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Canola Fields, Overberg Region

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Just an hour’s drive east of Cape Town, situated between the Breede River in the east, the Hottentots-Holland Mountains to the west and the Riviersonderend Mountains in the north, is the scenic region called Overberg. Overberg is an agricultural region with its stunning seascapes, breathtaking mountains, hidden valleys, rolling green pastures and golden wheat fields.

Over the years, Overberg has been an important area for the growing of wheat, barley, and oats until 1993 when farmers tried a new crop known as Canola. Canola is a cool-season crop which was developed in Canada in the 1970s. This crop is used to make edible oil for humans and canola meal for livestock. The oil is pressed from the tiny brown seeds found in pods on the plant. Canola oil is low in polyunsaturated fatty acids and a good source of Vitamin E, making it a good choice for frying, cooking, and baking. The Canola meal, on the other hand, is a good source of protein and can be used to feed livestock. The meal is also considered a high-quality organic fertilizer that can be used by commercial organic farmers. The beautiful yellow canola flowers are a preferred source of food for bees and the Canola fields also serve as a major breeding ground for the blue crane, the national bird of South Africa.

The best time to tour around Overberg is during late July, August, early September. This is when shades of green are combined with bright yellow canola patches which creates a vibrant magical scene. The crops are harvested between October and November where the plowed fields become an assortment of reds and browns peppered with hay bales.

The scenic view of the Canola fields in Overberg makes the region a must-visit place not only for photographers but also for anyone who wants to see its magnificent beauty.

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Top 5 Authentic Food Experiences in Cape Town
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Top 5 Authentic Food Experiences in Cape Town

The best way to immerse yourself in a culture, is to try the local food. Only problem in South Africa, the Rainbow Nation, there isn’t just one specific culture to experience. But if you are foodie fanatic, any excuse to eat as much as possible counts! Here’s the top 5 different types of food experiences you can try out in the Mother City.

#1 Cape Malay

Cape Malay cuisine is unique to the Western Cape of South Africa. Renowned for its hearty, flavourful dishes, this cuisine remains an important part of Cape Town culture. The food is a combination of South African, Malaysian, and Indonesian cuisine. With a bold blend of spices including cumin, coriander, cinnamon, cardamom, and turmeric to name a few – Cape Malay cuisine has a distinctive aromatic quality.

Bo-Kaap is arguably the best place to experience Cape Malay food in Cape Town. The bright, rainbow-colored houses were home to former Cape Malay slaves in the early 19thcentury.

Some must-try foods include curry, halfmoons, and dhaltjies. And don’t forget to try some delicious Cape Malay deserts. Koesisters and Koekisisters (yes, trust me—there’s a difference!) are a must. Koesisters are spiced syrupy donuts covered in coconut. Koeksisters are plaited, syrup covered donuts.

koesisters

koeksisters

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

You can try all of these dishes and more at Biesmiellah, a traditional Cape Malay restaurant located in Bo-Kaap.

2 Wale St & Pentz St |Malay Quarter, Bo-Kaap | Monday to Saturday 12pm-10pm

#2 Fish and Chips

Cape Town is well-known for its delicious, near-legendary fish and chips. Locals and visitors alike love the mouth-watering, deep-fried meal. There are several spots to choose from, all complete with fresh food and spectacular views.

Kalky’s Fish & Chips

If you’re near Kalk Bay Harbour, the legendary Kalky’s is a must. Arguably the most popular fish and chips spot in Cape Town, they serve a variety of delicious, fresh seafood. Options include hake, snoek, and yellowtail—all caught fresh on the owner’s boat. Grab a koesister on your way out for a sweet snack, if you have space left after devouring one of their formidable meals.

Kalk Bay Harbour | Kalk Bay |Sunday to Saturday 10 am—8pm

Salty Sea Dog

Salty Sea Dog, located just down the road from Kalky’s, is another local and legendary spot in Simon’s Town harbour. The restaurant sits in a former fish market building and offers a delicious variety of seafood including hake, calamari, and their legendary fish and chip rolls. You can choose to either take your food to go or sit down and relax in their licensed restaurant with a glass of wine.

