April 10, 2023
The Mother City is where the majestic Table Mountain meets the glittering Atlantic Ocean, and the vibrant city buzz blends seamlessly with the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape. An abundance of incredible Things To Do In Cape Town offers travelers from all walks of life.
From world-famous landmarks to hidden gems off the beaten path, this coastal gem is a treasure trove of unforgettable adventures. Join us as we explore 20 incredible things to do and see in Cape Town, and discover the magic of Cape Town Tours for yourself.
Cape Town is a water lover’s paradise with a range of exciting activities to choose from. Whether you’re looking to catch a wave, go for a leisurely swim, or try your hand at a new water sport, Cape Town has something for everyone. Here are some water Activities In Cape Town that you shouldn’t miss:
Kayaking along Cape Town’s Atlantic Seaboard offers spectacular views of the coastline and the chance to get up close with the local marine life. Tours typically depart from Three Anchor Bay or the V&A Waterfront, and last between 1.5 to 2.5 hours. However, it’s a thrilling experience suitable for all fitness levels that you won’t want to miss.
Insights: Minimum age is 6 years old, maximum weight is 120kg, and average fitness levels are required. No previous paddling experience is needed.
Times: Daily, 7 am, 9.30 am, 5.30 pm
Cost: R500 (2 hours)
Location: 179 Beach Road, Three Anchor Bay, Cape Town
Water-biking in the sea of Cape Town is an exciting way to explore the city’s coastline. With a water bike, you can pedal your way through the waves, enjoying the fresh sea air and scenic views of the Atlantic Ocean.
Tours usually depart from the V&A Waterfront and last for around 90 minutes. Along the way, you’ll have the opportunity to spot local marine life, such as seals, dolphins, and even whales in season.
Insights: Minimum age requires 13 years, and teens must be accompanied by an adult. The minimum height requires 1.5 metres tall, and the maximum weight is 110kg.
Times: Daily, 7.30 am, 1.30 pm
Cost: R490 (1 hour)
Location: Jetty at 1 Wharf Street, Simon’s Town, Cape Town
Swimming at Silvermine is also one of the popular Things To Do In Cape Town among locals and tourists alike. The natural reservoir, located in the Table Mountain National Park, offers crystal-clear waters and stunning scenery.
The reservoir is surrounded by mountains and fynbos vegetation, providing a serene and peaceful atmosphere for swimmers. The water is cold, but invigorating. And, there are plenty of rocks and boulders to jump off into the water. The area is also a popular spot for picnics and braais (barbecues), so you can enjoy a meal with family and friends after your swim.
Insights: Entry is cash only. ID or passport required. Dogs are allowed with a Level 1 My Activity Permit (R340 for a year).
Times: Daily, 7 am – 5 pm (summer) and 8 am – 4 pm (winter)
Cost: Conservation fee (rates valid until 31 October 2023):
SA citizens and residents: R38 (adult); R19 (child, age 2 – 11 years)
SADC nationals: R76 (adult); R38 (child)
International visitors: R152 (adult); R76 (child)
Day dog walking permit: R85
Location: Table Mountain National Park Silvermine Section, Gate 1, Ou Kaapse Weg (M3), between Tokai and Noordhoek, Cape Town
The Waterfront in Cape Town is a bustling hub of activity, with a range of restaurants, shops, and entertainment options. One of the most popular Cape Town Activities is stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) around the waterfront. This is a great way to see the area from a different perspective, with beautiful views of Table Mountain and the city skyline.
Insights: Minimum age is 9 years old, younger kids may be assisted by an instructor or a parent.
Times: Daily, 8 am – 6 pm (summer) and 9 am – 5 pm (winter)
Cost: R250 per person (1 hour)
Location: Battery Park, V&A Waterfront, Cape Town (parking access from Alfred Road, just behind City Lodge)
Cape Town is a hub for adrenaline junkies, with an abundance of thrilling activities to get your heart racing. From skydiving to bungee jumping, there’s no shortage of exciting experiences to choose from. Moreover, here are some adrenaline Activities In Cape Town that you should know about:
A helicopter flip in Cape Town is undeniably an incredible way to experience the city from a unique perspective. The aerial views of landmarks such as Table Mountain, the Twelve Apostles, and the coastline are astonishing. And they provide an unparalleled opportunity for photography.
