Discover Cape Town: 14 Incredible Things to Do and See

14 Incredible Things to Do in Cape Town

There’s no mountain quite like Table Mountain in Cape Town, and one of the best places to hike for an unmatched view of it is from the top of Lion’s Head. Personally, I think it offers one of the best viewpoints and hikes in Cape Town, and I highly recommend you take the opportunity to do it as soon as you can while you’re here.

Lion’s Head is one of the most prominent mountain peaks here, standing at 669 meters above sea level. It is famous for its incredible panoramic views of Table Mountain, set against the stunning coastline and the Atlantic Ocean. The hike to the summit is moderate, with a few steep climbs that require you to ascend vertical stairs. It typically takes about 90 minutes at a moderate pace, and you should be able to complete it if you’re in good shape.

The hike starts from this parking lot, and you can easily hail a Bolt or Uber to get there. The trail is well-marked and is one of the few that is still considered safe to hike alone, as long as you start from the recommended parking lot above, rather than from the other trails that start in the city.

I’ve heard reports of people getting robbed on other trails, but you’ll be fine with the trailhead I recommended. It’s much closer to the summit, and there’s a lot of foot traffic throughout the day, from sunrise to sunset, so you should feel comfortable hiking alone. I hiked it alone at 7 AM, and there were plenty of people out and about, so I didn’t feel unsafe at all.

From the summit, you will be rewarded with a 360° view of Cape Town and Table Mountain, and I believe this is one of the most photogenic spots you can find in Cape Town. From up there, you will get to see Table Mountain in its entirety with no obstruction as well as the beautiful coastline and the Atlantic Ocean. You also get to see Cape Town from above and witness how expansive the city really is.

The view completely blew me away, and I spent nearly two hours taking photos up there, as you can see in the photos throughout this travel guide😉. It’s one of my favorite things to do in Cape Town, so if you’re looking for an active adventure with a reward that’s worth the effort, make sure to hike Lion’s Head.

The whole hike should take about half a day, so be sure to dedicate enough time for it. While you could probably finish faster, I don’t recommend rushing. The view is too incredible to hurry through, and there are plenty of awesome photo spots along the way. Be sure to explore Lion’s Head thoroughly before heading back down.

For photography, consider arriving an hour before sunrise and hiking to the summit to catch the sunrise. By that time, there will be plenty of people up there, so it’s still safe. Also, be sure to pack enough water and a jacket, as the weather can change rapidly. One moment I was engulfed by clouds, and the next, the sky was clear, with the sun beating down on me—so it’s important to be prepared for all conditions.

For a complete hiking guide, check out:A Complete Hiking Guide to Lion’s Head

Where to Stay in Cape Town?

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91 Loop Boutique Hostel

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Habitat Aparthotel by Totalstay

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The Silo Hotel

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2. Take the Iconic Cable Car to Table Mountain’s Summit

Of course, if you come to Cape Town, you have to go up Table Mountain itself, and the best way to do it is to take the scenic Table Mountain Cable Car, which will take you all the way to the top where you will be rewarded with an incredible view of Cape Town and its coastline from above.

Once at the top, you can explore several kilometers of well-marked hiking trails, with spectacular vistas in every direction. Notable viewpoints you might want to check out while you are up here are Maclear’s Beacon, the highest point on the mountain, as well as various scenic spots along the plateau’s edges. There is also a toilet, a cafe, and a gift shop up there if you want to buy something while you are up there.

The cable car ride takes only about 5-10 minutes, and you will be able to enjoy the view as you go up since the cable car slowly rotates. Everyone will get a good view of the mountains, so there is no need to rush to find a good spot on the cable car.

Although the cable car ride itself takes only 5 to 10 minutes, the entire experience can take much longer due to long queues, which start forming right from opening hours until closing time. Be sure to plan accordingly. I arrived at 8:30 AM, and the line was already about an hour long. By the time we descended around 11 AM, my guide mentioned the wait time had grown to two hours.

To make matters worse, the wind started picking up, and the cable car service was suspended by 12 PM. Imagine waiting two hours only to be turned away because it was too windy—not ideal at all! To avoid this, I highly recommend checking the cable car status here first and getting there right when it opens at 8 AM to get it done early. The wind is generally calmer in the morning and tends to pick up quickly around noon.

Also, make sure to buy the ticket online the day before so you do not have to line up to get the ticket when you arrive, which will take even longer. You can book the ticket here. The ticket for a roundtrip ride is 430 ZAR (23.33 USD) and the cable car opens at 8 AM or 8:30 AM depending on the season and it closes around 7 PM, or earlier if it gets too windy.

