Table of Contents
- Day One: Victoria Alfred Waterfront and Two Oceans Aquarium
- Day Two: Simon’s Town and Boulders Beach
- Day Three: Private Wine Country Tour
- Day Four: Aquila Private Game Reserve Safari
- Day Five: Shopping and Exploring the Rich History of Bo-Kaap
- Day Six: Hiking Table Mountain and Camps Bay Beach Day
Day One: Victoria Alfred Waterfront and Two Oceans Aquarium
After many hours of flying around the world, our adventure in Cape Town began at the vibrant Victoria & Alfred Waterfront. It was a day filled with shopping, dining, and absorbing the infectious energy of this harbor-side hub. Spending the first day at Victoria & Alfred Waterfront is a fantastic way to adjust to the new time zone and combat jet lag. The waterfront’s lively atmosphere, brimming with shopping, dining, and leisure activities, will keep you engaged and on your feet, helping your body adapt to South African time. Strolling along the harbor, soaking in the stunning views, and savoring local flavors can be a rejuvenating experience after a long flight, effectively resetting your internal clock for the upcoming days of adventure
We finished day one at the Two Oceans Aquarium. We dove deep into the marine world at the Two Oceans Aquarium, which is home to over 300 species of fish and other aquatic creatures. We took our time strolling through each section of the aquarium glancing at all the different species unique to this part of the world.
The exhibits are separated into Atlantic Ocean and Indian Ocean galleries, showcasing the different species inhabiting each ocean. These galleries host a multitude of sea creatures such as penguins, sharks, turtles, rays, and a vibrant selection of fish. The Predator Exhibit is home to ragged-tooth sharks. We also enjoyed the I&J Ocean Exhibit, a 10-meter long tunnel offering a 360-degree view of the sea life. If you’re brave enough, you can even go diving with the sharks!
In addition to the Two Oceans Aquarium, the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront offers several other attractions:
- Zeitz MOCAA: An outstanding museum dedicated to contemporary art from Africa and its diaspora. Housed in a converted grain silo, it’s a must-visit for art enthusiasts.
- Robben Island Museum: You can take a ferry from the Waterfront to visit Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned for 18 years. It’s a powerful historical experience.
- Cape Wheel: For a panoramic view of Cape Town, the Cape Wheel is an excellent option. The 40-meter tall observation wheel offers spectacular views of the city, Table Mountain, and the Paarl Mountains.
- Shopping and Dining: The Waterfront hosts a range of shops, including international brands and local boutiques, and the Watershed, a market for craft and design. The Food Market is a foodie’s paradise with a variety of delicious options.
- Harbor Cruise: Take a harbor cruise for a relaxing exploration of the working harbor and a chance to see seals and ships up close.
Remember, these attractions may vary with time, and it’s always a good idea to check their official websites for the latest information and to see if reservations are needed
Day Two: Simon’s Town and Boulders Beach
Next stop, Boulders Beach where we swam with wild penguins before heading to Simon’s Town for a delectable lunch and shopping. Boulders Beach, situated near Simon’s Town in Cape Town, is renowned for its colony of African penguins, also known as jackass penguins due to their distinctive braying call.
Boulders Beach forms part of the Table Mountain National Park Marine Protected Area, and as such, the beach and its feathery residents are protected. It’s one of the few places in the world where you can get up close to African penguins. They are the only penguins found on the African continent and are classified as an “endangered species”.
Here, you can swim with the African Penguins, an experience you cannot miss when visiting this part of South Africa. The entrance fee was R160 per adult, a small price to pay for the heartwarming penguin encounter. Tip: Arrive early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds and the heat. You can find more info on the beach here: Boulders Beach info
The beach’s clear waters and sheltered coves, created by granite boulders, are ideal for swimming and snorkeling. It’s an incredible experience to share the water with these charming birds. However, remember to keep a respectful distance and avoid touching or feeding them.