2 Wharf Street | Simon’s Town |Monday to Saturday 10 am—9pm, Sunday 10 am—4:30 pm

Fish on the Rocks

Located between Hout Bay harbour and the West Fort Battery Naval Heritage site, Fish on the Rocks is a local favourite. The restaurant has been around for more than three decades, and has beautiful views of the infamous Chapman’s Peak in the distance. You have to try their legendary, near-perfect prawns, delicious hake, snoek, line-fish, and mouth-watering calamari.

1 Harbour Rd | Hout Bay | Sunday to Monday 9am—8pm

Ocean Blue

If you’re in the Camps Bay area, head to Ocean Blue. Known for their extensive seafood menu including crayfish, giant prawns, live oysters, and calamari, Ocean Blue is a beautiful and well-worth-it stop.

85 Victoria Rd | Camps Bay | Sunday to Monday 8:30 am—10 pm

#3 African Food

Before European colonists arrived, African cuisine consisted of a wide variety of bulbs, leaves, berries, roots, grains, fruits, vegetables, and game meat. Beef was considered to be a “status meat,” so although meat was consumed on a daily basis, it was generally limited to chicken, goats, and sheep. Popular dishes included sheep heads, called “smileys,” intestines, and even the stomach. Bread was also a staple; baked in a round pot, called “pot brood,” and dense dough grilled over the coals of a fire, called “rooster brood,” were common. While traditional South African cuisine has been affected by European influences, it still remains quite distinct from other cooking styles.

You can find traditional South African food throughout Cape Town in some of the best restaurants listed below.

Mama Africa

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Mama Africa offers a unique African dining experience. Live African music plays in the background as you enjoy dishes like Mozambican chicken livers, lamb curry, Kudu Biltong, and kebabs.

178 Long Street |Cape Town City Centre | Tuesday to Friday 12pm—3pm & 6pm—12 am, Saturday and Monday 6pm—12am

Gold Restaurant

With a 14-course set menu and traditional entertainment, Gold Restaurant is hot-spot for traditional African food. Dishes range from Xhosa pot bread, Tanzanian friend fish, to Mozambican chili chicken wings. A variety of performances by traditional dancers, Mali puppets, drummers, and singers ensure guests get the complete African dining experience.

15 Bennett St | Green Point | Sunday to Saturday 6:30 pm—11pm

#4 Braai

What is a braai? While some might say it’s like a barbecue, others might say its grilling meat, and most might say it’s just something you do when in South Africa—it’s all of the above. What makes a true braai isn’t just the meat or the food; it’s the atmosphere, the vibe, and the gathering of friends and family. Braais are one of the most popular types of Afrikaans cooking styles. For locals, having a braai is a way of life. For visitors, it’s a way to truly experience the South African culture.

Cape Town is full of great braai spots, and even restaurants that provide a place for the whole experience. We’ve listed the best (and most secret) ones here.

Mzoli’s

A trip to Mzoli’s is a must for locals and visitors to Cape Town. Located in the township of Gugulethu, Mzoli’s is a self-serve braai hot spot. You can choose from a selection of raw meats from the on-site butchery. Then, you take it over to the braai area where the staff will grill it on an open fire. There is a liquor store nearby were you can buy drinks, or you can bring your own. A local DJ plays fun music while you eat, and there’s a dance floor waiting for you when you finish.

Ny 115 | Guguletu | Cape Town | Sunday to Saturday 9am—6pm

Newlands Forest

Located on the eastern slopes of Table Mountain, Newlands Forest is a relaxing and scenic spot for a braai. Bring your own wood, charcoal, and grill to the assigned braai and picnic areas. With several hiking trails nearby and natural shade under the pine trees—this is the perfect, quiet spot for a day out.

Table Mountain National Park | Table Mountain (Nature Reserve)

Silvermine Nature Reserve

The Silvermine Nature Reserve is arguably one of the most beautiful spots for a braai in Cape Town. While you can only braai here during the winter, the relatively secluded braai areas are a perfect spot for a quiet and relaxing day out.

Table Mountain National Park | Silvermine National Reserve

Check out our post on tidal pools to find the best spot to spend a day swimming, relaxing, and having a braai.

#5 Eastern Food Bazaar

The Eastern Food Bazaar is a street-food lover’s paradise. Home to some of the best Indian food in Cape Town, the Bazaar is a bustling, canteen-style eatery. It is also a certified Halaal establishment. With flavours and foreign spices from as far as Istanbul and Bombay, and food varying from Turkish kebabs to Cape-style biryanis, creamy North Indian curries, and Tandoor dishes—the Bazaar has something for everyone. The Bombay menu is a great option for vegetarians with vegetable curries, biryanis, and rice.