3. Go on a Helicopter Tour Around Cape Town

I was in Cape Town for my 36th birthday and decided to reward myself with a helicopter tour around Cape Town, and my goodness, was it worth it. You can’t truly appreciate how massive and beautiful Cape Town and Table Mountain are until you’ve seen them from afar in the air.

For my helicopter tour, I went with Cape Town Helicopters company, and I picked the Atlantic Coast route, which is a 20-minute flight that took me out into the ocean to see Cape Town and its iconic DHL Stadium from afar. Hands down, one of the most iconic views I saw on this flight. I was seated in front looking left, so I was able to enjoy the view first. But if you are seated on the right side, don’t worry, you will see the view on your way back.

The ride then took us over Signal Hill and Lion’s Head before swerving along the coastline, passing Camps Bay, the Twelve Apostles, Hout Bay, and more before returning to Cape Town. During the flight, the helicopter operator shared some really interesting facts about the history of the mountains and peaks we saw, including how they got their names. He even pointed out the lake at the top of Table Mountain—something you wouldn’t be able to see unless you were in a helicopter—and much more.

The helicopter fits about five passengers—one in the front and four in the back. I was lucky enough to be seated in the front, but I didn’t envy those in the two middle seats at the back. Sharing window space with another passenger can be challenging, especially if you don’t know them.

If you go with the same tour I did, they will pick you up at your hotel in Cape Town and take you to the helicopter pad at the Waterfront. Once there, you’ll need to store your bags in a locker, as you won’t be allowed to carry anything on your body except a camera. The safety belts won’t accommodate extra items, so it’s best to pack light.

Once the flight is completed, you’ll be brought back to the office, where you’ll have the option to either return to your accommodation on your own or take the free shuttle to the Waterfront area. From there, you can enjoy a complimentary boat ride, which is included in the tour.

The boat ride is nice and calm, and you’ll likely spot some seals, but the view was definitely more impressive from the helicopter. Since it’s included in the price, you might as well take the ride, then spend the rest of your day exploring the Waterfront—an awesome area to discover! You can catch the free boat ride from here.

4. Explore Waterfront

As you finish the helicopter tour, you can ask them to drop you off at Waterfront, which is another one of my favorite districts to explore in Cape Town. This whole area is lively, vibrant, and extremely safe.

Here, you can walk along the beautiful promenade and admire the charming old colonial buildings with a stunning backdrop of Table Mountain. You can also take a cruise around the waterfront for a fantastic view of Table Mountain and the port area. Keep an eye out for seals as you go boating. If you took the same helicopter tour, you can also enjoy a free boat ride from here, which is included in the tour.

One of the highlights here is the Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa (MOCAA), which houses an extensive collection of contemporary African art, featuring innovative exhibitions and installations by African artists that showcase the true richness of Africa’s artistic heritage. The building itself is also fascinating, as it was once a grain silo and has now been transformed into a stunning example of brutalist-style architecture.

If you love history, you can also take a boat trip from this terminal to Robben Island, a UNESCO World Heritage Site located just off the coast of Cape Town. This island is famously known as the place where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned, and you can visit its museum to learn about his incarceration and its significant role in history.

There are also many restaurants, cafes, and shopping malls at the Waterfront where you can relax and enjoy yourself, or you can spend your day simply strolling along the beautiful promenade until sunset. With so many things to do and see, be sure to dedicate at least half a day to exploring the Waterfront.

5. Admire the African Penguins at Boulders Beach

If you want to see a penguin in Cape Town, the best place to do so is at Boulders Beach, a unique colony of African penguins located near Simon’s Town on the Cape Peninsula about 45 minutes’ drive away from Cape Town. You can get there by either renting a car or going with an organized tour here.

In 1982, a pair of these penguins settled here, and their numbers have since grown to approximately 3,000, making it one of the few places where you can observe these endangered birds up close in their natural habitat.

The beach is sheltered by ancient granite boulders, which is likely why the penguins chose to settle here in the first place. The area is part of Table Mountain National Park and is protected to ensure the safety of the penguin colony. You can enter the designated beach area to see the penguins up close, or you may find them wandering all along the coastline.

With the designated area, you’ll have access to the boardwalk, which allows you to get up close to the penguins without impacting their environment. However, there is an entrance fee of 215 ZAR (approximately 12 USD). Since the penguins don’t strictly stick to the protected area, you’ll often spot them all the way at Seaforth Beach, which is free to access. If you prefer not to pay, you can still see them there, though in fewer numbers.