The entrance fee to Boulders Beach goes towards the conservation of these endearing creatures, making your visit an impactful contribution towards the survival of the species.
Be sure to bring your beach gear, a hat, and some reef safe sunscreen. If you stay through the afternoon, the sun can be rather aggressive and there isn’t much shade to be had.
Simon’s Town, a charming and historical seaside town just south of Cape Town, is like stepping into a beautiful postcard. Getting there was rather easy too. We rented a car at a Avis rental car location just steps from our hotel and drove the 40 mins to Simon’s Town.
Simon’s Town is lined with British colonial buildings and this picturesque navy town presents a beautiful blend of past and present. It offers breathtaking views of the False Bay coastline and invites exploration of its cobblestone streets, quaint shops, and fascinating naval museums. After a morning swimming with penguins, we had worked up an appetite and were ready for some seafood!
For lunch, there’s a host of delightful options. If you’re in the mood for seafood, the Harbourview Restaurant is a must-visit, offering a variety of fresh catch with a stunning view of the harbor. For those who prefer a cozy café vibe, the Monocle & Mermaid hits the spot with its delicious gourmet burgers and coffee. For a lunch with a taste of local flavor, step into Saveur Restaurant, serving a range of dishes reflecting South Africa’s diverse culinary heritage.
Day Three: Private Wine Country Tour
We talked to our hotel concierge when we got back from our visit to Boulder’s Beach. We asked him what the best wine country tour was and if he could help us book it. He RAVED about our tour guide Manny and set us up on a private day tour of South African wine country (with tastings included).
The morning of day three, we set off on a private tour through the wine country – Paarl, Stellenbosch, and Franschhoek. The tastings at Fairview Winery, Delaire Graff Estate, and Cape Brewing Company were as informative as they were delicious, offering a comprehensive insight into the wine and beer production processes. Our day concluded in Stellenbosch, where we enjoyed a sumptuous lunch and a bit of shopping in the picturesque university town.
Day Four: Aquila Private Game Reserve Safari
After booking our trip to Cape Town it dawned on me that the best way to see Africa’s Big Five was to head to Johannesburg. Sadly, we did not have time to add another destination on to our trip. I researched for days leading up to our trip and even during our trip on ways to see the Big Five from Cape Town. There had to be a Cape Town safari. There just had to be. Low and behold, I found the Aquila Private Game Reserve Safari. It was a huge big game reserve located about 2 hours from Cape Town by car or bus. We opted for a group tour and we were picked up right out front of our hotel. I recommend either having your hotel concierge help you with booking the tour, or check availability here on Get Your Guide website.
The morning of day four, the bus pulled up to take us on a thrilling adventure at the Aquila Private Game Reserve Safari. The two hour bus ride came with a stop for snacks and refreshments. Once we arrived to the reserve we were greeted with a champagne toast and a buffet lunch at the resort. Once we were done with lunch we were broken up into groups and hopped onto the land rovers. LET THE ADVENTURE BEGIN!
Spotting the Big Five in their natural habitat was nothing short of spectacular. The mama rhino in the photo below wasn’t sure what to make of our vehicle, especially since baby rhino was along side her. She got a little nervous and CHARGED our truck with her massive horn!!! The whole truck shook and we all screamed, and then laughed. The tour was right out of a book or a dream. Describing seeing these animals in the wild is hard as I can’t find the words to. The tour guide driving the vehicle was extremely knowledgeable about all of the animals and was a great lookout. So many of these animals are camouflaged by the landscape, so he helped us to spot them. The only one we were sad we missed was Jumbo the rhino. Try and spot him if you decide to visit Aquila and do the safari tour.
Day Five: Shopping and Bo-Kaap Neighborhood
A day to explore the local markets in Cape Town’s city center. The energy of the place was contagious, with the colors, sounds, and scents creating a truly vibrant atmosphere. If you love to barter or fancy yourself a treasure hunter, you definitely want to check out the Green Point Market. This bustling bazaar is a sensory delight. From beautifully crafted African beadwork and wood carvings to funky fashion and flavorful street food, this market is a jackpot of authentic finds. It’s more than just shopping—it’s a fun-filled cultural experience that paints a colorful picture of the city’s diversity!
