The 30 Best Things To Do in Cape Town in Summer

Cape Town draws the crowds not only for its scenic beauty, but also for its rich history, cultural diversity and creative cool. There’s something to suit every kind of explorer. And the fact that it’s globally considered to be a top culinary destination only enhances its appeal.

Summer is the time to get the most out of the city – use our guide to take the Cape by the horns!

What are you interested in?
Outdoor adventures
Water adventures
Family activities
Food, wine + cultural experiences

Outdoor adventures

Tandem paragliding from Lion’s Head

Experience Cape Town’s magnificent topography from up high – and get your adrenaline pumping – while tandem paragliding. No previous experience is necessary; your instructor will run through the guidelines, clip you in securely, and then you can take the big leap from Signal Hill or Lion’s Head. Once in the air, you can relax and enjoy the view as your expert pilot glides down to the Sea Point Promenade. Flights last between five and 30 minutes, depending on the wind. In perfect weather, the pilot will show you how to steer so you can fly the paraglider yourself!
Good to know Minimum age is 14 years, maximum weight is 130kg. If you’d like inflight videos and photos (R400 per person), select it as an add-on when booking.
Times Daily, 8am – 6pm
Cost R1 800
Where to find it At the end of Signal Hill Drive, Cape Town
Book Now

Abseiling on Table Mountain

The views from the summit of Cape Town’s iconic landmark are spectacular enough; just imagine what you’ll see as you rope your way down the side of Table Mountain. At 1 067 metres above sea level, this is South Africa’s highest commercial abseil, and it makes for an exhilarating experience as you are lowered 112 metres down the side of the cliff, the vast blue ocean below you, and Lion’s Head and The Twelve Apostles forming a panorama of splendour all around. It takes around an hour, including a safety briefing, harnessing up and a 30-minute hike to get back to the top of the mountain afterwards. Minimum age is 10 years (45kg minimum weight); maximum weight is 120kg.
Good to know You can combine an abseil with a guided hike up Platteklip Gorge for the full mountaineering experience (R1 800); it takes six hours, starting at 8am from Tafelberg Road, and requires a minimum of two hikers.
Times Daily, 9.30am – 3.30pm
Cost R995 (does not include cable-car tickets)
Where to find it Meet on the summit of Table Mountain (next to the big wheel with cables).
Book Now

Ziplining in Elgin

Soar Tarzan-style through an aerial playground of fynbos, forests, majestic gorges and thundering waterfalls on this half-day zipline adventure. Based in the Hottentots-Holland Nature Reserve, the Cape Canopy tour has opened up previously inaccessible parts of this craggy wilderness. It all kicks off with a 4×4 ride high into the mountains, where guests are attached to cables and whiz from platform to platform, supervised by professional guides. There are 11 slides in total – the longest is 330 metres – plus a walk across a suspension bridge that spans a gorge with a majestic double waterfall. Group size is eight people, bookable as a shared trip or private trip.
Good to know Maximum weight is 120kg; group size eight people. Tandem rides are available for those under 50kg (children 5 – 9 years old).
Times Daily, every half hour
Cost Shared tour: R1 175 (plus R100 per person conservation levy)
Private tour (up to eight people): R8 440 (plus R100 per person conservation levy)
Where to find it Hottentots-Holland Nature Reserve, R321, Grabouw, Overberg
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Horseriding on Noordhoek Beach

The enticing sweep of dazzling white sand stretching over 8km from Noordhoek to Kommetjie is one of the most beautiful in the Cape. Glimpsing it from Chapman’s Peak Drive, few can resist the urge to stop and explore it. Probably the best way to do this is on horseback. Saddle up at Imhoff Farm in Kommetjie, where you’ll head through the wetlands and onto the beach for a 90-minute outride. You’ll get to see the rusty ruins of the Kakapo shipwreck poking out of the sand and possibly spot a few marine creatures while your horse splashes through the shallows. All levels of riders are welcome (note, horses don’t go faster than a walking pace).
Good to know Minimum age is 12 years old; maximum weight is 95kg. Six people per ride.
Times Daily, 9.30am + 2.30pm
Cost R950
Where to find it Imhoff Farm, Kommetjie Road, Kommetjie, Cape Town
Enquire Now

