Exploring Cape Town with the City Sightseeing BusPhoto by 365tickets.com
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Exploring Cape Town with the City Sightseeing Bus

If you’ve been in Cape Town for a few days, you will have seen the bright red double-decker City Sightseeing bus drive past. These busses operate in over a 100 cities across the globe including London, Berlin, Barcelona, Amsterdam, Budapest, New York, Dubai, and more.

They are the world’s largest open-top, double-decker sightseeing tour bus operator. Started in 1999, this innovative tour operator company is the go-to source for discovering the best a city has to offer. The service runs 365 days a year, regardless of the weather. The handy hop-on-hop-off bus operates like clockwork, arriving at regular scheduled intervals at each stop.

See More Learn More with the City Sightseeing Bus

While you are taking in the beauty of the Mother City, you can listen to interesting information about each area you drive through. The on-board commentary is offered in 15 different languages (English, Afrikaans, Arabic, Dutch, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Mandarin, Portuguese, Russian, Spanish, Swedish, Turkish and Zulu). There’s also a fun channel for the kids.

The City Sightseeing Bus is a great way to effectively explore Cape Town. Instead of trying to figure out all the places you should see while you are in the city, use the City Sightseeing Bus with its structured route travelling past all the must-see attractions.

Also, Cape Town’s traffic and parking situation is notoriously challenging. With the City Sightseeing Bus, you can simply sit back and relax while someone else manoeuvres the congested roads. And it is more cost effective than Ubering across the city as well. The company strives to leave a small carbon footprint, and the busses have been declared carbon neutral.

How Does a City Sightseeing Bus Tour Work

There are a variety of tours to choose from including hop-on-hop-off routes through the city, cruises, wine tours, township tours, helicopter tours, and walking tours. A recent exciting addition to the City Sightseeing Bus tour repertoire, is the Franschhoek & Stellenbosch wine region Explorer Tour.

You determine your exploration of the city. The City Sightseeing bus has more than 30 stops, enabling you to explore over 50 of Cape Town’s top attractions. The bus passes by each stop every 15 minutes. This gives you the flexibility to plan your day. Depending on the type of tour you choose, the first busses depart around 08:00 in the mornings, and the last busses run between 18:00 and 19:00 (season dependent) Download the bus schedule.

The busses operate on a first-come, first-serve basis. During peak season the bus departures are increased to compensate for the influx of people. Tickets can be bought online at a discounted rate. There are three City Sightseeing offices across the city – at the V&A Waterfront, in the City Centre near Greenmarket Square, and in Camps Bay. You can also buy tickets on the bus at the various stops (cash and card facilities available). The City Sightseeing tours range between 30 minutes, and 140 minutes. But you will most likely be kept busy the whole day with all the sightseeing opportunities.

The City Sightseeing Bus Stops

Here’s a list of some of the City Sightseeing Bus Stops:

  • Two Oceans Aquarium (V&A Waterfront)
  • Cape Wheel (V&A Waterfront)
  • Zeitz Mocaa Museum (V&A Waterfront)
  • District Six Museum
  • Castle of Good Hope
  • South African Jewish Museum
  • St George’s Cathedral
  • SA Museum
  • SA Jewish Museum
  • Jewel of Africa
  • District Six Museum
  • Castle of Good Hope
  • Table Mountain
  • Camps Bay
  • Greenpoint Urban Park & Stadium
  • Kirstenbosch National Botanical Gardens
  • Groot Constantia Wine Estate
  • World of Birds (Hout Bay)
  • Seal Island Cruise (Hout Bay)
  • Imizamo Yeth Township (Hout Bay)
  • Mariner’s Wharf Hout Bay Harbour

Book your ticket now

City Sightseeing Bus Tour Options

Exploring Cape Town with the City Sightseeing Bus

Photo by City Sightseeing South Africa

There are various tour packages available. Your choice will depend on the duration of your city exploration. Some tickets are only valid for one day, others can be extended to two or three days.

The Classic Ticket (valid for one day, with four tour loops) is one of the most popular ones. It also includes a free Walking Tour of the city, but does not include the Sunset Bus Tour. You can join the tour at any of the 30 hop-on-hop-off stops along the route.

You can bump it up to a Premium Ticket (valid for two days, with four tour loops per day). It includes a free Walking Tour, as well as a free Harbour or Canal Cruise. You also get a half-price discount on the Sunset Bus tour. The ticket is valid for two consecutive days.

The Deluxe Ticket (valid for three days, with four tour loops per day) is a great way to make the most of the City Sightseeing Bus routes with the wide variety of activities. It includes a free Walking tour, Harbour or Canal cruise, and the Sunset Bus. The ticket is valid for three consecutive days.

Another handy option, is buying a Cape Explorer Pass bus ticket that includes entrance to 3 of 12 must-see attractions. This is a very cost-effective option, offering you fast track, hassle-free entry at your choice of attractions. Choose from the following 12 attractions:

  • Classic Burger & chips lunch at the Hard Rock Café in Camps Bay (Red or Blue)
  • The Cape Town Wheel (Red or Blue)
  • Canal cruise (Red or Blue)
  • Harbour Cruise (Red or Blue)
  • Hamley’s Train (Red or Blue)
  • Cape Town Diamond Museum Entry (Red or Blue)
  • Kirstenbosch Gardens (Blue Tour)
  • Groot Constantia wine tasting (Blue Tour)
  • World of Birds (Blue Tour)
  • Imizamo Yetho Township walking tour (Blue Tour)
  • Hout bay Seal Island cruise, Drumbeat (Blue Tour)
  • Hout bay Seal Island cruise, Circe Launches (Blue Tour)

You don’t have to decide which attractions you want to enjoy before the time. Your bar code will give you access to three attractions, before it expires. The ticket is valid for one day, including all the tour loops.

Other City Sightseeing Bus Tour Experience options:

  • Sunset Bus
  • Canal Cruise
  • Bus & Bicycle Combo
  • 6 hour Bicycle rental
  • 20 min Atlantico Scenic Flight
  • Harbour Cruise (V&A Waterfront)
  • Sunset Champagne Cruise
  • Cape Point & Penguin Explorer Tour
  • Franschhoek & Stellenbosch wine region Explorer Tour
  • Franschhoek Wine Tram with Cape Town Explorer Tour
  • Two Day Cape Point & Winelands Combo

Book your ticket now

The Mega City Pass

The Mega City Pass offers you access to more than 70 attractions, along the City Sightseeing bus route. You can save 40% to 50% on general entrance fees. It also offers you 25% discount on any of the three Explorer Day Tours. The pass is valid for 2, 3 or 5 consecutive days. Skip the queues with the handy fast-track entrance. You can show your Mega City pass barcode on your phone, or print out the voucher for entry into the attractions.

It includes a handy guide for easy-reference to the locations and contact details of the various participating attractions. You can view the special offers and plan your exploration adventure. The guide is available from one of the City Sightseeing Bus Offices (V&A Waterfront, Long Street, or Camps Bay). You have free access to use th City Sightseeing Bus while your Mega City Pass is valid. You can scan your pass at one of the offices or on your first bus entry to access your bus boarding pass.