Helicopter tours are available for varying durations, from short flips over the city to a longer Cape Peninsula Day Tour. If you’re looking for a thrilling adventure, then a helicopter flip in Cape Town is definitely worth considering.
Insights: Flights can be shared or booked exclusively. Weight limits vary between 120 and 140kg, depending on the helicopter used.
Times: Daily, 9 am – 5.30 pm
Cost: From R2 000
Location: East Pier Road, V&A Waterfront, Cape Town
Mountain ziplining in Elgin, just outside Cape Town, is one of the adventurous Things To Do In Cape Town. Participants zip along a series of cables suspended high above the ground, with amazing views of the Hottentots Holland Mountains and the lush Elgin Valley below.
However, the experience is suitable for people of all ages and levels of fitness. There are a number of Cape Town Ziplining courses available, ranging from gentle options for beginners to more challenging routes for adrenaline junkies.
Insights: Maximum weight is 120kg. Tandem rides are available for little children and the faint of heart.
Times: Daily, 9 am, 9.30 am and 1 pm
Cost R995 (4-hour tour)
Location: Hottentots-Holland Nature Reserve, R321, Elgin
Whether you choose to soar over the city skyline in a helicopter, glide through the air on a paraglider, or zipline through the mountains, these tandem adventures will give you a thrilling perspective on Cape Town’s natural beauty and urban landscape.
Participants launch from Signal Hill, soaring high above the Atlantic Ocean and the stunning coastline. The sensation of flying through the air is truly exhilarating. Experienced guides are also on hand to ensure the safety of all participants, with modern equipment.
Insights: Maximum weight is 135kg. Parapax also goes to other great flying spots, such as Hermanus and Porterville.
Times: Daily, 7.40 am – 5.40 pm (hourly jumps)
Cost: R1 400
R300 (flight video and photographs)
Where to find it Parking area at the end of Signal Hill Drive, Cape Town
Kloofing in Kamikaze Kanyon in Cape Town is surely a thrilling adventure activity. It combines hiking, swimming, and also jumping through a canyon. Participants navigate through the rugged terrain, wading through streams, and jumping off waterfalls into crystal-clear pools below. Kamikaze Kanyon is known for its steep cliffs and high jumps.
However, the activity requires a good level of fitness and the ability to swim. And experienced guides are there to ensure everyone’s safety.
Insights: Minimum age is 10 years old, and average fitness is required. The minimum group size is four.
Times: Daily, 8 am – 4 pm
Cost: R990 (includes breakfast + a beer)
Location: Pitstop Lodge/Grille Shack, Clarence Drive (R44), RGordon’s Bay
Cape Town is a great destination for families, with a range of activities that will keep everyone entertained. From animal encounters to outdoor adventures, there’s indeed something for every member of the family. For example:
The Tackling a treetop obstacle courses are designed to test participants’ balance, strength, and agility while providing the best of surrounding natural beauty. The courses typically consist of a series of obstacles, including rope bridges, zip lines, and high wires.
There are various courses available for different levels of difficulty, from beginner to advanced, ensuring that there is something for everyone. Experienced instructors are there to provide safety equipment and guidance though.
Insights: Wear comfortable clothing, and closed shoes and tie up long hair in a bun. Climbing gloves are available at reception (R20) or bring your own if you like.
Times: Wednesday – Sunday, 9 am – 6 pm (September – April, last slot 4 pm)
Wednesday – Sunday, 9 am – 5 pm (May August, last slot at 3 pm)
Cost: R150 (Acro-Twigs)
R190 (Monkey Moves)
R230 (Swinging Tarzan)
R280 (High Flying)
Location: 1 Hout Bay Main Road, Constantia Nek, Cape Town
Visiting the penguins at Boulders Beach during Cape Town Tours is a must-do activity for anyone visiting the city. The beach is home to a colony of African penguins, which can be seen up close in their natural habitat.
Visitors can walk along a boardwalk that winds through the colony. It allows for a close-up view of the penguins as they waddle, swim, and interact with each other. The experience is both educational and entertaining, providing insights into the habits of these fascinating birds.
Insights: Keep a respectful distance from them, let them approach you, do not block their movements between land and water, and don’t feed them.
