must I pack?

• Cape Town’s weather is every-changing so always keep a light jacket or a windbreaker on hand.
• We’d suggest comfortable shoes – especially for touring around the main attractions.
• Don't forget your camera (or use your phone). Cape Town is a stunner for your Instagram!
• Wind-appropriate clothing – the 'Cape Doctor' can visit at any time!
• Sunglasses, sunhat and sunscreen - especially in the summer.  

What can I do to become a responsible traveler?

• Be water-wise. Cape Town recently experienced its worst drought yet; be mindful and sparing with your water usage.
• Support the local economy. Buy local food, souvenirs and support local artisans where possible at markets and pop-up stalls.

Safety tips

• Be safety conscious: don’t display cash or valuables. Leave jewellery and expensive watches at home.   
• Keep your belongings safe – use the hotel safe for valuables.  

What do I do in an emergency?

• Contact the Thompsons Holidays 24-hour care line to assist in any travel related emergency.

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Cape Town is one of the world’s best-loved and most beautiful cities. Set against the instantly recognisable backdrop of Table Mountain, this laidback seaside town has something for everyone: mountains, beaches, buzzing outdoor markets, world-class restaurants, a fascinating mix of cultures and plenty of adventure activities.

The city’s most popular attraction is the vibrant V&A Waterfront. Here harbour cruises chug past lazy seals, buskers entertain the crowds, and the selection of restaurants is simply staggering! Other must-do Cape Town activities include a tour of Robben Island (where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned for 27 years), catching the cable car to the top of Table Mountain, and a slow drive around the exceptionally scenic Cape Peninsula – stopping to see the penguins at Boulders Beach.

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Highlights in Cape Town

• Hike or catch the cable car to the top of Table Mountain
• Take in the views from Cape Point’s rugged cliffs
• Enjoy fine dining at the city’s top restaurants: The Test Kitchen, La Colombe and Greenhouse at The Cellars-Hohenort (best booked well in advance)
• Go on a walking tour around the city centre
• Meet inspiring people and projects in the Cape townships
• Spend a day (or two) in the Cape Winelands

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Table of contents.

• 1. Bookings and Application of These T’s And C’s
• 2. Application of the CPA and Processing of Personal Information
• 3. Tour Operator’s Rights and Responsibilities Specifically
• 4. Quoted Tour Price, Payment of Tour Fees and Incidental Matters
• 5. Client’s Rights and Responsibilities Specifically
• 6. Implications of Pandemics Such As The COVID-19 Pandemic
• 7. Breach, Cancellation Due to Breach and Incidental Matters
• 8. Force Majeure
• 9. Dispute Resolution
• 10. Addresses for Legal Processes and Notices
• 11. Severability
• 12. Cession, Delegation, Assignment
• 13. Whole Agreement
• 14. No Waiver
• 15. No Variation
• 16. Governing Law
• 18. Definitions and Interpretation

When travelling with GILTEDGE, your safety is of paramount importance to us.  We have implemented various stringent COVID-19 related safety and hygienic measures, and we endeavour to only book services with preferred suppliers who have implemented strict safety protocols.  Our compliance in this regard has been recognised by the Word Travel & Tourism Council by awarding us their SAFE TRAVELS STAMP.

GILTEDGE cannot, however, control the manner in which said suppliers enforce these protocols.  By signing our booking form, you hereby release GILTEDGE, its employees and representatives from all claims, damages and injuries arising from our suppliers’ failure to implement, enforce health & safety protocols and/or your exposure to /or infection with COVID-19 or any other infectious diseases, including currently unknown diseases.

GILTEDGE strongly recommends that all clients purchase travel insurance.  It remains the clients’ personal decision and responsibility to purchase the most comprehensive policy possible. It is imperative that clients fully understand the inclusions / exclusions covered by the said policy. GILTEDGE will not be held liable for any shortfalls / exclusions in the said policies.