Along with the wide variety of Eastern food available, the Bazaar is also popular for its great prices. You can get a tasty and filling meal from upwards of R20.

The Wellington | 96 Long Market St. | Monday to Thursday 11:00am – 10:00pm, Friday & Saturday 11:00am – 10:30pm

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Top 5 Secret Bars Cape Town
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Top 5 Secret Bars Cape Town

It’s well known that Cape Town has a bright and lively nightlife. There is somewhere to go and something to do every night. While the hot-spots are a fun go-to, these hidden gems have some of the best drinks, food, and views around. If you’re looking for somewhere to grab a drink after work or relax with a good drink in hand, these hidden bars are a must.

#1 The Gin Bar

Tucked away behind Honest Chocolate on Wale Street, this conceptual gin bar is one of the best, hidden spots in the Cape Town bar scene. Gin lovers will enjoy The Gin Bar, also called “The Secret Gin Bar,” which serves only gin and gin cocktails with some of the best local gins. Focusing on quality rather than quantity, The Gin Bar serves refreshing, tasty, and subtly delicious drinks. Sitting in the secret, Mediterranean-style courtyard makes you feel like you’re escaping the commotion of the outside world.

64A Wale Street | Monday to Thursday 5pm—12am, Friday & Saturday 3pm—1:30 am

#2 Jamaica Me Crazy

Warm Light, Cool Night 🍺🎇 #warm #night #cool #night

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Jamaica Me Crazy is an up-and-coming hot spot with delicious, Caribbean-inspired food and great drinks. This restaurant and bar is located in Woodstock at the top end of the vibrant Roodebloem Road. With a wide variety of cocktails, beers, shooters, wines, and drink specials every day, Jamaica Me Crazy is the perfect spot if you’re looking for great drinks, good food, and a fun atmosphere. The colourful hangout also has a rooftop terrace with beautiful views of the ocean and mountains in the distance.

74 Roodebloem Rd | Woodstock | Monday to Saturday 11am—11pm, Sunday 12am—10pm

#3 Lefty’s

🤟🏻🤟🏻🤟🏻 #lefties #capetown #harringtonstreet #bar #neonlights #beer

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With a simple menu and great drinks, Lefty’s has become a well-known hangout for students and locals. Their legendary chicken and waffles are a must-try when you visit. The easy-going, welcoming atmosphere and friendly staff make this a great spot for an after-work or evening drink.

105 Harrington St.| Zonnebloem | Monday to Saturday 4pm—1am

#4 Publik Wine Bar

Tuesday.

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Publik is a neighbourhood wine bar that is the perfect place to discover quality, lesser-known South African wines. With a focus on unusual and interesting wines, you’ll be sure to enjoy something new. With a passion for serving quality drinks, they serve wines made from sustainably farmed vineyards. Located in a small, intimate setting, Publik is the perfect, quiet spot for good wine, along with a few beers and craft spirits.

11D Kloof Nek Rd | Gardens | Monday to Friday 4pm—11pm, Saturday 12pm—6pm

#5 Cloud 9 Rooftop Bar

Located on the top of the Cloud 9 Boutique Hotel & Spa, the Cloud 9 Rooftop Bar offers the best 360-degree views of Cape Town. With a lively vibe and uninterrupted views of Table Mountain, Signal Hill, and the Mother City’s beautiful cityscape, the bar is a special spot for a night out. The bar is open to the public, which means everyone can enjoy the seemingly never-ending views and delicious cocktails.

Be sure to check out the bar for their drink specials every Wednesday with local beers and ciders 2-for-1 and R45 cocktails from 3pm—7pm.

12 Kloof Nek Road | Tamboerskloof | +27 (0) 21 424 1133

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19 Tidal Pools Cape Town
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Cape Town’s 19 Amazing Tidal Pools

Cape Town is home to some of the most beautiful and world-famous beaches. Whether you’re looking for a place to swim, surf, or simply relax—Cape Town has it all. For those looking for a safe spot, tidal pools are rocky pools built along the coastline and regularly filled by the tides to provide a safe, family-friendly place to swim and play. There are 19 tidal pools to visit along the coastline of Cape Town, and we’ve listed them for you here. So load up the kids, pack some snacks, and check out one of these natural swimming pools.

