After recently exploring Cape Town, where we saw tons of adorable penguins at Boulders Bay, marveled at the stunning Cape Peninsula coastline, and enjoyed incredible meals at some of the city’s top restaurants, we knew we had to plan a return trip to this exciting destination!
In planning our next adventure, we turned to our reliable friend Annika from the Midnight Blue Elephant Blog, a longtime Cape Town resident, for unique suggestions we can’t wait to try.
Annika has crafted a tried-and-true guide featuring exciting activities you must experience when visiting Cape Town. Having lived there for many years, she sees it as a second home. Her visits are part holiday, part homecoming, filled with local activities with friends and family. On a recent trip, she decided to take on some famous Cape Town experiences, so here are the top activities for visitors, residents, and in-betweens like her.
1. Paraglide from Signal Hill
If paragliding is on your bucket list, Cape Town is the place to do it. Take off from Signal Hill and glide around Lions Head and the Atlantic Seaboard, offering breathtaking views and an exhilarating thrill.
2. Explore Galleries on First Thursdays
If you enjoy pub crawls, try the art-lover’s alternative—a gallery crawl. “First Thursdays” let you stroll through galleries in the City Bowl that stay open late on the first Thursday of each month. Discover new African artists and enjoy some wine along the way.
3. Experience a Secret South African Sunrise
What could top a spectacular sunrise? A secret sunrise dance party! Sign up for the newsletter, follow the clues to the secret location, plug in your headphones, and dance as the sun rises.
4. Have a Social Dining Experience
Reverie Social Table in the trendy suburb of Observatory offers a social dining setup with one large table. Engage in conversations with fellow diners over fantastic food rather than checking your phone.
5. Give Back with Greenpop
If you’re up for offsetting your carbon footprint, join Greenpop, a local group focused on reforestation in Sub-Saharan Africa. Participate in a tree-planting day to contribute to the cause.
6. Swim at Kraal Baai
Cape Town boasts some of the world’s most stunning beaches. For an even more beautiful experience, visit Kraal Baai in the West Coast National Park, known for its turquoise waters and warmer temperatures. The scenic drive and occasional turtle sightings are bonuses.
7. Embrace Local Heritage with a Braai
South Africans love their barbecues, so experiencing a braai is essential. Gather your supplies from Frankie Fenner Meat Merchants and find a public braai spot with a view, like Oude Kraal beach, for a genuine cookout experience.
8. Enjoy a Concert with a View
During the summer, enjoy Sunday concerts set against the beautiful Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens. Local bands, the Philharmonic, and international acts perform while you kick back on your picnic blanket.
9. Try Local Food at a Market
Whether you’re a local or a visitor, the Neighbourgoods Market at the Old Biscuit Mill on Saturdays is a top choice. If you miss it, the V&A Waterfront Food Market is open daily, offering a taste of local delicacies.
10. Spot Seals off the Coast
South Africa’s marine life is renowned, including the Cape Seals, often seen with sharks. Embark on a snorkeling or diving trip to their colonies for a memorable encounter, as seals are curious and friendly. A quick clap and bark will capture their attention!