Free Entrance:

  • City Sightseeing: Deluxe bus ticket, Harbour or Canal Cruise & Sunset Bus
  • City Sightseeing: Sunset Bus Tour | Harbour & seal cruise |  Canal Cruise
  • Table Mountain Aerial Cableway
  • Live-guided township tour: Langa & Gugulethu
  • Kirstenbosch National Botanical Gardens
  • Cape Wheel (V&A Waterfront)
  • Two Oceans Aquarium (V&A Waterfront)
  • ZEITZ MOCAA Museum of Contemporary Art (V&A Waterfront)
  • Springbok Rugby Experience & Museum (V&A Waterfront)
  • Hamleys Express Train (V&A Waterfront)
  • Shimansky Diamond Experience (V&A Waterfront)
  • Waterfront Charters: Harbour & bay cruise | Harbour & seal cruise | Sunset champagne cruise
  • Jolly Roger Sunset Champaign Cruise
  • Jolly Roger Pirate Boat: Bay & coastal cruise
  • Cape Town Comedy Club (V&A Waterfront)
  • Castle of Good Hope
  • The Diamond Gallery: Free tour & diamond pendant (spend R1500)
  • &Bikes: Art cycle tour
  • &Bikes: Food tour
  • &Bikes: 4 hour bicycle rental
  • Rush: Indoor trampoline park
  • Woodstock Street Art Walking Tour
  • Imizamo Yethu Township Walking Tour
  • City Centre Walking Tour
  • Slave Lodge
  • South African National Gallery
  • Bo Kaap Walking Tour
  • Bo-Kaap Museum
  • South African Museum
  • Cape Town Holocaust Centre
  • South African Jewish Museum
  • District Six Museum
  • Heart of Cape Town Museum
  • Cape Town Diamond Museum
  • The Woodstock Gin Company: Gin tasting
  • Pienaar & Son Distillery: Free Gin & Vodka Tasting
  • Mama Africa: Starter, glass of wine & wine tasting voucher
  • Gold Restaurant: Free djembe drumming / glass of sparkling wine
  • Groot Constantia: Wine estate tour & tasting
  • Drumbeat Charters: Seal colony cruise (Hout Bay)
  • Circe Launches: Seal Island cruise (Hout Bay)
  • World of Birds (Hout Bay)
  • Vredenheim Big Cat Tour
  • Alpaca Loom Barn Tour & Weaving Studio
  • Le Bonheur Crocodile Farm
  • Eagle Encounters
  • Franschhoek Cellars: Cheese & wine pairing
  • Spier Wine Estate: Free tasting and bottle of wine
  • Simonsig: Cellar tour & wine tasting
  • Vredenheim Wine Estate: Wine tasting
  • Bikes ‘n Wines: Winelands cycle tour
  • Franschhoek TukTuk Wine Tours
  • Avontuur Wine Estate: Tasting & bottle of Cabernet/Merlot
  • Stellenbosch Vineyards: Wine tasting & bottle of Welmoed wine
Exploring Cape Town with the City Sightseeing Bus

Photo by City Sightseeing South Africa

Special Discount

  • Hard Rock Café: Free classic burger (valid between 11.30AM and 5:00PM)
  • Cape Point & Penguin Tour: Full-day live-guided tour: 25% discount
  • Wine tour & tasting: full-day live-guided tour: 25% discount
  • Franschhoek Wine Tram with Cape Town Explorer Tour: 25% discount
  • Meloncino Restaurant (V&A Waterfront): 15% discount
  • City Grill Restaurant (V&A Waterfront): 15% discount
  • The Greek Fisherman Restaurant: 15% discount
  • Hard Rock Café: 10% discount on merchandise
  • Jonkershuis: Free glass of wine with main meal
  • Groot Constantia Simons Restaurant: Free glass of wine with main meal
  • Wharfside Grill Restaurant at Mariner’s Wharf: R120.00 for seafood platter
  • Moyo Restaurant @ Kirstenbosch: 10% discount on bill
  • Kaapse Stories: 10% discount off ticket price
  • Jewel Africa: Spend R2,000 and receive a free Table Mountain Bracelet

Buy your Mega City Pass now

Premium Free Access

The Premium Mega City Pass will also give you free access to one of the following attractions:

  • Aquila Private Game Reserve Safari
  • Cape Town Helicopters Atlantico Tour
  • Cape Sidecars Chauffeured City Tour
  • Marine Dynamics Shark Cage Diving
  • Coffeebeans Routes: Choral Music Tour / Cuisine Tour / Jazz Safari
  • Dyer Island Cruises Whale Watching

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The Best Way to Get to Franschhoek from Cape TownPhoto by Matthijs van Schuppen on unsplash
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The Best Way to Get to Franschhoek from Cape Town

The city of Cape Town has seemingly endless exploration opportunities. But outside the city borders lies a completely different world. The Western Cape mountains create a rich landscape with mesmerizing beauty.

And the Franschhoek Valley should definitely be on your exploration to-do list! There are a few different ways to travel from Cape Town to Franschhoek. It’s a quaint little town, surrounded by world-class wine estates.

How to Travel to Franschhoek from Cape Town

The Best Way to Get to Franschhoek from Cape Town

Photo by Devon Janse van Rensburg on unsplash

We’ve sourced a few different travel options for you to consider, with route suggestions as well. Public transport between Cape Town and the surrounding areas are limited, but there are a few possible ways for you to experience the beauty beyond the city borders.

Shuttle Companies

You can hire a private shuttle to transport you between Cape Town and Franschhoek. A shuttle can cost up to R 950 per person (return trip). We recommend that you use Winelands Experience as they can also help you to explore the town with their tours. Alternatively, you can use ShuttleUp  to travel between Cape Town and Franschhoek, as well as other locations nearby. A trip between the city and Franschhoek will cost R590 per person, one way. They also offer tours of the Cape Town region.

You can use an Uber to Franschhoek. But it will only be a viable option if you are travelling as a group. UberX will cost you about R700 from the Cape Town city centre to Franschhoek, one way. That works out to R175 per person (group of four)

Train to Franschhoek

If you are feeling very adventurous, you can take the Metro train to Stellenbosch, and Uber to Franschhoek from there. The train ticket will cost you R19.50, one way. And the UberX from Stellenbosch to Franschhoek in the region of R285. View the train schedule.

Bus to Franschhoek

The Greyhound Bus only runs between Cape Town and Stellenbosch. It will cost you from R270 to R290. You will then have to Uber from Stellenbosch to Franschhoek, costing about R285.

Plan Your Trip from Cape Town to Franschhoek

Another travel option that you can consider, is to hire a car for your trip to Franschhoek. Depending on the type of car you prefer, this will cost between R200 to R500 per day, excluding the petrol costs. Read our article Best Car Hire for a few car hire company options.

There are a few different ways you can travel to Franschhoek from Cape Town.

Via the N1 and R45

Travel time: 1 h 12 min | 88.8 km

This is a fairly direct and fast route to Franschhoek from Cape Town. Travel on the N1 past Century City, on your way to Paarl. Take exit 59 from the N1 and turn right onto the R301, which later becomes the R45. You’re guaranteed spectacular mountain views whichever route you choose to Franschhoek!

Via N2 and R310

Travel time: 1 h 25 min | 88.6 km

Alternatively, you can take the N2, travelling past the Cape Town International Airport on your way to Somerset West. Take exit 33 (Baden Powell Drive) towards the R310, turn left onto Baden Powell Drive. Next, turn right onto Polkadraai Road (still the R310). Follow the road through Stellenbosch, turning left onto Adam Tas Road (R310/R44) Turn right onto the Helshoogte Road (R310). Next, turn right onto the R45, and left onto Lambrechts road to stay on the R45.

Click here for directions.

