Itinerary for Cape Town
If you are planning a trip to Cape Town, the good news is there is no shortage of things to do and places to see. You can pack every day of your itinerary for Cape Town with fun and exciting activities. Alternatively, take things easy and focus only on the experiences you know you’ll love.
Whatever your plans for your holiday to South Africa entail, you are likely to love Cape Town. Our country’s beloved Mother City offers a variety of unique activities and attractions.
Here you will discover the crème de la crème of things to do and places to see around Cape Town. Use them to build a custom itinerary according to your likes, instead of following a set itinerary created by a tour operator.
Time and budget permitting, try to include as many of the excursions in your Cape Town itinerary as possible for a rich and rewarding vacation experience.
Cape Town City
Nestled at the foothills of majestic Table Mountain, this small metropolitan city is trendy and exciting in a unique way. Get to know her by experiencing her top attractions.
Table Mountain
1. Table Mountain
A massive mountain with a flat tabletop towers above the city. The mountain often has a cover of clouds, which is the topic of a historic legend.
What to expect
A definite highlight and one of the great things to do with kids is to take the Table Mountain Aerial Cableway. Enjoy the exquisite views from the top of Table Mountain. There is a restaurant and various hiking trails and viewpoints to enjoy.
Hikers can also choose to walk up the mountain which should take at least an hour and a half. Purchase one-way tickets at the top of the cableway to make your way back down.
How long it takes
Set aside half a day for your Table Mountain experience if you are planning to take the cableway. If you are hiking, you will need the best part of a day.
Cost per person
A return ticket on the Table Mountain Aerial Cableway costs R360 (approximately US$25)
Good to know
Allow some flexibility in your vacation itinerary for Cape Town to get up the mountain. When the weather is overcast or too windy, the cable car is not operational. You may need to reschedule your Table Mountain trip for another day.
You can catch the City Sightseeing Hop-on Hop-off bus to the cable car station.
2. Gourmet restaurants
Your holiday in Cape Town is your chance to dine at a top tier restaurant. Cape Town has numerous world-class restaurants where gourmands can experience the unique creations dished up by one of our many award-winning chefs.
What to expect
A variety of cuisine from South African, Cape Malay to Asian and inter-continental. Cape Town restaurants offer variety, style, great settings and high quality meals and drinks.
All of this at surprisingly affordable prices when compared to eateries in the US, UK, Europe and Australia.
How long it takes
Book lunch or dinner and set aside two to three hours for a leisurely meal.
Cost per person
Budget for anything between R400 to R2 000 (US$30 to US$130) per three course meal with drinks, depending on where you go. You can dine for a lot less too, but if you are going for one of the award winners, expect this to be your price class.
Good to know
Many city restaurants now offer an online booking process. If you want to book at a specific award-winning eatery, be prepared to book a few months in advance. Award-winning chef Luke Dale Roberts’ Test Kitchen and sister restaurants are cases in point.
Some inner city restaurants close for their annual winter breaks during Cape Town winter months (June/July). Others usually run fantastic dining specials during the quieter winter months. Check out the dining suggestions on Eater.
3. Zeitz MOCAA
The Zeitz Museum of Contemporary African Art (MOCAA) is an amazing gallery space. Created inside an old grain silo in Cape Town harbour, the Museum opened its doors on 22 September 2017. It is the world’s largest museum dedicated to contemporary art from Africa.
What to expect
Zeitz MOCAA houses the German businessman Jochen Zeitz’ collection of African contemporary arts. It also plays host to world class art exhibitions. The exhibition space comprises 6 000m² over nine floors, with 100 gallery spaces. In addition to appreciating the works of art, visitors can browse the bookshop, enjoy a bite to eat in the restaurant and chill in the reading rooms and a rooftop sculpture garden.
How long it takes
The Zeitz MOCAA is a huge space. If you want to tour every floor and every gallery, you need to set aside at least one full day to visit. If you only have an hour or two, do some research before you go and concentrate on one floor. It is no use rushing through an art gallery of this magnitude.
Cost per person
Adults pay R200 (about US$13). Children under 18 enjoy free access. African citizens can get free entry every Wednesday from 10:00 to 13:00.