Cliff-jumping in Suicide Gorge

As its name implies, this is one for hardy and experienced adrenaline junkies only (and can only be traversed in summer). The trail in the Hottentots-Holland Nature Reserve takes you high into the mountains… and then down through the titular gorge, discovering pools and waterfalls. Much of the 8-hour, 17km route involves slip-sliding your way along a natural waterslide, and at points you’ll need to leap off cliffs – some as high as 14 metres – into the pools below. You’ll need a permit (only 30 people per day; age 12 and older), a guide who has previous experience of the trail, and a good dose of fitness and courage!
Good to know Booking is essential. You’ll need to provide the name and contact details of your guide when making your booking.
The nearby Riviersonderend Trail (14.4km/7–8 hours) offers a similar challenge on the same river but with lower drops – the highest being seven metres.
Times Daily, from 7.30am; no later than 9am (1 November – 30 April)
Cost R450 (permit)
Contact 087 087 8250; reservation.alert@capenature.co.za
Where to find it Hottentots-Holland Nature Reserve, Nuweberg entrance, Viljoen’s Pass, off R321, Elgin-Grabouw
Enquire Now

Road-tripping in a Cobra

Cape Town is a city made for day drives: the Peninsula creates the ideal circular itinerary, offering awe-inspiring scenery and stops in every direction… the Atlantic Seaboard, Chapman’s Peak Drive, Cape Point, Boulders Beach, the False Bay coast, Constantia Winelands. Sure, you could take a tour bus or drive an ordinary rental car – but it’ll be much more fun in a classic Cobra convertible sports car with the wind in your hair. Various self-drive options are available, or enquire about chauffeur-driven tours that take in all the iconic spots.
Good to know Self-drive is for over-23s only, and you’ll need to pay for extra fuel (R20 per km) and a deposit (R7 500 refundable holding deposit or USD 500).
Times 2-hour sundowner: 5pm – 7pm
8-hour self-drive: 8.30am – 4pm
24-hour self-drive: 8.30am – 8.30am
Cost R2 300 (2-hour sundowner trip, 35km included)
R3 600 (8-hour self-drive, 110km included)
R5 500 (24-hour self-drive, 135km included)
Where to find it 36 Martin Hammerschlag Way, Foreshore, Cape Town
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Water Adventures

Kayaking from Sea Point

Paddling on the open ocean evokes a sense of freedom and adventure. This two-hour guided kayaking trip departs from Three Anchor Bay beach below the Sea Point Promenade and ventures along the coastline to Bantry Bay or, in the other direction, into Table Bay and towards the Waterfront – depending on the weather and your preference. You’ll cruise past shipwrecks and dolphins, perhaps encountering penguins, seals and sunfish. Plus, you’ll get to see what the city and its glorious mountains look like from the sea. The Sunset Adventure adds the magnificent skyscapes of sundowner time.
Good to know Minimum age is 6 years old, maximum weight is 90kg, and “average” fitness is required (no previous paddling experience needed).
Times Daily, 6.30am + 9.30am
Cost R600
Where to find it Three Anchor Bay Beach, 180 Beach Road, Mouille Point, Cape Town
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SUPing at the Waterfront

Stand-up paddleboarding (SUPing) has become all the rage, and if you’d like to try your hand at it, the Waterfront’s calm, wave-free canals are the perfect training ground. You’ll be provided with all the gear and introductory training – expect a few tumbles into the shallow water – and once you’ve mastered the art of balancing on the board, it’s time to set off on a 3km scenic loop of the private waterways. The minimum age is 9 years; kids under 16 will need adult supervision. Guides are available to accompany you; if you know how to SUP, you can simply rent a board and cruise the canals on your own. You can even SUP at night, paddling the canals on a lit up glow board.
Good to know A 90-minute, open-ocean guided SUP tour is also available from Three Anchor Bay beach or Granger Bay (minimum age 16 years).
Times Daily, 9am – 4pm (last slot)
Guided glow night tour: 7pm + 8pm
Cost 1 hour lesson + tour: R650; R450 (child 12 years or younger) Book Now
Guided glow night tour: R500 Book Now
Open-ocean tour: R800 Book Now
Board rental (per hour): R300 (adult); R150 (child) Book Now
Where to find it Battery Park, V&A Waterfront, Cape Town (parking access from Alfred Road, just behind City Lodge)