• 1.1. The Client, in signing and/or submitting the Booking Form to the Tour Operator, thereby represents and warrants to the Tour Operator that, with effect from the Signature Date and every day thereafter until the expiration or earlier cancellation of the Tour Package: (i) s/he is authorised to sign the Booking Form; (ii) s/he is authorised to accept these T’s and C’s both in relation to himself/herself and on behalf of each of the other persons referred to in the Booking Form (if any); (iii) s/he and each of the other persons referred to in the Booking Form (if any) have secured and obtained all of the necessary passports, insurance, visas and inoculations for the Tour Package, and wish, in full appreciation of all relevant facts, to proceed with the Tour Package; and (iv) either s/he and each of the other persons referred to in the Booking Form (if any) are not residents of South Africa and the Tour Package and related services is or will be arranged prior to their arrival in South Africa, or if so resident in South Africa, the Tour Package is or will be arranged in South Africa.
• 1.2.1.1. the Tour Operator (being its full name, licence or registration number (if any), and its VAT registration number (if any));
• 1.2.1.2. the address of the Tour Operator and/or the address of its supplier/s (if any) physical business premises, and related contact details;
• 1.2.1.3. the address/es of the premises at which, or from which, the Tour Operator’s services will be supplied;
• 1.2.1.4.1. whether the Tour Package is in fact eligible for booking;
• 1.2.1.4.2. modes of transportation; and
• 1.2.1.4.3. places of accommodation and their nature;
• 1.2.1.5. the Total Tour Price including any Applicable Taxes, and the Arranging Fee; and
• 1.2.1.6. the currency in which amounts under these T’s and C’s are payable;
• 1.2.2. acknowledges that the Client read and understood these T’s And C’s; and
• 1.2.3. makes an offer to contract with the Tour Operator in relation to the Tour Package on the terms detailed in these T’s And C’s.
• 1.3. Subject to clause 3.1, upon the Tour Operator accepting an offer from the Client as contemplated in clause 1.2.3 (by way of the issue of a Booking Confirmation to the Client), a contract shall come into existence and bind the Parties on and with effect from the date of receipt (or deemed receipt) of the Booking Confirmation by the Client (the “ Booking Acceptance Date ”), all on the terms and conditions contained in the Booking Form as read conjunctively with these T’s and C’s.
• 1.4. All payments received (including those by third party service providers), will further confirm your acceptance of our terms and conditions herein.
• 2.1.1 To the extent that these T’s and C’s are regulated by the CPA, the Parties hereby agree and acknowledge that it is not intended that any of these T’s and C’s should contravene any provision of the CPA. All the provisions hereof must be treated as being qualified only to the extent necessary to ensure that the provisions of the CPA are complied with at all times.
• 2.1.2 In compliance with the provisions of section 49 (4) of the CPA, the Client’s attention is specifically drawn to clauses 1.1, 2.2, 3.6, 4.1.1.1, 4.2, 4.4, 5.1, 5.4.2, 5.6, 5.8, 6.2, 6.3 and 7.3 which impose certain obligations and/or assumptions of risk, and which provisions are expressed in bold font for emphasis and for ease of reference.
• 2.2. PROCESSING OF PERSONAL INFORMATION
• 2.2.1.1.1 within the Tour Operator and/or any of its subsidiaries or any other legal entity, joint venture and/or partnership, wherever situated or operating (and irrespective of structure and/or legal nature/regime) that renders services or otherwise conducts business under a name which includes the name of the Tour Operator or any variation thereof (including their subsidiaries, parties that are related or inter-related to them and/or their affiliated companies, to the extent applicable) and/or any trust/s founded by the Tour Operator for its own operations and/or any entities that are related and/or inter-related to such trust/s, as the case may be, and all such entities’ successors-in- title and/or practice (collectively the “Tour Operator Group”), wherever any such members may be located, including in countries which may not have data-protection laws similar to South Africa; and
• 2.2.1.1.2 on infrastructure belonging to the Tour Operator Group or any third party with whom the Tour Operator and/or any member of the Tour Operator Group enters into an operator agreement, the personal information which the Client provides to the Tour Operator and/or any members of the Tour Operator Group, for any purpose in order for the Tour Operator to, execute its mandate in relation to the Tour Package and any particular matters thereunder and/or incidental thereto;
• 2.2.1.2 sending to the Client marketing material, advertising material, newsletters or other informative material relating to the Tour Operator and/or any member of the Tour Operator Group;
• 2.2.1.3 storing the Client’s personal information for an indefinite period, provided that the Tour Operator shall, to the extent permitted in terms of POPIA (read with any other applicable laws), destroy or delete any such personal information that is no longer needed by the Tour Operator for the purpose it was initially collected, or subsequently processed;
• 2.2.1.4 transmitting the Client’s personal information to other members of the Tour Operator Group (wherever they may be located, including in countries which may not have data-protection laws similar to South Africa) as the Tour Operator may deem necessary for the proper execution of its mandate in relation to the Tour Package and any particular matters thereunder and/or incidental thereto; and
• 2.2.1.5 keeping any work product or other data or documentation in relation to the Tour Package as part of the Tour Operator’s and the Tour Operator Group’s internal know-how.
• 2.2.2 The submission by the Client of any personal information (including in relation to any other person detailed in the Booking Form (if any)) to the Tour Operator and/or any members of the Tour Operator Group in any form constitutes a warranty and acknowledgement by the Client that such conduct is authorised and constitutes an unconditional, specific and voluntary consent to the processing of such information as contemplated in clause 2.2.1.
• 2.2.3 The Client hereby undertakes to notify the Information Officer of the Tour Operator (“IO”) in writing of any changes or errors to the personal information which the Client provided to the Tour Operator. The Tour Operator will update the Client’s personal information within a reasonable time after the Client has notified the IO of any such changes or errors.
• 2.2.4 Unless legislation in South Africa and/or in any territory in which any member of the Tour Operator Group operates or in respect of which the Tour Operator and/or any member of the Tour Operator Group is bound requires or permits the processing of such information, the Client will be entitled to withdraw its consent given under this clause 2.2 at any time and undertakes to supply at least 10 (ten) days written notice sent to the IO to that effect.
• 2.2.5.1 believe that the Tour Operator has utilised the Client’s personal information contrary to legislation in South Africa as read with this clause 2.2, the Client undertakes to first attempt to resolve any concerns with the Tour Operator by addressing a complaint in writing to the IO; and
• 2.2.5.2 not be satisfied with the outcome of such process, the Client will be entitled to lodge a complaint with the Information Regulator in terms of the POPIA.
• 2.2.6 The Parties agree that various terms have been used in this clause 2.2 which are defined in POPIA and will bear the meanings in these T’s and C’s as is assigned to them in POPIA.
• 3. TOUR OPERATOR’S RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES SPECIFICALLY
• 3.1.1. proceed to plan and/or arrange and/or facilitate the Tour Package, including (without limiting the generality thereof) making the necessary reservations and compiling the Tour Itinerary for the Client; and, thereafter
• 3.1.2. issue the Booking Confirmation to the Client, together with the Deposit Invoice and Tour Itinerary and all relevant details incidental thereto,
• it being recorded that the Tour Operator shall inform the Client in writing (including, by way of example, via email) should the Tour Operator be unable to comply with the provisions of this clause 3.1 for any reason whatsoever;
• 3.2. will stipulate in the Tour Itinerary (to the extent applicable) all the salient details in relation to international and/or domestic airfare/s, accommodation, room/s and specification, hotel and/or airport transfers, meals and/or beverages included, and other incidental specifications of the Tour Package;
• 3.3. will issue the Secondary Invoice to the Client as soon as practicably possible after the date of receipt (or deemed receipt) by the Client of the Deposit Invoice, but in any event by no later than the date which is 68 (sixty eight) days prior to the Tour Start Date;
• 3.4. will issue the Final Invoice to the Client as soon as practicably possible after the date of receipt (or deemed receipt) by the Client of the Secondary Invoice, but in any event by no later than the date which is 68 (sixty eight) days prior to the Tour Start Date;
• 3.5.1. the Tour Operator will at all times use its commercially reasonable endeavours to avoid having to make such Tour Package Amendments and/or cancel the Tour Package;
• 3.5.2. any such Tour Package Amendment or cancellation must be due to unforeseen circumstances, and not attributable to the wilful misconduct of the Tour Operator;
• 3.5.3. in the event that the Tour Operator elects to amend the Tour Package only, then the Tour Operator will inform the Client thereof by written notice on or within 48 (forty eight) hours of having made such election, and will issue the Client with an updated Booking Confirmation and updated version of the invoice issued last in time to the Client (to the extent applicable) as soon as practicably possible thereafter; and/or
• 3.5.4.  in the event that the Tour Operator elects to cancel the Tour Package, it shall advise the Client thereof on written notice on or within 48 (forty eight) hours of having made such election (it being recorded that the date of cancellation in this regard shall be deemed to be the date on which the said written notice of cancellation is received by the Client).  The Tour Operator will then refund to the Client, by way of electronic funds transfer into the Client’s nominated bank account, such aggregate portion of the Aggregate Tour Fee as was paid by the Client to the Tour Operator, and not otherwise forfeited to the Tour Operator (whether as a cancellation fee or otherwise), as soon as practicably possible after the relevant date of cancellation. No Party shall have any other claim of whatsoever nature against the other in such circumstances;
• 3.6. will use its commercially reasonable endeavours to secure/procure/enable the Client’s special requests as stipulated in the Booking Form (if any), or advise the Client that such special requests cannot be accommodated. The Tour Operator will only undertake to procure those special requests as are expressly accepted by the Tour Operator in the Booking Confirmation. All special requests accepted by the Tour Operator will be subject to additional third party charges to the Client as stipulated in the Final Invoice. The Client acknowledges and agrees that all special requests indicated in a Booking Form cannot be guaranteed by the Tour Operator. If and to the extent that the Tour Operator is unable to arrange/procure the relevant special requests, the Client hereby agrees that s/he/it will have no claim of any nature against the Tour Operator;