Good to know
Check out the Zeitz MOCAA website for special rates. The museum is in the trendy Silo district at the V&A Waterfront. There are plenty of good restaurants in the area. From the Silo District, there is easy access to the main area of the V&A Waterfront by crossing over the Nelson Mandela Gateway Bridge. It is a great activity to include in your itinerary for Cape Town when the weather is rainy or windy.
Atlantic Seaboard
The Atlantic Seaboard is the most sought-after tourist area in Cape Town. Lovely beaches and long summer sunsets over the sea make this a special place to be.
Camps Bay Beach
4. V&A Waterfront
The Victoria and Alfred Waterfront is a key tourist hub with something for everyone. Expect shopping, restaurants, attractions such as the Two Oceans Aquarium, markets and more. A visit to this tourism hub should be on your itinerary for Cape Town.
What to expect
Shops and shopping centres surrounding the harbour offer a variety of eateries and entertainment options. This is a contained area where tourists are guaranteed safety. It is also a key area from where to embark on a harbour or sunset cruise.
How long it takes
Many visitors to Cape Town never even leave the V&A Waterfront during their stay! However, we encourage you to be more adventurous. See more of the amazing things Cape Town has to offer. Set aside a full day and night during a busy itinerary. If you have more time, you may want to return.
Cost per person
There is no entry fee to the V&A Waterfront. It is an upmarket area, although shop and restaurant prices are similar to what you will pay elsewhere in Cape Town.
Good to know
Hop on The Cape Wheel at the V&A Waterfront for panoramic views of the Cape. You can also book a self-catering apartment at the V&A Waterfront for a luxury stay nearby the action.
5. Robben Island Museum
Robben Island has great significance in South Africa’s history. This prison island was home to the iconic Nelson Mandela during the apartheid years.
What to expect
Book a tour, which includes your ferry ticket and museum tour to Robben Island. You will learn more about South African history and see the island and prison cell of Nelson Mandela.
How long it takes
The tour takes three to five hours, including the ferry trip to and from the island.
Cost per person
There are different rates for South Africans and foreigners. Children pay between R200 and adults pay R380. Foreigner visitors pay around US$20 per child and US$36 for adults.
Good to know
Robben Island Museum tours depart from the Nelson Mandela Gateway at the V&A Waterfront daily at 09:00; 11:00; 13:00 and 15:00. Tours are weather dependent.
6. Camps Bay Beach
The most beautiful wide, white sandy beach awaits. Camps Bay Beach has a grass lawn border, finished off by a line of palm trees.
What to expect
Camps Bay Beach is a busy spot and offers spectacular sunsets. You can choose to sunbathe or play volleyball. Active youngsters love exploring the large granite rocks that border the beach. The grass lawn is a picnic area. In summer, people take portable barbecues along to make the most of perfect summer weather and late sunsets.
How long it takes
Spend the whole day on the beach! There are many restaurants, bars, coffee shops and convenience stores across the road from the beach. Consider staying for sundowners and dinner or a show at the Theatre on the Bay.
Cost per person
Access to the beach is free. You can rent a beach umbrella and beach chair from informal traders. A beach chair will cost around R75 or US$5 per day and a beach umbrella will set you back around R100 (or US$7).
Good to know
Go early to find the best spot on the beach. You can pack a cool box you are your own snacks and drinks. However, remember alcohol is not allowed on South African beaches. Camps Bay Beach is quite exposed, so it is not the best choice of beach when the South Easter wind is howling. The wind-free Clifton fourth beach which is nearby will then be a better bet.
Cape Peninsula
The Cape Peninsula is synonymous with breathtaking natural beauty. It is the area of rugged coastline from the Atlantic Seaboard to the Indian Ocean side of the Southern Peninsula. This area is especially popular among nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. A day trip to the Cape Peninsula will be a worthwhile inclusion in your excursions from the city.
Tip: Use Google’s My Maps to create custom maps while you plan the most efficient route for visiting the hot spots on your itinerary.