Coasteering in False Bay

If sunning yourself on the beach or wading on the shore is a little tame for your tastes, how about a pirate-style seaside adventure? You’ll make your way along a section of the False Bay coastline, swimming, snorkelling, rock-scrambling and jumping off boulders into the water – all while getting up close to the marine life (and possibly a few penguins) in the wilder sections of the bay. Think kloofing or canyoning, but in an ocean environment. You don’t need to be an athlete but you’ll need to be reasonably fit and agile. You’ll be led by a guide and equipped with a PFD (personal flotation device), helmet and wetsuit.
Good to know Minimum age is 8 years; minimum group size is four people. Private group bookings are available on request, and a picnic lunch can be included.
Times Daily, 9am – 11am
Cost From R950 (adult)
R630 (child, 8 – 17 years)
Where to find it Windmill Beach, Simon’s Town, Cape Town
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A kelp forest and reef adventure

Only visible off our Cape shores, the Great African Seaforest is an underwater wonderland of giant, swaying bamboo kelp, home to myriad creatures, big and small (including pyjama sharks, shy sharks, cat sharks, gully sharks – and octopuses). A variety of colourful soft coral also makes for a stunning underwater garden. Immerse yourself in this world on a guided scuba-diving kelp dive at Pyramid Rock, plus a second dive to one of many stunning reef dives in False Bay, just a few miles down the coast from Cape Point. The average depth is 12 metres, which makes for good visibility and a sound choice for beginner divers. The outing is also available as a snorkelling experience. Afterwards, look forward to a hot shower and light lunch.
Good to know Wetsuits and all gear is supplied for divers and snorkellers. A scuba certificate is required for diving and you must be able to swim for snorkelling (you can sign up for a PADI course).
Times Tuesday – Sunday, 9am – 3pm
Cost Diving: R2 000 (single dive); R3 200 (two dives)
Snorkelling: R1 650 (one session); R2 600 (two sessions)
Where to find it Pisces Divers, 1 Main Road, Simon’s Town, Cape Town
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Learning to surf at Muizenberg

Riding the waves is a rush, no matter your age. To learn how, all you need to bring is a swimming costume, towel and a bucket of enthusiasm – Surf Emporium provides the wetsuits and boards. The clubhouse is at Surfers Corner, the best spot in Cape Town (and among the top in the world) to learn to surf because of the gentle rolling waves, sandy bottom and warmer water. The 90-minute sessions are suited to your skill level and proceed at your pace. You can book one-on-one lessons, a private group session (as a family, for example) or join a group lesson (five people maximum). Groms under 10 get special one-on-one “freezer” lessons.
Good to know They also do SUP lessons (on the sea or vlei) and rent out surfboards, bodyboards, SUP boards and wetsuits (hourly, daily or weekly rates).
Times Daily, 7:30am – 5:30pm
Cost R340 – R495 per person per lesson
R1 020 – R1 485 per person (four-lesson package)
R425 per child “freezer” lesson; R1 700 per child (5-lesson package)
Where to find it 72 Beach Road, Muizenberg, Cape Town
Enquire Now

Kloofing in Bainskloof

The Bainskloof Pass, in the mountains beyond Paarl, is one of the most spectacular drives in the Cape. Imagine getting out of your car and into this mountain landscape for a day of canyoning adventure. It starts with a short hike to the upper reaches of the Witte River, and proceeds down through the canyon – you’ll dip in and out of the tea-coloured water, jump from high rocks into crystal pools (optional) and navigate boulders aplenty. All in all, you’re covering around 2km of spectacular terrain but it’ll take about 4 – 5 hours. Wetsuits and permits are included. That said, it’s a great intro to kloofing and far easier than the infamous Suicide Gorge.
Good to know The minimum age is 10 years old. Wetsuits can be hired. This is a summer-only activity, from November – April.
Times Daily; 9am–2pm
Cost From R1 250 (adult)
Where to find it Eerste Tol, Bainskloof Pass, near Wellington
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Paddling adventures

