Top 20 Must-Do Activities in Cape Town, South Africa

Cape Town is one of Africa’s greatest places to visit, offering a stunning blend of world-class dining, breathtaking scenery, and exhilarating adventures.

South Africa is among our top destinations worldwide, with Cape Town always being a highlight of our travels.

Things to do in Cape Town, South Africa

1. Table Mountain Aerial Cableway

Cape Town’s beauty is significantly enhanced by Table Mountain, which overlooks the stunning colonial architecture, pristine sandy beaches, and picturesque waterfront. This iconic mountain serves as a breathtaking backdrop for the city. Taking the aerial tramway offers an exhilarating bird’s eye view of the landscape. Once at the summit, you can enjoy numerous activities, from hiking to abseiling.

Moreover, consider combining your cable car ticket with a hop-on-hop-off tour of the city, which allows for convenient bus access to Table Mountain and offers flexibility for 14 days from the first use, a valuable option given the unpredictable weather conditions.

2. Robben Island

Robben Island is a crucial site in history, as it housed Nelson Mandela during his 27 years of imprisonment. The poignant half-hour boat ride to the island evokes reflections on the isolation faced by prisoners, surrounded by icy, shark-infested waters.

Despite its proximity—just 6.9 km (4.2 miles) from Cape Town—freedom felt impossibly out of reach for those imprisoned here.

About Robben Island

The experience is enriched by guides who were former inmates, sharing personal stories that add depth to the visit. Engaging in conversation, one guide revealed how he channels his past experiences into a form of therapy. These individuals are remarkable heroes. Their resilience and achievements from behind bars ultimately contributed to dismantling apartheid.

3. V&A Waterfront

A must-visit in Cape Town is the V&A Waterfront, the city’s cultural hub. Enjoy shopping, savoring exquisite seafood, or taking a leisurely stroll along the promenade. We wrapped up an exhilarating cycling adventure across Africa here and instantly fell in love with the vibrant urban atmosphere. Don’t forget to ride the Cape Wheel for spectacular panoramic views of the city.

4. Go Sand Boarding

Just outside Cape Town, you’ll find expansive sand dunes ready for exploration. Partnering with Sandboarding Cape Town, you can enjoy a hassle-free experience as they provide transportation and all necessary equipment. No prior experience is needed, making it accessible for everyone.

Interestingly, even experienced snowboarders like us found sandboarding to be a whole new challenge. But rest assured, even beginners will have a blast!

Number 1 Money Saving Tip in Cape Town

Cape Town City Pass – This official City Pass offers a fantastic 50% discount on Cape Town attractions, landmarks, and tours while providing fast-track entry to several premier tourist sites.

• Top Cape Town Pass includes:
  • Table Mountain Arial Tramway
  • Cape Peninsula Tour
  • Hop-on Hop-off Bus
  • Cape Town Township Tour
  • Seal Island Nauticat Charters
  • And more

5. Paraglide off Lions Head

Cape Town is arguably the premier location for paragliding, making it a thrilling adventure worth the wait. However, be prepared as unpredictable winds can impact take-offs from Lions Head. After three days of cancellations due to weather, we were eager yet disappointed not to showcase this iconic experience.

You can easily book a tandem paragliding experience in advance, which includes a flexible cancellation policy. Alternatively, if paragliding feels daunting, consider a sunset hike to Lion’s Head for stunning views of Camps Bay Beach and the surrounding areas.

6. Clifton Beach

A drive to Clifton Beach for dinner is highly recommended. This lively beach community is a favorite among surfers and offers excellent shopping and prime people-watching opportunities.

Known as a haven for the affluent, Clifton Beach boasts four beautiful beaches, each with its own charm.

7. Take a Walking Tour of Bo Kaap

Bo Kaap, a historic area known for its vibrant Malay culture, is famous for its colorful buildings and cobblestone streets, nestled on the slopes of Signal Hill. Participating in a local cooking class allows you to experience the fusion of Malay and South African cuisine. The area has a rich history, established by enslaved Malays and Indonesians in the 17th century. Consider joining a cooking class to learn about traditional Malay dishes, a chance to enrich your culinary repertoire while enjoying the sights.