Use the City Sightseeing Bus to Travel to Franschhoek from Cape Town

The Best Way to Get to Franschhoek from Cape Town

Photo by City Sightseeing South Africa

If you want to combine your travelling and touring expenses, why not consider the Franschhoek & Stellenbosch wine region Explorer Tour. This way you will effortlessly travel to Franschhoek from Cape Town, and explore the area.

The tour includes stops at two Stellenbosch and Franschhoek wine estates. Here you can indulge in wine tastings and learn more about the cellars with a tour. You can also stop for lunch in Franschhoek. Tickets cost R580 for adults, and R300 for children.

Or try the Franschhoek Wine Tram Explorer Tour. While you are travelling to Franschhoek from Cape Town, you will be learning more about the areas you drive through with their handy commentary on the bus. There are two tram routes to choose from, travelling in a circular route, and stopping at 8 Wine Estates. The tram stops at each wine estate on the hour, giving you ample time to explore. Tickets cost R540 for adults and R275 for children.

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Photo by Deklerk Basson on Unsplash
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Most Scenic Drives in Cape Town

Cape Town’s natural beauty is awe inspiring. And the best thing about it, is that it’s entwined in the cityscape. Instead of roughing it up on dirt roads, you can hit a tar road and soak up the mesmerizing scenery whizzing by. But beware, you won’t be the only one hitting the road, so choose the timing of your scenic drive in Cape Town carefully.

As with all major cities, mornings and afternoons are the peak traffic times. And over the weekends roads can become heavily congested on a beautiful sunny day. But even if you get stuck in traffic, the epic landscapes will keep you entertained. Cape Town scenic drives offer you it all – meandering bends, panoramic views, and engineering feats.

The Best Scenic Drives in Cape Town

Whether you are simply driving from one activity to the next, or you plan a scenic drive in Cape Town – the spectacular views along the way are an awesome bonus!

Most Scenic Drives in Cape Town - Chapmans Peak sebastian-staines-unsplash

Chapman’s Peak Drive

This one is the big honcho of scenic drives in Cape Town. The locals refer to the 15km (9 miles) drive as Chappies. It has a total of 114 curves! The road’s name is in remembrance of John Chapman, a Captain’s mate of an English ship called the Consent, which arrived in Hout Bay in 1607. In 1915 planning of the mountain-hugging road started. It was officially opened on May 6, 1922. The road was re-engineering to prevent rock falls, and reopened in December 2003. To maintain the road, a small toll fee is required, R31.00 for motor cycles and R47.00 for motors.

Most Scenic Drives in Cape Town - Chapmans Peak - jacques-burger-unsplash

During turbulent weather, the road is closed for safety reasons. There is also regular maintenance projects to keep the cliffs stable. The road hugs the cliffs, with sheer drops to the expansive Atlantic Ocean on the other side. There are various lookout spots along the way for you to pause and admire the view.

Visit www.chapmanspeakdrive.co.za for more information and to keep up to date with road closures.

Most Scenic Drives in Cape Town - Victoria Road - Camps Bay tobias-fischer-unsplash

Victoria Road

This winding ocean scenic drive in Cape Town lies on the other side of the Chapman’s Peak drive. It’s almost as winding as its cousin, with just as much mountain and ocean wonder. A few of the highlights include an expansive view of Llandudno near the Suikerbossie Drive, the magnificent Twelve Apostles, and Lion’s Head in the distance. You’ll catch different glimpses of the breath taking scenery in both directions.

St James Pool Beach Huts Train tracks

Boyes Drive

This is a short drive, so you’ll have to go slow to soak up all the beauty. It is an alternative to the bottom coastal road linking the little coastal neighbourhoods of Fish Hoek, Kalk Bay, and Muizenberg. Elevated above the ocean, you’ll find yourself staring in pure awe at the rolling waves of Muizenberg. As you round the bend back towards the city, the Constantia valley will charm you with its own picturesque mountain views.

You can also extend this drive past Fish Hoek towards Simon’s Town, if you prefer ocean views over mountains. Although, you can’t really escape the mountains, they continue to hug the road on the one side. Follow the M65 further towards Misty Cliffs and Scarborough for a truly nature-filled outing. Here you’ll find the mountains change to rocky cliffs, instead of the rolling green hills found closer to the city. The road also leads to Cape Point and the lonesome Kommetjie lighthouse.

R44 from Gordon’s Bay

This one you can keep for a weekend getaway, or simply a daytrip. Travel on the N2 towards Gordon’s Bay and swing away from the main highway onto the R44. Another winding scenic drive in Cape Town, with the mountain on the one side and the expansive Atlantic Ocean on the other. Take your time and pull over regularly for epic Instagram shots. You’ll spot Table Mountain across False Bay. Get ready to inundate your eyes with the wild blue ocean and lush green mountains! You can follow the road all the way to Hermanus, or stop at one of the other little coastal towns along the way such as Kleinmond or Betty’s Bay.

If you want to create a loop trip, travel along Sir Lowry’s Pass on the N2, and the R43 towards Hermanus and do the coastal road on your way there or back.

Cape Town to Melkbosstrand

The West Coast road has its own unique charm. It’s not as dramatic as the other scenic drives in Cape Town, but on your way back into the city, you will be intrigued with Table Mountain following you all the way, steadily “growing” bigger and bigger as you near the city again. Stick to the R27 coastal road that will take you past the most popular kite surfing spots as well.

Most Scenic Drives in Cape Town - Tableview - clyde-thomas-unsplash

Photo by Clyde Thomas

On the lonely stretch out of the city there are various little beaches you can stop at to soak up the mountain views. If you get the timing right for your scenic drive, you’ll catch a stunning sunset across the Bay.

Most Scenic Drives in Cape Town marcelo-novais-unsplash

Tafelberg Road to Signal Hill

This one is a great little mini scenic drive in Cape Town. The Tafelberg Road hugs the side of Table Mountain next to the bottom Aerial Cableway station. After the steep winding road, you will be greeted by one of the new Seven Wonders of the World in all its glory. Follow the road past the cableway station towards its end next to Devils Peak. On one side the mountain looms up next to you, and on the other the city lies in the valley.

Plan your trip just before sunset to watch the sun colour the mountain and then the city lights popping up. Or you can drive towards the other side on the Signal Hill Road, across Kloof Nek road, to watch the sun set across the ocean.

A Little Bit Further

We’ll let you in on a little secret, the mountain views outside the city are almost more mesmerizing than the ones within the city borders!

Cape Town to Worcester

The N2 highway (toll road) will take you through the Huguenot Tunnel towards the Du Toits Kloof pass. Get ready to catch your breath when you exist the tunnel, the mountains in the valley are spectacular. You can also use the alternative routes to bypass the toll road, offering you an even more scenic drive.

Worcester to Swellendam

Not as famous as its cousin, Route 62, but this scenic drive is just as stunning. The route travels through unspoiled nature reserves and the looming Matroosberg Mountain range. Eventually the road will lead you to the Bree River, with lush vineyards along the way. Create an alternative loop back to see as much as possible of the Klein Karoo on your trip.

Most Scenic Drives in Cape Town

Photo by audleytravel.com

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Simons Town 5 Must-See Cape Town Neighbourhoods
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5 Must-See Cape Town Neighbourhoods

Every city has a few really cool neighbourhoods that seem to have more than their fair share of history, arts and culture. As it turns out, Cape Town has more than a few. So we’ve put together a handful of our favourite must-see neighbourhoods in the Cape Town area. You’ll want to put aside at least a day to get to know these neighbourhoods or, even better, book into a guesthouse or B&B and fall in love with these local gems.

