Looking for fun things to do in Cape Town? Cape Town is one of the most popular cities in South Africa and has constantly been voted as one of the most beautiful cities in the world. I visited during the beginning of winter in Cape Town, but it was still so much to see.
Between its’ natural beauty, rich history, and exciting activities, it’s a must visit! Whether you’re an outdoor lover, a history buff, or someone who loves an adrenaline rush, Cape Town has something for everyone. Here’s a list of top things to do when visiting the Mother City.
Ultimate Must-Do Things to Do in Cape Town
If you’re short on time and need some quick ideas on things to do, I’ve got you covered. Here are a few must things to do to quickly create your itinerary.
- Take a Malay Cooking Class
- Ride Quads
- Hop On, Hop Off Bus
- Visit the Penguins at Boulder Beach
- Cape Point
- Robben Island
- Aquila Safari
- Paragliding
- Sunset Tour
- Hike Lion’s Head
See the Penguins at Boulders Beach
Cape Town is one of the only places in Africa where you can see penguins. So of course it was at the top of my bucket list. Located on Boulders Beach, about 40 minutes from Cape Town’s town center, you’ll find massive rocks, clear water, and cute penguins.
These wobbly birds can be seen up close as they waddle along the sandy shores or swim in the transparent ocean. The beach is part of a protected area, ensuring the penguins are safe while allowing visitors to enjoy watching them in their natural habitat. It’s a great spot for families and nature enthusiasts alike.
Take a Malay Cooking Class in Bo-Kaak
Immerse yourself in the flavors of Cape Town with a traditional Malay cooking class. The city’s Cape Malay cuisine is a fusion of flavors influenced by the city’s diverse cultural heritage. In a cooking class, you can learn how to make dishes like bobotie, samosas, and denningvleis, all while hearing stories about the history and significance of each dish. This hands-on experience is not only delicious but also a great way to connect with the local culture.
Paragliding Over the City
For a unique perspective of Cape Town, try paragliding off Signal Hill or Lion’s Head. This exhilarating activity offers a bird’s-eye view of the city, Table Mountain, and the ocean. Tandem paragliding with a professional instructor allows you to enjoy the thrill of flying without any prior experience. It’s an unforgettable way to see Cape Town from above and experience the city’s natural beauty.
If paragliding is high on your list, you’ll wnat to schedule it ahead of time as weather conditions change quickly, its common for the acitivity to be rescheduled.
Aquila Safari
A lot of peopel will recommend a safari at Aquila Private Game Reserve. Located just a few hours from Cape Town, Aquila offers day trips and overnight stays where you can see lions, elephants, rhinos, buffalo, and leopards in their natural habitat. Read my honest review here.
If you want a more authentic experience, consider taking this tour.
Go Quad Riding
For those seeking an adrenaline rush, quad riding in Cape Town’s rugged landscapes is a must. Whether you’re riding through the sandy dunes near Atlantis or exploring the trails in the surrounding mountains, quad biking offers a thrilling way to experience the natural beauty of the area. It’s an activity that combines excitement with stunning views, making it perfect for adventure lovers.
Hop On, Hop Off Bus Tour
One of the best ways to explore Cape Town is by taking a Hop On, Hop Off bus tour. This convenient and flexible option allows you to visit all the major attractions at your own pace. From the city center to the beaches of Camps Bay and the Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, the bus tour covers it all. You can choose different routes depending on your interests and hop off at any stop to explore further.
Cape Point and Boulders Day Tour
A day tour to Cape Point and Boulders Beach is a must for anyone visiting Cape Town. Cape Point, located within the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve, offers breathtaking views of where the Atlantic and Indian Oceans meet. The tour often includes a visit to Boulders Beach to see the penguins and stops at charming coastal towns along the way. It’s a scenic and educational journey through some of the Cape’s most iconic landscapes.
Hike Lion’s Head
For breathtaking panoramic views of Cape Town, a hike up Lion’s Head is a must. This iconic peak offers a relatively moderate hike that takes about 1.5 to 2 hours to reach the summit. Along the way, you’ll enjoy stunning views of Table Mountain, the city, and the coastline. The hike is particularly popular at sunrise and sunset when the views are even more spectacular. I do not recommend hiking Lion’s Head as a solo woman due to past violence, so please join a group tour.
Sunset Tour
Cape Town’s sunsets are legendary, and a sunset tour is a perfect way to end a day of exploration. Whether you choose a sunset cruise along the coast, a drive up to Signal Hill, or simply relaxing on the beach, the vibrant colors of the sky as the sun sets over the Atlantic Ocean are mesmerizing. Many tours include a glass of sparkling juice and snacks, making it a romantic and relaxing experience.
Marine Big 5 in Gansbaai
Gansbaai, located about two hours from Cape Town, is known as the “Great White Shark Capital of the World.” Here, you can embark on a Marine Big 5 tour, where you’ll have the chance to see whales, sharks, dolphins, seals, and penguins. The tours are guided by marine biologists, offering fascinating insights into the marine life of the area. It’s an adventure that brings you up close to some of the ocean’s most incredible creatures, making it a must-do for wildlife enthusiasts.
Visit the V&A Waterfront
The Victoria & Alfred Waterfront is another must-visit location in Cape Town. It’s a busy place fulled with shopping malls, restaurants, and street performers. You can spend hours wandering through the artisan markets, dining at waterfront restaurants, or even taking a boat ride to explore the harbor. The V&A Waterfront is also home to the Two Oceans Aquarium, where you can learn about the diverse marine life that thrives in the waters around the Cape.
Explore Muslim History in Cape Town
The Circle of Kramats is an homage to Cape Town’s first Muslims. They honor the shrines of Muslim visionaries who played a significant role in the city’s history. Most were religuious leaders,exiled revolutanaries, and holy men. There are over 20 sacred sites or Kramats scattered throughout the Cape.
I visited the resting place of Sheikh Noorul Mubeen R.A,. In order to get to the grave I had to walk up 99 steps. I was met with a very quiet building with nothing but cats around. Inside there was multiple qur’ans and cozy corners, suitable for reflection and meditation. Visiting the Kramats provides a unique cultural experience and insight into the spiritual fabric of Cape Town.
Cape Town is a city that truly has it all – from history and culture to adventure and natural beauty. Whether you’re visiting for a few days or an extended stay, these activities will help you make the most of your time in this incredible destination.
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How To Hang Out with Penguins at Boulder Beach
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