Things to Do in Cape Town

Though it's not a very large city, there are hundreds of things to do in Cape Town. It always seems as if there's never enough time to take advantage of all the adventures. Whether you're a sightseer, shopper, hiker, beachgoer, or wine lover, Cape Town will keep you busy. So grab your camera, slip into your swimsuit or strap on your boots because your Cape Town adventure is about to begin.

The Photographer

If you want to see stunning views without venturing too far from Cape Town, travel up the Table Mountain cableway. On the way up, you'll have a gorgeous 360-degree view as the floor of your cable car rotates for maximum viewing and photo-shooting potential. From the top, you'll have a bird's eye view of the city and see all the things to do in Cape Town. Walk around the network of 2-km of trails that lead to magnificent viewpoints where you'll be able to look down at Clifton, Sea Point, the V&A Waterfront, Table Bay, Robben Island, the Cape Flats, and the Cape Peninsula where the Atlantic Ocean meets the Indian Ocean. You'll also see Lion's Head, Signal Hill, and Devil's Peak.

Consider going to the top of Table Mountain in the late afternoon. That way, you'll have time to get breathtaking shots in daylight and stay until sunset, which is when Table Mountain is at its most gorgeous! Once you've explored Table Mountain and seen the view from the top, you'll have an even better idea of other gorgeous sights to visit and capture.

The Beachgoer

Cape Town is a great city for beaches. Of all the things to do in Cape Town, going to the beach should be at the top of your list. If you're visiting in summer, there is often a strong south-easterly wind; Clifton has 4 great, sheltered beaches that are perfect for windy days. If you want a more remote beach experience, avoid Clifton's fourth beach since it tends to be the most crowded. If the wind isn't an issue, do a day at Camps, a long beach which is perfect for spreading out, playing games, and building sand castles. If you don't mind going too far, drive to Boulders Beach to see penguins or Llandudno where you can take in an amazing sunset in a sheltered cove. There are a lot of things to do in Cape Town when it comes to beaches! Just make sure to bring your blanket, some wine, and camera. Llandudno is quite remote.

The Hiker

Who thought that all the things to do in Cape Town were easy? If you love great views and a nice workout, see Table Mountain the difficult way: hike up it! This 3-km hike is challenging and not recommended for kids. Due to its steepness, it usually takes about 3 hours to hike. From the top of Table Mountain, you'll be abel to take in the magnificent views of Cape Town and venture on to another network of smaller trails that lead to viewing points. After that strenuous climb up, treat yourself and take the cable car back down.

The Flower and Fauna Fanatic

If you love everything that has to do with flowers, you have to put stopping at the Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden at the top of your list of things to do in Cape Town. With 528 hectares of land, Kirstenbosch will provide you with hours of enjoyment. You'll love getting to see native flowers and relaxing on a lawn in the cool shade under the trees. If you like birds, you'll also be excited that there are over 140 species of birds. Consider bringing a picnic and getting there early to avoid crowds.

The Historian

From its ancient inhabitants to the Dutch colonist to modern times, Cape Town has a rich history. No one place embodies Cape Town's rich and tumultuous history better than Robben Island, an island outside of the city in Table Mountain Bay. Of all the things to do in Cape Town, this is a must! This historic island has once been an asylum, a women's sanctuary and a prison for freedom fighters and political prisoners including Nelson Mandela. On the tour, you'll enjoy the nice ferry ride to the island and a magnificent tour of the prison from a special guide who was a former political prisoner at Robin Island. For an added experience, consider taking a small bus tour around Robben Island so that you can see the whole area.

The Thrill Seeker

Ever wanted to swim and snorkel with great white sharks? Now is your chance. Of all the things to do in Cape Town, this is by far the most exciting. Take a tour that leads you to Dyer Island, approximately a 20-minute boat trip from Cape Town. You'll get to troll around the island until you find the perfect spot to slip into your wetsuit and dive in with the sharks. You'll be in a special shark-proof cage where you can view the sharks without being put in harm's way. Make sure to bring your camera because there are also great photo opportunities when you're above the water! Who knew that of all the things to do in Cape Town, something could be such an adrenaline rush!