  1. Kalk Bay

Kalk Bay Harbour 5 Must-See Cape Town Neighbourhoods

Kalk Bay has always been a cool neighbourhood, but now it’s official. In July 2018, it was named one of The 12 Coolest Cities around the World by Forbes magazine – and it beat London and New York in the process.

Much of Kalk Bay’s cool can be put down to its growth over the years that has been natural, organic and driven by the day-to-day dramas and activities of the locals who live and love this sleepy fishing village on Cape Town’s False Bay coastline.

Even if these days Kalk Bay looks more polished and tourist-friendly than it did in the old days, you won’t find a franchise or imposing high-rise hotel anywhere. What makes this town so gorgeously intriguing is its hodge-podge mix of historic building, cobble stone streets and love for colourful creativity that can be seen everywhere – in bohemian bric-a-brac shops, bookshops, nooks and crannies that stock vintage collectibles, and galleries bursting with art and antiques. Then there are the cafés and restaurants that offer a smorgasbord of eating experiences and culinary treats.

The quintessential things that make Kalk Bay unique in the world, are almost never out of sight – the ocean and mountain views, and colourful fishing boats that in many cases have been used by the same families that have fished False Bay for a hundred years or more.

If you need a bit of activity to burn off those Kalk Bay calories, you can hike the surrounding mountains or explore its caves with an experienced guide. Boomslang cave is popular with novice hikers and groups and the four kilometer hike takes about two hours.

Kalk Bay Theatre is the perfect way to end the day, but you’ll need to book your seat because most shows sell out quickly.

  1. Simon’s Town

Simons Town 5 Must-See Cape Town Neighbourhoods

Simon’s Town is one of South Africa’s oldest towns and home to the South African Navy. Its rich maritime history is evident in its architectures, museums, eateries, and the servicemen and women in crisp white summer uniforms or the black and gold of winter.

A walk down Simon’s Town main road gives you the pick of quaint shops, restaurants and historic sites. These include Jubilee Square, the South African Naval Museum, and the Warrior Toy Museum. You won’t want to miss a visit to the statue in Jubilee Square of Just Nuisance – a famous Great Dane mix who became the only dog to be officially enlisted in the Royal Navy. You can visit his grave at the top of Red Hill where he was buried in 1944 with full military honours.

The other famous animal inhabitants of Simon’s Town can be found at Boulders Beach, home to a large colony of African penguins who can be seen going about their daily lives in this spot sheltered by ancient boulders along the False Bay coastline.

If you’re after a bit of relaxation, Whale View Manor Day Spa are all about pampering you. And for those after adventure, there’s everything from sailing, cycling, hiking and kayaking, to shark cage dives and ghost walks.

  1. Bo-Kaap

Bo Kaap Cape Town Neighbourhood claudio fonte unsplash

You will find Bo-Kaap above the city of Cape Town at the foot of Signal Hill and you’ll know when you’ve arrived. Cube houses of tangerine, mint green, candy floss pink and baby blue, wind up hills and down cobbled streets. They’ve been around since the 1760s when they were originally built and leased to freed slaves, most of whom had come from Malaysia and Indonesia. Many of the present day residents in this must-see neighbourhood can trace their roots back a hundreds or more and this why so many of the traditional customs and flavours live on in this unique area.

A good place to start is with a visit to the Bo-Kaap Museum for a look at the history of the area and the life of a typical Malay family. There are also a number of colourful mosques in the area – the Auwal Mosque was the first ever established in South Africa. From the museum there is a 20-minute audio tour guided by Shereen Habib whose family has lived there for almost a century.

You can also sign up for a half-day cooking course given by Cape Fusion Tours and take home skills that will allow you to keep enjoying the Cape Malay flavours of Bo-Kaap.

  1. Khayelitsha

Khayelitsha 5 Must-See Cape Town Neighbourhoods

Khayelitsha, just 30km south east of the city centre, is the largest township in Cape Town. Although poverty is still rife in this neighbourhood, a spirit of optimism and entrepreneurship is alive and well in the rich history of this place, its culture and many social development projects.

The local eateries offer a mix of traditional and western food, and patrons are treated to an authentic township meal and neighbourhood vibe. If you’re after a morning brew, try artisan coffee shop, Department of Coffee. Or for the healthiest food in town, head over to Spinach King just around the corner from Khayelitsha railway station, for spinach bread and sandwiches made with locally grown spinach.

A Township Walking Tour is still one of the best ways to experience Khayelitsha. Not only will you be able to get to see township life as it happens, but you’ll also be given the opportunity take part in helping to create sustainable, positive change in the community by planting a vegetable gardens, for instance, or creating colourful street art.

  1. Blouberg

Blouberg 5 Must-See Cape Town Neighbourhoods captureson unsplash

Bloubergstrand is located 15 kilometers north of Cape Town’s city centre, along the shores of Table Bay. The suburb’s name means “blue mountain beach” in Afrikaans, and that’s an accurate description.

The beaches (divided into Big Bay and Little Bay) are best known for their view of Table Mountain across the bay which is the perfect backdrop for holiday pics. Big Bay is the destination of choice for kite surfers and windsurfers from around, while Little Bay is great for picnicking on the lawns or exploring the nearby rock pools.

When you’ve had enough of the beach or air, catch a bite to eat in one of the neighbourhood restaurants or stop in at Studio 46 for an eyeful of creations by local artists and sculptors, jewellery designers and photographers.

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cape town international jazz festival
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The Cape Town International Jazz Festival

Since 2000 the last weekend of March or the first weekend of April has been dedicated to jazz in the Mother City. The Cape Town International Jazz Festival (CTIJF) is the largest of its kind in Africa, and the fourth largest jazz festival in the world.

Hosted by the events company espAfrika, it’s referred to as “Africa’s Grandest Gathering”. Every year renowned local and international jazz artists gather to entertain jazz lovers at the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC). With five stages and over 40 artists, it’s two nights of epic performances with more than 37 000 jazz music lovers attending the festival.

A few of the famous musicians that have gathered here include Chaka Khan (USA), Shekhinah (SA), Eliane Elias (Brazil), Bantu Continua Uhuru Consciousness (BCUC) (SA), Soweto Gospel Choir (SA), and The Lady Day Big Band (SA). Every year the line-up changes, with a few regular faces making an annual appearance.

cape town international jazz festival

Image by Rashid Latiff

Free Jazz Concert

The festival kicks off with a free jazz concert at the Greenmarket Square. It’s usually scheduled for the Wednesday night before the weekend. It’s a great way for the whole city to enjoy a little taste of what the festival entails.

Try to book your spot at one of the restaurants surrounding the Square if you prefer to sit and relax while you listen to the music. Or you can join the crowd of jazz enthusiasts in front of the stage.

Streamlined Payments

The festival uses a special cashless wristband to speed up the payment process at the various vendors. Once you arrive at the festival, you can pick up your wristband at one of the CTICC Cashless Top-Up Stations and load your spending money. You can load money with cash or card. The wristband is valid at all the bars and food vendors. To check your balance, simply tap the wristband at a Cashless Top-Up Station. You can cash out the remaining funds after the event at howler.co.za

Related: 5 Off the Beaten Track Festivals

cape town international jazz festival

Image by Rashid Latiff

Community Orientated Workshops

The CTIJF Sustainable Training and Development initiative offers free workshops as part of a skills transfer programme. These include Music & Career Workshops, Arts Journalism, Photojournalism, Mentorship and Upliftment Workshops, Gigs for Kids, Master Classes, Tech Talk, Cape Town Fashion Workshop, and an Arts Journalism Public Debate. These workshops run the week before the festival and you must pre-register to attend.

