South Africa Nomads
What to do and see in Cape Town?
10 attractions + tips
Cape Town is one of the most diverse cities in South Africa, with the iconic Table Mountain as a landmark and surrounded by two oceans. In this blog, we'll take you through the most beautiful sights in Cape Town that you absolutely shouldn't miss during your visit.
The main attractions in Cape Town at a glance:
Table Mountain is the centerpiece of Cape Town. You can either hike up the mountain or take the cable car. The cable car takes you to the top in five minutes, while the gondola gently rotates. Once you're up there, you can enjoy the views of the city, the ocean, and the peninsula.
Preferably go early in the morning. That way, you have the least chance of encountering the 'tablecloth' – the clouds that drift over the mountain.
Tip: Be sure to bring a camera for photos of the city and the surrounding landscape.
Drive along Chapman's Peak Drive, a nine-kilometer coastal road between Hout Bay and Noordhoek. On one side, you'll see the ocean, and on the other side, steep rock faces rise up.
Stop along the way at various viewpoints for photo ops. On clear days, you might spot dolphins or even whales in the waves below. Plan your ride around sunset for a spectacular view as the sun dips into the ocean.
Stroll through the colorful streets of Bo-Kaap, where each house is painted in a different bright color. From pink and green to canary yellow, the neighborhood tells the story of the Cape Malay community that lives here.
Visit the Bo-Kaap museum to learn more about its rich history. Wander through the steep streets and sample Cape Malay dishes at one of the local restaurants. One thing's for sure: this neighborhood is incredibly photogenic.
If you love hiking, you have to go to Lion's Head. In our opinion, this hike is one of the most beautiful routes in Cape Town. The path winds up like a spiral, with ever-changing views along the way. In some sections, you'll use chains and ladders to climb further.
The hike takes about an hour and a half to reach the top. At sunrise, you’ll see the light gradually spreading over the city. Bring water and wear sturdy shoes.
Do you have a fear of heights? Then the hike might be challenging.
Kirstenbosch is located on the eastern slope of Table Mountain. In this botanical garden, you'll find various indigenous plant species from South Africa, such as proteas and fynbos. Sugarbirds flit between the flowers, and there's a serene calmness in the garden.
Walk across the tree snake, a wooden bridge that winds through the trees. On the large grassy field, you can have a picnic, and in the summer, there are regularly outdoor concerts here.
Relax on the white sands of Camps Bay, which stretches at the foot of the Twelve Apostles. Stroll along the palm trees on the promenade and choose one of the many restaurants and cafés for lunch or dinner.
Take a refreshing dip in the clear water or find a spot on the beach. At sunset, enjoy a cocktail on one of the cozy terraces with a view of the ocean.
Tip: For a beautiful view of the bay and the mountains, head to Maiden's Cove.
Visit the colony of African penguins at Boulders Beach. A boardwalk takes you close to these amazing birds. Also, try to spot rock hyraxes, also known as "dassies."
Explore the various small coves nestled between the large granite rock formations. The sheltered beach with clear, calm water is perfect for a swim among the penguins. We personally think the beach is the best spot to watch the birds, but you'll probably see more penguins at the boardwalk. Of course, you can visit both!
Visit the vibrant Victoria & Alfred waterfront. Here you'll find a mix of shops, restaurants, and markets. Stroll by street performers or take a short boat ride through the harbor.
Taste local dishes at the food market or take a ride on the Ferris wheel for a great view of the harbor and Table Mountain. In the evenings, the area really comes alive as the restaurants and bars light up.
Tip: Visit this area during mealtime, so you can have lunch or dinner at one of the many restaurants or in the food halls.
For a truly special view, head to 'The Rock'. This hidden viewpoint is located at the foot of Lion's Head. It's a favorite spot among locals for watching the sunset or having a peaceful picnic. You'll find many people here enjoying the sunset with a bottle of wine, a pizza, or a snack.
Climb up for a breathtaking view over Camps Bay and the Atlantic Ocean. You’ll have the best view during sunset, but it can get a bit busy then.
The surfer village of Muizenberg is located near Cape Town and is known for its colorful beach huts. It's perfect for beginner surfers because of the longer waves. You'll find plenty of surf schools here, and you can even take a surf lesson yourself.
There are several restaurants and cafés where you can sit down for coffee or lunch. The surf schools also often have seating available. There's a relaxed vibe in the village, making it a great stop for surf enthusiasts.
Fun fact: A pair of orcas has been swimming around this bay for years, keeping the great white sharks at bay.
Check out our South Africa Nomads tour to South Africa, where you'll drive along the Garden Route in your own 4x4 with a rooftop tent.
We offer you the best price-quality ratio in the market. Your price when booking is fixed, and there are no unnecessary fees or hidden costs. You can join us starting from €1,250 per person, excluding flights.
With South Africa Nomads, you fly from Brussels (Zaventem) to South Africa (Cape Town) at fixed prices. We help you book your flight at a great price, but you can also book tickets yourself.
This allows you to enjoy your trip independently with your own travel group and have complete freedom during the round trip while our partners ensure a worry-free experience in the background.
With South Africa Nomads, you'll sleep at unique campsites near the coast or in nature, providing the ultimate road trip experience through South Africa!
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