• 3.7. will on request, provide to the Client written proof of any insurance policies taken out in the Tour Operator’s name; and
• 3.8. will, as regards the Quoted Tour Price, all brochures, advertising material and other similar documentation in relation to a Tour Package, use its commercially reasonable efforts to ensure that all such documentation as is made available by the Tour Operator in good faith, complies with all applicable laws, regulations, rules and codes of practice, the CPA, and is accurate and correct at the time of its publication/delivery to the Client. The Tour Operator reserves the right to update such documentation from time to time, without notice, to bring same in line with the latest information available to Tour Operator. The Client acknowledges that he/she/it will request such documents directly from the Tour Operator to ensure that the Client receives the latest then currently applicable documentation.
• 4.1.1.1. the Deposit is not refundable to the Client; and
• 4.1.1.2. simultaneously with (and in addition to) payment of the Deposit, the Client must pay the full amount of any international and/or domestic airfare (as stipulated in the Deposit Invoice, if any) to the Tour Operator;
• 4.1.2. as regards the Secondary Tour Fee, the Client must pay the full amount thereof to the Tour Operator on or within 3 (three) days after the date of receipt (or deemed receipt) by the Client of the Secondary Invoice; and
• 4.1.3. as regards the Final Tour Fee, the Client shall pay the full amount thereof to the Tour Operator on or within 3 (three) days after the date of receipt (or deemed receipt) by the Client of the Final Invoice,
• provided that, in the event that the Booking Acceptance Date is within 30 (thirty) days of the Tour Start Date, then the Client will pay the Total Tour Price to the Tour Operator immediately upon the said Booking Acceptance Date. All such payments shall be made by way of cleared electronic funds transfer into the bank account of the Tour Operator as indicated in the relevant invoice, or by way of such other method of payment as may be stated in the relevant invoice.
• 4.2. The Client agrees that the due dates for payment contemplated in clause 4.1 are subject to a supplier (of the Tour Operator) requiring earlier/later payment, and/or payments of seasonal deposits.  In any such event, the Tour Operator will notify the Client of such fluctuation in writing, on or within 3 (three) days after the Tour Operator has been notified thereof by the said supplier, and the applicable due date/s for payment shall be deemed to have been amended accordingly.  The Client will have no claim of whatsoever nature against the Tour Operator in such circumstances.
• 4.3. Unless otherwise agreed in writing by the Parties, all amounts payable under these T’s and C’s shall be payable in the currency of payment as indicated in the relevant invoice issued to the Client.
• 4.4.1. the Client will at all times remain liable for payment of all amounts due and payable by the Client to the Tour Operator under these T’s and C’s; and
• 4.4.2. the Client is and will remain liable to the Tour Operator for all amounts due and payable up to the date of expiration or earlier cancellation of the Tour Package.
• 5. CLIENT’S RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES SPECIFICALLY
• 5.1. hereby irrevocably and unconditionally agrees that he/she/it is taking the Tour Package at his/her/its own risk. Specifically, the Client irrevocably and unconditionally agrees that the Tour Operator will not be liable for any damage, injury or liability of whatever nature and howsoever arising (including negligence) which I/we, or my/our dependents or my/our property may suffer as a result of the use of the Tour Package;
• 5.2. will adhere strictly and at all times to these T’s and C’s and the provisions of the Booking Form;
• 5.3. will not engage in any activity, conduct, distribution or trade practice or advertising method which will be harmful, directly or indirectly, to the Tour Operator;
• 5.4.1. the Client communicates, without delay, any such Tour Package Amendments and/or cancellations to the Tour Operator in writing;
• 5.4.2.1.1. Cancellation of the Tour Package at any time from the Booking Acceptance Date until a date that is 65 (sixty five) days prior to the Tour Start Date: 30% (thirty percent) of the Total Tour Price
• 5.4.2.1.2. Cancellation of the Tour Package by no later than 46 (forty six) days but not prior to 64 (sixty four) days prior to the Tour Start Date: 50% (fifty percent) of the Total Tour Price
• 5.4.2.1.3. Cancellation of the Tour Package at any time within 46 (forty six) or less days prior to the Tour Start Date: 100% (one hundred percent) of the Total Tour Price;
• 5.4.2.1.4. Cancellation and/or postponement of the Tour Package as a result of the Covid-19 Pandemic or any other similar Pandemic, shall be dealt with in accordance with clause 6 below;
• 5.4.2.2. any such said cancellation fee will be paid by the Client to the Tour Operator within 14 (fourteen) days of the relevant date of cancellation, by way of cleared electronic funds transfer into the bank account of the Tour Operator as indicated in the invoice issued last in time to the Client, or by way of such other method of payment as may be stated in such invoice, failing which the Client will remain bound by the Tour Package and payment therefor in full; and
• 5.4.2.3. the Tour Operator will refund to the Client (care of its nominated bank account) such aggregate portion of the Aggregate Tour Fee paid by the Client to the Tour Operator, and not otherwise forfeited to the Tour Operator (whether as a cancellation fee or otherwise), as soon as practicably possible after receipt by the Tour Operator of the cancellation fee contemplated in clauses 5.4.2.1 and 5.4.2.2, and no Party shall have any other claim of whatsoever nature against the other in such circumstances;
• 5.4.3.1. if it is the first request for a postponement of the Tour Package, then, the Tour Operator will not apply an administrative fee (“First Postponement”); and
• 5.4.3.2. any further postponements in addition to or after the First Postponement shall incur a non-refundable cancellation fee of US$250 per person;
• 5.5.  will promptly comply with any reasonable instruction given by the Tour Operator in relation to the Tour Package and matters/aspects incidental thereto;
• 5.6.1. the Client will procure insurance in respect of all such risks as elected by it from an insurer and in such amounts of its election;
• 5.6.2. the Client will be solely responsible for his/her/its general safety and for the general safety of all the other persons detailed in the Booking Form (if any), including in relation to the safekeeping of baggage and personal effects, at all times;
• 5.6.3. the Client will timeously seek and obtain the necessary medical advice regarding prophylaxis, vaccination and general health requirements covering each country which forms part of the Tour Package, and shall ensure the same in respect of the Client and all the other persons detailed in the Booking Form (if any); and
• 5.6.4. the Tour Operator does not accept any liability (of any nature) for any loss or damage in relation to loss or harm (of whatever nature) to the baggage, personal effects or other property of the Client, or injury or illness to the Client, or loss of life or consequential (or indirect) damages in respect of the Client, which might occur from any cause whatsoever. The Client hereby assumes all risk (of whatever nature) attached to and/or in relation to and/or incurred in the Tour Package;
• 5.7.1. comply with and otherwise fulfil the applicable passport, visa and vaccination requirements covering each country which forms part of the Tour Package, it being recorded that the Tour Operator will not be responsible for any persons participating in the Tour Package without the required documents; and
• 5.7.2. make the necessary arrangements to arrive at the assembly point/s indicated on the Tour Itinerary at the stated times, it being recorded that the Tour Operator will not be responsible for any persons participating in the Tour Package who fail to make such arrangements;
• 5.8. by signing and submitting the Booking Form to the Tour Operator and/or otherwise indicating his/her/its acceptance of the Booking Form (and thereby the T’s and C’s), acknowledges and agrees that in the event that the Tour Package includes travel to isolated regions and/or activities in close proximity with wildlife, the Client and all of the other persons detailed in the Booking Form (if any) and voluntarily assume/s such risks and hereby waives any and/or all such claims against the Tour Operator. IF AND TO THE EXTENT THAT I/WE OR MY/OUR DEPENDENTS MAY HAVE A CLAIM (OF ANY NATURE IN LAW OR IN FACT) AGAINST THE TOUR OPERATOR, I/WE WILL NOT PURSUE THAT CLAIM AND HEREBY HOLD THE TOUR OPERATOR GROUP HARMLESS IN THAT REGARD. The Client acknowledges and agrees that he/she/it will on demand sign an extended standard form specific conditions and waiver document on or before the Tour Start Date, which form will be in a form satisfactory to the Tour Operator at all times, and which form will stipulate, amongst other things, that the person signing that form appreciates the risks inherent in travel and adventure, and that such person undertakes to participate in the Tour Package at his/her own risk and that such risk could include injury, disease or death;
• 5.9. will, if applicable, stipulate special requests (if any) in the Booking Form, failing which the Client will be deemed to have no special requests;
• 5.10. will ensure that all payments due to the Tour Operator are paid to the Tour Operator on the due date thereof and otherwise strictly in accordance with these T’s and C’s;
• 5.11. will not engage in any activities which causes inconvenience or annoyance to any other persons participating in the Tour Package; and
• 5.12. will in the unlikely event that the Client has a complaint against the Tour Operator, first address the complaint with the tour leader responsible for the relevant portion of the Tour Package as stipulated in the Tour Itinerary, so that an opportunity may be afforded to the Tour Operator to investigate and address the complaint. If the Client has any further complaint same must be lodged with the Tour Operator in writing within 30 (thirty) days of the expiration of the Tour Package. Should the Client not follow the procedures set out in this clause 5.12, then the Tour Operator will not investigate or continue to investigate any such complaint, and the Client will have no claim of whatsoever nature against the Tour Operator in such circumstances.
• 6.1.1 . it is their personal decision to travel and that they are doing so with full knowledge of current travel recommendations and travel restrictions with regards to the risk of any Pandemic including but not limited to the Covid-19 pandemic, and has taken full personal responsibility to inform themselves in relation thereto;