#1 St. James

#stjamestidalpool #beachtime

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St. James Tidal Pool is considered Cape Town’s most well-known and iconic tidal pool, and is easily recognized with its colourful beach huts that sit near the water’s edge. Situated between Muizenberg and Kalk Bay in the seaside suburb of St. James, this pool is a great spot for kids to swim and families to hang out for the day. Located near a railway and main road, St. James is an easily accessible and popular spot to explore.

Please note: There aren’t any food or drink amenities available on the beach, so be sure to pack a lunch and drinks for the day.

Where to find it: St James Beach, St James, Cape Town

 

#2 Milton

The Milton Tidal Pool, a natural seawater tidal pool located in the heart of Milton Beach, is a safe and family-friendly place to swim. With easily accessible, shallow, cool waters this tidal pool is the perfect swimming spot for kids and families.  Read more in our post about Milton Tidal Pool.

Where to find it: Beach Rd, Sea Point, Sea Point, Cape Town

#3 Miller’s Point

Loved by locals for its secret location, Miller’s Point Tidal Pool is about a 5-minute drive from Simon’s Town on the Southern side of the False Bay coastline. Located in Miller’s Point Bay, the tidal pool can be found in-between two boat launch sites. With incredible views across the bay, a water slide, changing rooms, and grassy spots perfect for a picnic – Miller’s Point Tidal Pool is the perfect, secluded spot for a relaxing day.

Where to find it: Miller’s Point, M4, Simon’s Town, Cape Town

#4 & 5 Maiden’s Cove 1 and 2

Boasting some of the best pool-side views in the Cape, these two tidal pools provide a safe and clean environment to swim. The first pool can be found between Glen Beach and Camps Bay Beach; the second is located between Glen Beach and Clifton Beach. Located close to restaurants, bars, and cafes along Victoria Road, Maiden’s Cove Tidal Pools are a convenient and safe place to relax and swim for the day.

Where to find it: Victoria Rd, Camps Bay, Cape Town

#6 Glencairn

Glencairn Tidal Pool: Before #glencairntidalpool #falsebay #capetown #lovecapetown

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Located on the Southern side of Glencairn Beach, this tidal pool is a family and dog friendly spot, perfect for safe swimming and sunbathing. The beach is easy to spot from the train that runs between Simon’s Town and Cape Town city center and is a popular spot for swimmers, snorkelers, and sunbathers.

Where to find it: Glencairn Beach, Glencairn, Cape Town

#7 Dalebrook

Located opposite the Kalk Bay Community Centre between St James and Kalk Bay, Dalebrook Tidal Pool is one of the most beautiful spots along the coast. With a low wall, there’s a constant flow of fresh, new water. The secret and often overlooked spot is located near an outdoor shower and a changing room, making it a great stop for a swim. Enjoy the shallow, warm water during the day before the sun sets behind the mountains.

Where to find it: Off Main Rd, Dalebrook, Cape Town

#8 Camp’s Bay

18 tidal pools in Cape Town and this one is my favorite!

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Located on Camps Bay beach, which is the most visited beach in the city, this tidal pool is easy to find and labelled as one of the most popular tidal pools along the Atlantic Seaboard. With many restaurants located nearby, this tidal pool is the perfect stop for a swim before grabbing a bite to eat. Although the waters are a bit chilly, the beautiful views of the Twelve Apostles are well worth it.

Where to find it: Camps Bay Beach, Camps Bay, Cape Town

#9 Buffel’s Bay

Making a trip to Cape Point Nature Reserve? Pack a swimsuit and visit the relatively sheltered and crowd-free Buffel’s Bay Tidal Pool. Take in the breathtaking white sand and abundant flora and fauna as you relax by the clear blue waters. The spot is perfect for picnics and braais, with safe waters for a post-hike swim. You’ll have to pay the Cape Point Nature Reserve entrance fee of R145 for adults and R75 for children to enjoy this spot.

