Explore Cape Town, South Africa

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Advisor - Genny Montgomery
Curated By

Genny Montgomery

  • Cape Town

  • Arts & Culture

  • City Travel

  • Family Travel

  • Luxury Travel

  • Sightseeing

  • Local Food

  • History

A family in front of a yellow building with mountains in the distance
Curator’s statement

Cape Town is a beautiful destination, full of history and beauty. It sits at the base of Table Mountain, and boasts gorgeous mountain vistas and ocean views. It also offers award winning food and wine, as well as wildlife and culture. There is so much to experience here. I recommend at least four days to explore Cape Town, but spend more time if you can. It's a great jumping off point for many east Africa safari camps.

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Where to stay in Cape Town

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Things to do in Cape Town

Two people standing on a rock at a beach during the daytime

Cape of Good Hope

The Cape of Good Hope is a must-see in Cape Town. Here you'll see the famous penguins at Boulders Beach. Stop along the way to explore the beautiful rocky beaches and breathtaking landscapes. In addition to penguins, there is lots of wildlife to see including starfish, whales and antelopes. Watch out for your belongings, the baboons have been known to snatch a sandwich straight from your hands!

Two Oceans Aquarium

This aquarium offers an inside look at the marine wildlife that thrives off the coast of Cape Town. The aquarium focuses on conservation of our oceans. Don't miss the sharks!

Castle of Good Hope

A walking tour of this historic castle provides a historic backdrop to Cape Town. The oldest surviving building in Cape Town, it's now home to the Cape Heritage Museum.

Robben Island

Take a boat tour to Robben Island, which has served as a mental institution, leper colony, and most famously a maximum-security prison that once held Nelson Mandela. It's now a museum and World Heritage site with tours given by former inmates. Pro tip: the boat ride can be choppy!

District Six Museum

In the former inner-city residential area of District Six, this museum is in an old Methodist Church. Here you'll learn the history of apertheid and the forced movement of over 60,000 residents of District Six.

Table Mountain National Park

Here you'll see the best views of the city. Table Mountain sits at 3,500 feet above sea level. Take a revolving cable car to the top, or hike if you're feeling adventurous.

Victoria and Albert Waterfront

Is it touristy? Yes! Is it fun? Also yes! Take the kids and ride the ferris wheel, and explore all the artisans, restaurants and shopping this area provides. It's also a working harbor so don't miss the ocean views.

Day Trips

Stellenbosch: South Africa's Winelands region is a quick 45 minutes outside of the city. Take a guide and explore the wineries and beautiful rolling hills of this area.

Places to eat & drink in Cape Town

Fried chicken on a black plate.

Truth Coffee Roasting: For a taste of Cape Town's coffee culture, stop by Truth Coffee Roasting for your morning caffeine fix.

Bao Down: Don't miss the Korean fried chicken at this Asian hot spot. Reservations are a must.

Seven Colours Eatery: For a taste of authentic South African food, visit this restaurant at the Victoria & Albert waterfront. The breads are worth every calorie!

Azure Restaurant: Fine dining in the 12 Apostles hotel, beautiful oceanfront views. Beautiful presentation with a focus on fresh seafood.

The Jordan Restaurant Stellenbosch: Fresh farm to table dining with delicious wines.

The Waterside: Casual fine-dining with views at Victoria & Albert waterfront. Enjoy outdoor seating when the weather is nice.

Fyn: You will be wowed by this fine-dining experience. Try the wine pairings! Plant based and pescatarian menus are available.

Le Petit Colombe: One of Cape Town's finest restaurants, it's beautifully set among vineyards. This restaurant is a one-in-a-lifetime experience.

Advisor - Genny Montgomery

Travel Advisor

Genny Montgomery

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This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Cape Town. For more travel tips, check out Fora Advisor Kirsty Cowie’s guide, Experiences that I am Loving in Cape Town.