Cape Town and Surrounds
Cape Town is the city where natural beauty meets urban charm, making it one of the most popular cities in the world. But don't just take our word for it, here's what you can expect to see - although really, there's just too much on offer to put on this website!
The Mother City
Cape Town, is fondly known as the "Mother City," because it was the first European settlement in South Africa, founded by the Dutch in 1652, making it the birthplace of the country’s modern history. The nickname also reflects the city's status as a cultural melting pot, blending diverse influences from indigenous, Asian, and European backgrounds. Some say the name is a playful nod to "metropolis" or to the city’s strong "motherly" weather - although, this version is probably less factual but part of local lore.
One thing's for sure, Cape Town is bursting with experiences, so here's what you can expect to see with us as your local guide and travel designer.
Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens
Located on the eastern slopes of Cape Town’s Table Mountain, Kirstenbosch is one of the world’s most celebrated botanical gardens. Established in 1913 to preserve South Africa’s unique flora, it spans over 528 hectares, showcasing thousands of indigenous plant species in carefully designed landscapes. The garden is renowned for its scenic mountain views, the elevated Canopy Walkway (nicknamed the “Boomslang” meaning tree snake in English), and seasonal flower displays, particularly the Protea and fynbos collections. Kirstenbosch also hosts popular summer concerts which we can get you tickets to if you'd like, blending nature and music in a magical setting.
The Cape of Good Hope
The Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve, part of Table Mountain National Park, is a stunning coastal sanctuary located at the southwestern tip of the African continent. Known for its rugged cliffs, diverse flora, and dramatic ocean views, it’s a prime spot for hiking, wildlife viewing, and scenic drives. The reserve is home to unique species, including baboons, ostriches, antelope, and the rare fynbos vegetation. Visitors can explore various trails leading to iconic spots like Cape Point and the Cape of Good Hope itself, where the powerful Atlantic and Indian Ocean currents converge.
Table Mountain Cable Car
The Table Mountain Aerial Cableway offers an unforgettable journey to the summit of Table Mountain, one of the New Seven Wonders of Nature. Operating since 1929, the cable car features rotating cabins, giving passengers 360-degree views of the city, coastline, and mountains as they ascend. The ride lasts about five minutes, reaching the flat-topped summit at 1,067 meters above sea level. Once at the top, visitors can enjoy scenic walking trails, panoramic lookouts, and even a café with spectacular views. The Table Mountain cable car provides an accessible and thrilling way to experience one of South Africa's most famous landmarks.
Signal Hill & Lion's Head
Signal Hill and Lion’s Head are iconic landmarks in Cape Town and a place where locals often start or end their day with a hike. Signal Hill, a flat-topped ridge, is famous for its daily Noon Gun, a tradition dating back to 1806, and is a popular spot for sunset picnics with views over the city, Table Bay, and the Atlantic Ocean. Adjacent Lion’s Head is a distinctive, conical peak, renowned for its moderately challenging hike that spirals around the mountain, providing panoramic scenes throughout the climb. At the summit, visitors are rewarded with spectacular vistas of Table Mountain, the city below, and the ocean—a must for nature lovers and photographers.
Constantia Wine Route
The Constantia Wine Route, located just 20-minutes from the city centre, is South Africa's oldest wine-producing region, dating back to the 17th century. Nestled in a picturesque valley, it’s home to historic estates such as Groot Constantia, Klein Constantia, and Buitenverwachting, known for their exceptional wines, especially cool-climate Sauvignon Blanc and award-winning dessert wines. The route offers scenic vineyards, charming Cape Dutch architecture, and inviting tasting rooms, blending rich history with modern winemaking. Visitors can enjoy cellar tours, wine pairings, and gourmet dining while taking in views of the surrounding mountains and lush landscapes.
Penguins at Boulders Beach
Boulders Beach, near Simon’s Town, is famous for its colony of African penguins, a protected species known for their adorable, waddling walk and unique braying sound, earning them the nickname "jackass penguins." Established in 1982, the colony has grown significantly, attracting visitors eager to see these charismatic birds in their natural habitat. The beach’s boardwalks allow for close-up viewing without disturbing the penguins, who roam the sandy shores and nest among the large granite boulders. Boulders Beach offers a unique opportunity to swim and sunbathe near these charming creatures, making it a favourite family destination.
Chapman's Peak Drive
Chapman’s Peak Drive, affectionately known as “Chappies to locals,” is one of the world’s most scenic coastal roads, stretching nine kilometers along the Atlantic coast between Hout Bay and Noordhoek. Carved into the sheer cliffs of Chapman’s Peak, the drive features a whopping 114 curves, revealing breathtaking views of rugged cliffs, sweeping beaches, and the vast ocean at every turn. Opened in 1922, it’s a marvel of engineering, popular with photographers, road-trippers, and cyclists alike. With multiple lookout points for picnics and photos, Chapman’s Peak Drive is a must-see for anyone wanting to experience Cape Town’s dramatic natural beauty.
Hout Bay
Hout Bay is a charming coastal suburb of Cape Town known for its picturesque harbour, sandy beach, and vibrant local culture. Originally a fishing village, it retains a laid-back atmosphere while offering a mix of activities for visitors. The bustling Hout Bay Harbour hosts a weekend market with local crafts, fresh seafood, and live music, attracting locals and tourists alike. Boat tours from the harbour take visitors to nearby Duiker Island, home to a colony of Cape fur seals. Surrounded by mountains, Hout Bay also offers scenic hiking trails, excellent seafood restaurants, must-do kayaking experiences and beautiful views!
Camps Bay
Camps Bay is one of Cape Town's most instagrammable beach destinations, known for its golden sands, crystal-clear waters, and stunning backdrop of the Twelve Apostles mountain range. Located just a short drive from the city centre, it’s a popular spot for sunbathing, swimming, and sunset watching. The beach is lined with upscale cafes, restaurants, and bars, offering a vibrant social scene with panoramic ocean views. There is also a theatre which we can arrange show tickets to should you be interested.
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