Book Your Cape Town International Jazz Festival Ticket

Attending the Cape Town International Jazz Festival is a once in a lifetime experience for passionate jazz lovers! The limited Early Bird Weekend Passes cost R999. A Weekend Pass costs R1 290 and a Day Pass costs R850.

Visit www.capetownjazzfest.com for more information.
Follow @capetownjazzfest on Instagram or Cape Town Jazz Fest  on Facebook to stay up to date.

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The 50 Most Instagrammable Spots in South Africa

The Big 7 Travel team has created a list of the Top 50 Most Instagrammable Countries in the World. South Africa made it into the top 5, taking 5th place. They used a thorough system to select the countries, with hashtag popularity plus votes from a panel of travel experts.

Our country’s excessive photogenic beauty inspired the team to compile an in-depth article with the most Instagram-worthy spots. Epic hiking terrain, serene beaches, vibey cosmopolitan cities… What more can we ask for?

Without further ado, the 50 Most Instagrammable Spots in South Africa.

#50 Kagga Kamma Nature Reserve (Cederberg)

Situated two and half hours from Cape Town, this rugged reserve is the perfect weekend escape from city life. During the day you will be mesmerized by the strange rock formations scattered across the desert-like terrain. At night you can enjoy the wonder of a night sky filled with stars.

Visit kaggakamma.co.za for more information.

#49 Umhlanga Lighthouse (Umhlanga)

#48 Nelson Mandela Bridge (Johannesburg)

#47 Four Seasons Hotel (The Westcliff)

#46 Knysna Elephant Park (Plettenberg Bay)

This one will be a bit of a longer road trip from the city, 6 hours on the coastal route and 7 hours inland if you want to drive there or back via Oudtshoorn. The expansive Western Cape reserve is home to rescued elephants.

Visit knysnaelephantpark.co.za for more information.

#45 Boulders Beach (Cape Town)

Situated on the False Bay side of the city, close to Simons Town, a visit to the home of cute penguins should definitely be on your to-do list. A unique South African Instagram experience. Read more about the beach’s adorable inhabitants.

#44 Babylonstoren (Stellenbosch)

Within an hour’s drive from the city, near Klapmuts, lies a historic farm that was transformed into a stylish hotel. The Cape Dutch architecture has Instagram-worthy written all over it. The grounds feature rustic gardens, a vineyard, as well as a spa. Read our post to find out more about it.

#43 Walter Sisulu National Botanical Garden (Roodepoort)

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#42 Moses Mabhida Stadium Durban (Durban)

#41 Hermanus Whale Watching (Overberg)

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It is the Whale Festival in Hermanus this weekend. Tag someone you would like to go and spot some whales with. Do you know what kind of whales visit us in Cape Town? Follow @secretcapetown for more and tag us or use #secretcapetown to be featured. Photo by @lifeofchristaylor . . . . . #capetown #cityofcapetown #amazingcapetown #seecapetown #visitcapetown #thisiscapetown #ig_capetown #southafrica #southafricaza #visitsouthafrica #africa #ig_southafrica #thisisafrica #capetownmag #instagramcapetown #weheartsa #capetowntourism #westerncape #capetownsouthafrica #meetcapetown #capetownetc #thisisafrica #southafrica #capetowntravel #explorecapetown #hermanus #whalefestival #whales #hermanuswhalefestival

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Less than two hours’ drive from the city, is the whale watching capital of the Western Cape. From June to December you can even spot the migrating whales from the shore including Southern Right whales, Humpback whales, and Bryde’s whales. Read our post 5 of the Best Ways to See Whales around Cape Town if you want to see whales closer to the city.

#40 Muizenberg (Cape Town)

Situated in False Bay, it’s a popular surfer spot, about 30 minutes’ drive from the CBD. The main Instagrammable feature is the cute little wooden colourful beach huts.

#39 Namaqualand in Spring (Cederberg & West Coast)

As winter turns into spring, the Western Cape celebrates with a kaleidoscope of colours. From the end of August till early October (weather dependent) brightly coloured flowers pop up everywhere. Read our post Where to See the Wildflowers in the Cape to plan your trip.

#38 The Richtersveld (Northern Cape)

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Something in-between mythology of dragons and modern day lizards. The Ouroboros is an ancient symbol depicting a serpent or dragon eating its own tail. Highly prized in the illicit black market trade in reptiles these animals are collected on a large scale with hugely negative effects on local populations. They stay in large family groups amongst rock cracks and boulders and can be totally wiped out by a single collector. Becoming locally extinct from a hillside. A classic defensive posture is to bite their tails and form an almost perfect circle which they can then roll off the rock outcrop and escape potential predators. Meet the Armadillo Lizard – Ouroborus cataphractus. . . . . .
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#37 The Silo Hotel (Cape Town)

Imagine a hotel in an old grain silo. Does it sound boring and ugly? You will be pleasantly surprised by this architectural feat. Pop in at the Zeitz MOCAA art museum as well to admire the innovative design.

Visit The Silo Hotel website for more information

#36 Elands River Falls (Waterval Boven/Emgwenya)

#35 Inanda Mountain (Durban)

#34 Otter Trail (Tsitsikamma Coastal National Park)

Another great excuse for a road trip! Travelling via the coast will take 6 and a half hours, inland it will take you 8 hours. The route is five days long in total, but you can do shorter sections if you don’t have the time or stamina for it. It is nature on steroids, with rugged shore scenery.

Visit www.tsitsikamma.info  for more information

#33 Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park (Upington)

#32 Cape of Good Hope (Cape Town)

The rocky headland brings together two oceans, the Atlantic and Indian. Its other name is “the Cape of Storms”. For centuries it has challenged the navigational skills of sailors. Finding a beautiful scene for an epic Instagram pic, won’t be a challenge.

Click here for more information.

#31 Hole in the Wall (Coffee Bay, Eastern Cape)

#30 Father Coffee (Braamfontein, Johannesburg)

#29 Drakensberg Mountains (KwaZulu-Natal)

#28 Buffels Bay (Garden Route)

If you feel the need to drive and soak up the Western Cape beauty, head here. It’s 5 and a half hours via the coast, 6 and a half inland. You can find an outstretched, clean beach closer to the city but there’s just something special about this one. And the little town is fun to explore as well.

#27 Robben Island (Cape Town)

The island is tainted with South Africa’s tumultuous political past. Visiting the former prison is a sombre experience. But this one is on the Instagrammable list because of its important role in the country’s history.

Visit robben-island.org.za for more information

#26 Union Buildings (Pretoria)

#25 Durban Natural Science Museum (Durban)

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#geometrics #vienna

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Related: Cape Town’s Top 10 Most Instagram-Worthy Spots

#24 Nourish’d (Cape Town)

There are now two branches of this stylish sustainable café, one in Observatory and the other in Gardens. First you can feed your eyes and then your tummy! The restaurant has achieve zero waste level, quite impressive.

Visit nourishd.co.za for more information.

#23 Bloukrans Bridge (Nature’s Valley, Western Cape)

Just over 6 hours’ drive from the city, it’s a must to stop here while you are exploring the Garden Route. Whether you jump or just admire the view across the valley, you will most likely gasp either way. It’s the world’s highest commercial and natural bungy jump bridge, at 216m high.

Click here for directions.