Times: Daily, 8 am – 6.30 pm (summer), 7 am – 7.30 pm (December + January)
8 am – 5 pm (winter, April – September)
Cost: Conservation fee – cards only, cash-free office (rates valid until 31 October 2023):
SA citizens + residents with ID: R44 (adult); R22 (child, 2 – 11 years)
SADC nationals with passport: R88 (adult); R44 (child)
International visitors: R176 (adult); R88 (child)
Location: Bellevue Road, off M4, Simon’s Town, Cape Town
The Spice Route is a farm that offers a range of artisanal food and drink experiences. It includes wine tastings, craft beer, gin distilleries, and chocolate tastings. Additionally, visitors can take guided tours of the various facilities, learn about the production process and sample the delicious products.
The farm also offers a range of dining options, from casual bistros to fine dining restaurants, all showcasing the best of South African cuisine. However, this is a fantastic destination for foodies, wine lovers, and also for families.
Insights: The Spies Route adventure takes children and families on a treasure hunt around the property.
Times: Daily, 9 am – 5 pm (restaurants open and close later)
Cost: R270 (tasting passport)
R80 (Spies Route adventure)
Location: Suid-Agter-Paarl Road, Paarl
The Two Oceans Aquarium is home to a wide range of species, from colourful tropical fish and seahorses to large sharks and rays. Visitors can walk through various exhibits, including the kelp forest, the predator exhibit, and the touch pool, where they can touch and interact with some of the animals.
There are also regular feeding shows and talks by knowledgeable staff members. Although, the Two Oceans Aquarium is a great activity for families, but also suitable for anyone interested in marine life and conservation.
Times: Monday – Friday, 9.30 am – 6 pm
Saturday + Sunday; 9 am – 6 pm
Cost: R220 (adults); R165 (after 3pm)
R165 (teens, students, pensioners); R125 (after 3pm)
R105 (children 4 – 13 years); R80 (after 3pm); free (under 4 years)
Location: Dock Road, V&A Waterfront, Cape Town
The Mother City’s food and wine scene is particularly noteworthy, featuring a fusion of local and international flavours and world-renowned vineyards. From fine dining experiences to casual street food, visitors can explore the vibrant food markets, sample award-winning wines, and indulge in a variety of must-try dishes in Cape Town.
Located in the heart of the Paarl wine region, the Laborie Wine Estate offers a picturesque setting for picnics. The day picnic experience includes a gourmet picnic basket filled with delicious local produce such as artisanal cheeses, homemade bread, and fresh salads, along with a bottle of Laborie wine.
The evening picnic experience offers an even more intimate and romantic setting. With fairy lights and lanterns, it creates a magical atmosphere too. The gourmet picnic baskets are designed to be shared between two people and include a bottle of Laborie sparkling wine.
Insights: Book at least 24 hours in advance. A vegetarian picnic option is also available here.
Times: Wednesday – Sunday, (12 pm – 2.30 pm)
Wednesday – Saturday, (4 pm – 5.30 pm)
Cost: R530 (picnic for two)
R140 (kids’ basket)
Location: Laborie Heritage Wine Estate, corner of Main Road and Taillefer Street, Paarl
This is a delightful experience for wine enthusiasts and anyone who enjoys the finer things in life. The Idiom Wine Estate provides a range of premium wines that are inspired by Italian varietals and winemaking techniques. Visitors can also take guided tours of the vineyards and cellar, learning about the winemaking process and the history of the estate.
Cape Town Wine Tours to this estate offers a range of tastings, from the Classic Tasting to the Signature Tasting. All of which include a selection of delicious wines paired with locally-sourced cheeses and charcuterie.
Insights: While you’re there, pop into the estate’s view-drenched restaurant and the Italian wine library.
Times: Daily, 10 am – 4.30 pm (last seating at 3 pm)
Cost: R250 (pairings)
R94 – R125 (tastings)
Location: Idiom Wines at Da Capo Vineyards, Sir Lowry’s Pass, Somerset West
E-bikes, or electric bicycles, are an easy and convenient way to cover more ground than traditional cycling. As a result, the Franschhoek Winelands offer a variety of e-bike tours, with routes that wind through picturesque vineyards, orchards, and forests.
In addition, visitors can stop at various wineries and farm stalls along the way, sampling local wines, cheeses, and other artisanal products. However, the e-bike tours are suitable for all fitness levels, as the electric assist makes pedalling effortless.
Insights: Food, coffee and wine tastings are for your own account. A child seat or half-wheeler can be attached to an e-bike for an additional fee.