With so much water surrounding the city, sea kayaking is one of the most enjoyable ways to take in the scenery from another perspective. It’s suited to all skill levels, so all you need to do is decide where you’d like to explore. It could be Hout Bay, paddling along the inaccessible coastline below Chapman’s Peak Drive, visiting secret caves and beaches; or Simon’s Town, heading past the “penguin beaches” of Seaforth, Boulders and Windmill; or in Table Bay, for stunning views of the Waterfront, city and Atlantic Seaboard. All of these outings are two-hour guided trips in super-stable, sit-on-top double kayaks.
Good to know The minimum age is 8 years. Minimum group size is four people. Private tours can be arranged in your own time slot and longer kayak trips are available for more experienced paddlers.
Times Daily, 7am + 9am (7am + 8am for Dolphin Paddle)
Cost Hout Bay – Chapman’s Peak Paddle: R575 Book Now
Simon’s Town – Penguin Paddle: R600 Book Now
Table Bay – Dolphin Paddle: R575 Book Now
Where to find it Hout Bay Harbour, Long Beach in Simon’s Town, or Three Anchor Bay beach

Sunset cruising in Table Bay

For quintessential Cape Town sundowners, hop aboard Mirage, a luxury 76-foot catamaran, to chase the setting sun over the waters. Recline on the trampolines in front, enjoy 360-degree views on the top deck, or grab a table on the enclosed main deck, and be sure to have a camera ready for the stunning views of the city and coastline bathed in golden light. The yacht leaves from the Waterfront and heads out into Table Bay and along the Atlantic Seaboard, returning 90 minutes later… just in time to see the first stars appear and the moon rise in the velvety blue sky. Apart from a welcome glass of cap classique, there are pizzas and other bites with cocktails, wine and other drinks to purchase from the on-board bar. In summer there are also four one-hour trips during the day (children welcome), as well as private charters (which include an ocean pool and slide).
Times Daily (one hour prior to sunset; 7pm in summer)
Cost R650 (adult); R350 (child under 15 years)
Daytime sails: R450 (adult); R200 (child)
Where to find it Pierhead (opposite Life Grand Restaurant), V&A Waterfront, Cape Town
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Night kayaking at the Waterfront

As adventures go, kayaking – by night – on the Waterfront canals may be the most tranquil and unexpectedly fascinating after-dark activity in town. At this time of day, you’ll share the water with very few other craft (but perhaps with a Cape otter, if you’re lucky). You’ll drift under bridges, past the glittering lights of upmarket apartments and hotels that line these waterways, stare up at the city’s high-rises and even catch glimpses of the harbour and Table Mountain. The kayaks sport colourful lights, adding to the romance as the water reflects your shimmering glow. The 90-minute trip stretches between One&Only Cape Town and the Westin hotel (next to the CTICC). The paddling is easy and there are no waves or rough waters.
Good to know Children aged 10 – 17 must be accompanied by an adult. Kayaks seat one or two people; maximum weight 120kg.
Times Daily, 5.30pm; 6.30pm + 7.30pm
Cost R500
Where to find it Battery Park jetty, Dock Road, V&A Waterfront, Cape Town
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Cooling down in Silvermine Reservoir

Less than an hour’s drive from the city centre, this large, glistening, mountain-top reservoir in Silvermine Nature Reserve is easily accessible to everyone (and their dogs) and is hugely popular for leisurely swims and picnics. There’s a 1km boardwalk trail (wheelchair and pram friendly) around the dam, and it’s also the starting point for various hikes, the most popular of which are Elephant’s Eye Cave, Silvermine Ridge and Sentinel View.
Good to know Entry is cash only; ID or passport required. Dog walkers require a My Activity permit (R403 for a year), obtainable from the SANParks website or from the Tokai Wild Card Sales Office.
Times Daily, 7am – 5pm (until end April)
Cost R44 (adult); R22 (child 2 – 11 years)
SADC nationals: R90 (adult); R45 (child)
International visitors: R200 (adult); R100 (child)
Contact 021 780 9002 (gate)
TMNP Tokai office: 021 712 7471, tablem@sanparks.org
Where to find it Silvermine Nature Reserve, Gate 1, Ou Kaapse Weg (M3), between Tokai/Steenberg and Noordhoek