#22 Hoyo Hoyo Safari Lodge (Kruger Park)

#21 Augrabies Falls National Park (Northern Cape)

#20 Diving Board, Table Mountain (Cape Town)

Of course Table Mountain is on the Instagrammable list! This rock created a natural diving board that hangs across the city. It has become one of the favourite mountain spots for an iconic Instagram shot. Just don’t venture out onto it on a windy day…

#19 Cape Vidal Beach (St. Lucia)

#18 Chapman’s Peak Drive (Cape Town)

You will search hard to find a more scenic drive. It’s rated at the top of scenic routes around the world. Imposing cliffs, outstretched ocean, and beautiful beaches. What more could you ask for? Stop at one of the vantage points for the ultimate Instagram shot! Read our post to find out more about this amazing route.

#17 Sodwana Bay (KwaZulu-Natal)

#16 Tsitsikamma National Park (Knysna)

#15 Bo-Kaap (Cape Town)

The suburb just off the city centre has Instagram painted all over it. The vividly coloured houses will challenge your compositional skills. Read more about the area.

#14 De Hoop Nature Reserve (Cape Agulhas)

Drive three hours from Cape Town to reach  to the most Southern point of Africa, in the Overberg region. Enjoy the whiter-than-white sand, which seems to stretch out as far as the eye can see.

Click here for more information.

#13 God’s Window (Blyde River Canyon)

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#12 Valley of Desolation (Camdeboo National Park)

#11 Mapungubwe (Limpopo)

#10 Sani Pass (KwaZulu-Natal)

#9 Lion’s Head (Cape Town)

You’ll have to work hard for the epic Instagram shot awaiting you. But when you reach the top of the mountain, you will forget about all the effort it took. A unique perspective on the city is guaranteed. Read our post What You Need To Know About Hiking Up Lion’s Head For The Full Moon for a monthly Instagram-worthy trek up the mountain.

View our Our Top 10 Pictures of Lion’s Head

#8 Stellenbosch (Western Cape)

Yup, the whole town and wine region surrounding it is Instagrammable! Old Cape Dutch buildings and majestic mountains, need we say more.

#7 Lion Sands Ivory Lodge (Mpumalanga)

#6 Blyde River Canyon (Mpumalanga)

#5 Orlando Towers (Johannesburg)

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✨ TODAY'S FEATURE FOR: #HPSAjourney ✨⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣ Photo By: @giuliabono9⁣ Orlando Towers in Soweto is a great location to do some adventurous sports and their bungee jump is a must try! It is a thrilling and unique experience for bungee jumpers and is also a great place for local food. ⁣ ⁣ Tag someone you'd like to be with here. 👇👇👇⁣ .⁣ .⁣ .⁣ JOIN OUR THIS WEEK'S HASHTAG PROJECT: #HPSAjourney 🙌⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣ The goal this week is to share your best photos/videos of a journey you’ve experienced in the last year. Maybe you travelled to the #Drakensberg or climbed #TableMountain for the first time. No matter what it was, we’d love to share your content⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣ .⁣ .⁣ .⁣ Discover Africa's best wonders, beautiful lifestyle and majestic wildlife by following us: @Instagram_SA⁣ .⁣ Tag us or use #instagram_sa for a chance to get featured.⁣ .⁣ .⁣ .⁣ .⁣ .⁣ #orlandotowers #johannesburg #soweto #bungeejump #bungeejumping #jump #heights #thisissouthafrica #exploresouthafrica #whattodoinsaouthafrica #discoversouthafrica #travelsouthafrica #adventure #outdoor #outdooractivities #sports #meetsouthafrica #wanderlust #visulasoflife #instagram_sa #southafrica #africa

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#4 Mandela Capture Site (KwaZulu-Natal)

#3 Jacaranda Trees (Pretoria)

#2 Sabi Sands Private Game Reserve (Kruger National Park)

#1 Bloubergstrand (Cape Town)

When you say “South Africa” to some foreigners, this is the picture that pops up in their head. The mountain is now part of the world’s new 7 wonders of nature, so it would make sense that it is at the top of the 50 Most Instagrammable Spots in South Africa list.

Share the Instagrammable Fun with Secret Cape Town

Remember to share your epic Instagram pics with us! Tag @secretcapetown or use #secretcapetown to be featured with our #guesswhere.

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One destination, Six Unbelievable Experiences

Cape Town has been voted best city in the world six times in a row. Each year the Telegraph UK asks their travel readers to vote and pick their favourite cities in the world. We totally understand why the Mother City has claimed the top spot six times now!

It feels like the city is filled with endless adventure options. And these range from tame leisurely activities, to hard core challenging ones. The Cape Town Big 6 company has created a platform where you can conveniently book the top must-do experiences.

The following should be high on your holiday priority list. And if you live in Cape Town, make sure you put these on your bucket list.

#1 Table Mountain Cableway

The cableway has been operating since October the 4th, 1929. It is estimated that over the years the Table Mountain Cableway has carried more than 27-million people to the top of the world-famous mountain. Table Mountain is a World Heritage Site and has been included in the list of New 7 Wonders of Nature. Read our post about the Table Mountain Aerial Cableway to find out more about its history.

Each cable car carries up to 65 people, that’s approximately 800 people enjoying a scenic trip up the mountain every hour. That adds up to about 909 000 people every year. In 1997 the cable way was upgraded to state-of-the-art Rotairs that offer you 360° views while you make your way up and down the mountain. These nifty cable cars will carrier you to the top of the mountain in five minutes, travelling at 10m per second. Another handy feature of the Rotairs, is the water tank base. Each cable car can carry 3 000 liters. It serves a dual purpose, transporting fresh water for mountain visitors and a sturdy ballast during windy conditions. Click here to learn more about Table Mountain.

#2 V & A Waterfront

This unique shopping and entertainment hub draws about 24 million people each year. It’s rated as one of Africa’s most-visited destinations. It’s not hard to see why it is so popular. The place has a unique vibe. Buskers are scattered around beating out a tune on their guitar or xylophone. And it features the formidable Table Mountain as its backdrop across the ocean views in the harbour.

The V & A Waterfront stretched over 123 hectares. It’s a unique mixed-use development which revamped the old Victoria & Alfred basins which expanded the harbour capacity. The land was repurposed in 1990 to include commercial trading which included restaurants, speciality shopping, an arts and craft market, the V&A Hotel, a theatre, the National Maritime Museum, and more.

Now almost 30 years later, the V & A Waterfront is a firm fixture in the South African economy, bringing in millions of rands every year. Recent additions to the area include the expansion of the Silo district and the Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa (MOCAA). Read our post Top 10 Things To Do At The V&A Waterfront, you’ll be kept busy for hours (if not days)

#3 Kirstenbosch Gardens

It is one of the greatest botanical gardens of the world. Kirstenbosch nestles against Table Mountain’s eastern slopes, stretching over 5.28 km². The area dates back to ancient times, with Stone Age hand-axes and stone implements discovered in the Dell. This area was also home to two Khoikhoi clans, the Gorachouqua and Goringhaiqua. Click here to read more about the history. And make sure you view the historical Van Riebeeck’s hedge.

Kirstenbosch was officially founded in 1913. The main aim of the gardens was to preserve the country’s unique flora. This was a worldwide milestone, no other botanical garden had this ethos. Till this day, the botanical garden has a very strong focus on cultivating indigenous plants. The garden covers five out of the six South African biomes. Another unique feature of Kirstenbosch is the Boomslang walkway. It celebrates the centenary birthday of Kirstenbosch (2013). Read more about it here.