• 6.1.2. they are aware of the risks and dangers associated with travel during any Pandemic including but not limited to the Covid-19 pandemic and they expressly assume all of the risks and dangers in relation thereto; and hereby release, discharge and hold the Tour Operator, it’s employees, officers, directors, associated, affiliated companies and sub-contractors harmless against any and all liability, actions, causes of action, suits, damages, claims and demands of whatsoever nature which the Client may now have or which may hereafter arise out of or in connection with such risks and dangers;
• 6.1.3. s/he/ it will acquaint themselves with all laws and regulations related to the relevant Pandemic (including the Covid-19 pandemic) applicable from time to time in the country that they are travelling to and from, including but not limited to, mandatory inoculation, isolation and/or entry and exit requirements.
• 6.2. The Tour Operator does not assume any responsibility for and shall not be liable for any potentially unsafe conditions or health hazards, including pandemics or other illnesses to which the Client may be exposed.
• 6.3. The Tour Operator, its employees and agents, will, accordingly, not be liable for any loss (financial or otherwise), damage, illness, harm, trauma, death, delay, denial of onward travel or costs (including but not limited to quarantine costs), which the Client may incur or suffer, whether during or post travel, arising directly or indirectly out of the risks and/or dangers associated with traveling during the relevant Pandemic (including the Covid-19 pandemic), whether or not they been informed by the Tour Operator of such risks and/or dangers at the time of booking.
• 6.4. The Tour Operator is not responsible for the acts or omissions of travel suppliers, including the failure by the travel suppliers to adhere to their own schedules, provide services or refunds or their failure to honour any future trip credits.
• 6.5. The Tour Operator cannot and does not take any responsibility in instances where a Tour Package is booked, and subsequently cancelled and/or postponed and/or where the regulations in a specific country are changed as a result of the relevant Pandemic (including the Covid-19 pandemic).
• 6.6. Cancellation fees may apply in instances where a Tour Package is cancelled, due to travel bans or government travel restrictions. These cancellation fees may vary, depending on the cancellation policy of the supplier as well as the amount of work involved for the Tour Operator in making the changes and the loss in revenue due to the cancellation.
• 6.7. Professional fees earned by the Tour Operator are non-refundable.
• Save as otherwise provided for in these T’s and C’s:
• 7.1.1. if the Client fails to timeously pay to the Tour Operator any amount due to the Tour Operator hereunder, and fails to remedy such breach within a period of 3 (three) days after receipt by the Client of written notice from the Tour Operator calling for such default to be remedied, the Tour Operator will be entitled to (without prejudice and in addition to any other rights or remedies which the Tour Operator may have in law), on written notice to the Client, immediately resile from these T’s and C’s and cancel the Tour Package; and
• 7.1.2. if any of the Parties commits a breach of these T’s and C’s (other than the breach contemplated in clause 7.1.1) and/or otherwise fails to comply with any of the provisions hereof (the “ Defaulting Party ”), then the other Party (the “ Innocent Party ”) is entitled to give the Defaulting Party 7 (seven) days (or such longer period as may be reasonably necessary in the circumstances) notice in writing to remedy such breach and/or failure.  If the Defaulting Party fails to comply with such notice, then the Innocent Party will be entitled to (without prejudice and in addition to any other rights or remedies which the Innocent Party may have in law, including the right to claim damages), on written notice to the Defaulting Party, immediately resile from these T’s and C’s and cancel the Tour Package accordingly.
• 7.2.1. In the event that the Tour Operator cancels the Tour Package in accordance with the provisions of clause 7.1 (and unless the Parties agree otherwise in writing), the Client will be deemed to have forfeited to the Tour Operator, with effect from the date on which the relevant written notice of cancellation is received (or deemed to have been received) by the Client (“ Breach Cancellation Date ”), all such amounts already paid by the Client to the Tour Operator as at the Breach Cancellation Date. The Client will have no claim of whatsoever nature against the Tour Operator in such circumstances.
• 7.2.2. In the event that the Client cancels the Tour Package in accordance with the provisions of clause 7.1.2, the Tour Operator will refund to the Client, by way of electronic funds transfer into the Client’s nominated bank account, such aggregate portion of the Aggregate Tour Fee as was paid by the Client to the Tour Operator, and not otherwise forfeited to the Tour Operator (whether as a cancellation fee or otherwise), as soon as practicably possible after the Breach Cancellation Date.
• Without prejudice to any rights or remedies available to the Tour Operator arising from these T’s and C’s and notwithstanding anything to the contrary contained herein, with effect from the Booking Acceptance Date, the Client hereby irrevocably and unconditionally indemnifies and agrees, on demand, to hold the Tour Operator (and its directors, officers, employees, agents, successors and assigns) harmless against any and all loss, liability, costs or expenses of whatsoever nature (including any and all legal costs), whether directly or indirectly suffered or incurred by the Tour Operator, should the Client and/or any of the other persons detailed in the Booking Form (if any) breach or fail to comply with these T’s and C’s in anyway.
• 8.1. If any Party is prevented or restricted directly or indirectly from carrying out all or any of its obligations under these T’s and C’s for any cause beyond the reasonable control of that Party (“ Affected Party ”), including (without limiting the generality of the foregoing) war, civil commotion, riot, insurrection, strikes, lock-outs, fire, explosion, floods, a relevant Pandemic (including without limitation the Covid-19 pandemic) and acts of God (each a “ Force Majeure Event ”), the Affected Party shall be relieved of its obligations hereunder for the period that the Force Majeure Event endures. In such instance the Affected Party shall not be liable for any delay or failure in the performance of any of its obligations hereunder or for any loss or damages which the other Party may suffer due to or resulting from any such delay or failure, provided that written notice of the inability to perform is given by the Affected Party within 48 (forty eight) hours of the commencement of the Force Majeure Event.
• 8.2. The Affected Party shall, as far as practically possible, use its commercially reasonable endeavours to terminate the circumstances giving rise to the Force Majeure Event and upon termination thereof, the Affected Party shall forthwith give written notice thereof to the other Party.
• 8.3. In the event that the circumstances giving rise to the Force Majeure Event are not terminated by no later than the date which is 10 (ten) days from the commencement of the Force Majeure Event, then the Tour Package shall, without notice, be automatically cancelled, and the Tour Operator shall be required to refund to the Client such aggregate portion of the Aggregate Tour Fee paid by the Client to the Tour Operator, and not otherwise forfeited to the Tour Operator (whether as a cancellation fee or otherwise), as soon as practicably possible after the date of such cancellation, by way of electronic funds transfer into the Client’s nominated bank account. No Party shall have any other claim of whatsoever nature against the other in such circumstances.
• 9.1. Save as expressly detailed to the contrary, in the event of any dispute, controversy or claim (of whatever nature) (“ dispute ”) as to the rights and obligations of the Parties or as to any other matter arising from or out of or that in any way is related to these T’s and C’s, including (but not limited to) any question as to the existence, validity or termination of these T’s and C’s, the Parties will attempt in good faith, by negotiation, to resolve the dispute between themselves.
• 9.2. If the Parties are unable to resolve a dispute by mutual agreement within 14 (fourteen) days after the dispute is first communicated in writing by any Party to the other Party, then the dispute shall be submitted by either Party to and decided by arbitration in accordance with the then applicable commercial rules of the Arbitration Foundation of Southern Africa NPC (“ AFSA ”), by a single arbitrator agreed upon between the Parties or, failing agreement within 7 (seven) days of the dispute being submitted to arbitration, the arbitrator shall be appointed by AFSA.
• 9.3.1. the decision of the arbitrator shall be final and binding on the Parties and may be made an order of any competent court having jurisdiction at the instance of any of the Parties;
• 9.3.2. unless otherwise agreed by the Parties in writing, the arbitration (i.e. its seat and geographic location) shall be held in Cape Town, South Africa; and
• 9.3.3. the arbitrator shall be obliged to give in writing the reasons for any decision made by the arbitrator in the course of the arbitration.
• 9.4. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary contained in this clause 8, either of the Parties shall be entitled to apply for, and if successful, be granted, an interdict or other interim and/or urgent relief from any competent court having jurisdiction. For all purposes, this clause 8, any arbitration hereunder (and the T&Cs) are all regulated by and subject to the laws of the Republic of South Africa.
• 10.1.1. as regards the Client, the address specified in the Booking Form; and
• 10.1.2. as regards the Tour Operator, the address specified in the Booking Confirmation.
• 10.2. Any Party may at any time, by notice in writing to the other Parties, change its elected address to any other address which is not a post office box or post restante.
• 10.3. Any notice or other communication to be given to either of the Parties in terms of these T’s and C’s shall be valid and effective only if it is given in writing, provided that any notice given by email shall be regarded for this purpose as having been given in writing.
• 10.4.1. if delivered by hand, on the date of delivery;
• 10.4.2. if sent by courier, on the date of delivery by the courier service concerned; or
• 10.4.3. if sent by email (provided that the address concerned includes an email address), on the expiration of 24 (twenty four) hours after the time of transmission.
• 10.5. Any written notice actually received by a Party shall be valid, notwithstanding that it may not have been given in accordance with the preceding provisions of this clause 9.
• Any of these T’s and C’s which is or may become illegal, invalid or unenforceable in any jurisdiction shall, with respect to such jurisdiction, be ineffective to the extent of such prohibition or unenforceability and shall be treated pro non scripto (as if not written) and severed from the balance of these T’s and C’s, without invalidating the remaining T’s and C’s or affecting the validity or enforceability of any of these T’s and C’s in any other jurisdiction.
• 12.1. The Tour Operator will be entitled, without the consent of the Client but on prior written notice to the Client to cede, delegate or assign all or any of the Tour Operator’s rights and/or obligations under these T’s and C’s to any third party (“the Cessionary”).