The day concluded in the Bo-Kaap neighborhood. This neighborhood is a historic and colorful neighborhood located on the slopes of Signal Hill, above the city center of Cape Town. It is one of the most photographed areas of the city due to its distinct brightly-colored houses and quaint cobble-stoned streets.
The neighborhood, also known as the Malay Quarter, has a rich and multifaceted history. It was established in the late 18th century and initially housed numerous rental homes that were leased to slaves brought to the Cape Colony by the Dutch East India Company.
The houses in Bo-Kaap are an integral part of its cultural and historical identity. The homes were originally built and leased by the Dutch, and they were all painted white when they were leased. However, when the slaves were eventually allowed to buy the properties, they began to paint their homes in bright colors as an expression of their freedom and individuality. Each color has its own unique story, representing the homeowner’s personal journey and experiences.
Today, the Bo-Kaap is a vibrant community that retains its unique cultural identity and continues to contribute to Cape Town’s rich cultural diversity. If you’re interested in diving deeper into its history, the Bo-Kaap Museum, set in one of the historic homes, offers insights into the local lifestyle and culture during the 19th century.
Day Six: Hiking Table Mountain and Relaxing at Camps Bay Beach
Our final day involved hiking up the iconic Table Mountain. Once at the top, we were rewarded with breathtaking views of Cape Town. We enjoyed lunch at the café on the summit, basking in the sun with a panorama that stretched into infinity. The cable car ride down was a thrill in itself.
Hiking Table Mountain can be a rewarding experience, offering stunning views of Cape Town, but it does require some preparation. Here are a few tips:
- Choose the right trail for your fitness level: There are several routes to choose from. The Platteklip Gorge trail is the most straightforward and most popular, taking approximately 2-3 hours to ascend. Other trails like Skeleton Gorge and India Venster offer more challenging paths and might require a guide for less experienced hikers.
- Start early: Cape Town can get quite hot, especially during the summer months. Starting your hike early will help you avoid the midday sun and also give you plenty of time to descend before it gets dark. Also, pack your sunscreen because that African sun is no joke.
- Check the weather: The weather can be unpredictable, with conditions changing rapidly. Make sure to check the forecast before you go.
- Pack appropriately: Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, hats, and snacks. Wear comfortable shoes suitable for rocky terrain and consider bringing a lightweight jacket, as it can be windy at the summit.
- Stay safe: Always inform someone about your hiking plans and estimated return time. Also, consider hiking in a group, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the trails.
As for the Table Mountain Aerial Cableway, the prices during our visit may have changed but below is as of December 2021
- Morning Adult (8:00am – 1:00pm): R380 return or R200 one-way
- Afternoon Adult (1:00pm – closing): R280 return or R200 one-way
Children’s tickets (4-17 years) were R180 return or R100 one-way regardless of the time of day.
Be sure to check the official website for the most recent rates and operating hours as they can also vary depending on the season and weather conditions.
Remember, if you’re planning to hike up and take the cable car down, check that the cableway is operating on your day of visit. It occasionally closes due to high winds or routine maintenance.
The day ended at the beautiful Camps Bay Beach, a perfect spot to reflect on our South African adventure. We splashed in the ocean and walked the boulevard for day drinks and a bite to eat. It was a great way to reward ourselves after a strenuous morning hike.
South Africa is a country of astounding beauty and diversity. From the thriving cityscapes to the tranquil vineyards, from the rustic wildlife reserves to the pristine beaches, every day of this itinerary offers a unique facet of South Africa’s charm. If you’re looking for an adventure that’s a perfect blend of culture, nature, and history, this South African itinerary is one to consider!