Riding the waves on a jetski

There may be no better way to harness that freewheeling summer feeling than on a sleek, powerful watercraft shooting across the waves. You can take it easy and “cruise”, enjoying the views (and occasional encounters with sealife), or open the throttle for a rush of speed. This classic watersport is suited to thrill-seekers or first-timers alike, under the guidance of an instructor. The price includes a briefing, full tank of fuel, a life-jacket, instructor/skipper and iPhone pics (10) and videos (5) of your experience. You can book a 30-minute session on any fine-weather day; JetsCape operates in three harbour locations (Hout Bay, Granger Bay or Gordon’s Bay) so you won’t be disturbing the peace on a beach.
Good to know Book via WhatsApp. Excursions are dependent on weather and ocean conditions.
If you know the jetski ropes and have a skipper’s licence, you can take it out on your own.
Times Daily, 9am – 5pm
Cost R1 299 (1 person on one jet ski; 30 minutes)
R1 999 (2 people on one jet ski; 30 minutes)
R2 499 (2 people on two jet skis; 30 minutes)
Contact 068 997 5723, hello@jetscape.co.za
Where to find it 31 Harbour Road, Hout Bay, Cape Town
Off Beach Road, Granger Bay, V&A Waterfront, Cape Town
Off Beach Road, Gordon’s Bay

Join the kitesurfing cult

That southeaster sure can pump in summer, and that’s good news for kitesurfers. Cape Town is considered one of the best spots in the world for this sport (and hosts Red Bull’s King of the Air every November). When the wind is pumping, kiters descend on the Atlantic coast from Sunset, Dolphin and Kite beaches to Bloubergstrand, Big Bay and beyond. If the spectacular sight inspires you to learn the ropes, know that it’ll take at least a week, as you progress through kite-control lessons on the beach before you can take to the water. There are dozens of schools in the area. Langebaan Lagoon’s calm, shallow waters up the West Coast are best for beginners. Experienced kitesurfers can also check out Scarborough, Cape Point’s Platbos Beach and the Kommetjie coastline.
Good to know Kitesurfing does not require mega-strength or super-fitness; the trick is in learning to fly the kite. But you should be comfortable in the water and have an adventurous streak.
Contact Table View/Blouberg: High Five, Coastline, Kitekahunas or Cape Town Kite Club.
Langebaan: Kite Lab or Obsession Kiting
Where to find it Start on Marine Drive/Beach Boulevard, Table View

River tubing in the Kogelberg

The Kogelberg Reserve, whose peaks beckon from across False Bay, is a pristine pocket of fynbos-clad mountain wilderness. The Palmiet River runs through it – perfect for slow drifting or white-water thrills, depending on the season. In early summer you can negotiate the river in a laidback, reclining position on a one-person inflatable tube (a “gecko”) – along channels, through pools and over small rapids. For group bookings of 10 or more, lunch can be included in the outing. The minimum age is 8 years, and a group of at least four people is needed (maximum group size is 24). Wetsuits, helmets and PFDs (personal flotation devices) are included.
Good to know This nature reserve also has great hiking trails, including the easy 10km Palmiet River Walk, which has a number of swimming spots, including one with a white-sand beach.
Times Daily, 10am – 2.30pm
Cost From R1 650 (adult)
CapeNature day permit (cash): R65 (adult); R45 (child 4 – 17 years)
Where to find it Oudebosch Reception, Kogelberg Nature Reserve, off R44, near Kleinmond
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Spotting marine wildlife on an ocean safari

Board a boat in Simon’s Town harbour for a False Bay cruise guided by an experienced naturalist (you may have seen the crew in NatGeo documentaries). You can expect to see four types of dolphins, penguins and large seabirds, a colony of 75 000 seals at Seal Island, not to mention wonderful views of Cape Point from the water… and if you’re lucky, Bryde’s whales and orcas, which are year-round residents of the bay. If the conditions allow, you might even enter a sea cave by boat. For a closer look at nature on the Atlantic Ocean side, climb onboard a rubber duck in Hout Bay, which heads out past Duiker Island (a famous Cape fur seal colony) and along the rugged, cliff-lined coast, with sightings of dolphins, penguins and more – even a shipwreck or two. You’ll also get the opportunity to snorkel in the kelp forest (optional), to see even more marine life. No children under 10 years on this trip.
False Bay Book Now
Times Daily, 10.30am + 2pm
Cost From R800 (adult); R650 (child)
Where to find it 2 Wharf Street, Simon’s Town, Cape Town
Atlantic Seaboard Book Now
Times Daily, 9am + 1pm
Cost From R1 950
Where to find it 41 Victoria Avenue, Hout Bay, Cape Town