• 12.2. On any cession, assignment and/or delegation taking place in terms of clause 12.1, the Client shall, if so required by any Cessionary, make all payments directly to the Cessionary in question.
• 12.3. The Client will not, without the prior written consent of the Tour Operator, be entitled to cede, assign, delegate or otherwise transfer any of the Client’s rights or obligations under these T’s and C’s to any third party.
• These T’s and C’s, as read conjunctively with the Booking Form, constitutes the whole agreement between the Parties in relation to the subject-matter of the Booking Form, and the Tour Operator shall not be bound by any representation/s, warranty/ies, undertaking/s, promise/s or the like (whether or not made by the Tour Operator, its companies or servants) which are not recorded herein or in the Booking Form.
• No relaxation, indulgence or extension of time granted by any Party (the “ Grantor ”) to the other Party shall be construed as a waiver of any of the Grantor’s rights in terms hereof, or a novation of any of these T’s and C’s or estop the Grantor from enforcing strict and punctual compliance with these T’s and C’s.
• No variation of, addition to, consensual cancellation of or waiver of any right arising in terms of these T’s and C’s (including this clause 14) and/or the Booking Form shall be of any force or effect unless expressly agreed by the Parties in writing (including, by way of example, via email communication).
• To the maximum extent permissible, these T’s and C’s shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of South Africa. The Parties irrevocably agrees that the courts of the Republic of South Africa shall have exclusive jurisdiction to settle any dispute or claim (including non-contractual disputes or claims) arising out of or in connection with these T’s and C’s or its subject matter or formation.
• All and any costs incurred by either Party arising out of or in connection with a breach of any of these T’s and C’s by the other Party, including but not limited to legal costs on the attorney and own client scale, shall be borne by the Party in breach.
• In these T’s and C’s, unless a contrary intention clearly appears, the following terms shall have the meanings assigned to them hereunder and cognate expressions shall have corresponding meanings, namely:
• 18.1.1. “Aggregate Tour Fee” means the aggregate amount of the Secondary Tour Fee plus the Final Tour Fee;
• 18.1.2. “Applicable Taxes” means, without limitation, any VAT, sales taxes, charges, imposts, duties, levies, deductions, withholdings or fees of any kind whatsoever, or any amount payable on account of or as security for any of the foregoing, imposed, levied, collected, withheld or assessed by any relevant taxation authority or similar Governmental Authority from time to time together with any penalties, fines or interest;
• 18.1.3. “Arranging Fee” means that portion of the Total Tour Price which comprises the Tour Operator’s fee for planning and/or arranging the Tour Package;
• 18.1.4. “Booking Acceptance Date” has the meaning ascribed thereto in clause 1.3;
• 18.1.5.1. the Tour Operator’s full name, and VAT registration number, if any;
• 18.1.5.2. the Tour Operator’s address; and
• 18.1.5.3. a full description of the Tour Package;
• 18.1.6. “Booking Form” means the Tour Operator’s standard written booking form (as determined by it) which can be completed, signed and submitted to the Tour Operator for the purposes of engaging the services of the Tour Operator as contemplated herein, which standard booking form may be updated by the Tour Operator from time to time, without notice;
• 18.1.7 . “Covid-19 pandemic” means the global Pandemic, also known as the “coronavirus pandemic”, caused by the spread of the novel coronavirus, first identified in December 2019 in Wuhan, Peoples’ Republic of China;
• 18.1.8 “Client” means the person/s who signed and submitted the Booking Form to the Tour Operator and/or otherwise who has indicated his/her/its acceptance of the Booking Form (and thereby the T’s and C’s);
• 18.1.9. “CPA” means the South African Consumer Protection Act, 2008 (Act No. 68 of 2008);
• 18.1.10. “Deposit” means a non-refundable deposit of 30% (thirty percent) of the Quoted Tour Price;
• 18.1.11.1. the Deposit, exclusive of any Applicable Taxes (e.g. VAT) if any, and the Arranging Fee; and
• 18.1.11.2. the total international and/or domestic airfare/s payable (if any);
• 18.1.12. “ECTA” means the South African Electronic Communications and Transactions Act, 2002 (Act No. 25 of 2002);
• 18.1.13. “Final Invoice” means the tax invoice issued by the Tour Operator to the Client chronologically after the Secondary Invoice, marked as the “Final Invoice”, and which shall be issued in respect of the Final Tour Fee mutatis mutandis in accordance with the provisions of clause 17.1.10, and shall in addition record any third party charges payable by the Client in relation to any special request/s of the Client stipulated in the Booking Form (to the extent applicable);
• 18.1.14. “Final Tour Fee”, unless otherwise indicated by the Tour Operator in writing, means 70% (seventy percent) of the Quoted Tour Price;
• 18.1.15. “Parties” means, collectively, the Client and the Tour Operator, and “Party” shall mean any one of them as the context may indicate;
• 18.1.16. “Pandemic” means any illness or disease prevalent throughout an entire country, continent, or the whole world; epidemic over a large area, as declared or determined by any relevant authority as determined by the Tour Operator acting reasonably, including without limitation, the World Health Organisation;
• 18.1.17. “POPIA” means the South African Protection of Personal Information Act, 2013 (Act No. 4 of 2013);
• 18.1.18. “Quoted Tour Price” means the applicable quoted price including VAT (where applicable) and including the Arranging Fee for the Tour Package, as set out by the Tour Operator on its website (if any), failing which as set out in its brochures and advertising material, from time to time, which quoted price the Tour Operator may update/replace from time to time, without notice;
• 18.1.19. “Secondary Invoice” means the tax invoice issued by the Tour Operator to the Client chronologically after the Deposit Invoice, marked as the “Secondary Invoice”, and which shall be issued in respect of the Secondary Tour Fee mutatis mutandis in accordance with the provisions of clause 17.1.10;
• 18.1.20. “Secondary Tour Fee”, unless otherwise indicated by the Tour Operator in writing, means 0% (nil percent) of the Quoted Tour Price;
• 18.1.21.  “Signature Date” means the date upon which the Client signed the Booking Form and/or the date on which the Client indicates his/her/its acceptance of the Booking Form (and thereby the T’s and C’s), as determined by the Tour Operator, acting reasonably;
• 18.1.22. “South Africa” means the Republic of South Africa;
• 18.1.23. “T’s and C’s” means these terms and conditions;
• 18.1.24. “Total Tour Price” means the Deposit plus the Aggregate Tour Fee;
• 18.1.25. “Tour Itinerary” means the itinerary relating to the Tour Package;
• 18.1.26. “Tour Operator” means the tour operator stipulated in the Booking Form;
• 18.1.27. “Tour Package” means the tour package planned and/or arranged and/or facilitated by the Tour Operator, as stipulated in the Booking Form;
• 18.1.28. “Tour Package Amendments” means any change of whatsoever nature required by any Party in relation to the Tour Package after the Signature Date, including (without limiting the generality of the foregoing) changes as to flights, dates and times, accommodation, arranged sightseeing and other details of and/or incidental to the Tour Package;
• 18.1.29. “Tour Start Date” means date of commencement of the Tour Package;
• 18.1.30. “VAT” means value added tax as contemplated in the VAT Act; and
• 18.1.31. “VAT Act” means the South African Value-Added Tax Act, 1991 (Act No. 89 of 1991).
• Furthermore, unless a contrary intention clearly appears:
• 18.2.1. references herein to “clauses” shall be to the clauses of these T’s and C’s;
• 18.2.2. the headings of the clauses are for the purpose of convenience and reference only and shall not be used in the interpretation of, nor modify, nor amplify these T’s and C’s;
• 18.2.3. words importing the singular, include the plural, and vice versa, and words importing the masculine gender shall include the feminine and neuter genders, and vice versa, and words importing persons shall include partnerships, trusts and bodies corporate, and vice versa;
• 18.2.4. if any provision in the definitions set out in clause 17 is a substantive provision conferring rights or imposing obligations on any Party, then notwithstanding that such provision is only contained in clause 18, effect shall be given thereto as if such provision were a substantive provision in the body of these T’s and C’s;
• 18.2.5. these T’s and C’s shall be binding on and enforceable by the permitted trustees, assigns or liquidators of the Parties as fully and effectually as if they had bound themselves hereto in the first instance and reference to any Party shall be deemed to include such Party’s permitted trustees, assigns or liquidators, as the case may be;
• 18.2.6. where figures are in these T’s and C’s described both in numerals and in words, words shall prevail in the event of any conflict between the two;
• 18.2.7. when any number of days is prescribed in these T’s and C’s, same shall be reckoned exclusively of the first and inclusively of the last day;
• 18.2.8. any reference in these T’s and C’s to legislation or subordinate legislation is to such legislation or subordinate legislation at the Signature Date and as amended and/or re-enacted from time to time;
• 18.2.9. any reference in these T’s and to any other agreement or document shall be construed as a reference to such other agreement or document as same may have been, or may from time to time be, amended, varied, novated or supplemented;
• 18.2.10. where any term is defined within the context of any particular clause, the term so defined shall, unless it appears clearly from the clause in question that such term has limited application to the relevant clause, bear the meaning ascribed to it for all purposes in terms of these T’s and C’s, notwithstanding that such term has not been defined in this clause 17;
• 18.2.11. none of these T’s and C’s shall be construed against or interpreted to the disadvantage of the Tour Operator by reason of the Tour Operator having drafted such provision;
• 18.2.12.1. “sign”, signature”, “signing” and all derivatives thereof, when used in relation to the Booking Form, shall include an electronic signature as contemplated in ECTA; and
• 18.2.12.2. “completed”, “submit”, “submission”, “submitted” and all derivatives thereof, when used in relation to the Booking Form, shall include electronic completion and submission;
• 18.2.13. the words “include”, “including” and “in particular” shall be construed as being by way of example or emphasis only and shall not be construed, nor shall they take effect, as limiting the generality of any preceding word/s.  Furthermore, the words “other” and “otherwise” shall not be construed ejusdem generis with any preceding words if a wider construction is possible; and
• 18.2.14. the expiration or termination of the Tour Package shall not affect such of these T’s and C’s as expressly provide that they will operate after any such expiration or termination or which of necessity must continue to have effect after such expiration or termination, notwithstanding that the clauses themselves do not expressly provide for this.