Where to find it: Buffels Bay, Cape Point Nature Reserve, Cape Town

#10 Soetwater

This tidal pool can be found South of Kommetjie, next to a braai and picnic area that forms part of the Soetwater recreation area. Located just across the iconic Slangkop Lighthouse, it is a quiet spot to swim. Due to the vibrant animal life that surrounds this spot, it was named a conservancy in 2009. You might be able to spot the endangered African Black Oystercatcher. After swimming, you can go fishing in one of the various famous fishing spots located just next to the tidal pool.

Where to find it: South of the Slangkop Lighthouse, below the coastal road leading from Kommetjie to Scarborough

#11 Shelley Point

Shelley Point Tidal Pool is a small, quiet pool great for a quick swim. The pool is also a popular spot for whale watching.

Where to find it: M6, Glencairn

#12 Sparks

#sparkstidalpool #gb #CapeTown

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Sparks Tidal Pool is in Gordon’s Bay near Spark’s Bay Beach. It is one of the best and most tranquil braai and whale watching spots in the country, as named by the City of Cape Town. Make a little mini road trip out of Cape Town to enjoy this great little town. Visit gordonsbaytourism.com to find out more about this little seaside village, just over an hour drive from the city.

Where to find it: Clarence Drive, Spark’s Bay Beach, Cape Town

#13 Kommetjie

This tidal pool is located in Kommetjie, a popular destination for kite-surfers and campers, and lies on the edge of the catwalk along the Kom, within sight of the famous Slangkop lighthouse. The area is known as “De Kom,” which is Dutch for “bowl.” With concrete steps and a handrail, it’s an easy descent into the pool’s cool waters. Grassy areas are nearby shaded by milkwood trees, making it the perfect spot for picnics. Keep an eye out for the vibrant pink flamingos that frequent the spot, earning it the name Bird Island.

Where to find it:  Kommetjie, South of Long Beach at De Kom

#14 Saunders

Located on the rocky Saunders Beach, this tidal pool is situated between Clifton and Sea Point in the suburb of Bantry Bay. With white sand and blue waters, this beautiful spot is perfect for an afternoon swim. While the pool is a popular swimming destination on the weekends and holidays, it remains fairly empty during the week. So, put on a swimsuit, grab a towel, and head out for a swim at Saunders Tidal Pool. Afterwards, you can grab something to eat at one of the many restaurants located along the beach.

Where to find it: Saunders Beach, Bantry Bay, Cape Town

#15 Silwerstroom

Want to take a day trip up the West Coast? Enjoy a getaway and visit the Silwerstroom tidal pool. Located near the Silwerstroom Resort, this pool is a great spot to swim, braai, and relax. Its gradual slope makes the pool a great safe spot for kids. With a thriving plant life and the blue outstretched ocean, this tidal pool has beautiful views you won’t want to miss.

Where to find it: West Coast Road, Melkbosstrand

#16 Wooley’s

#wooleystidalpool #tidalpool #kalkbay

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Looking for a safe place to swim with spectacular views of Fish Hoek? Wooley’s Tidal Pool is the perfect spot. Located between Kalk Bay and Clovelly in the bend of the coastal road and a few steps off the ocean road, Wooley’s is divided into two pools. One is a small, splash pool great for the little ones. A bit further is a deeper pool, perfect for a relaxing swim.

Where to find it: Off Main Rd, Kalk Bay, Cape Town

#17 Monwabisi

Want to swim in the largest tidal pool in the Southern Hemisphere? Pack a picnic and head to the Monwabisi Tidal Pool. Located along an exposed stretch of False Bay, just off Baden Powell Drive in Khayelitsha on the Cape Flats, the tidal pool is the perfect spot to enjoy the sun, sea, and sand.

Where to find it: Off Baden Powell Dr, Khayelitsha, Cape Town

 

#18 Brass Bell

Want to let the kids swim after eating? This tidal pool is located right next to the Brass Bell Restaurant, making it an ideal spot for good food and fun. There are two separate tidal pools; one is shallow and perfect for splashing around while the other is deeper and best for swimming.

Where to find it: Main Road, M4,  Kalk Bay

#19 Harmony

Located in the seaside town of Strand, this tidal pool is a great spot for kids and families of all ages. With lifeguards on duty throughout the day, it’s a safe place to have some fun. You can even spot small marine life in the pool, and a kiosk is nearby where you can buy snacks and drinks.