Cape Point Nature Reserve
7. Cape Point Vineyards
A visit to Cape Point Vineyards in the rural area of Noordhoek is well worth one’s while. This winery is renowned for its delicious wines and inspiring views of the seven kilometre stretch of Long Beach.
What to expect
The cool sea breeze is conducive to producing excellent Sauvignon Blanc. Cape Point Vineyards serve an excellent example of this variety. This crisp dry wine is perfect to go with a plate of fresh West Coast oysters. The winery offers wine tasting, picnics and a small menu at its restaurant.
How long it takes
If you are driving from the Atlantic Seaboard along Chapman’s Peak drive (which we recommend), the drive will take you about 40 minutes one way. How much time you spend enjoying the fruits of the grape, the view and food, is up to you.
Cost per person
Wine tasting costs R85 (around US$6) for five 50ml tastings.
Good to know
Do not miss the Cape Point Vineyards Community Market on Thursdays from 16:30 to 20:30. This weekly pop up market boasts a selection of iconic food vendors, Cape Point Vineyards wines and a variety of craft beer.
8. Cape Point Nature Reserve
Cape Point is the southern section of Table Mountain National Park. The natural fynbos vegetation of the areas comprises the smallest but richest of the world’s six floral kingdoms.
What to expect
Cape Point has various hiking trails, stunning small beaches and also a main tourism centre with a funicular. The Flying Dutchman saves visitors a steep uphill walk from the car park to see the old lighthouse. The Two Oceans Restaurant is famous for its seafood and of course, uninterrupted views.
How long it takes
The drive time from the Atlantic Seaboard to Cape Point is approximately an hour and a half. The restaurant kitchen closes at 16:30. If you are planning to do one of the many hikes at Cape Point, an early start is recommended.
Cost per person
Standard entry tickets to the nature reserve is R80 for South African adults and R40 for South African children. Other visitors pay around US$20 per adult and US$10 per child. Tickets to the Flying Dutchman Funicular is R80 (US$5) return per adult and R35 (US$2) return for children.
Good to know
Cape Point has some great swimming spots, most notably at Bordjiesdrif and the Buffels Bay tidal pools. There are 250 bird species in the reserve. Cape mountain zebra and the world’s largest antelope, the eland, roam the area among other fauna. There are no less than 26 recorded shipwrecks around Cape Point.
9. Boulders Beach
Boulders Beach is near Simon’s Town and is a must-visit for nature lovers. Have you ever been up close and personal with a penguin? Here’s your chance!
What to expect
Boulders Penguin Colony is home to a unique and endangered land-based colony of African Penguins. This colony has become famous and a popular international tourist destination. It forms part of Table Mountain National Park and has three pristine beaches, one penguin viewing area and three boardwalks. Although the water is quite cold, the beach is ideal for children. It has immense boulders that shelter the cove from currents, wind and large waves.
Cost per person
Entry for South African adults is R40 and children R20. SADC visitors pay R80 per adult and R40 per child, while foreign visitors pay around US$11 for adults and US$6 per child.
How long it takes
Driving from the Atlantic Seaboard to Boulders Beach is going to take about an hour and a quarter one-way. How much time you spend there, is up to you. The beach is lovely and you may decide to stay for lunch at one of the restaurants.
Good to know
Don’t touch or feed the penguins. They may look cute and cuddly but their beaks are as sharp as razors. When they feel threatened, they have no qualms about nipping the odd finger or nose.
Southern Suburbs
Cape Town’s Southern Suburbs are leafy residential areas at the eastern side of Table Mountain, facing False Bay. It has a variety of fun activities and places to visit. Hikers can explore the Silvermine Nature Reserve, while the Oude Molen Eco Village has something for everyone. Local trade centre Montebello in Newlands is also worth a visit for craft shoppers.
Kirstenbosch National Botanical Gardens
10. Kirstenbosch National Botanical Gardens
One of the great botanical gardens of the world, Kirstenbosch is on the lush, eastern slopes of Table Mountain.
What to expect
Beautifully landscaped gardens, majestic trees and a large variety of indigenous shrubs and flowers await visitors. The botanical garden presents a variety of art exhibitions. Indoor and outdoor exhibitions and shows form part of the Kirstenbosch offering. The Garden also has a garden centre, bookshop and gift shop, a restaurant, tearoom and coffee shop.