Accommodation Location

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Located in picturesque Hout Bay, Future Found Sanctuary is unlike anything else in the city. This private mountain sanctuary is a place of unique...

The Clarendon Fresnaye is an elegant guesthouse on the slopes of Lion’s Head in the Cape Town suburb of Fresnaye, it caters to families, honeymooners...

A well-known and impressive landmark in Cape Town’s central business district, Southern Sun The Cullinan provides its guests with all the luxury that is expected...

Queen Victoria Hotel lies a safe, easy stroll from the restaurants, shops and markets of the V&A Waterfront – yet removed from the bustle and...

The Taj in Cape Town, South Africa, is a building that has many different past identities. It was once the South African Reserve Bank, the...

The Residence by Atzaró is a stylish four-storey mid-century villa on the foot of Cape Town’s Table Mountain. It’s perfect for luxurious holidays with family...

Staying at One&Only Cape Town puts you right in the V&A Waterfront, a short walk from restaurants, shops and the ferry to Robben Island. Set...

Impossible to miss, The Winchester Hotel stands out with bold appeal on the edge of the ever-vibrant Sea Point Promenade. This 1920s Cape Dutch-style icon...

Radisson Red Cape Town is ideally situated just a short walk from the V&A Waterfront, within easy reach of all that the Mother City has...

Located in Cape Town, South Africa, Camissa House is a luxury boutique hotel framed by the iconic Table Mountain and celebrates uninterrupted views of the...

Set in one of the most popular destinations in the world, The Westin Cape Town is only minutes away from excellent shopping, vibrant night life,...

The Bay Hotel boasts an unrivalled beachfront location in Camps Bay. With the majestic Twelve Apostle mountain range as a backdrop and the Atlantic Ocean...

The Vineyard is nestled in the leafy suburb of Newlands on 8 acres of gardens, with easy access to Cape Town’s top tourist attractions....

Dorp Hotel is located high on the slopes of Signal Hill in Cape Town and is an ideal option for leisure travellers. Dorp, meaning “village”...

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9 things to know before traveling to Cape Town

May 11, 2023 • 7 min read

We've got a few trips before you get stuck into Cape Town © Lauren Mulligan/Lonely Planet

When I moved to Cape Town more than a decade ago, the plan had been to stick around for a year.

We quickly realized that 12 months wouldn’t be enough. There is something about this city that just enchants people. A lot of it has to do with the landscape, of course – Table Mountain provides a centerpiece that’s surrounded by forest, lake and eventually, golden beach – but its diverse terrain also provides the perfect stage for all manner of outdoor adventures. This includes hiking, climbing, abseiling, surfing, paragliding, and mountain biking.

But it’s not just sporty types that are well-catered for in Cape Town. This city has an exciting art scene, plus shopping for all tastes and budgets. It has marvelous opportunities for those whose passions lie in drinking and dining. The city has its problems of course – a wide poverty gap and a rising crime rate among them – but the good vastly outweighs any negatives.