Where to find it: Gordon’s Bay Drive, R44, Strand

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Red Hill in Simon’s Town

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Red Hill lies between Scarborough on the Atlantic and Simon’s Town on the Indian Ocean. Being nestled in the mountains overlooking Simon’s Town, it offers some of the best views and is known for its quiet serenity and scenic beauty.

Red Hill is a village of ruins that very few people know about. It was once home to more than 70 predominantly colored families who were forcefully evicted between 1965 and 1970 by the apartheid government. These families were forced to leave their homes and relocate to barren land on the Cape Flats under the Group Areas Act. They were moved to make way for the construction of a new dam which, unfortunately, never happened. Aside from the ruins, you will also find an old graveyard with weathered tombstones still intact that dated back to the 1800s higher up the hill.

Today, a large part of Red Hill is owned by SANParks and the ruins serve as a reminder of the small community that once flourished in the area.

Red Hill is also the perfect place for those who want to go hiking. The hike is relatively easy with mostly flat paths meandering around a pair of reservoirs. Hiking in Red Hill requires a moderate degree of fitness and takes about five hours to complete.

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Signal Hill

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📸 @kaleefromtexas

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Situated next to Lion’s Head is the 300-meter-high flat-topped hill called Signal Hill. What makes Signal Hill one of the best places to visit in Cape is the fact that it offers magnificent views of the Atlantic Ocean, Robben Island, Table Bay, the Harbor and the City Bowl. It is also a great place to watch the beautiful Cape Town sunset while enjoying the best views of the city.

Being positioned high above the peninsula, it is a popular lookout point and signal flags were used to communicate weather warnings to ships below. Flags were also hoisted to let the people know that a ship was approaching the harbor. In distress ships could also use flags to signal for help, hence, the name Signal Hill.

Signal Hill forms part of the Table Mountain National Park and sometimes called Lion’s Rump which, together with Lion’s Head, resembles a sleeping lion. This renowned hill is also a popular launch site for model aeroplanes and paragliders. Aside from a spacious viewing area, it also has picnic tables and a large parking area

Signal Hill is also home to the famous Noon Gun located at Lion’s Battery on the lower slopes of Signal Hill. This old-fashioned canon has been fired every day at 12:00 noon since 4 August 1902. Accordingly, the initial purpose of the noon gun was to allow ships in port to check the accuracy of their marine chronometers.

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Total Lunar Eclipse

Photo Caption: July 30, 2018 (9:25 am)

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Lunar Eclipse occurs only when the Sun, Earth, and the Moon are aligned. It is when the Moon passes within Earth’s umbral shadow. There is partial lunar eclipse when only a portion of the Moon enters Earth’s umbra. While total lunar eclipse happens when the entire Moon enters the planet’s umbra and the Earth completely blocks direct sunlight from reaching the Moon. This phenomenon is also called Blood Moon because of its blood-like glow. The refraction of sunlight by Earth’s atmosphere into the shadow cone causes the moon to turn into reddish brown or deep red color instead of going completely dark.

The longest lunar eclipse of the 21st century occurred on July 27, 2018, and was completely visible over Southern Africa, Eastern Africa, Central Asia and Southern Asia. It was seen rising over Western Africa, Europe, and South America, and setting over Australia and Eastern Asia.

During this eclipse, the Moon passed through the center of Earth’s umbral shadow. It was first central lunar eclipse since June 15, 2011. The Moon was also at its farthest from the Earth, called apogee, which made it very small.

The moon spent 3 hours and 55 minutes crossing the Earth’s dark umbral shadow. The duration of the total lunar eclipse is 1 hour and 43 minutes while the partial lunar eclipse before and after the total phase of the eclipse each lasted 1 hour and 6 minutes.

Coincidentally, the lunar eclipse happened on the same night that Mars was at its closest to Earth since 2003. The red planet was easy to see with naked eyes shining brightly alongside the mesmerizing blood moon. The extraordinary phenomenon was an amazing sight to see.

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Cape Town Bucket List: 10 Things To Do When Visiting Cape Town

Cape Town is one of the most beautiful cities in the world with a melting pot of cultures, food, and landscapes. The city is full of must-sees and must-do’s for both tourists and locals alike. With such a diverse mix of people flocking to the city, there is something to do for everyone.