#4 Robben Island

The name means “seal island” in Dutch. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site as well as a South African National Heritage Site. Since the 17th century the island operated as a prison. The most famous prisoner was Nelson Mandela, former President of South Africa and Nobel Laureate. He spent 18 years of his 27 year sentence on the island.

After the end of Apartheid, the island transformed into a living museum, offering visitors a behind the scenes glimpse of prison life. The ferry leaves from the Waterfront, at the dock next to the Nelson Mandela Gateway to Robben Island Museum.

An interesting element incorporated into the experience, is that some of the tour guides are former Robben Island prisoners. This will give you priceless insight into life on the island. The tours to the island are very popular, so you need to book ahead of time, especially in peak season (December to February)

#5 Groot Constantia

It is the country’s oldest wine estate, established over 330 years ago. This world renowned estate formed the foundations of South Africa’s commercial wine industry. In Europe kings and emperors enjoyed the famous wines, including King Louis Phillipe of France and Frederick the Great of Prussia.

Jane Austen called it “a cure for a broken heart” in her novel Sense and Sensibility. And Charles Dickens claimed that a sip will lift your spirit in his novel The Mystery of Edwin Drood. Other famous drinkers included Napoleon Bonaparte, soothing his sorrows during his exile on Saint Helena Island.

The beauty of Groot Constantia, is that you don’t have to travel far to reach this little wine valley. It lies in the Southern Suburbs, just before you reach Hout Bay. You can also travel to it via the City Sightseeing bus, if you want to taste wine without worrying about the driving. Try one of the VoiceMap App Audio Walking Tours to enhance your experience.

#6 Cape Point

In 1488 the explorer Bartolomeu Dias gave it the nickname “The Cape of Storms”. In the daytime it’s a great navigational landmark. But at night when the fog descends, and when the ocean becomes tumultuous, it is not the sailors’ friend anymore.

By 1859 a lighthouse was erected to navigate more safely around this treacherous point. The first lighthouse still stands, towering at 238 metres above sea-level on the highest peak section. This lighthouse is also a centralised monitoring point for the surrounding lighthouses along the South African coastline. Use the Flying Dutchman funicular to travel up to it from the lower station (127 metres above sea-level)

The Cape Point is part of the Cape of Good Hope nature reserve, situated within the Table Mountain National Park. It is a World Heritage Site that is part of the Cape Floral Region. There’s a lot to explore in the reserve. You can create a little mini safari for yourself spotting zebras, bucks, baboons, and more while admiring the local fauna. And stop at one of the rugged beaches for a quick picnic.

Share the Epic Fun with Secret Cape Town

Remember to share your epic Instagram pics with us! Tag @secretcapetown or use #secretcapetown to be featured with our #guesswhere.

Visit ctbig6.co.za now for quick bookings.

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What Is the Best Time to Visit Cape Town?

Cape Town has been voted the best city in the world six times in a row by the Telegraph Travel Readers. And it’s not hard to see why. Beautiful beaches, magnificent mountains, endless things to do, a buzzing cosmopolitan vibe… And that’s just mentioning the bare minimum!

But there is a little challenging factor to a holiday in the fairest of Capes, as Sir Francis Drake called it. The city was also given the name “the Cape of Storms” by Bartolomeo Dias. Depending on your holiday needs, the tumultuous weather can be a pro or a con.

Weather in Cape Town

The best way to describe the weather in Cape Town? Four seasons in one day. It can be high summer and you will need a jersey. The best way to approach the weather in Cape Town, is to be prepared for anything. Carry a light jersey with you, even in the summer months, because the wind can suddenly get very chilly. During winter and the other in-between seasons, layer up, so you can layer down if need be. Even during the icy wet winter, an almost-summer day can make a quick appearance.

With its location next to the ocean, the climate has a Mediterranean-feel to it. In the hot summer months, the temperatures can soar up to 35°C (95°F) and then you will wish the infamous wind will make an appearance. In the winter it can rain for days on end, with the temperatures dropping below 10°C (50°F).

The wind is a constant companion of Capetonians. Mostly you will have a love/hate relationship with it. The Cape Doctor, the nickname of the South-Easter wind, blows during the spring months (August and September) to late summer (March and April). Some days it will be a gentle breeze ruffling your hair as you walk on the beach, breaking the extreme heat. Other days it will threaten to blow you off your feet. In Table Bay winds of up to 160km/h have been measured.

The wind also triggers the famous Table Cloth. It’s a mesmerizing weather phenomena, caused by the fluctuations in temperature surrounding the mountain. The False Bay air, full of warm moisture, is picked up by the wind and it’s pushed towards the eastern flank of Table Mountain. It’s lifted up against the Table Mountain slopes. Then all of a sudden it drops down and the clouds disappear into thin air.

Summer in Cape Town

The balmy summer months end and start the year, from December to mid-March. It’s the perfect end or start to your year! Another great aspect of Cape Town summers, is the fact that the sun sets around 8 o’clock. Morning temperatures range at about 15°C (59°F) and can reach 35°C (95°F) middle day in high summer.

If you are a big fan of lounging on the beach, summer months are the best time to visit Cape Town. With the prospect of the wind joining you on your holiday, it’s also a great time to indulge in fun water sports such as kite or wind surfing. Another activity complemented by the wind, is paragliding. Slowly hovering over the city from Lion’s Head or Signal Hill (or even Table Mountain) will be an unforgettable experience.

But beware, you will not be the only one thinking it’s a good idea to head to the beach on a beautiful summer’s day. Especially during December you will also have the local South African tourists to contend with. All of a sudden you will notice that half the cars on the road have GP number plates! We’ll give you the inside scoop, head over to one of the best secret beaches in the Cape to avoid the crowds.

Accommodation and flight prices are pushed up during the peak summer period. If you’re schedule is flexible, rather plan a trip in late-November or mid-March to soak up the African sun without being squashed on the beach and paying exorbitant prices.

Related: 5 Off The Beaten Track Festivals

Autumn and Spring in Cape Town

The in-between seasons can be the best time to visit Cape Town. During these months the weather is less extreme, and the city is not as crowded as during peak season. You can score great accommodation and flight deals if you plan ahead. Just keep an eye on the Easter weekend dates, prices are pushed up for this popular holiday break.

From late-March the mornings become chillier, and slowly the sun starts rising later in the morning, and setting earlier at night. During the day temperatures range in the early 20’s (68°F) and in the afternoon it will start dropping lower again.

Spring arrives from the end of August, with the sun rising around 07:00 in the morning and setting at 18:30. Daytime temperatures start climbing into the higher 20’s (68°F). But mornings and evenings are still chilly. Read our post Where to See the Wildflowers in the Cape for a truly magical experience which transforms the landscape every year.

With the extreme summer heat subdued, both autumn and spring are great seasons to explore the outdoors in the middle of the day, instead of worrying about the potent summer midday sun. Cape Town is an outdoor fanatic’s paradise, with almost-endless hiking and mountain bike trails. Read our post Top 5 Hiking Routes up Table Mountain.

Winter in Cape Town

Some would argue that winter is the best time to visit Cape Town, but it all depends on what kind of holiday experience you are looking for. Winter is whale-watching season, read our post 5 of the Best Ways to See Whales around Cape Town to plan your holiday around these fascinating gentle giants of the ocean.

