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The Cape Town Travel Guide - For When You Want to Experience a Little of Everything

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15 Unmissable Cape Town Activities to tick off your Bucket List

Ah, the Mother City! Cape Town is South Africa’s crown jewel and most popular travel destination. I’ve been a few times but never on my own and with complete control of my schedule. This was my first trip since moving back to South Africa so I had to see as many of my friends as I could thus making my trip ‘semi-solo’. I got up to some typically touristy things with a few unique experiences sprinkled in here and there. With an overwhelming number of activities to choose from, here’s a peek at what I got up to.

Food

1. Mojo Market

Nestled in the heart of Sea Point, the Mojo Market is the perfect place to catch up with friends. With a variety of food and the drinks on tap, accompanied by the live performances, this food and lifestyle market has #SomethingforEveryone.

2. Wine Tasting

Known for its vast wine estates and tastings galore, the Western Cape is the perfect place to tap into your inner wine connoisseur. I enjoyed my tasting with sweeping vineyard views at the boutique winery, Hillcrest Estate.



3. The Raptor Room

Just around the corner from the Fugard is the quirky, cute and oh-so-instaworthy restaurant, The Raptor Room. It’s the perfect place to enjoy a pre-show bite to eat. The food is delicious and the vibe is everything.  


4. Camps Bay

Perfect for swimming, snorkelling and sun-bathing, Camps Bay is a must. But what if the weather isn’t on your side? Not to worry, you’re still free to enjoy the view from one of the many restaurants that line the street nearby. I found a prime spot on the Tiger’s Milk second floor balcony, where I indulged in fish tacos and mac and cheese balls all washed down with my fave summer cocktail, the refreshing Aperol Spritz.



Nature/Views

5. V&A Waterfront

There is a near endless list of things to fill your time at the V&A Waterfront. From shopping ‘til you drop, to riding the Cape Wheel, visiting the Two Oceans Aquarium or hopping onto a harbour cruise. And don’t forget, enjoying drinks with friends at any one of the numerous waterfront restaurants.


6. Kayak Tour

This is one of those unique experiences I was talking about. Set out for a morning kayaking tour on the Atlantic Ocean and look out for dolphins, seals and even whales. Atlantic Outlook offers tours guided by friendly and highly experienced kayakers so that even beginners with literally no experience (me!) can enjoy the sights and sounds of the sea.


7. Lion’s Head Sunset Hike

Lion’s Head is a pretty popular hike and can easily be done solo if you’re a Cape Town regular or an experienced hiker. I, being neither, opted for a guided sunset tour. Luckily Atlantic Outlook offers these as well, once again with an experienced hiker occasionally dropping some mountain knowledge on your little group and offering to take pictures of you along the way. Atlantic Outlook also offers a 15% discount if you book both the kayak and hiking tours.



8. Muizenberg Beach Huts

About 20kms from Cape Town you’ll stumble upon the town of Muizenberg. Head over to the beach to have a look at the colourful beach huts, which are unique to this area.


9. Boulders Beach

Capture moments on the beach and stroll along the promenade before stopping to say “hi” to the Boulders Beach Penguin Colony. Be sure not to disturb them though!

10. Chapman’s Peak Drive

For the most spectacular views be sure to drive along Chapman’s Peak Drive. I can not hype these views up enough, it’s truly breathtaking and seems like a death defying feat all at once. There is a toll gate along this stretch so be sure to bring a little cash.

11. Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens

One of my favourite spots to simply hang out, relax and reconnect with nature is the world renowned Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens. If you’re looking for the beauty and diversity of nature, then this is the place for you. Free guided tours starting at 10h00, 11h00 and 14h00 are offered Monday to Saturday so be sure to get your ticket before taking advantage of this 90 minute perk! #insidertip


12. The Company Gardens

Known as Cape Town’s Green Lung, the Company Gardens is the perfect place to escape the busy city, soak up some sun and maybe even make some new “garden friends”. Entrance is free and there is a lovely restaurant if you're feeling a little peckish.


Cultural

13. Bo-Kaap

Spend the morning wondering along the cobblestone streets of this historical neighbourhood. The brightly coloured houses of the Bo-Kaap are the perfect backdrop for your adventure. Enjoy some local snacks and pay a visit to the museum while you’re there.

14. St. George’s Cathedral

Just across the road from the lush Company Gardens, you’ll find St. George’s Cathedral. Take some time to marvel at the stained glass windows of the oldest cathedral in Southern Africa.





15. The Fugard

Get your “culture” fix by enjoying a show at the Fugard theatre. I was blown away by the musical Kinky Boots that challenges what it means to be a man and inspires audiences to live their truth boldly.

From food to fun in the sun and a more than decent cultural scene, no wonder Cape Town is so popular. Question is, what are you looking forward to trying in the Mother City?

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