The designated penguin viewing area is open daily from 8 AM to 5 PM, with an entrance fee of 215 ZAR (12 USD). If you’ve never seen a penguin before, this is one of the most accessible places in the world to do so. Be sure to drop by and experience the charm of Boulders Beach.

6. Take Photos at Cape of Good Hope

Another scenic spot you will not want to miss here is Cape of Good Hope, a famous rocky headland located on the Atlantic coast of the Cape Peninsula about an hour away from Cape Town. This place was first sighted by Portuguese navigator Bartolomeu Dias in 1488 during his expedition to chart the southernmost limits of the African continent.

Fun fact, contrary to common belief, the Cape of Good Hope is not the southernmost point of Africa; that distinction belongs to Cape Agulhas, situated approximately 150 kilometers (90 miles) to the east-southeast, but people still mistake it as such all the time. That said, it is still an important place historically, and a great place to visit as a day trip from Cape Town.

Here, you can take photos with the sign as proof that you made it to “almost” the south-western point of the African continent 😂, and go for a stroll along the rocky coastline. Just be mindful of the wind as it can be extremely windy here, especially after mid-day, as you can see from the photo here 😅.

You can rent a car and drive here, or opt for an organized tour that covers not only the Cape of Good Hope but also other highlights like Boulders Beach, the top of Table Mountain, and more as part of a comprehensive day trip. This is a great option for those who want to see multiple attractions in one day.

To enter the area, you’ll need to pay the national park fee of 455 ZAR (25 USD). While it’s not cheap, the fee also grants you access to the New Cape Point Lighthouse, which is our next destination. The national park is open daily from 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM, so plan your visit accordingly to make the most of your time here.

7. Hike to New Cape Point Lighthouse ☀️ Great Day Trip

As you explore Cape Peninsula, be sure to head all the way to the New Cape Point Lighthouse and take a walk up for a grand view of the coastline and the peninsula. The view is truly spectacular here, as you will have a sweeping panoramic view of the dramatic eastern coastline and the impressive cliffs of Cape Point.

When you visit Cape Point, you’ll encounter two lighthouses: the original one, built in 1859 atop Da Gama Peak, and the newer one constructed in 1914. The original lighthouse stands about 238 meters above sea level and was constructed atop Da Gama Peak, the summit of Cape Point.

While its height made it highly visible to ships, it was often shrouded in mist and fog. Its height also caused ships to see the light too early, bringing them dangerously close to the rocky coastline. These challenges became evident when the Portuguese liner Lusitania was wrecked near Cape Point in 1911, which is why they decided to build a new lighthouse.

The new lighthouse is situated about 87 meters above sea level and serves as a much better and more reliable beacon for navigating the treacherous waters around Cape Point. Its light is the most powerful on the South African coast, with an intensity of 10 megacandelas per flash, visible from over 63 kilometers away.

The lighthouse is still operational today and serves as a crucial navigational aid along the South African coast. You can visit Cape Point and hike up to the old lighthouse to enjoy a sweeping view of the coast, or take the funicular instead. To get here, you can rent a car and drive yourself or join an organized tour, which includes this lighthouse along with other attractions around Cape Point.

8. Hang out at Muizenberg Beach

If you’ve ever come across a photo of colorful wooden houses lined up along the beach while researching Cape Town and wondered where they are, you’ll find them at Muizenberg Beach, a stunning white sand beach that stretches over 23 km along the shoreline and is one of my favorite beaches here.

Thanks to my local friend Andrea, who introduced me to Muizenberg Beach — an area I might never have discovered on my own — it has become one of my favorite spots. The beach offers a vast, spacious shoreline with fine white sand and a lively atmosphere. You’ll find everyone here, from surfers riding the waves to families with their dogs happily running along the beach.

One of the beach’s most iconic features is its colorful Victorian-style beach huts, which serve as not just changing rooms but also a distinctive landmark. A sign at the beach even humorously notes that these huts are what set Muizenberg Beach apart from others. Without them, it would be just another beach — a reminder of why it is everyone’s job in the community to keep them clean and help take care of them.

There’s plenty to do here. If you’re interested in learning how to surf, this is the perfect spot, thanks to its consistent and manageable waves that are ideal for beginners. The beach is lined with several surf schools and rental shops, so much so that it has earned the nickname “Surfers’ Corner”.