Cape Town’s laidback pace of life, coupled with its expansive menu of attractions, keep people exploring here for far longer than they might have originally planned. And I should know – I’ve been here for 12 years and still feel as if I haven’t seen half of what the city has to offer.

1. However long you plan to stay, it will never be enough

Most people schedule four or five days in Cape Town. It’s enough time to get to the top of Table Mountain, visit the penguins , and maybe take a surf class or a Cape Malay cooking course. You should be able to shop a little, eat a lot, drink some wine and marvel at the majesty of Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden , too.

A week of course would be better. But a month still wouldn’t be long enough. Most people don’t have weeks to spare, though. With four or five days in the city – ideally a week – you can see all the major sights (Cape Town’s notoriously fickle weather permitting), pick the perfect restaurant (book a few weeks ahead for big-name fine dining joints) and get a feel for the city’s general joie de vivre.

You can always tackle the rest on your next visit because once you’ve become acquainted with the city, you’re guaranteed to want to come back.

2. Grab an Uber into the city from the airport

Buses no longer service Cape Town International Airport, leaving fewer options for getting into the city center. If you’re planning to rent a car for your stay, you’re sorted. Most major car hire companies have desks at the airport. 

If not, approved taxi companies have desks inside the arrivals hall. Else, follow the lead of the locals and order an Uber once you're past baggage reclaim. Not only is it the cheapest option but it's also considered a safe way to travel. Try and avoid the touts outside the airport offering to arrange taxis or Ubers. Some might be legit, but it’s best to exercise caution.

3. Pack a change of clothes whenever you leave the house

Cape Town residents are very fond of saying that the city experiences four seasons in one day, and while visitors from the northern hemisphere might scoff at a Capetonian’s idea of winter, it’s true that the weather is capricious.

In spring and autumn, you could start the day with a jersey and long pants, need sunscreen and hats by lunchtime, and be shopping for umbrellas by mid-afternoon.

Winter is largely wet, but there are days when you’ll need sunblock. Meanwhile, summer afternoons can get pretty windy and have you reaching for a jacket. To be on the safe side, pack sunscreen, sunglasses and something with sleeves into your day bag.

4. Ask if there are any areas to avoid

Most Cape Town visits are incident-free, but it’s a good idea to get the lowdown on which areas to avoid from your host. The city center is generally fine, but after dark it’s best not to wander alone. Sunday afternoons and Monday evenings tend to be pretty quiet, too. Keep your wits about you if there aren’t many people around. 

Locals will likely tell you to avoid the Cape Flats. Yet you can visit many of its restaurants and attractions during the day without any trouble. The Flats also has some good nightlife too. Stay in one of its guesthouses or homestays if you want a bit more immersion. To explore these neighborhoods in any depth, it’s best to do so with a local guide. 

5. Reminder: Table Mountain is still a mountain

Visible from pretty much every corner of the city, Cape Town’s flat-topped mountain is the emblem and the pride of the South African capital. It's also a must-see. Don’t let its proximity to the center fool you. Even on a sunny day, the weather at the top is often cool and windy, so don’t head up in your beach gear with no layers to add. 

If you’re hiking rather than taking the cable car, adopt the usual rules: don’t go alone; always tell people where you’re headed; stick to marked trails; pre-plan your route. Every year there are tales of travelers who get lost on the mountain and have to rely on local search and rescue services to bring them back down. Take local advice on which route to tackle. Some are safe, while others should only be attempted with larger groups or in the company of a seasoned guide.

6. Conceal your food around baboons

Baboons are a part of life in the Cape Peninsula. Most visitors will give these large-toothed primates a wide berth. But for others, the intrigue of seeing a monkey hang out on a beach or wander through a car park is too great. 

Feeding the baboons is strictly prohibited (not that the baboons know that). They'll happily leap into an open car of an unsuspecting tourist to whip a picnic out of their hand. Or they'll riffle through unattended bags on the Cape Point beaches, whilst the owners look on flabbergasted from the ocean. If you see baboons around, roll up the windows and stash the snacks. 

7. The tap water is drinkable

Although at many restaurants you’ll be asked whether you’d like to kick off with still or sparkling, the Cape Town tap water is perfectly safe to drink. If you leave the city to visit smaller towns, ask locally if they drink the water, although generally, water in the Western Cape is perfectly potable.

8. You can do your shopping at the robots

English is one of South Africa’s 11 official languages, but it does come with a few idiosyncrasies. Take the robots. These are not mechanical men, but the local term for traffic lights. More than just a place to stop (or for some drivers, to just carry on, red light be damned) and wait for the traffic, robots are a hub of human activity. You’ll see beggars here on a regular basis, as well as traders selling everything from sunglasses to reindeer antlers. 

The robots allow you to buy a sunhat, shop for souvenirs, grab some fresh veggies, or replace that phone charger you left at your last guesthouse, all from the comfort of your car. First-time visitors can feel a little anxious lowering their windows at the lights, but if you’re in the suburbs and you see a trader selling something you like, it’s a part of local life to see what they have. To perfect the art of speed shopping, be sure to have cash at hand. Capetonians are not the most patient of drivers. If you linger more than a few seconds after the robots turn green, a symphony of horn-honking will ensue.

9. Don’t forget to tip

Although expected amounts are not on a par with those in North America, South Africa has a tipping culture and many workers will expect you to add a little something onto the bill. In restaurants and bars, 10% is acceptable, though 12-15% is better. Give R5-10 to petrol pump attendants (you can’t pump your own gas in South Africa) and R5-10 to informal parking guards, depending on the level of service they offer (some barely glance at your car, others will help you squeeze in and out of tight spaces).

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The Best Small Town to Visit in Every State for a Charming Weekend

Bookmark these destinations for your next trip.

America might be best known for its major cities, but there's more to this beautiful, sprawling country than New York City, Los Angeles, and Chicago. Those bustling metropolises are wonderful places to live and visit, but you need to know about the prettiest towns in America that are equally worth seeing. Whether you're seeking lush scenic landscapes, exquisite fine dining, or intriguing cultural attractions, the attributes of a great destination aren't limited to the most popular or densely populated areas. In fact, there are countless hidden gems throughout the United States, and we've found them.

Orange Beach, Alabama

Tourists flock to this southern Alabama enclave for its white sand beaches and unbelievably blue waters. Explore Orange Beach's bountiful trails and award-winning restaurants when you’re not taking a dip along the Gulf shore.

Homer, Alaska

This town, located 200 miles south of Anchorage, is known as the Halibut Fishing Capital of the World, and the City of Peonies. With awe-inspiring volcanoes and majestic mountains peppering the landscape, its spectacular views make it a snapshot-worthy destination. Be sure to stroll down Homer Spit, a popular strip for shops and restaurants like the Chartroom .

Sedona, Arizona

This geological wonderland is a remarkable sight for visitors and residents alike. The city's red rock formations are a main draw, but thanks to its year-round sunny weather, it's also home to annual festivals like the popular Sedona Mountain Bike Festival and the Run Sedona 5K & 10K. Head to Sedona Real Inns & Suites for a relaxing stay that's near hiking trails.

Eureka Springs, Arkansas

With Victorian homes flanking the winding mountainside streets, this secluded city is brimming with historic flair: In fact, its entire downtown area is on the National Register of Historic Places. Outdoor activities abound at Beaver Lake, where you'll find water sports, camping, fishing, and mountain biking.

Carmel-by-the-Sea, California

This European-style town is in a class all its own. With nearly 100 art galleries, including Erin Hanson Gallery and Travis Hall Fine Art, it's a cultural haven. The city's attractions also include premium shopping, exquisite dining, and, of course, access to beautiful beaches along the coast.