Family activities

E-scootering on the Promenade

A battery-powered, fat-tyred electric scooter is just the thing for cruising Sea Point’s glorious seaside strip – you’ll cover more ground in less time, with less effort. Breeze past the dog-walkers, joggers and skaters while taking in the scenery. The scooters come in different sizes, and are suitable for anyone five years and older. The entire Promenade, from Granger Bay to Bantry Bay and beyond, is yours to explore – or pop into the Green Point Park for a change of scenery. An ID is required to rent scooters; e-bikes are also available to hire.
Good to know Enquire about a guided Cape Town food tour on your e-scooter, or in the Winelands with stops at three Helderberg farms.
Times Daily, 9am – 6pm
Cost R250 (1 hour)
Contact 082 494 3720, fun@electrek.co.za
Where to find it Queens Beach Circle parking lot, Beach Road, Sea Point
Shop: Surrey Place, off Beach Road, Mouille Point
Enquire Now

Going to the top of Table Mountain

Be whizzed to the top of the Table in a revolving cable car. It’s an exciting five-minute journey, especially as you get an up-close look at the rocky, fynbos-covered mountainside near the end of the trip. Once there, it’s all about the views – enjoy them from the restaurant, bar or wine lounge, multiple viewpoints (including a couple of coin-operated binoculars) and three short trails on the “table” plateau. Explore on your own, or join the free 30-minute guided walks (every hour on the hour, 9am – 3pm) to learn more and discover great photo ops.
Good to know Return tickets bought online are slightly cheaper; to skip the queues, buy a Fast Track Ticket. For weather and operational updates, check the Table Mountain Aerial Cableway website, download their app or call 021 424 8181.
Times Daily, 8am – 8pm (last down 9pm), December + January
8am – 7pm (last down 8pm), February + March
Cost R450 return (adult); R295 one-way
R225 return (child; 4 – 17 years); R160 one-way
Children under 4 years free
Contact 021 424 0015, info@tablemountain.net
Where to find it Tafelberg Road, off Kloof Nek Road (M62), Cape Town
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Exploring Kirstenbosch Gardens

Founded in 1913, Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden is 528 hectares of beauty and diversity, 36 hectares of which is cultivated and the rest wild. Situated on the eastern slopes of Table Mountain, the garden has over 7 000 species of flora, plus many birds and small animals. It’s idyllic for scenic strolls in tranquil surrounds, with the Boomslang Canopy Walk a definite highlight for those views, and five themed trails which explore the forest and fynbos. Pack a picnic (or pick up a catered basket from the café) and settle in for the afternoon, while the kids roam free, exploring streams, climbing rocks and enjoying the wide-open space. In summer, don’t miss the legendary sunset concerts on Sundays and the Galileo Open-Air Cinema screenings once or twice a week.
Good to know You can access the trailheads for the Skeleton Gorge and Nursery Ravine hikes to the top of Table Mountain from the gardens.
Times Daily, 8am – 7pm (until end of March)
Cost Adults: R100 (SA + SADC); R140 (other African citizens); R250 (international)
R40 (children 6 – 17 years); R60 (students)
Free for children under 6 years + pensioners on Tuesdays, except public holidays
Entrance is cashless. Bring ID to qualify for discounted local rates.
Contact 021 799 8783, kirstenboschinfo@sanbi.org.za
Dining or picnics: 021 797 4883 (Fynkos Café); 021 762 9585 (Moyo)
Where to find it Rhodes Drive, Newlands, Cape Town
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Visiting the penguins at Boulders Beach

The preferred haunt of some of the last African penguins on the planet is world-famous and a top tourist spot. Their sanctuary is actually next door, on Foxy Beach, where boardwalks and viewing platforms keep their nests undisturbed. However, the idiosyncratic birds also like to hang out on Boulders Beach, waddling between sunbathers and speeding past swimmers like torpedoes. Apart from the penguins, this wonderful wind-sheltered beach offers amazing swimming: gentle water and about as warm as you get in Cape Town. Come early to claim your patch of sand – it’s a small beach and gets even smaller at high tide. It’s part of Table Mountain National Park, so there is an entry fee and numbers are restricted.
Good to know A kayaking tour to Boulders will give you a different perspective – and be less busy. Penguins can also sometimes be seen at Seaforth Beach and nearby Windmill Beach.
Times Daily, 7am – 7.30pm (December + January)
8am – 6.30pm (February + March)
Cost SA citizens: R55 (adult), R26 (child 2 – 11 years)
SADC nationals: R110 (adult), R55 (child)
International visitors: R245 (adult), R120 (child)
Entrance is cashless. Bring ID/passport.
Contact 021 786 2329, boulders@sanparks.org
Where to find it Bellevue Road, off Main Road (M4), Simon’s Town, Cape Town
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Riding a funicular (and more) at Cape Point