Cost per person
The entrance fee per adult is R75 (approximately US$5) and children pay R20 (just more than US$1).
How long it takes
Set aside a good few hours for your Kirstenbosch National Botanical Gardens. Take time out to rest on the green lawns and enjoy the lovely flowers, plants, shrubs, trees and mountain views.
Good to know
The Boomslang tree canopy walkway is a highlight. It offers a bird’s eye view – not only of the gardens but also of Table Mountain and even False Bay. Look out for the Summer Sunset concerts at Kirstenbosch. Local artists perform on Sunday late afternoons while visitors picnic on the lawn.
11. Groot Constantia Winery
The oldest wine producing farm in South Africa should be on your itinerary for Cape Town. Groot Constantia has a reputation going back to the farm’s origins in 1685. The then Governor Simon van der Stel chose this piece of land, behind Table Mountain, for its wine-growing potential and exquisite scenery.
What to expect
Groot Constantia is steeped in history and tradition and its wines are legendary. The Estate offers a Visitors Route, which is a circular self-guided route of the heritage-rich core of the wine estate. The following activities are available on the Visitors Route:
- Explore the original Cape Dutch Manor House
- Visit the famed Cloete Cellar (the birthplace of Grand Constance)
- Go wine tasting
- See the wine museum and cultural history museum
- Be inspired by South African Art
Enjoy world-class cuisine - Experience chocolate and wine pairing (additional charge)
- Download free audio walking tours
Cost per person
The Visitors Route ticket costs R115 (around US$8) and with the chocolate and wine pairing added on, the ticket costs R165 (around US$11). Wine tasting is not available to under 18s.
How long it takes
Visitors can choose how much time they spend and how many of the Visitors Route activities they include. For a quick estate tour and wine tasting, set aside an hour. If you are staying for lunch, you may spend the entire afternoon on the beautiful estate.
Good to know
There are two restaurants at Groot Constantia. Jonkershuis Restaurant is next to the historic homestead. Ancient oak trees surround the restaurant, with various seating options. A private banqueting facility is available or diners can enjoy fireside dining indoors.
Summertime provides perfect weather for al fresco dining in the courtyard next to the lawns where children can play. Simons Restaurant is a farm-style deli café. Visitors can also opt for a picnic basket from Simons Restaurant to enjoy on the manicured lawns.
12. Silvermine Nature Reserve
Silvermine in the central section of the Table Mountain National Park has beautiful fynbos landscaped. It offers some of the best hikes in the Park.
What to expect
This is an activity for nature babies. Wear your walking shoes and sun hat, and take to the mountains. You will see various plant and animal species in their natural habitat. The views are also worthwhile.
Depending on where you are in the reserve, you can look out at the Atlantic Ocean and Indian Ocean. The views over the Southern Suburbs all the way to the Hottentots Holland mountains are also spectacular.
How long it takes
You can spend a few minutes here just to enjoy the views. Or you can spend up to a full day exploring Silvermine Nature Reserve and enjoying the hikes.
Cost per person
South African citizens and residents pay R18 per adult and R9 per child per day. SADC Nationals pay R36 per adult and R18 per child, while the standard conservation fee for foreign visitors are US$5 for adults and US$2,50 for children.
Good to know
The Silvermine Nature Reserve offers a short and wheelchair-friendly boardwalk around the dam. There is also a therapeutic river walk, a light walk to the Silvermine waterfall, bird spotting, picnics, dog walking and mountain biking, to name but a few.
Northern Suburbs
Cape Town’s Northern Suburbs is a twenty minute drive from the City Bowl. These suburbs have a variety of entertainment options. Vast open areas mean plenty of opportunities for visitors to enjoy the great outdoors. There is a variety of mountain bike trails at various wine farms. The Tygerberg Nature Reserve caters for hikers and fauna enthusiasts while Bloubergstrand is any beach-lover’s paradise.
