Discover Cape Town: A Local’s Guide to the Mother City

1. Climb Table Mountain

Table Mountain is Cape Town’s crowning jewel, offering panoramic views of the city, coastline and beyond. Choose a route based on your fitness level:

• Platteklip Gorge: A straightforward but steep trail for those short on time.

• India Venster: For the adventurous, offering thrilling scrambles and stunning vistas.

• Skeleton Gorge: A scenic forested route starting in Kirstenbosch Gardens.

Alternatively, take the cable car up for a more relaxed experience. Sunset views from the top are breathtaking!

Local’s tip:

Start your hike early to avoid the crowds and carry plenty of water — Cape Town’s sun can be intense.

2. Explore the Cape Peninsula

Embark on a day trip around the Cape Peninsula, a journey that showcases Cape Town’s diverse landscapes:

• Muizenberg Beach: Famous for its colorful beach huts and perfect waves for beginner surfers, Muizenberg is also home to charming beachfront cafes where you can enjoy fresh, locally baked goods while soaking in the ocean views.

• Kalk Bay: A charming fishing village with quirky shops, seafood restaurants and a working harbor.

• Boulders Beach: Home to a colony of adorable African penguins.

• Cape Point: Where the rugged cliffs and ocean views will leave you awestruck.

• Chapman’s Peak Drive: One of the world’s most scenic drives, featuring 114 curves that wind through dramatic coastal cliffs, perfect for golden hour photography.

Local’s tip:

Pack a picnic and stop at one of the secluded beaches along the route for a peaceful break.

3. Whale watching in Hermanus (with wine tasting)

Just a short drive from Cape Town, Hermanus is the whale-watching capital of the world. Visit between June and November to spot southern right whales along the coast. Pair this experience with wine tasting in the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley, renowned for its cool-climate wines, especially Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.

Local’s tip:

Bring binoculars for a closer look at the whales and stop at a seaside café for fresh seafood.

4. Sip and savor in Franschhoek

Known as South Africa’s food and wine capital, Franschhoek is a must-visit for wine enthusiasts. Explore award-winning wine estates via the Franschhoek Wine Tram and indulge in gourmet dining at picturesque vineyards. Don’t miss a stop at La Motte or Boschendal for incredible tastings.

Local’s tip:

Visit during the Franschhoek Bastille Festival in July for a lively celebration of food, wine and French heritage.

5. Discover the Bo-Kaap

Immerse yourself in Cape Malay culture in the colorful Bo-Kaap neighborhood. Walk the cobbled streets lined with vibrant houses and take part in a local cooking experience, learning to make traditional dishes like samoosas and curry. Visit the Bo-Kaap Museum to learn about the area’s history.

Local’s tip:

Join a guided walking tour to hear fascinating stories about the neighborhood from a local resident.

6. Day trip to the West Coast

Experience the rugged beauty of the West Coast. In September, the wildflower season transforms the landscape into a kaleidoscope of colors. Stop at the Strandloper Restaurant for an unforgettable seafood feast serving up 10 courses in an open-air setting on the beach.

Local’s tip:

Visit the West Coast National Park’s Postberg section for the best wildflower viewing spots.

7. Shop and dine at Bree Street and Kloof Street

Cape Town’s culinary and retail scenes shine along Bree Street and Kloof Street. Sample everything from fine dining to casual tapas spots. Uncover unique local finds at Greenmarket Square, a historic marketplace perfect for souvenirs.

Local’s tip:

End your day with a cocktail at a rooftop bar like The Silo for stunning city views.

8. Stroll the V&A Waterfront

The Victoria & Alfred Waterfront offers something for everyone: high-end shopping, diverse dining and boat tours. Visit the Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa (MOCAA) to see the best of African art. For families, the Two Oceans Aquarium is a hit.

Local’s tip:

Visit the Watershed for unique local crafts and live performances by street musicians.

9. Visit Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens

Nestled on the slopes of Table Mountain, Kirstenbosch is one of the world’s great botanical gardens. Take a walk along the Boomslang Canopy Walkway, enjoy summer sunset concerts or simply relax amidst indigenous flora.

Local’s tip:

Bring a picnic basket and enjoy a lazy afternoon under the shade of ancient trees.

10. Take a Township Tour

Gain a deeper understanding of Cape Town’s history and culture by visiting a township like Langa or Khayelitsha. Join a guided tour to meet locals, hear their stories and support small businesses. Many tours include live music and traditional food experiences.

Local’s tip:

Book with a reputable tour operator to ensure your visit is respectful and beneficial to the community.

Cape Town is a treasure trove of experiences that combine nature, culture and adventure. Whether you’re sipping world-class wine, hiking iconic peaks or dining with penguins as your backdrop, the Mother City will leave you enchanted.

Come explore — and experience what local is lekker is all about!

Cape Town is a vibrant culinary destination, blending diverse influences from African, Dutch, Malay and other cultures, with a growing emphasis on innovative cuisine. Here are a few of my favorite culinary experiences in and around Cape Town:

1. The Test Kitchen (Chef Luke Dale-Roberts)

Consistently rated one of Africa's best restaurants, The Test Kitchen offers an immersive culinary experience with a focus on contemporary global flavors and innovative techniques.

Insider tip:

Book well in advance as this is one of the most sought-after tables in Cape Town.

2. La Colombe (Chef James Gaag)

Situated in Constantia, La Colombe is known for its stunning views and refined, yet creative menu, showcasing the best of South African ingredients. The tasting menu changes seasonally, making each visit unique.

Insider tip:

Ask for a window seat to enjoy the picturesque surroundings while dining.

3. Chefs Warehouse at Beau Constantia (Chef Liam Tomlin)

Known for its small plates and focus on local, seasonal ingredients, Chef Liam Tomlin's Beau Constantia spot offers a refined take on contemporary South African cuisine with spectacular views of the Constantia winelands.

Insider tip:

Arrive early to watch the sunset over the mountains while enjoying your meal.

4. Cape Malay cooking at the Bo-Kaap Cooking Tour

To dive into Cape Town’s cultural history, this hands-on cooking experience is perfect. Learn to prepare traditional Cape Malay dishes like bobotie, a comforting and flavorful meat dish, in the heart of the vibrant Bo-Kaap neighborhood.

Insider tip:

Don’t leave without trying the traditional Malay sambal and mint tea.

5. Twinswalo Atlantic (Chefs David Higgs & Sarah Sutherland)

Located on the edge of the Atlantic Ocean in Camps Bay, Twinswalo Atlantic offers a world-class dining experience with spectacular ocean views. The restaurant blends the best of global and local flavors, with a fine-dining approach to South African ingredients.

Insider tip:

Opt for the tasting menu for a multi-course journey that showcases the chefs' creativity and mastery of flavor.