Times: Monday – Saturday, 9 am – 12.30 pm, 1.30 pm – 5 pm
Cost: R980
Location: Hey Joe Brewing Company, R45, Franschhoek
The Chef’s Studio in Cape Town is a culinary destination for food lovers and those interested in the art of cooking. Certainly, the studio offers a range of experiences, from cooking classes and workshops to private events and corporate team-building activities.
The classes are led by professional chefs and focus on a variety of cuisines and cooking techniques, from classic French cuisine to contemporary Asian fusion. The classes are absolutely interactive and hands-on, allowing participants to get involved in the cooking process and ask questions.
Insights: One-on-one and private classes can also be arranged, plus cooking parties for children and team building.
Times: Monday – Saturday (12 pm or 6 pm)
Cost: R450 (midweek masterclass)
R550 (how to cook classes)
Location: 103 Bree Street, Cape Town
Cape Town is a city with a rich and diverse cultural heritage, and there are many opportunities to explore this history and culture. From museums and galleries to historical landmarks and cultural festivals, here are some cultural experiences in Cape Town:
The Norval Art Foundation in Cape Town is a must-visit destination for art enthusiasts and anyone interested in contemporary art. In fact, the building itself is a work of art, designed by award-winning architects and featuring scenic views of the surrounding mountains and vineyards.
Furthermore, visitors can take guided tours of the exhibitions, attend talks and workshops, and participate in educational programs.
Insights: Look out for special events such as concerts, guided walks and talks.
Times: Wednesday – Monday (9 am – 5 pm)
12 December – 8 January: Daily (9 am – 6 pm)
Cost: R180
Location: 4 Steenberg Road, Tokai, Cape Town
Movies under the stars is a magical way to experience cinema in the beautiful city of Cape Town. During the summer months, various venues throughout the city host outdoor movie screenings. Thus, it allows visitors to enjoy classic films and new releases under the stars.
Movie-goers can bring their own picnic baskets, blankets, and chairs, and enjoy the film with friends and family. However, some screenings also offer food and beverage vendors, creating a festive and lively atmosphere.
Insights: Free entry during your birthday week (excluding special screenings). For date night, VVIP tickets include premium seating, plush decor, a cheese platter and bottle of wine, popcorn and other snacks.
Times: Wednesday – Sunday; doors open 6 pm (5 pm on Saturdays); until April 2023
Cost: From R129 – R275 (depending on extras)
VIP ticket: R1 750 for two people
Location: Various venues including Kirstenbosch, Century City’s Central Park, and Newlands Cricket Stadium.
The museum is located in the historic Grain Silo complex at the V&A Waterfront in Cape Town. And, it is the largest museum of contemporary African art in the world.
The museum houses a collection of art from across the African continent, with a focus on contemporary art from the 21st century. The collection however includes works in a variety of mediums, from painting and sculpture to installation and video art. Visitors can explore the galleries, attend talks and workshops, and participate in educational programs too.
Insights: Free entry for under-18s (ID required), and for all African citizens on Wednesday mornings until 1 pm.
Times: Tuesday – Sunday, 10 am – 6 pm
Cost: R230
R290 (annual membership)
Location: Silo District, S Arm Road, V&A Waterfront, Cape Town
The Dylan Lewis Sculpture Garden is located on a beautiful private estate in the heart of the Winelands. It showcases the work of celebrated South African sculptor Dylan Lewis.
The garden features a beautiful collection of over 60 large-scale sculptures, set against the backdrop of the spectacular Cape Winelands. The sculptures are made from a variety of materials, including bronze, marble, and stainless steel. Moreover, visitors can take a self-guided tour of the garden, or join a guided tour led by one of the garden’s knowledgeable staff members.
Insights: Visits are by appointment only. Private guided tours (R1 500, 1.5 hours) are available on request.
Times: Tuesday – Saturday (8.30 am – 5 pm)
Cost: R200 (adults)
R120 (students and SA pensioners)
Free (children under 18)
Location: Mulberry Farm, Paradyskloof Road, Stellenbosch
Finally, we come to the end of our journey through the 20 incredible Things To Do In Cape Town. Hopefully, you’re feeling inspired and excited to explore this vibrant city. And if you’re a history lover, we encourage you to check out Cape Archives Tours. This fascinating tour with us takes you on a journey through the archives of Cape Town and its magnificent attractions as well.
So, what are you waiting for? Customize your Cape Town Tour today and discover the hidden gems of this vibrant city of South Africa and as always, we wish you happy travels and unforgettable experiences!