The UK Telegraph Travel Awards voted it Best City in the World five times in a row, from 2013 to 2017. According to us it should definitely win again this year. There are so many things to choose from, but here’s the top 10 things you have to do when visiting this wonderful city.

This list was inspired by the Bucket List Journey’s post.

Annette White Profile PicAnnette White is the author of The Bucket List Adventures, exploring 10 epic adventures to experience before you die. She is also the co-owner of Sugo Trattoria, a contemporary Italian Restaurant in California, and the creator of the amazing award-winning travel blog, Bucket List Journey. She is passionate about travel, an experience collector ticking off bucket list items from around the world.

Bucket List Adventures 10 Incredible Journeys to Experience Before You DieIn her book Bucket List Adventures , Annette takes you along for the ride, and shows you how to live your adventures, too.

It is not only a practical travel book – sharing detailed information on lodging, helpful resources. – but also an inspiration for people to step out of their comfort zones.

Buy her book on Amazon.

#1 Table Mountain

Table Mountain, flanked by both Devil’s Peak and Lion’s Head, is always a spectacular sight to see from anywhere in Cape Town. Whether you’re exploring the V&A Waterfront or watching the sunset from the beach, the views of the mountain are always incredible. Table Mountain was voted one of the New Seven Wonders of the World in 2011, and is a must-see for anyone visiting Cape Town.

There are several different ways to get up the mountain. One option is to take the cableway, which is a 5-minute trip to the top in a 360-degree rotating car. Cars depart every 10-15 minutes from the cable station on Tafelberg Road. Find more information about the cableway on our post.  If you’re more adventurous, you can hike up the mountain taking one of these top 5 hiking routes: Pipe Track, Platteklip George, Woodstock Caves, Skeleton Gorge, or Kasteelspoort. Read more about these routes in our post.

The Tranquility Cracks, one of the many hidden gems of Table Mountain, are considered one of Cape Town’s best-kept secrets and are definitely worth exploring. They are a series of interlinking deep and narrow slits and fractures between rocks. Read more about it on our post here.

#2 Signal Hill & Lion’s Head

 

Pack a bottle of wine, snacks, and a blanket when you make the short hike, or drive, up to Signal Hill to watch the sunset and enjoy what is arguably some of the best views of Cape Town. As the sun starts to set and the city lights twinkle, a visit to Cape Town is not complete without stopping at Signal Hill.

For a more adventurous hike, you can catch the sunset on Lion’s Head. Located between Table Mountain and Signal Hill, Lion’s Head is part of the Table Mountain National Park and is considered one of the most popular hiking destinations in Cape Town. Lion’s Head offers stunning views of Camps Bay, the Atlantic, Table Mountain, Twelve Apostles, Sea Point, Signal Hill and the City Bowl. Starting at the car park on Signal Hill Road, the hike to the top takes about an hour and a half. Read more about Lion’s Head in our  post.

#3 Cape Point National Reserve

With dramatic and beautiful scenery, great hiking trails, and some of the best, secret beaches (which you can find in our post here), Cape Point National Reserve is without a doubt one of South Africa’s most magnificent attractions. Located an hour’s drive outside of the city, the reserve is home to both Cape Point and Cape of Good Hope.

#4 Chapman’s Peak Drive

Chapman’s Peak Drive, also referred to as Chappie’s by locals, is one of Cape Town’s most infamous landmarks. With 114 seemingly never-ending curves and nine-kilometers of steep inclines, the drive takes you from Noordhoek to Hout Bay. There are several rest areas along the way to take pictures, have a picnic, or to simply take in the breath-taking views. Remember to have some cash ready for the tollgate, entrance to the drive will cost you R31 for a motor cycle and R47 for a motor car. Keep an eye on the annual increases on the official Chapman’s Peak Drive website.

#chapmanspeak #chapmanspeakcave #chapmanspeakdrive

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While driving along this iconic stretch, be sure to stay for sunset. Sunsets play a major role in the life of Capetonians, but it can be a challenge to find the best spot. Look no further—Chappie’s holds one of the best viewing points in the city. The Look-out Cave, located just below the designated viewing point, provides an unbeatable view of the ocean and the sunset.