The winter period is from late-June to mid-September. Morning temperatures can drop below 10°C (50°F) and will hover in the teens throughout the day. Along with the chilly weather, long stints of rain ascend on the city. All of a sudden the tip of Africa will be transformed into a London-like atmosphere, with soft drizzle falling relentlessly for days on end.

If you are sensitive to long periods of overcast weather, you might want to rather plan your trip at the beginning or end of winter to avoid the gloominess. Even though the outdoor activities mostly come to a halt, you can still indulge in the indoor fun. Read our post about 10 Restaurants with Fireplaces in Cape Town to counter the chill.

Another great indoor activity for the winter months, is exploring the Iziko Museum Mile. You’ll be kept busy for hours hopping from one heritage museum to the next. These include the Bo-Kaap museum, Planetarium, Rust en Vreugd, Slave Lodge, South African Museum, South African National Gallery, and the William Fehr Collection at The Castle of Good Hope. End off your exploration at one of the Harrington Street Restaurants and Cafés.

Daylight Hours

In the summer months, it almost feels like there’s endless sunshine available. You can get up to 14 sunlight hours per day, from 05h30 to 20h00. During the in-between seasons of spring and autumn, it goes down to about 12 hours, from 06h30 to 18h45. And in winter there is around 10 hours of sunlight, from 07h45 to 17h50.

How much are flights to Cape Town?

Peak Season (mid-December to January)

A lot of people will tell you this is the best time to visit Cape Town to experience the ultimate summer holiday. But because it’s so popular, it’s very busy and very pricey. Flight tickets can be pushed up by as much as 50% from mid-December to January. If you do want to visit the Mother City during the epic height of summer, you will have to book your accommodation and flights at least three months ahead.

Shoulder Seasons (March to May; September to November)

Planning your visit a little bit away from the peak season can be the best time to visit Cape Town if you want to still experience the summer fun, but not have excessive travel costs. You can save up to 30% when travelling in this gap period.

Off-Peak Season (June to August)

People might tell you it’s not the best time to visit Cape Town. And you will save up to 40% because of this believe. But because of the winter rain, the Western Cape transforms into lush green rolling hills.

So What Is The Best Time To Visit Cape Town?

Well, according to us the best time to visit Cape Town, is every day of the year! Each season in the Mother City has its own special charm. From the balmy summer days, to the cold winter nights perfect for snuggling next to a fireplace.

We hope that you find your favourite season in the Mother City and return every year to come and soak up the awesomeness! Remember to share your epic Instagram pics with us! Tag @secretcapetown or use #secretcapetown to be featured with our #guesswhere.

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How to Get From the Cape Town International Airport to Your Hotel

How To Get From The Cape Town International Airport To Your Hotel South Africa

The Cape Town International Airport is located 20 kilometres to the west of the Cape Town CBD. It lies in the Matroosfontein district. Conveniently located next to the N2 highway, you can easily travel to the various sides of the city from the airport.

Transport Options from Cape Town International Airport

There are a variety of ways to travel to your hotel from the Cape Town International Airport. These include the MyCiti bus transport system, shuttle services and metered taxis, car rentals, and Uber.

Your choice of transport will depend on the distance you have to travel, as well as the direction. For short distances from the airport, an Uber ride will be sufficient. If you are staying in the city centre, on the Atlantic seaboard, or towards the West Coast –  consider using the MyCiti bus.

If you prefer to travel speedily and directly to your hotel, you can consider using a shuttle service or metered taxi. Alternatively, if you will be travelling a lot during your stay in Cape Town, hiring your own car could be the best option.

Read our post about the Best Car Rental Companies in Cape Town.

MyCiti Bus Airport Transport Service

You can take the MyCiti bus from the airport to the Civic Centre. This is the main station where you can effortlessly switch to other routes travelling throughout the city. The busses travel throughout the city centre, the Atlantic Seaboard, as well as towards Century City and Melkbos Strand.  Click here to view the MyCiti routes.

My City Bus Cape Town - Get From The Cape Town International Airport to Your Hotel In Cape Town

The busses run between 5:30 am and 9:30 pm. To reach the MyCiti bus station, head out the main airport entrance and turn to your left. You will see the Public Transport Plaza opposite the Central Terminal Building entrance.

Travelling into the city will take about 30 minutes, depending on traffic. You can buy your MyCiti card at the airport bus station. The card costs R35 and is valid for five years. Fares to the city cost between R60 and R100, depending on when you travel.  Read more about the MyCiti airport service.

Uber

Uber Cape Town International Airport - Get From The Cape Town International Airport to Your Hotel In Cape Town

The airport has created a designated area where you can book your Uber from. The official pick up is from parkade 1. As you head out of the airport, turn to your right towards the separate parking building. Ubers are constantly heading in and out of the airport, so it will not take long to book a car. If you can’t find your Uber, you can contact the driver via the app.

The following are pricing estimates to a few popular destinations near Cape Town:

  • Waterfront, from R 177
  • Camps Bay, from R 190
  • Stellenbosch, from R 254
  • Simonstown, from R 316

Uber Cape Town International Airport - Getting From Cape Town International Airport To Hotel

Car Rentals

Hiring a private car to use during your Cape Town holiday is a great way to explore the city and surrounding areas at your own leisure. Before making a booking, make sure that your licence is valid and accepted in South Africa. It is recommend that you pre-book your rental car before arriving at the airport. This especially important during high season from December to February. Click here to compare car rental prices.

Cape Town International Airport Car Rental

The car rental agencies are situated at the Transport Plaza and the Central Terminal Building. You can access the plaza via two subways, located on the sides of the terminal building. Currently there are 9 car rental agencies providing services from the Cape Town airport:

  • Avis
  • Europcar
  • First Car Rental
  • Bidvest Car Rental
  • Hertz
  • Tempest Car Hire
  • Woodford
  • Dollar / Thrifty Car Rental
  • Capital Car Hire

Cape Town Airport Shuttle Services

As you walk out of the domestic arrivals terminal or international inner lane, you will be greeted by a variety of friendly shuttle service operators. Depending on how far you will be travelling, as well as how many people will be travelling together, a shuttle service can be a very good transport option.

The add-on benefit of a shuttle service, is that they often also offer tour options that you could consider.

Make sure that you compare travelling prices to ensure that you pick the most affordable transport method. Sometimes you also need to pre-book a shuttle. Click here for the 10 Best Cape Town Taxis and Shuttles.

Cape Town Airport Metered Taxis

The Cape Town International Airport has an accredited metered taxi service, the Touchdown Taxi Association. Their contact number is +27 (0)83 652 0786. Find the metered taxis at the Transport Plaza. You can access it via two pedestrian subways from the passenger terminal’s main entrance.

Alternative Travel Option

When booking your stay at a local hotel or bed and breakfast, you can check if they offer collection options from the airport. This is a good solution to save yourself the trouble of finding your accommodation if you are worried about navigating your way through the city.

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Cape Town Car Rental Companies
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Best Car Rental Companies in Cape Town

Although the public transport system in Cape Town is of high quality, the freedom to move around on your own schedule, is very appealing. To truly experience Cape Town, you must drive to the outskirts to enjoy the vast difference between areas.

From the outstretched beaches of the Atlantic coast, to the forest-like feel of the Southern Suburbs, to the rocky mountains near Muizenberg. Each little hub of Cape Town has its own unique vibe. And cruising around in your own rental car, will offer you a much more holistic picture of the city.

We’ve found the best car hire Cape Town has to offer. Some names are well-known across the country, and world. Others are local companies, passionate about offering you a reliable way of exploring the Mother City.

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