Bloubergstrand and Table Mountain
13. Durbanville Hills
The Durbanville Hills winery is one of the best known wineries of Cape Town’s Northern Suburbs. A mere 20 minutes from Cape Town’s city centre, the winery’s extraordinary terroir results in excellent wines.
What to expect
It’s a gourmet experience with spectacular views of Table Mountain and Table Bay. Visit the cellar and taste the delicious wines. Be sure to dine at the Tangram Restaurant. The restaurant received three awards at the annual Haute Grandeur Global Restaurant Awards:
- Best South African Cuisine on a Global Level
- Best Restaurant Manager in South Africa
- Best Gourmet Cuisine in Africa
How long it takes
Set aside a leisurely afternoon for lunch and wine tasting at Durbanville Hills. There are also neighbouring wineries that you could include in your wine tour for the afternoon.
Cost per person
A cellar tour costs R80 (about US$5) per person. A variety of wine pairing is available at R95 per person (about US$6). The Collectors Reserve Tasting Experience, which includes a private cellar tour, takes 120 minutes. The cost of R295 per person (about US420) includes a bottle of wine to take home.
Good to know
Booking is essential for the Collectors Reserve Tasting Experience. Cellar tours also need to be booked. While Durbanville Hills winery is open on a Sunday, the cellar tours and Collectors Reserve Tasting Experience are only available from Mondays to Fridays around lunchtime.
14. Grand West Casino and Entertainment World
The Grand West Casino and Entertainment World is the largest entertainment destination of its kind in South Africa.
What to expect
It is the only casino in Cape Town. Nevertheless, there is much on offer for non-gamblers too. Apart from a variety of restaurants and bars, there is a big theatre with a line-up of interesting shows. There is also an ice rink, Ten Pin Bowling court, Kids Corner Crèche, games arcade, a laser tag area and cinemas.
How long it takes
Families can pop in for a bite to eat and a show, which will take three to four hours. Gamblers can get stuck in the casino for many hours at a time.
Cost per person
There is no entry fee. Games and entertainment activities are priced individually.
Good to know
Grand West Casino is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. It has smoking and non-smoking gaming facilities.
15. Galileo Open Air Cinema
There are few activities more romantic than watching a movie under the stars. Meerendal Wine Estate hosts the Galileo Open Air Cinema once a month on a Friday evening during Cape Town’s summer months.
What to expect
Camp out on the lawn with a Galileo rented backrest and blanket. Watch a classic movie on a large blow-up screen. The screening starts as soon as the sun has set. Picnic-style food, wine and other drinks are available to purchase before the movie starts.
The lovely Meerendal Wine Estate not only plays host to the Galileo Open Air theatre. This estate is the home of award-winning wines, has a network of mountain biking and running trails and on the weekends, has miniature train rides on offer.
How long it takes
It’s a whole night affair so don’t make any dinner plans afterwards. Plan to leave the venue at around 22:00 or 23:00, depending on the length of the movie.
Cost per person
A standard ticket costs R109 (around US$7) and a VIP ticket R195 (around US$13) with a few options in between.
Good to know
It gets chilly outside at night, despite high day temperatures. It’s advisable to wear long pants and closed shoes and take a warm jacket and beanie along. Check the movie schedule before booking. Doors open at 18:00 for the Galileo Open Air Cinema. Arrive early to reserve your seat under the stars. Enjoy the market experience, which includes delicious artisanal foods and drinks, interactive games, music and fun.
Cape Winelands
The Cape Winelands is all about beautiful scenery, good food and of course, wine. Throw history, adventure and nature into the mix, and this destination will keep visitors entertained for weeks.
16. Dylan Lewis Sculpture Garden
The Dylan Lewis Sculpture Garden is “Located between two worlds, one wild and one tamed… (it) borders the manicured suburbs of Stellenbosch and a rugged mountain wilderness where leopards still roam”.
What to expect
Visitors can discover more than 60 sculptures. The sculptures are carefully placed along 4km of paths on a seven-hectare piece of land. The garden itself is also a treat to behold and focuses on indigenous fynbos.
How long it takes
Private guided tours take one and a half hours. Self-guided tours can be done within the garden’s opening hours and the last entry is at 15:30. The garden is open from Tuesdays to Saturdays from 09:00 – 17:00.