8. District Six Museum

To delve into Cape Town’s apartheid history, the District Six Museum provides a poignant experience. This neighborhood was razed in the 1960s to accommodate a segregated population, leading to the forced removal of thousands.

The museum, opened in 1994, showcases letters and photographs from former residents, serving as a testament to the injustices of the past, with ongoing efforts for restitution.

9. Townships of Cape Town

Exploring Cape Town’s townships is a meaningful way to connect with the local community and learn about its rich cultural heritage. Ethical tours supporting local residents are available, offering an immersive experience into the day-to-day lives of people in these communities.

10. Simon’s Town

A delightful day trip is to Simon’s Town, home to a charming colony of African penguins. Observing these adorable creatures in their natural habitat is a unique outing. Don’t forget to enjoy a seafood lunch at the harbor while you’re there.

11. Chapman’s Peak Drive

The journey to Boulders Beach along Chapman’s Peak Drive is one of the most picturesque in the world. If you feel comfortable, renting a car to navigate this iconic roadway will reward you with breathtaking coastal views.

Starting from the M63 towards Hout Bay, this scenic route showcases dramatic cliffs plunging into the ocean along a beautifully constructed two-lane highway.

12. Cape of Good Hope

The Cape of Good Hope marks the southern point of the Cape Peninsula and is renowned for its rugged beauty and storied maritime history. Although frequently mistaken as the southernmost point of Africa, that title belongs to Cape Agulhas.

13. Cape Point

Just a short distance from the Cape of Good Hope, Cape Point offers spectacular views of the rugged coastline. Experience the funicular ride to the lighthouse, a unique way to appreciate the landscape—or challenge yourself with a hike along the coastal trails.

14. Kalk Bay

This charming suburb has emerged as a trendy shopping destination known for antiques and delectable seafood. Its popularity soared after Forbes labeled it one of the coolest neighborhoods globally in 2018. Take in local seal sightings or explore the lively arts scene while enjoying the coastal atmosphere.

15. Take a Helicopter Tour

For a breathtaking perspective of Cape Town’s beauty, consider a helicopter tour. There’s truly no better way to fully appreciate the city’s stunning landscapes, from Table Mountain to the Atlantic coast.

16. Dine at the 12 Apostles

We were thoroughly impressed by the Red Carnation hotel chain in South Africa, and the 12 Apostles certainly met our high expectations. Experience exquisite wine-pairing dinners featuring South African estate wines or indulge in afternoon tea. Nestled in Camps Bay, it boasts stunning views between Table Mountain and the Twelve Apostles Mountain Range.

17. Chill on Long Street

Long Street runs through the heart of Cape Town and the CBD, filled with vibrant nightlife, bars, restaurants, and rooftop lounges. Discover the best spots to relax and enjoy the city’s atmosphere on your visit.

18. Groot Constantia

Groot Constantia stands as South Africa’s oldest winery, merely 20 minutes from Cape Town. Established in 1685, it features a cultural history museum, picturesque vineyard landscapes, and delightful dining experiences.

Day Tours from Cape Town

If your itinerary is tight, consider taking day tours from Cape Town to explore these extraordinary destinations. However, if your schedule allows, we recommend extending your stay in each location to fully appreciate their charm.

19. Gansbaai for Great White Shark Diving

Although it’s a two-hour drive from Cape Town, diving with Great White Sharks is a once-in-a-lifetime experience you shouldn’t miss. Gansbaai provides a thrilling opportunity to encounter these majestic creatures up close. The drive itself is manageable, and transportation can typically be arranged by local companies.

20. Whale Watching in Hermanus

Hermanus, just 90 minutes from Cape Town, is renowned for its exceptional whale-watching opportunities from June to November. If you visit during September and October, you can partake in the lively whale festival that celebrates the Southern Right Whales’ arrival.

Many tours can be booked, including a comprehensive package featuring a whale-watching cruise, wine tasting, and a visit to the local penguins.

These are some of the best activities you can experience in Cape Town, along with ideas for day trips. When do you plan to visit South Africa?