What To See And Do In Cape Town
Beautiful Cape Town has an unfair advantage as a unique tourist destination. Only Cape Town can boast one of the new seven wonders of nature as a backdrop. Table Mountain attracts many local and international visitors to Cape Town. In Cape Town you can hike or take the cableway to the top of Table Mountain to enjoy the spectacular view of the ‘mother city.’
In Cape Town there is plenty to see and do.
Established in 1652 by Jan van Riebeeck as a half way stop for the Eastern shipping trade of the Dutch East Indian Company, Cape Town supplied much needed fresh produce and water to passing ships. Cape Town is serviced by a network of tarred roads, a busy modern harbour and the third largest airport in Africa, Cape Town International Airport. It is only a short two hour flight from the Oliver Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg.
Cape Town has grown into a cosmopolitan city with coastal and inland property values in Cape Town soaring. Cape Town hosts many international sporting events, conferences and festivals including the legendary Cape Coon Carnival and an annual International Jazz Festival. The Cape Town Stadium built for the 2010 Soccer World Cup and the popular V&A Waterfront are a must see as is the family-friendly Two Oceans Aquarium and Kirstenbosch National Botanical Gardens.
In Cape Town at the Victoria and Albert Waterfront you can embark at the Nelson Mandela Gateway to go by boat to Robben Island. There are several museums and galleries and no visit to Cape Town is complete without a visit to the Tourist Information Centre and a lazy day at the beach. Cape Town is a spectacular location for film shoots, accommodation as well as corporate experiences.
Cape Town is the capital city of the Western Cape Province. It is a multicultural mix of many nationalities from all over the globe, many of whom have found Cape Town the ideal portal into African business and property portfolios. Cape Town has become a popular wedding venue destination and religious freedom is entrenched in the constitution and many beautiful churches, synagogues, mosques and shrines can be found in Cape Town.
Film in Cape Town
For filmmakers looking to shoot in Cape Town, finding reliable and high-quality equipment is crucial. Blur Photo offers a comprehensive range of film production equipment rentals, ensuring that you have access to the latest cameras, lenses, and lighting gear. Whether you’re working on an indie film or a major commercial project, their extensive inventory and expert support can help bring your vision to life.
Table Mountain
No visit to Cape Town is complete without a trip to Table Mountain, one of the New Seven Wonders of Nature. Rising majestically over the city, Table Mountain offers panoramic views that are simply unforgettable. You can hike up one of the many trails if you’re feeling adventurous, or take the scenic cable car ride to the summit. Once at the top, enjoy the stunning vistas, explore the walking paths, and take in the unique flora and fauna of the area.
V&A Waterfront
The Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, commonly known as the V&A Waterfront, is a bustling harbor area filled with shops, restaurants, and entertainment options. This vibrant hub offers something for everyone, from luxury boutiques and craft markets to world-class dining and live music. Don’t miss the Two Oceans Aquarium, where you can explore the fascinating marine life of the Atlantic and Indian Oceans. The waterfront is also the departure point for boat trips to Robben Island, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Robben Island
Robben Island, located just off the coast of Cape Town, is a poignant symbol of South Africa’s struggle for freedom and democracy. It is here that Nelson Mandela was imprisoned for 18 of his 27 years in captivity. Today, the island serves as a museum and a reminder of the country’s turbulent past. Guided tours, often led by former political prisoners, offer deep insights into the island’s history and the fight against apartheid. The ferry ride to the island also provides beautiful views of Cape Town’s coastline.
Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden
Nestled at the foot of Table Mountain, Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden is one of the most beautiful botanical gardens in the world. Spanning 36 hectares, it showcases an incredible diversity of indigenous plants and flowers. The garden is perfect for a leisurely stroll, a picnic, or simply soaking in the serene natural surroundings. Don’t miss the Tree Canopy Walkway, known as the ‘Boomslang,’ which offers spectacular views of the garden and the surrounding mountains.
Cape Winelands
A short drive from Cape Town, the Cape Winelands region is renowned for its picturesque vineyards and world-class wineries. Towns like Stellenbosch, Franschhoek, and Paarl offer wine tastings, cellar tours, and gourmet dining experiences. The region’s beautiful landscapes, with rolling hills and historic estates, make it an ideal destination for a day trip or a weekend getaway. Be sure to sample some of the region’s signature wines, such as Pinotage and Chenin Blanc.
Boulders Beach
Boulders Beach, located near Simon’s Town, is famous for its colony of African penguins. These charming creatures can be observed up close as they waddle along the beach and swim in the clear waters. A series of boardwalks allows visitors to view the penguins without disturbing their natural habitat. The beach itself is sheltered and perfect for a refreshing swim, making it a great spot for families.
Cape Point
Cape Point, part of the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve, is a dramatic promontory where the Atlantic and Indian Oceans are said to meet. The scenic drive to Cape Point takes you through the beautiful Cape Peninsula, with opportunities to see wildlife such as baboons and ostriches along the way. At the tip of the peninsula, you can hike to the old lighthouse for breathtaking views or take the funicular railway if you prefer a more relaxed ascent.
Bo-Kaap
The Bo-Kaap neighborhood is one of Cape Town’s most vibrant and historically significant areas. Known for its brightly colored houses and cobblestone streets, Bo-Kaap is the heart of Cape Malay culture. Visit the Bo-Kaap Museum to learn about the area’s history and its role in Cape Town’s multicultural heritage. Strolling through the neighborhood, you’ll encounter the tantalizing aromas of Cape Malay cuisine, with several local restaurants offering traditional dishes such as bobotie and samoosas.
District Six Museum
The District Six Museum offers a poignant look at a once-vibrant community that was forcibly removed during the apartheid era. Through photographs, artifacts, and personal stories, the museum preserves the memory of District Six and its residents. It’s a powerful reminder of the impact of apartheid and the resilience of the human spirit. A visit to this museum provides important context to Cape Town’s complex history.