Cape Town is acknowledged as one of the world’s top destinations. If the world plans to spend time here, then it’s a must-visit route for South Africans too.
Regularly acknowledged as one of the world’s top travel destinations, Cape Town even finds itself listed among just 22 cities worldwide on a special travel version of Monopoly. And the most influential sites in the world, such as TripAdvisor, the Telegraph and the New York Times, have named the city as a destination to put on your travel bucket list.
Cape Town’s incredible scenery, unique history and diversity of attractions has meant that it constantly tops lists of must-see places for international travellers.
But what makes the perfect trip to the Cape? What are the places and sights that all visitors should experience? Here we break down the top 5 Cape Town attractions.
CAPE OF GOOD HOPE
Cape Point is naturally top of the list of things to see in Cape Town. The magnificent nature reserve will make you feel as if you are standing at the edge of the earth. The abundant fynbos, towering cliffs, stormy ocean waves and rolling hills offer a spectacular day out. Take the Flying Dutchman Funicular up to the lighthouse viewing point, where you can take exquisite panoramic pictures, and wander along the many walking paths. You can stroll down to one of the beaches, or enjoy yourself at the top. Stop by the Two Oceans Restaurant for a delicious seafood lunch or go to the takeaway food restaurant. There are three different curio stores to satisfy your shopping needs. Entry to the nature reserve will cost R135 for adults and R70 for children, and a trip up the funicular will set you back R65 for a return trip and just R25 for children and pensioners. These prices will go up as from the 1st of November 2017.
TABLE MOUNTAIN
Never to be missed, Table Mountain is Cape Town’s shining gem –consistently taking your breath away while you wander the city streets. The views from atop the mountain are even more breathtaking. If you’re up for it, the hike to the top is well worth it – nothing can prepare you for the scenery on the way, and after enjoying your triumph at the peak, you can take in the unique views of the cable cars on your way down. There is a small restaurant and food store at the top too, and numerous different viewpoints that you’ll struggle to walk away from. Entry to Table Mountain via the cable car will cost you R255 for adults and R125 for children both up and down the Cable car.
ROBBEN ISLAND
Taking a ferry over sparkling blue waters to Cape Town’s historic island is a must-do for locals and visitors alike. A tour of Robben Island will teach you a great deal about the country’s history, and you’ll be moved by the stories of political prisoners and the time they spent on this wild stretch of land, which has since been declared a World Heritage Site. Viewing Nelson Mandela’s prison cell isn’t the only thing that the tour offers. Roughly 132 species of bird have made the island their home and on your journey to the island, you might even glimpse of Cape Fur Seals and Southern Right Whales. Some of the tour guides are ex-prisoners, which adds a deeply personal and touching element to the experience.
The entire tour will cost you R340 and R190 for kids – a worthwhile price for a genuinely moving day.
BOULDERS BEACH
The stunning Boulders Beach is one of the most visited beaches in the world and the only place you can get close to the African Penguin. While a particular treat for kids, everyone will enjoy lounging by the ocean next to these quirky little birds, who are so used to people that they will freely mingle with beachgoers. The deep blue water is perfect for a dip, and the massive boulders are literally swarming with groups of penguins taking a snooze and diving into the water when they choose. Entrance is R70 for adults and R35 for children – who will delight in spending the day frolicking in the waves with the penguins.
SHARK CAGE DIVING
Shark cage diving might not be for everyone, but you’d be surprised how peaceful a dip with a Great White can be! There are many companies that take boats of visitors out to sea to enjoy the adrenaline-pumping experience, Gansbaai being one of the more popular locations year-round. The guides will teach you all sorts of information about these magnificent ocean beasts, and their knowledge and experience will set even the most anxious mind at ease. Once you’re down in that water, the sight of the powerful animal in its natural habitat will leave you speechless. A full day trip will cost roughly R1500.