There’s also a charming café where you can enjoy breakfast and hang out called Hang Ten Café, located right in front of Muizenberg Beach. I absolutely love it here. The atmosphere is vibrant, filled with a mix of people — from surfers and digital nomads to entrepreneurs. If you’re looking for a beach spot to relax for the day, you really can’t go wrong with Muizenberg Beach.

9. Swim in the Atlantic Ocean at Miller’s Point Tidal Pool 💎 Hidden Gem

Once again, thanks to my local friend who introduced me to her favorite hidden gem — Miller’s Point Tidal Pool. It’s one of the many tidal pools along the Cape Peninsula where locals like to go for a swim. As you drive along the coast, you’ll spot several tidal pools, but this one is more spacious than most and incredibly peaceful. We had the entire place to ourselves the whole time. I absolutely loved it!

The water is pretty cold, especially since I was born and raised in Thailand, where the waters are always warm. It was quite a shock to the system when I first went in, but after a while, my body got used to it, and it was incredibly refreshing, especially when the sun was out.

If you’re looking for a peaceful spot to swim near Muizenberg Beach, away from the crowds, this is the perfect place. To get there, you’ll need to rent a car, as finding an Uber for the return trip might be tricky since it’s located in a more secluded area and you won’t find any tour coming this way, which is what makes it such a hidden gem. So, if you rent a car, be sure to drive over and check out the tidal pool!

10. Drive the scenic Chapman’s Peak

If you’ve rented a car to explore Cape Town, one of the most scenic drives you can take is along Chapman’s Peak, a prominent mountain on the Cape Peninsula, situated between Hout Bay and Noordhoek. The road runs along the western face of the mountain, which descends sharply into the ocean, making for a breathtaking scenic drive.

You’ll find many viewpoints along the way where you can park and take in the stunning beauty of Chapman’s Peak, as well as the western coastline of Cape Town. This viewpoint and this one are perfect spots to stop for photos, as they provide a perfect vantage point to see the Hout Bay area and its rhino-shaped mountain backdrop.

Due to the challenging conditions along the road, with steep cliffs and sharp descents, you’ll need to pay a toll to help maintain it. The toll is 60 ZAR (3.25 USD) one way. Chapman’s Peak is a popular spot for sunset, so if you decide to rent a car, be sure to drive here and enjoy the stunning views of the peak as the sun sets.

11. Take Photos of the Colorful Houses at Bo-Kaap

After spending more than half of this travel guide exploring attractions outside of Cape Town, let’s head back to the city and see what you can enjoy without needing to drive or join an organized tour. One of the most photogenic spots in the city that you won’t want to miss is Bo-Kaap, formerly known as the Malay Quarter. This vibrant neighborhood is famous for its colorful houses, which make it one of the most photogenic areas in Cape Town.

Established in the 1760s, Bo-Kaap was initially inhabited by enslaved people brought from Southeast Asia, many of whom were skilled artisans. Over time, it became a center for the Muslim community in Cape Town. The area is also home to the Auwal Mosque, the oldest mosque in South Africa, built in 1794, so be sure to check it out while here.

What’s lovely about Bo-Kaap for me are the cobblestone streets and the distinctive architecture that feature a blend of Cape Dutch and Georgian architectural styles. The colorful facades of the houses are believed to symbolize freedom and expression, with the tradition of painting homes in bright colors becoming prominent in the late 20th century.

If you’re staying in the City Bowl, you should be able to walk to the Auwal Mosque easily. Alternatively, if you’re going on a day trip to Cape Point, the tour will often include a brief stop here for photos, making it a great option for those staying further from the city center.

12. Walk around The Company’s Garden

If you’re looking for a lovely green space in the city center to take a stroll and enjoy the beautiful view of Table Mountain, you might want to check out the Company’s Garden. I stumbled upon this garden while exploring the area near where I was staying, and I was so impressed by how lush and lively it is, especially considering it’s right in the heart of the city.

As it turns out, this is the oldest public garden in the city. Established in 1652 by the Dutch East India Company, it was originally created to cultivate and provide fresh produce to passing ships. Over time, the garden transformed from a utilitarian space into a botanical garden. From the 17th century to today, it has become an attraction renowned for its diverse collection of trees, shrubs, vegetables, and flowers.

As you walk around the garden, you’ll find yourself surrounded by massive trees, rose gardens, well-stocked fish ponds, and, at the heart of it all, the Delville Wood Memorial Garden, which commemorates the Battle of Delville Wood. Within the vicinity, you’ll also find museums like the Iziko South African Museum and the Iziko National Gallery, both worth visiting.