The 7 750-hectare Cape Point Nature Reserve protects the extraordinary landscape of the Cape of Good Hope. The main attraction is Cape Point, where visitors catch the Flying Dutchman funicular to visit the two lighthouses, and follow walking paths to viewpoints – one looks over the actual Cape of Good Hope. For a meal with a stunning view 200 metres above the sea, there’s the Two Oceans Restaurant. Elsewhere in the reserve, you can learn about the rich history, flora and fauna of the area at the Buffelsfontein Visitor Centre; enjoy a stroll on one of the many stretches of pristine beach (Olifantsbos gives you access to two shipwrecks); swim and have a beach braai or picnic at Buffels Bay; or head out on a more adventurous hike, where you might encounter some wildlife such as antelope, zebras or ostriches.
Good to know The resident chacma baboons can be aggressive – keep your food hidden and do not feed or threaten them. There are no lifesavers on duty, and the sea is generally not suitable for swimming (except at Buffels Bay) due to strong currents.
Times Daily, 6am – 6pm (until end of March)
Cost SA residents: R110 (adult), R55 (child, 2 – 11 years)
SADC nationals: R225 (adult), R115 (child)
International visitors: R515 (adult), R250 (child)
Entrance is cashless. Bring ID.
Funicular return/one way: R115/R100 (adult); R60/R52 (child 6 – 16 years + pensioner)
Contact Visitor Centre: 021 780 9204
Funicular: 021 780 9010, info@capepoint.co.za
Emergency: 021 957 4700
Where to find it Plateau Road (M65), via M4 from Simon’s Town

Into the wild at West Coast National Park

Famed for its 32 000 hectares of raw and wild beauty, fynbos and dunes, this coastal nature reserve (just 1.5 hours from Cape Town) is home to a host of wildlife and birds, and Ramsar wetlands – including the Langebaan Lagoon. This large, calm body of water is ringed by magical white-sand beaches perfect for picnicking and paddling – in particular, stunning Preekstoel and Kraalbaai, where the water is 50 shades of blue-green. You’ll feel like you’ve been dropped on a Greek island for the day. On the ocean side, Tsaarsbank is a popular spot for exploring rock pools or a beach braai; alternately, visit Geelbek Visitor’s Centre where there is a restaurant. The park also has two day hikes, two longer hiking trails and four cycling trails for more active nature-lovers.
Good to know Level up your adventure and book a houseboat for an exciting overnight stay. (book through SANParks or Kraalbaai Lifestyle House Boats). There are also self-catering cottages and chalets available to rent.
Times Daily, 7am – 7pm
Cost SA residents: R82 (adult), R41 (child, 2 – 11 years)
SADC nationals: R132 (adult), R65 (child)
International visitors: R144 (adult), R72 (child)
Contact 022 772 2144, charmain.simerie@sanparks.org
Where to find it R27 between Yzerfontein and Langebaan, West Coast
Book Kraalbaai Lifestyle House Boats

Food, Wine + Cultural Experiences

Foraging with Veld & Sea

Veld & Sea hosts immersive half-day experiences aimed at learning about, exploring and sustainably foraging the wild ingredients that abound on the Peninsula. Summer is coastal foraging season – around new and full moon (spring tide). It starts on Scarborough beach and, after an educational talk on sustainable regenerative and responsible foraging practices, you will immerse into rock pools, hunting for edible seaweeds, mussels and other gems. Once your bounty has been collected, you’ll head to the Veld & Sea classroom, where you’ll help prepare a beautiful outdoor lunch on the coals, accompanied by seaweed talks, cooking demos and botanical drinks.
Good to know The summer workshops take place every two weeks until 21 March 2026. You can also book a private experience. All foraging equipment, welcome snacks and drinks, cooking classes, seaweed talks, a multi-course lunch, dessert and botanical drinks are included, as well as follow up resources, recipes, and a coastal foraging booklet.
Times Selected Saturdays + Sundays, 9am – 2.15pm
Cost R1 550 (adult)
R775 (child under 16 years)
Where to find it Good Hope Gardens Nursery, Plateau Road (M65), near Cape Point, Cape Town
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Deliciousness at Oranjezicht City Farm Market