Cost per person
The standard Garden Entry fee is R150 per person (US$10)
Good to know
The garden peaks in winter (July to August and into September). During these months, the fragrant flowers and fynbos are in bloom, while fynbos is mostly dormant in summer.
Babylonstoren dates back to 1692 and is one of the oldest Cape Dutch farms. It has an awe-inspiring fruit and vegetable garden well worth the visit. The farm has Simonsberg, Du Toitskloof and the Franschhoek mountains as a backdrop. It was restored around a decade ago and transformed into a destination wine farm.
What to expect
The garden at Babylonstoren is at the heart of the farm. There is 3,5 hectares of cultivated fruit and vegetables. The garden was inspired by the historic Company’s Gardens in Cape Town, which supplied sailing ships of the Dutch East India Company with fresh produce.
In addition to the garden, Babylonstoren presents Babel restaurant in the old cow shed. With its farm to fork philosophy, seasonal food allows your tastebuds to do the talking. Much more informal and tucked away between oak trees in the garden, is Greenhouse Restaurant. This refreshment station serves picnic-style food. The farm also has a bakery, which by day supplies bread to the Farm Shop and restaurants. At night, it turns into a family style eatery with a lively atmosphere.
How long it takes
A simple stroll through the gardens, a quick drink at the Greenhouse Restaurant and a visit to the Farm Shop will take at least two hours. Allow more time for leisurely dining on this beautiful farm.
Cost per person
Babylonstoren charges an entrance fee of R10 per person during the week. The cost is R20 per person (just more than US$1) on the weekend and public holidays.
Good to know
Make a reservation for lunch at Babel or dinner at the Bakery. It is advisable to take a hat and sunscreen for the garden walk.
18. Spier
Spier is a historic farm near Stellenbosch. It is a destination where visitors can experience so much more than just the Cape wine culture. Arts, good food, nature walks and majestic Eagle Encounters await.
What to expect
The Werf – Spier’s historic farmyard, invites visitors to experience nature, wine, fine dining and the rhythm of farm life. Wine tastings and various dining options are available. You can choose anything from picnics at Spier, The Farm Café, Vadas Smokehouse and Bakery or the Hotel Restaurant.
A craft market near the Tasting Room displays authentic and innovative arts and crafts. Carefully selected gifts are available at the Spier Shop at the hotel.
The Spier Art Collection is one of the largest contemporary South African art collections. The Amphitheatre plays host to a variety of outdoor performances.
Embark on a Vineyards Segway Tour. These two-wheeled, self-balancing, battery powered personal transporters allow visitors to glide through the vineyards. Don’t forget to breeze through the River Garden and visit the yin-yang water recycling and re-energising plant.
Spier’s self-guided walks include Heritage Walk, River Walk, and VoiceMap Walking Tours, which visitors can download on their smartphones.
Eagle Encounters is a facility for the rehabilitation of birds of prey. Visitors can learn more and get really close to these majestic birds.
How long it takes
We recommend you set aside anything from three to five hours, to a full day. Tastings take about 45 minutes. Segway tours are between one and two hours. Self-guided walks can take anything from half an hour to an hour and a half. Plan to spend at least an hour at Eagle Encounters.
Cost per person
Wine tasting ranges from R40 per person to R90 per person (US$2,50 – 6). A Children’s Grape Juice Tasting is also available at R40 per person.
There are various options for the Segway Tours. They range from R375 per person (US$25) for an hour up to R700 per person (US$46) for two hours.
Eagle Encounters costs R85 per person (US$5) for adults and R65 per person (US$4) for children aged 3 – 12 years.
Good to know
Visitors with limited time can visit some excellent wine farms near Spier for wine tasting. The Stellenbosch Valley Wine Route includes, amongst others, Van Ryn’s Distillery and Brandy Cellar, Vredenheim Wine Estate, Neethlingshof Wine Estate and the boutique farm Lovanne.
West Coast
The West Coast stretches over 400 km to the north of Cape Town. On the West, the Atlantic Ocean is the border while the Swartland region lies to its East. It is a dry, sandy area well known for its isolation and unique scenery.
