10 must do activities for your trip to Cape Town and The Winelands
I would argue that Cape Town is ‘a perfect city’ with options of city, beach, and natural surroundings filled with culture and history. There is definitely something for every type of traveller. This top 10 guide to Cape Town is just a small selection of the many activities and sights in the Cape and surrounding areas, you certainly won’t be bored.
1: V&A Waterfront
Opened in 1992, the V&A Waterfront is South Africa’s most visited tourist destination. The Waterfront is home to a huge range of restaurants, cafés, bars, shops, and museums as well as Two Oceans Aquarium, boat trips to the famous Robben Island and The Watershed indoor craft market. You will also see many African bands and singers at The Waterfront which creates an amazing atmosphere of culture.
2: Table Mountain
The world-famous Table Mountain covers Cape Town skyline form all angles. Its flat top gave it the name Table Mountain and often has a cloud cover known as ‘the tablecloth’. This is something to be careful of as views at the top are affected by poor weather. Millions of visitors each year reach the summit by the two cable cars to get 360° breath-taking views of Cape Town 1,086m below. While you’re up there, look out for the guinea pig lookalike, Dassie, that can only be found on Table Mountain.
3: Boulders Beach and Simon’s Town
Spend the day on this beautiful sandy beach and watch the African penguins roam free on the sand. You can find a secluded spot in amongst the huge boulders that line the coast and have a swim for yourself, you may be lucky enough to swim with a penguin. Visit neighbouring Simon’s Town for craft markets and seafood restaurants.
4: Robben Island
This former prison is now a museum for thousands of visitors each year. Most-famously South African President Nelson Mandela was held here for 18 years. The informative guided tours are given by former inmates and give an insight into life in the prison as well as South African history. Make sure you book ahead of time as the tours fill up fast!
5: Cape of Good Hope
Located an hour drive south from V&A Waterfront is the most south-western point of the African continent. The picturesque landscape of cliffs, beaches and the vast ocean is certainly one for the photo album.
6: Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden
Set at the bottom of Table Mountain lies one of the world’s greatest botanical gardens. The vast garden is home to over 7000 of plants. This is the perfect place for canopy walks, nature trails and a picnic on the grass.
7: Camps Bay Beach
This beautiful beach overlooks the Twelve Apostles formation on the western side of Table Mountain. The sandy beaches are lined with a promenade of restaurants, bars, and shops. A very popular spot in the warmer summer months.
8: World of Birds Wildlife Sanctuary & Monkey Park
A fun activity for all the family is the World of Birds Wildlife and Monkey Park. This is Africa’s largest bird park and is home to over 400 species of bird. My personal highlight was the monkey enclosure where the small squirrel monkeys would jump and climb on you, definitely a camera worthy moment. Be careful they don’t climb in your bags though, they like that!
9: Inverdoorn Game Reserve
You can’t have a trip to South Africa without partaking in an African Safari and this is the perfect place. A 1 hour and 40-minute drive east from Cape Town is the Inverdoorn Game Reserve. They pride themselves on their animal care and rehabilitation. This private safari reserve is home to many animals including the Big Five, Elephant, Lion, African Buffalo, Leopard and Rhino. An overnight stay at the luxury outdoor lodges are a must. Spend the afternoon in a Safari buggy, spotting animals roaming in the grasslands, followed by an evening BBQ and campfire. If you’re lucky enough, the elephants often travel to the lodge swimming pool for a drink and a selfie.
10: Stellenbosch Vineyards
A 45-minute drive east of Cape Town is South Africa’s second-oldest town Stellenbosch. Famous for is beautiful scenery and vast vineyards. Choose from any of the huge variety of vineyards for a wine tasting masterclass with the professional winemakers for lots of information and great tasting wine.
Bonus suggestion: GOLD Restaurant
This restaurant is a must go to for the ultimate African dining experience. You will be served with a 14-course set menu showcasing traditional African dishes from many African countries. Dinner entertainment will include a Bongo drum lesson, and an African dance show. Certainly not one to miss!
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