Silverton, Colorado

This old mining town in the heart of the San Juan Mountains offers historic sites, abundant outdoor activities, and mesmerizing scenery.

In the winter, it's a recreational paradise where visitors can sled, ski, or hop on a snowmobile. Fishing, hiking, rafting, and biking rule in hotter weather. Book a ride on the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad to relive the "Golden Age" of mining.

Mystic, Connecticut

Settled in 1654, Mystic was once a shipbuilding seaport village and a safe harbor for tall ships to weather a storm. The city honors its rich past, while embracing its quintessential New England charm, and colorful local shops and homey restaurants line the streets. In the fall, visitors and locals line up at B.F. Clyde's Cider Mill , the only steam-powered cider mill in the U.S., for a taste of its famous cider and fresh donuts.

New Castle, Delaware

Just 10 minutes south of downtown Wilmington, New Castle is known for its numerous historic structures. Stroll along cobblestone streets or sandy beaches in this quaint city overlooking the Delaware River. Thanks to its preservation efforts, it remains one of the most important colonial and federal villages in the country.

Crystal River, Florida

As the only place in the world where people can legally experience swimming with manatees, Crystal River is a gem of Florida's Nature Coast. In addition to providing access to this beloved endangered species, the city offers a variety of attractions like the Florida Tree Top Adventure and a local escape room.

Adairsville, Georgia

Just an hour northwest of Atlanta and one hour south of Chattanooga, Adairsville is an often-overlooked slice of paradise. Dotted with a handful of mom-and-pop shops, the 1902 Stock Exchange & Public Square Opera House and Maggie Mae's Tea Room , this bespoke town is ideal for an off-the-beaten path getaway. The charming Barnsley Resort is chock full of various outdoor activities, and offers individual cottage accommodations.

Waialua, Hawaii

With stunning ocean views and ample wide-open spaces, Waialua is the perfect locale for those seeking serenity and breathtaking natural beauty.

Salmon, Idaho

This scenic rural Central Idaho mountain town is situated along the Salmon River, better known as the "The River of No Return." A hotbed for whitewater rafting, it's ripe with opportunities for outdoor thrill-seekers.

Galena, Illinois

Galena is an ideal getaway from Chicago, as it's a three-hour drive from the city. From snowshoeing at Casper Blugg Land & Water Reserve in the winter to watching hot air balloon races in the summer, this midwestern town offers plenty of fun to enjoy all year round.

Nashville, Indiana

Brown County is dubbed the "Artist Colony of the Midwest" thanks to its flourishing art scene, with murals, public installations, and eye-catching sculptures at every turn.

Winterset, Iowa

Known for its famous covered bridges, Winterset is a picturesque town with down-home charm that inspired the revered love story The Bridges Over Madison County . The novel-turned-movie isn't the town's only pop culture association; as the birthplace of John Wayne, it's home to the only museum dedicated to the legendary actor.

Abilene, Kansas

From greyhound racing to Wild West re-enactments, Abilene offers an array of unique experiences to explore. Known for its friendly community, it's also home to the C.W. Parker Carousel , the oldest operational Parker carousel known to exist.

Somerset, Kentucky

Situated on the northeastern edge of Lake Cumberland just west of the Daniel Boone National Forest, this bluegrass city is bustling with activities. Locals love the myriad of outdoor events featuring local eats and music, including the annual Foodstock and Moonlight festivals.

Breaux Bridge, Louisiana

Craving crawfish? Breaux Bridge is full of Cajun restaurants serving the mouth-watering specialty. Every May, thousands of seafood lovers come for a taste of the state's world-famous crustacean at their annual festival . After grubbing, take a walk downtown to shop for antiques and one-of-a-kind fashions.

Camden, Maine

Camden is a four-season community on Penobscot Bay, dotted with stunning 19th-century homes. Situated between the mountains and the sea, it boasts gorgeous scenery, award-winning cuisine, cultural hubs, and outdoor adventures to suit all tastes.

Oakland, Maryland

Oakland hosts popular festivals in all four seasons. Stop by Winterfest to see marvelous ice sculptures, or witness the beauty of changing leaves during the annual Autumn Glory festival in the fall.

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These Are the 7 Oldest Beach Towns in the U.S.

These gorgeous beaches worth visiting are filled with beautiful views and rich history.

From small towns to large tourist hotspots, U.S. beach towns are rich with history. The oldest beach towns in the United States have been the locations of military forts, trading posts and even the sites of infamous pirate lore. Their beautiful views have led these locations to become popular over the centuries for the vacations of past presidents, famous authors and popular celebrities.

More than just sandy shores and salty water, beach towns have so much to offer visitors. Some have quaint coffee shops, antiquing and intimate eateries. Others boast amusement parks and family-friendly attractions. And their miles of waterfront access make them go-to destinations for boating , fishing and even whale or dolphin watching. These seven historic beach towns have been go-to travel destinations for tourists and locals alike for hundreds of years.

Cape May, New Jersey

America's oldest beach town, Cape May, became a vacation destination in 1766. Philadelphians would travel by stagecoach, sloop, schooner or horse-drawn carriage to make it to the beach. Building their tourism, Cape May added lodging by 1834, drawing in visitors from a further radius, including New York and Washington D.C. and later built its first 300-person hotel in 1842. A growing hotspot, the beach town become home to pavilions, ballrooms, and delicious seafood.

Revere Beach, Massachusetts

Known as America's first public beach, Revere Beach opened in 1896. The beach town was also home to one of the largest roller coasters in the whole country until the amusement park was closed in the late 1970s. Spanning about three miles, Revere Beach is located just north of Boston.

Ocracoke, North Carolina

Ocracoke began to flourish in the 18th century when fishers, farmers, pilots and mariners all moved to the area to maintain the waters. Ocracoke is also known for being the location where Blackbeard the Pirate did a lot of his looting and ultimately met his demise in the harbor. Visitors to Ocracoke today come for the fishing, the beach and the town's annual fig festival.

Key West, Florida

Take a long drive down the coast of Florida and you'll find yourself at the southernmost part of the continental United States. Settled by Juan Ponce de León in the 16th century, Key West began to grow in popularity in 1823 when it was deemed a port of entry for the U.S. and forts were constructed as the Navy, Marines and Army took post there.

Over the centuries, Key West continued to grow as a military hub, saw the decline of the local shrimp industry, and welcomed famous writers like Ernest Hemingway and Tennessee Williams. To this day, Key West is still a popular tourism destination for tourists who want to enjoy the beach, learn military history and eat the region's namesake, key lime pie.

Pensacola, Florida

One of America's oldest colonies, Pensacola was conquered by Spanish conquistadors in the 16th century. The city changed ownership many times over the years. Take yourself back to the early days of Pensacola with historic tours and visits to the beach.

Set on the Gulf Coast, there's so much to do in this military town—including dolphin watching boat trips, museum tours and plenty of arcade and amusement centers.

Astoria, Oregon

While many may recognize this Oregon coast town as the setting of the popular 1985 movie The Goonies, its history dates back to the 17th century. Founded in 1811, Astoria is the oldest American settlement west of the Rocky Mountains and a hub for fur trading in the 19th century. Today, visitors enjoy walks along the beach and historical landmarks like local museums and the Lewis and Clark National Historical Park.

Newport, Rhode Island

A beach haven for America's elite, Newport has served as the summer chill spot for celebrities, politicians and historically wealthy moguls like the Vanderbilts. These families' mansions still line the coast and add to Newport's draw as a present-day tourist attraction. Visitors can also enjoy taking in the picturesque views of the water along the town's 3.5-mile cliff walk.

Emily Rochotte is a freelance writer and social media manager covering lifestyle, travel and wedding content.

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