19. West Coast National Park
The West Coast National Park is 120km north of Cape Town. The Park is 36 000 hectares in size and was proclaimed in 1985. It is well known for its bird life and the spring flowers, which occurs from August to September.
What to expect
The Park centres around the Langebaan lagoon. Spot large antelope such as eland and Bontebok, but there are also red hartebeest, kudu, gemsbok, steenbok, mountain zebra, duiker and ostriches in the Postberg section. Smaller animals include bat-eared fox, caracal and the Cape grey mongoose.
Birding enthusiasts delight in the variety of birdlife in the Park. Visitors can drive through the park and visit its various areas. Geelbek Restaurant is in a Cape Dutch building that is a national monument. It offers spectacular views of the Park and lagoon. Chances are that visitors will be able to see flamingos on the lagoon.
Hiking and mountain biking are allowed in the Park, as is kayaking and kite boarding on the Langebaan Lagoon. There are also picnic and braai facilities in the park.
How long it takes
A visit to the West Coast National Park is one of the great day trips from Cape Town. Set aside a full day to enjoy the drive from Cape Town. Stop at roadside farm stalls en route and discover what this area is about.
Cost per person
South African citizens and residents pay R64 per adult per day and R32 per child per day outside of flower season. During flower season (August and September), the cost is R90 per adult per day and R45 per child per day. The standard conservation fee equivalent to US$6 per adult per day and US$3 per child per day apply outside flower season. Inside flower season, the rate is equivalent to US$13 and US$6.
Good to know
Flower season is from August to September. Although this is the busiest time of the year at the Park, it is also the best. The West Coast floral kingdom is spectacular. It is also the best time for whale watching at Tsaarsbank. During summer months, pack your swimming costume for a dip in the Langebaan Lagoon.
20. Wolfgat
Paternoster is a fishing village on the West Coast. It is host to Wolfgat, the World Restaurant of the Year in 2019. The restaurant gets its name from a cave on the premises, which is a site of archaeological and geological significance.
What to expect
Wolfgat offers a unique dining experience to a maximum of 20 diners per sitting. The restaurant makes use of indigenous ingredients specific to its coastal location.
The chef Kobus van der Merwe draws inspiration from the surrounding landscape and its dramatic seasonal transformation. His signature Strandveld food menu comprises a series of tasting dishes presented in seven courses.
Diners will find sustainable seafood, local lamb, venison, and seasonal veldkos (food from the field). Kobus cooks with wild herbs, seaweeds from the local rock pools, and pickings from the garden.
How long it takes
Do not be in a rush to enjoy the tasting menu of seven courses. Set aside a good few hours for this memorable meal.
Cost per person
The tasting menu is R950 per person (around US$63). This excludes drinks.
Good to know
Book online – the booking process opens two months in advance. Wolfgat cannot accommodate children or infants. For a more casual 4-course Strandveld food breakfast or lunch, its sister restaurant Oep ve Koep is a great option.
21. Evita se Perron
The little town of Darling is home to Evita se Perron – a cabaret venue with a difference. The brainchild of South African theatrical legend Pieter Dirk Uys, with his Tannie (auntie) Evita persona as the main star, the show never gets old.
What to expect
Evita se Perron offers a full à la carte menu for breakfast and lunch, as well as afternoon tea. Its licenced Bambi’s Berlin Bar offers some of the finest local Darling beers and wines. Various fun shows can be booked – show times are mostly on weekends.
How long it takes
Driving from Cape Town to Darling will take approximately an hour one way. Allow sufficient time for your meal and/or show.
Cost per person
Show prices vary from around R120 to R200 and per person (between US$8 and US$13). The menu pricing is in line with regular South African restaurants. A two-course lunch with wine should work out to no more than around US$20.
Good to know
Book shows and meals to avoid disappointment. Flower season is a busy time for the West Coast and Darling is no exception. The Voorkamerfest takes place early in September. Do not miss this creative festival of theatre in Darling.