#5 Victoria & Alfred Waterfront

Look at how we sparkle in the night time. 📷@wigglecapetown

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The V&A Waterfront is a hot spot for both tourists and Cape Town natives. With various restaurants and their unbeatable views, local and international shops, and an endless variety of entertainment—the Waterfront has a little bit of everything. If you’re looking for something to do, read our post on the Top 10 Things to Do at the Waterfront here.

If you’re looking for a different way to catch the infamous Cape Town sunset, hop on board a sunset champagne cruise. With the seemingly endless ocean stretched out in front of you, the sun slowly setting in the background painting the sky with the soft glow of sunset, and a glass of rosé champagne in hand—there’s simply no better day to end the day.

#6 Boulders Beach

Cape Town has some of the most beautiful beaches, with even more stunning views of Table Mountain and pink-painted sunset skies in the distance. Choosing one to visit can be difficult. However, Boulders Beach has some very adorable, unique reasons you must visit—it’s home to the South African penguins. Also known as jackass penguins because of their distinctive braying, Boulders Beach has some of the only penguins on the continent. While summer is the best time to visit the beach, you can still see the penguins all year round.

Located just outside of Simon’s Town on the False Bay coastline, Boulders Beach falls under the Table Mountain National Park Marine Protected Area, so the beach is always clean and safe. You can catch a few glimpses of the infamous inhabitants from afar, or you can choose to pay the small entry fee for access to the reserve and to enjoy the warm waters of the Indian Ocean. (R75 adults and R40 for children)

#7 Kalk Bay

 

This little seaside village made it into Forbes list of “12 coolest neighborhoods in the world“. The other South African neighbourhood that made the cut, is Johannesburg’s Maboneng. It’s roughly a 35 minute drive from the city center. Located on the False Bay coastline, the area has a constant holiday vibe hovering in the air. Restaurants range from five-star chic like Harbour House, to down to earth like Kalky’s Fish & Chips. Browse through the little shops and galleries, or watch a show at the Kalk Bay Theatre.

Fun mini roadtrip idea: take the train to Kalk Bay and continue on to Simon’s Town to go visit the penguins. Visit metrorail.co.za to plan your trip.

#8 Robben Island

The name means “seal island.” in Afrikaans. It’s situated in Table Bay, 6.9 kilometres from Bloubergstrand. During the previous political regime it was used as a prison, specifically for political prisoners. It’s most famous prisoner, was former president Nelson Mandela. Madiba was imprisoned on the island for 18 of his 27 years sentence. Other South African presidents that were imprisoned here are Kgalema Motlanthe, and Jacob Zuma.

The little oval island is 3.3 km long (North-South) and 1.9 km wide. In 1991 the maximum security section was closed, and the medium security closed down five years later. By 1999 it was declared a World Heritage Site and an official museum was created for visitors. Ferries depart from the Waterfront at the Nelson Mandela Gateway, close to the Clock Tower. Visit robben-island.org.za for more information.

Did you know? Robben Island was also a leper colony in the 1800’s and an animal quarantine station.

#9 Sipping and Exploring

Although a trip to the Cape Winelands is an amazing experience, you don’t have to drive that far to experience good wine. There is now a new special inner city wine route, hosted by Tuning the Vine. A great midweek wine tasting adventure to embark on with friends. It is hosted on the Wednesday after First Thursdays. The tour starts at 5.30pm and ends at 8.30pm. Visit tuningthevine.co.za for more information.

Not such a big wine fan? Not to fear, there’s also a gin tour or a craft beer tour for you to try. Both gin and craft beer brewing is becoming more and more popular. These tours will give you a chance to try out the special drinks, as well as find out more about the behind the scenes processes.

#10 Walking Tours

There is a variety of free walking tours throughout the city. Exploring a city by foot, is the best way to get a true feel for a place. Tour options include District Six, Historic Cape Town, and Bo-Kaap. The tours work on tips only. Average tour length is between 90 and 120 minutes. The starting point is Motherland Coffee Company, at Mandela Rhodes Place. Visit nielsentours.co.za for more information.

Another option is to use VoiceMap. The app offers you self-guided audio tours, with your own personal tour guide chatting to you in your ear. It uses your phone’s location services to guide you through the city. They offer both free and paid tours. Prices ranges from R26 to R80. Tours cover various regions including Cape Town City Center, Cape Point, and Constantia. Visit voicemap.me for more information.

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It was planted in 1771 and is one of the oldest of its kind. It sits right in the heart of.

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