From hiking Lion’s Head at sunrise to finding the best hidden beaches and dining at world-class restaurants, I did it all. This guide covers everything I wish I’d known before arriving - the activities you can’t miss, the spots locals actually go to,...
Sections
4
Activities
Places to Visit
Where to Drink
Resturants
Activities
Discover the best adventures and experiences Cape Town has to offer! From paragliding over the Atlantic coast to hiking iconic peaks, cooking traditional Cape Malay cuisine in Bo Kaap’s colorful streets, and getting up close with African penguins, th...
This tour hits all three must-sees in one day! If you book it the first week, it will be perfect. The penguins at Boulders Beach are adorable, and Cape Point views are unreal. Book the morning tour for better weather.
Table Mountain, Penguins & Cape Point Small Group Tour Cape Town
One of the most fun nights you’ll have in Cape Town! The food is incredible - proper traditional dishes you won’t find at tourist restaurants. The drumming is interactive and the energy is amazing. Great way to experience local culture.
From Cape Town: African Dinner and Drumming Experience
Absolutely serene and absolutely worth it! The views over Cape Town and the coast are insane. I went with Icarus and felt super safe. Do it on a clear day and bring your GoPro!
Tandem Paragliding In Cape Town (Icarus)
Okay this is SO much fun and totally unexpected in Cape Town! It’s like a rollercoaster through the forest. Great if you’re traveling with kids or just want something different from beaches and hikes.
Cool Runnings Toboggan Adventure in Cape Town (Hotel pickup incl)
You HAVE to do this! Learning to cook Cape Malay dishes in one of the colorful Bo Kaap homes was a highlight. The neighborhood is gorgeous and the food is delicious. Plus you get recipes to take home!
Bo Kaap Cooking Tour
Such a unique experience! The ceremonial coffee is beautiful to watch and the Senegalese food was unlike anything else you’ll try in Cape Town. Very intimate experience - book ahead!
Savor ceremonial coffee and try Senegalese cuisine · ★4.95
If you love animals, this activity is for you! You get to feed them as well!
Cape Town Ostrich Farm
Places to Visit
Explore Cape Town’s most stunning natural wonders and hidden gems. From dramatic coastal drives along Chapman’s Peak to rewarding hikes up Lion’s Head with 360° views, serene wetland sanctuaries, and secret caves with ocean vistas, these spots captur...
This wetland sanctuary is a peaceful escape from the city. Perfect for birdwatching and easy walks. I went in the morning when it’s quieter. Great if you need a chill day!
Intaka Island
One of the world’s most scenic coastal drives! Go slow and stop at the viewpoints. The road hugs the cliff - views are breathtaking. Worth the small toll!
Chapmans Peak Drive
This beach is stunning! Less crowded than Camps Bay but just as beautiful. Perfect for sunset with the Twelve Apostles in the background. Bring a picnic!
Maidens' Cove (2026) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (with Reviews)
Challenging hike but THOSE VIEWS! You’re literally standing in a cave opening overlooking the ocean. Go early morning or late afternoon. The scramble at the end is steep - don’t go alone if you’re nervous about heights!
Wally's Cave
The most iconic hike in Cape Town! It you do it for sunrise, it’s magical. Takes about 1.5-2 hours to the top. There are chains near the summit - not too scary but wear good shoes. 360° views are INSANE!
Lion's Head (2026) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (with Reviews)
Saturday morning market is the best in Cape Town! Fresh produce, amazing food stalls (try the shakshuka!), local crafts, and live music. Gets busy by 10am so arrive early. The vibe is unbeatable!
Oranjezicht City Farm
Where to Drink
Experience Cape Town’s legendary drinking scene where ocean views meet world-class cocktails. From Sunday sessions at beachfront institutions to rooftop bars with Table Mountain as your backdrop, these are the spots where locals and travelers come to...
Sunday sessions here are LEGENDARY! Day drinking with ocean views and a DJ - it’s the quintessential Cape Town experience. Gets packed after 2pm so grab a table early. Dress cute, everyone does!
Café Caprice
Resturants
Savor Cape Town’s incredible culinary scene, which rivals any food capital in the world. From Michelin-quality fine dining nestled in wine valleys to innovative fusion cuisine and traditional African flavors, these restaurants showcase why Cape Town ...
One of Africa’s best restaurants and absolutely worth the splurge! The tasting menu is mind-blowing - every course is art. Book weeks in advance and go for lunch to enjoy the Constantia wine valley views. Best meal you’ll have in South Africa!