Cape Town 2019: Your go-to list of things to do
If you don’t do any of these things, did you even visit Cape Town?
Cape Town, dubbed the “Mother City” of South Africa, is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful cities in the world. As part of its natural charm, you can expect breathtaking mountain views, world-class beaches, wildlife and indigenous Cape flora.
Being local at heart means that we’ve done our homework on a few of our favourite Cape Town attractions.
Whether you’re a local or international traveller, if you’re keen to explore, here are our top suggestions that you need to add to your travel to-do list.
Out and about
Table Mountain
There’s no doubt that the first sight of Table Mountain will leave you in awe. It’s the view that never gets old. Not only is this the pride and joy of Cape Town, but it also acts as a general point of direction around the city (not just a pretty face). See the city from a different perspective via cable car, or if you are feeling brave, by hiking up Platteklip Gorge. Either way, it’s going to be epic, we promise! Fun fact: you get a free ride up the cable car if it’s your birthday!
Chapman’s Peak
If you want breathtaking views of mountains and the surrounding Atlantic ocean, then Chapman’s Peak Drive is just the place for you. The coastline spans over 9 kilometres and is perfect for a golden sunset cruise.
Signal Hill
Take a drive up to Signal Hill where sun seekers can witness something magical — a 360 degree view of the city, awesome sunrises and later on, a true African sunset. Beware, if you’re taking a picnic of your favourite treats, you may just find yourself fending off some of the local bird residents — guinea fowls.
Signal Hill is also a location for the brave at heart. This is one of Cape Town’s iconic paragliding spots. The view will literally leave you hanging. LOL, see what we did there?
Hiking
There are various trails around the city that will satisfy hikers and non-hikers alike. For all levels of experience, here’s a non-exhaustive list of trails for the outdoor lovers:
- Kloof Corner
- Elephant’s Eye
- Lion’s Head
- Chapman’s Peak
- Kasteelspoort
- Skeleton Gorge
- India Venster
- Newlands Forest Contour Paths
Beaches
Our beaches attract all types of visitors from families, surfers, water-loving dogs to penguins, volleyball players and even local celebrities. Not a fan of the sun and sand? Grab a beach bed and an umbrella so that you can lounge in luxury for the day. Hungry? Grab a ‘granadilla lolly to make you jolly’ ( a local staple and beach favourite). Keen to hit the coast? Then here’s a list of our favourite beaches that will be sure to have something for everyone:
- Camps Bay — A true Cape Town classic
- Clifton — Perfect for family fun
- Muizenburg — Surfer’s paradise
- Llandudno — Secluded beach
- Boulder’s Beach — Make a penguin friend
- Blouberg — South Africa’s most Instagrammed spot
Seapoint Promenade
Take a seaside stroll, jog or cycle along Sea Point’s most famous landmark, the Prom (as it’s more commonly known). Keep a lookout for several kids play areas, outdoor gyms, the lighthouse and art instalments along the way. Promenade Mondays are a favourite for the skaters and rollerbladers. If you walk far enough, you will make your way to the bottom of the Mojo market for a bite to eat. Alternatively, have a cool down in the Seapoint Pavillion Swimming Pool.
Cape Flora
It’s no secret that we’re home to the Cape Floral Kingdom, a biodiversity hotspot which has the highest concentration of plant species in the world. For this reason, our flora is protected in 13 different areas as a UNESCO Heritage Site. While this flora can be seen all around the Cape, a great place to visit is Kirstenbosch Botanical Garden, right at the foot of Table Mountain National Park. It will set you back a small admission fee, but it is worth every penny. Be sure to bring a picnic, but remember, in order to protect these areas, take nothing but pictures and leave nothing but footsteps. Fun fact: The King Protea (a fynbos species) is the national flower of South Africa and can be found throughout the Western Cape.
Culture — local is lekker
Museums
South Africa is as rich in culture as it is in biodiversity. The Zeitz Museum of Contemporary African Art (MOCAA), reimagined and redesigned from its original state of grain silos, is the largest museum of contemporary African art in the world. Another museum, rather unique to Cape Town, is the Iziko Bo Kaap Museum, which tells the story of the historic Bo Kaap community.
Tap into Cape Town’s historical routes by taking a ferry from the V&A Waterfront to the Robben Island Museum, a world heritage site best known for being the location of Nelson Mandela’s imprisonment for 18 out of 27 years.
Wining and dining
Wine lovers, find your fix at some of the world’s best vineyards in and around Cape Town:
- Beau Constantia
- Constantia Glen
- Buitenverwachting
- Eagle’s Nest
- Nitida
- Tokara
- Vergelegen
- Boschendal
- Grande Provence
- Babylonstoren
- Spice Route
- Fairview
- Franschhoek Wine Tram
- Cape Point Vineyards
Besides our abundance of spectacular wine farms, Cape Town has become somewhat of a ‘foodie’ destination. Try anything from Michelin Star restaurants to the more traditional local food options such as a typical South African “Braai” and the ultimate “Gatsby” (budget friendly, all the trimmings and ridiculously delicious). Here’s an extensive list of local restaurants frequented by us Capetonians, bru.
Shopping
Greenmarket Square
Only here for ETHCapeTown? Then this is a great spot to purchase those truly unique and authentic South African souvenirs.
The V&A Waterfront
A shopping mall for all ages that includes; beautiful views for markets (such as the Oranjezicht City Farm Market), boat trips and excursions, the Cape Town Comedy Club, reptile world, a Ferris wheel, helicopter tours, iconic restaurants and much more. Experience the true Capetonian vibe with local performances of dancing and instrumental pieces at one of South Africa’s most popular destinations, right at the Cape Town harbour.
For the little ones (or the young at heart)
Two Oceans Aquarium
Keep the kids busy with some spectacular aquatic life. Take a trip ‘into the ocean’ for a day and meet Nemo and a few of his friends.
Scratch Patch
Often considered as the “gemstone capital of the world”, Cape Town is home to the Scratch Patch, an absolute ‘must visit’ where you can hunt for precious gemstones.
Jolly Roger Pirate Boat
Hop aboard the Jolly Roger which takes you around Granger Bay for a unique experience that will make you feel like you are on an ancient pirate ship.
Acrobranch
Jump around from tree to tree in the lush forests of Constantia. From obstacles to zip lines, the acrobranch will be great for all sorts of treetop adventures.
Checking out
After enjoying your stay in Cape Town, say “uhambe kuhle” (go well) to the city and wave goodbye to the mountain you saw when you first arrived.
Be sure to keep us posted on your adventures or tag us in your fave local spots.
We’re looking forward to being a part of your Cape Town adventure!
We’re excited to welcome everyone to the Mother City! For further info, please visit our website.
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