Cape Town is one of the world’s most famous cities. There is plenty to do here and I would recommend setting aside ample time in your South African itinerary to explore this city. If you do have the luxury to do so, here is a list of 10 things you can check out (in no particular order)!
1. V&A Waterfront
Why Go:
This is one of the more touristy places in Cape Town but it is still worth checking out. The area has the feel of a western waterfront mall complex but also hosts some local drummers and performers. The waterfront comes alive in the evening as people wind down from their days and enjoy some fine dining by the pier. I would recommend you come before sunset as the views near the water are really nice
How Much Time:
I would spend one evening here. Come before the sunset and enjoy a nice waterfront dinner. If you have extra time, come back during the day to shop for some local hand made crafts and maybe even a boat ride.
2. Robben Island
Why Go:
Visitors of this island get to see the prison that Nelson Mandela resided in for almost 20 years. To get to the island, ferry tickets must be bought from The Nelson Mandela Gateway To Robben Island building. The building is located along the V&A waterfront. If you don’t have tickets already prior to coming, I would recommend doing this activity earlier in the day. This is a popular attraction that draws large crowds.
How Much Time:
Because I missed this activity I cannot say how long it will take you, but from my research, this should take about half a day. It may be worthwhile to couple this with the V&A waterfront in the evening as the ferry will return you to the area. Maybe a day trip to the island followed by some shopping, sunset views, and dinner by the V&A?
3. Shark Cage Diving
Why Go:
How often do you get the opportunity to come within inches of a great white shark? Not many. If nothing else, doing this makes for an amazing story. See my post on Shark Diving Experience (Article Coming Soon) to see if this day trip is worth it for you.
How Much Time:
This will take almost 3/4ths of your day. You should be back by about 5pm-6pm depending on where your hotel is. Keep in mind however that your day will start at 5am so you might be tired when you return.
4. Bars
Why Go:
This may come as a surprise as anyone who read my post What I Loved (and didn’t About South Africa)where I caution roaming around South Africa at night. However, some areas, like the V&A, and more crowded areas are generally okay. I was advised by several locals to go out in Long Street. The street is full of bars and music and perfect for anyone that loves the party scene.
Tip: Make sure you have cash on hand as many of the bars have small cash covers to get in.
How Much Time
Go from about 10pm-2am or till you’re out of energy!
5. Table Mountain
Why Go
You can see Table Mountain from almost anywhere in Cape Town but going up to the top still has a different feel. I would recommend going up early in the morning to avoid ridiculous lines and long waiting times. Depending on the days weather, the view from above can vary. Unfortunately for me, I got a lot of cloud and fog, but being at the top was still well worth my time.
Because of the unique flat top of this mountain, when you get to the top, you will feel as though you’re on a flat walking path. There is a lot of space to walk around and get pictures from the different viewing points that are mapped out. You’ll also encounter many Rock Hyrax, an animal you have probably never seen before. This squirrel like animal is actually part of the elephant family!
How Much Time
This can take anywhere from 2-5 hours depending on lines and if you decide to hike or take a cable car up.
6. Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden
Why Go
Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden is situated along the eastern slope of Table Mountain. Even if you’re not into gardens (I am not) this is worth a visit. It is one of the more famous gardens in the world for its wide range of plant species. I would encourage you to take your time here. It really is remarkable and contains some of the more unique plants and trees you will ever see. To top it all off, the garden is surrounded with a backdrop of Table Mountain.
Tip: It may help to read a bit about the biodiversity in the garden prior to visiting. It will enhance your experience as you may notice more plants during your walk around the garden.
How Much Time
The garden isn’t incredibly large and therefore does not require a lot of walking. You can easily spend about 1-2 hours here. If you are a nature enthusiast you could spend a great deal amount more as well.
7.Boulder Beach
Why Go:
When I first read that there were penguins in South Africa I thought I had misread an article. The idea of penguins and a beach was an image I never thought I would see. For that reason alone I knew I had to stop at this famous beach. Be sure to not miss out on this one of a kind sight!
How Much Time:
You can not go on the beach as it is blocked off in an effort to prevent humans from disturbing the penguin’s lifestyle. Don’t expect to lounge or swim here it is more an observatory beach. 30 min to 1 hour is enough to get a chance to see the penguins.
8. Cape Of Good Hope
Why Go:
This is one of those landmark spots you will just want to say you visited. It is the southernmost point of the African continent which is a cool place to say you visited. Climbing up the vantage point, which isn’t too strenuous, gives you a nice view of the ocean and surrounding scenery. Not to mention the point has some history. Some say it was named the Cape of Good Hope because of the hope it gave the Spanish that a route to India was possible from Europe.
How Much Time:
It’s a bit of a drive to get here from the main city area, but once here, I would allow about an hour in your itinerary to get your pictures and climb to the top.
9. District Six Museum
Why Go:
District 6 is famously known as a South African district where thousands of citizens were removed during apartheid. Apartheid was a significant period in South African history that divided the country. The District Six Museum gives a great feel of the struggles that existed during this movement. The museum has artifacts such as old suitcases, photos, notes, and signs that help portray the struggle faced by many during this time.
How Much Time
The museum is small so 1 hour is more than enough here.
10. Urban Area Of Langa
Why Go:
Visiting Langa was one of the more life-changing experiences I’ve had on a trip. Of all the amazing things I had seen and done in South Africa, this still sticks out to me the most. To do this, you do need to find a tour as the area, under no circumstances, should be seen on your own. As you make your way around this economically suppressed area, that is still feeling the effects of apartheid, you will appreciate every luxury you have. I will warn you that this is not the most jolly experience, however seeing both the good and bad of a country is important. Come with an open mind and learn about the struggles that many black Africans still face in South Africa.
How Much Time:
Most tours will take about 3-4 hours.
Overview
Cape Town was my favorite city in South Africa. There is a great blend of entertainment, adventure and history that awaits you when visiting . Of course the highlight of it all is the ever so unique spectacle of the Table Mountain. No matter where you are in Cape Town, there is no escaping this natural beauty.
I came in with high expectations having heard so much about Cape Town. In my opinion, the city was fantastic but it did not have that “it” or “wow” factor that truly made it one of a kind and thus I did not give it over 4 stars. However, this does not mean it should be overlooked. The city is great and no matter what you enjoy, you will find some amazing things to fill your days with over here.
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