Overberg
The Overberg region lies on the coast east of Cape Town. It is an area of contrasts and wonder. Expect rugged mountain ranges, fynbos, rolling wheat and canola fields and beautiful ocean views. Travelling there from the city will take you through the Elgin Fruit Valley which is South Africa’s second largest fruit supplier. The area stretches all the way to Swellendam and beyond, bordering the Garden Route.
22. Whale Watching in Hermanus
Hermanus is a popular coastal town, which originated as a fishing village. From June to October, it is one of the top spots for whale watching.
What to expect
In Hermanus, there are plenty of spots near the coast where you can watch the whales frolic in the waves. However, many visitors choose to book a whale watchers safari. This takes the form of a chartered boat trip which will take you within close proximity of the whales. A whale safari is a fun idea on the list of child-friendly activities while on holiday in Cape Town.
How long it takes
A whale watchers boat safari usually takes around two hours.
Cost per person
Expect to pay around R1 000 per adult (US$65) and R800 (US$53) per child to go on a whale watchers safari.
Good to know
The annual Hermanus Whale Festival is a celebration of the return of the southern right whales to the coastal waters of Southern Africa. Thousands of visitors descend upon Hermanus for the three-day long Hermanus Whale Festival, held in September.
While the whales are the focus of the festival, they are celebrated on land during the festival. Quality entertainers and musicians, an array of food stalls, kiddies’ activities and events suitable for both the young and old are on the cards.
All events and activities during the whale festival focuses on creating awareness to protect whales and marine wildlife in general.
23. Discover Swellendam
The charming town of Swellendam is the third oldest European settlement in South Africa. It has the impressive Langeberg mountain range as a backdrop. Swellendam is in close proximity to three nature reserves – Marloth Nature Reserve, Sanbona Wildlife Reserve and the Bontebok National Park.
What to expect
There is something for everyone in Swellendam. The historic significance of the town is interesting to some. Sports fanatics and adrenaline junkies have more than enough to do in the area with mountain trails galore. Spend some time on safari with the family and enjoy the area’s hospitality and good food and wine.
How long it takes
Swellendam is just more than 200km from Cape Town. The drive will take around two and a half hours, making it just too for a day trip from Cape Town. We recommend you stay over when visiting the area. Another option is to book a safari stay at Sanbona Wildlife Reserve. Here, you can see white lions in the wild among other wildlife.
Cost per person
Depending on individual activities and establishments’ own rates.
Good to know
Swellendam is lovely to visit all year round. However, if you want to see a wonder world of yellow fields when the canola is in bloom, book your trip in September.
24. Cape Agulhas
The Cape Agulhas area is the most southern tip of Africa. It is also the “official” dividing line between the cold Atlantic and the warm Indian Oceans. This rugged coastal area has rocky beach areas. Historically it was a hazardous route for sailors, but today a working lighthouse warns passing ships.
What to expect
Arniston is a small seaside settlement close to Cape Agulhas. Visit the lighthouse at Cape Agulhas and the Waenhuiskrans (wagon house cliff) cave while exploring the area.
How long it takes
The drive from Cape Town to Arniston will take around two and a half hours. It is just over 200km. We recommend visitors stay over in Arniston. Take time to see the sights and enjoy a quiet seaside break.
Cost per person
Depending on individual activities and establishments’ own rates.
Good to know
Seaside towns such as Arniston get busy during South African holidays. If possible, we advise you visit outside of these holidays to experience the true nature of these towns.
Secure a good base from where to embark on your excursions when on holiday in Cape Town. Make sure you and your family are comfortable by booking your self-catering accommodation in a central area. Keep your personal safety as a priority.
Nox Rentals can help you plan
If you need help you with planning your travel itinerary, contact Nox Rentals. Our experienced, local consultants will ensure your itinerary for Cape Town includes the best experiences and luxury accommodation to suit your needs.
Nox Rentals makes it easy to choose the best place to stay with stunning sea view apartments and villas in prime locations on the Atlantic Seaboard.
To find out more about our city, read our answers to traveller’s FAQs about Cape Town.
Ready to take you planning to the next level? Find the answers to your travel-related questions in our handy, one-stop Cape Town holiday planning hub.