RECOMMENDED SIGHTSEEING AROUND CAPE TOWN

For the first time visitor to Cape Town or returning guests looking for a change of scene from the beach, listed below are our recommendations for must-do sightseeing trips and activities around the Cape.         We can book these tours with a chauffeur and car or you can drive yourself.

FULL DAY TOURS

Cape Point  - 90 minutes’ drive each way from the city centre.

The spectacular tip of the Cape Peninsular National Park. Renowned for its wild beauty and the diversity of the local flora, at Cape Point you will see views of the Atlantic and Indian oceans crashing against the cliffs. A small shuttle takes visitors up to the Point’s light house or you can enjoy a good walk around the area. A restaurant serves local food amidst the spectacular setting. Allow a good 1 ½ hours from the city centre to reach the Point. Tip: Drive down one side of the peninsular taking the via Muizenberg, Kalk Bay and Simonstown and return up the wilder west coast of the peninsula past Scarborough, Kommetjie and Noordhoek. You can also take in the scenic drive along Chapman’s Peak Drive, the coastal toll road between Noordhoek and Hout Bay which gives stupendous views.

Boulders Beach - 60 minutes’ drive from the city centre

Home to a large colony of little Jackass penguins, Boulders Beach, close to the naval base at Simon’s Town, is where you can get up close and personal with these delightful creatures as you walk along boardwalks over the sand. Watch them in their natural habitat.  

Hermanus - About 150 minutes’ drive from the city centre

This seaside village is famous for the annual passage of the Southern Right whales along the coast. The whales come into Hermanus Bay to calve. Stand on the cliff paths and watch these awe-inspiring giants of the sea as they frolic in front of you.

Stellenbosch and the wine region - 60 minutes’ drive from the city centre.

Historical town with many fine examples of Cape Dutch architecture set among shady tree-lined streets. Famous for the fine wines produced in the area, many wine farms open for wine tasting. Lots of good quality restaurants in the area.

Franschhoek - 90 minutes’ drive from city centre.

Translated this means the French quarter. A safe haven for Huguenot settlers fleeing France in the 17th century. The French history and tradition is still reflected in this magnificent valley and their legacy of wine-making is found in the quality of the wines. Most farms still bear their original French names. Some of the best restaurants are to be found here in this peaceful valley surrounded by huge mountains.

The Cape West Coast and Jurassic Centre - 90 minute’ drive from city centre.

A wild land which blossoms into the annual spring flower display in late August to early September. Masses of little daisies lift their faces to the sun and cover every field. Meander through this wild undisturbed area and visit the famous collection of fossils on display at the Jurassic Centre. Undisturbed natural parks and coastal villages offer plenty of places to relax and walk or eat at the local restaurants.

HALF-DAY TOURS

Table Mountain - 15 minutes’ drive from Camps Bay or the V&A Waterfront.

The city’s world-famous landmark is our No 1 recommendation and can easily be accessed by cable car which operates daily in good weather. Exceptional views are seen from the top and there are several easy walks across the top to take up an hour or two of your time. There is also a restaurant providing light refreshments. Tip: Try to go early in the day to avoid long queues. Alternatively in high summer go up in the late afternoon to watch the sunset, as the cable cars operate till 7pm. 

Castle of Good Hope - 5 minutes’ drive from the V&A Waterfront and 15 minutes from Camps Bay.

Built by the Dutch in1666 after their arrival in Table Bay in 1666, the famous 5-star shaped Castle, originally on the seashore, is today surrounded by a moat and a variety of other places of historical interest. Its museum is a good place to explore the history of Cape Town. Remember that it closes at 4pm. Guided tours are available.

Groot Constantia Estate and Winery - 20 minutes’ drive from V&A Waterfront, 30 minutes from Camps Bay.

The residence of the first Governor of the Cape, this beautiful building is a magnificent example of Cape Dutch architecture. The winery is still operational and continues to produce fine wines including Vin de Constance, Napoleon’s favourite wine. Set in tree-filled grounds with views down to the coast. Several restaurants offer differing styles of food.

Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens - 20 minutes’ drive from V&A Waterfront, 30 minutes from Camps Bay.

Extensive gardens set on the towering slopes of Table Mountain. Cape Town is famous as one of the World’s Floral Kingdoms. Relaxing walks are set out around the gardens allowing one to explore the diversity of local flora. The restaurant serves a range of food. Don’t miss the Summer Sundowner Concerts on Sunday afternoons. Tip: take a blanket and picnic and relax on the grass enjoying the music.

Hout Bay Harbour - 30 minutes’ drive from the V&A Waterfront, 10 minutes from Camps Bay.

Hout Bay is a large bay surrounded by towering mountains. The picturesque fishing harbour is the departure point for short sea cruises. Stroll around the harbour and watch the local fishing boats land their catches. There are plenty of places to eat the local fish

Victoria & Alfred Waterfront

This spectacular development built around the harbour of Cape Town is one of the top destinations in Africa. It appeals to all ages as there is entertainment and activities for everyone. The magnificent setting of Table Mountain and the Atlantic Ocean forms a perfect backdrop to the Waterfront. There is a wonderful collection of restaurants, bars and coffee shops, a wide range of shops with the latest fashions, well stocked food stores, several cinemas and an amphitheatre with plenty of live entertainment. There are plenty of local crafts on sale. The famous Two Oceans Aquarium has an excellent collection of marine life. You can jump on board one of the many cruise boats and sail around the Harbour, or just watch the seals playing in the water below.

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