Cape Town is one of the world’s most spectacularly situated cities, squeezed between Table Mountain and the Atlantic. The city rewards outdoor enthusiasts, food lovers, and anyone who appreciates natural beauty on a grand scale. This guide covers the best things to do in Cape Town.
Natural Wonders
Table Mountain
Table Mountain is Cape Town’s defining landmark and a UNESCO World Heritage site. The cableway (R395 return, book online at tablemountain.net) whisks visitors to the 1,086-metre summit in 5 minutes with rotating floors for 360-degree views. Go first thing in the morning for the smallest queues and clearest conditions.
The cableway closes in strong winds, so check the website before heading out. Hiking to the top via Platteklip Gorge takes 1.5 to 2.5 hours and is a rewarding alternative. Carry water, sun protection, and layers; the summit can be cool even on hot days. The views across the city, Table Bay, and the Cape Peninsula are unforgettable.
Cape Point and the Cape of Good Hope
Cape Point, at the tip of the Cape Peninsula, offers dramatic cliffs, ocean vistas
a sense of standing at the edge of Africa. The Cape of Good Hope (the most southwesterly point) is within the Table Mountain National Park. The funicular climbs to the lighthouse (R85 return). Drive from Cape Town via Chapman’s Peak Drive (toll: R61), one of the world’s most scenic coastal roads. Allow a full day. The park is home to baboons, antelope, and rich fynbos vegetation. Pack a picnic and expect wind.
Culture and History
Robben Island
Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned for 18 years, is now a museum and UNESCO World Heritage site. Ferries depart from the V&A Waterfront (R600 for adults, 3.5 hours including ferry and guided tour). Tours are led by former political prisoners, adding profound personal weight to the experience. Book at least two weeks ahead; tickets sell out. The ferry crossing can be rough; take motion sickness medication if prone.
Food and Wine
The Cape Winelands (Stellenbosch, Franschhoek, and Paarl) are 45 to 60 minutes from Cape Town and offer world-class wine tasting in stunning mountain-valley settings. The Franschhoek Wine Tram provides a hop-on-hop-off experience. Cape Town’s food scene is outstanding and relatively affordable by international standards. The V&A Waterfront’s food market, the Neighbourgoods Market at the Old Biscuit Mill (Saturdays), and the Bo-Kaap’s Cape Malay cuisine are essential food experiences.