After 10 years, Cape Town’s favourite food market has moved from stretch tents into wooden barns, but the vibe is still there. Managed by the folks who revived the historic Oranjezicht market garden, OZCF is a cheerleader for community farming and artisanal producers. Take your pick from the rainbow harvest of in-season veggies, herbs and fruit (including some rare and heirloom beauties), alongside cheeses, breads and bakes, preserves, smoked fish, charcuterie and more. Stay for a leisurely meal, with a variety of global cuisines on offer (Asian, Italian, Mexican, Cape Malay, French and much more) – with special dietary requirements well catered for. There’s plenty of outdoor seating, a bar area for craft beers and cocktails, space for kids and dogs, and a real buzz. In summer, the midweek night market is the spot for a cool supper.
Good to know You can also visit the Oranjezicht farm at 87 Upper Orange Street to stock up on the latest harvest on weekdays.
Times Saturday, 8am – 2pm
Sunday, 8.30am – 2pm
Wednesday, 4pm – 9pm (until April)
Contact 083 628 3426, market@ozcf.co.za
Where to find it Corner Dock Road and Granger Bay Boulevard, V&A Waterfront, Cape Town

Idyllic countryside at Babylonstoren

Home to an impeccably designed, five-hectare food garden (part of a working farm that also has vineyards, livestock and grain fields), Babylonstoren is a veritable Garden of Eden (an amazing adventure to explore) and a food-lover’s delight. The daily harvest is used in dishes at the four restaurants, and in products for the juicery, bakery, distillery and farm shop (everything from cheese and olives to meat and sweet treats) – and even in the Garden Spa and Scented Room’s fragrant potions. There’s also a coffee roastery, gelato made from the milk of the farm’s water buffaloes, and a glass-enclosed wine-tasting room, historic cellar and Story of Wine Museum. You’re free to explore on your own, or take a garden tour (10am daily) or an olive oil tour. Kids will love the water features and farm animals.
Good to know Book to visit Soetmelksvlei, an immersive re-creation of a 19th-century farm, where you’ll find old-school artisans at work and old-fashioned treats.
Times Daily, 9am – 5pm (last entry 4pm)
Soetmelksvlei: Wednesday – Sunday (same hours); open on public holidays and daily during school holidays
Cost R150 (adult); free for children under 18 years
Soetmelksvlei: R350 (adult); R100 (child, 4 – 17 years)
Contact 021 863 3852, enquiries@babylonstoren.com
Where to find it Babylonstoren Road, off the R44, Klapmuts-Simondium, Stellenbosch
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Wine-farm-hopping by bicycle

The Winelands has a wonderful network of country roads and cycling paths. On an ebike tour, you’ll get to enjoy the scenery and immerse yourself in the terroir, pedalling through vineyards and across wine farms, stopping for snacks and coffee or wine-tastings. An electric bicycle makes it easier, with battery-assisted energy that takes you further without breaking a sweat. In Franschhoek, you’ll head out of town to two estates (Grand Provence, Glenwood or Leeu Estates); in Stellenbosch, you have the choice of the stunning Banhoek or Jonkershoek valleys (visiting, among others, Thelema, Stark-Condé, Boschendal and Tokara).
Good to know Most food and wine-tastings are for your own account. Children can use half-wheeler bikes (age 5 – 9 years) and star seats (age 3 – 5 years). Self-guided tours are also available, and transport from Cape Town.
Times Monday – Saturday, 9am; 1.30pm
Cost Franschhoek: R1 300 (half-day) Book Now
Stellenbosch: R1 300 (half-day) Book Now
Banhoek: R1 300 (half-day); Book Now
Ebike & picnic: R1 400 Book Now
Ebike & waterfall hike: R1 750 Book Now
Child: R250 – R450 (4 – 9 years old)
Where to find it Franschhoek: Terbodore Café, 29 Huguenot Street
Stellenbosch: Lanzerac Trails Centre, Lanzerac Road
Banhoek: Banhoek Chilli Oil Company, Swart Street, Kylemore

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