It’s one of my favorite spots in the City Bowl because the city center can get pretty hectic and chaotic at times. It’s always good to know where to escape when you want to get away from the hustle and bustle. If you’re exploring the city center, be sure to check out the garden!

If you want to learn more about the history of Cape Town, a great place to start is District 6 Museum, a wonderful museum dedicated to the people who used to live in the vibrant, multicultural community that once thrived in District Six before the apartheid-era forced them to be removed.

Inside the museum, you’ll find a variety of exhibits with maps, photos, and personal items that tell the stories of the former residents and the vibrant culture of the community. The museum is not very big, with most exhibits all concentrated in the main hallway, with a few other displays on the second floor’s balcony.

There’s a lot to read, so if you really want to truly understand the people who once called District Six home, be sure to dedicate at least an hour here. The museum has a lot to tell, so be sure to dedicate at least an hour here. The museum is open from 9 AM to 4 PM every day except on Sundays and the entrance fee is 60 ZAR (3.25 USD) per person.

14. Check Out Iziko Slave Lodge 🏛️ Best Museum

Another museum you might want to check out while exploring the city center is the Iziko Slave Lodge, a museum dedicated to the history of slavery in South Africa. Located not far from the Company’s Garden, this museum offers a profound insight into the experiences of enslaved individuals brought to the Cape Colony, as well as the broader impact of slavery on the country’s development.

The museum features exhibits with photographs, maps, and personal artifacts that tell the stories of former residents and how they brought their cultures to Cape Town, shaping the cultural diversity we see today. What’s particularly interesting about this museum is that it is housed in one of Cape Town’s oldest buildings, a real slave lodge that was established in the 17th century.

You can truly feel the history as you walk through the building, moving from one exhibit to another, each scattered across its windowless, almost depressing structure. It’s both humbling and eye-opening as you learn about the enslaved people brought here from various parts of the world, including Southeast Asia, East Africa, and the Indian Ocean islands.

If you’re interested in learning about South Africa’s complex history, this museum is a must-see during your visit to Cape Town. It’s open daily from 9 AM to 5 PM, except on Sundays, and the entrance fee is 60 ZAR (3.25 USD) per person.

What to Eat and Drink in Cape Town?

One of my favorite cafes to visit in Cape Town is Truth Coffee Roasting. It’s a steampunk-inspired café with an incredible atmosphere—when you walk in, it feels like you’ve stepped into a whole different world, complete with steampunk décor, exposed pipes, and industrial elements.

Not only does their decor stand out, but the coffee is absolutely delicious. They even give their coffee drinks fun names, like potions, etc., which I think was a nice touch. And don’t even get me started on their egg benedict—it’s one of the best I’ve had here!

If you’re in the mood for a cozy, unique spot with top-notch coffee and brunch, this place is a must-visit. It’s on the pricier side, but I think it’s worth it, especially to try their brunch menu and coffee. The café is open from 7 AM to 10 PM from Tuesdays to Saturdays, 8 AM to 4 PM on Sundays, and 7 AM to 6 PM on Mondays.

2. Try the Toasted Cheese at Clarke’s Bar & Dining Room

One of the places I often frequent whenever I’m in the mood for a delicious brunch is Clarke’s Bar & Dining Room, thanks to my friend who recommended this place to me. The restaurant is located on Bree Street and offers a variety of all-day breakfast, brunch, and dinner options, making it perfect for any meal of the day.

Their toasted cheese sandwiches are incredible! I ordered the grilled cheese with soup and the BLT sandwich (at different times, of course, because I can’t eat them all at once—even if I wanted to 😛), and they were just perfect. I love how crispy the toasted bread is. I’m already drooling just typing this!

It is one of my favorite restaurants here, so if you are looking for a nice cozy place to enjoy brunch/lunch or dinner, be sure to come and check out Clark’s Bar. The restaurant is open from 7 AM to 11 PM on weekdays, 8 AM to 11 PM on Saturdays, and 8 AM to 3 PM on Sundays.

3. Try Dark Chocolate at Honest Chocolate Cafe

After lunch, you’re probably craving a dessert to complete your meal, and I can’t think of a better place than Honest Chocolate Cafe. This cafe is dedicated to serving the most authentic and delicious chocolate treats you can find in Cape Town, and they definitely deliver with an impressive selection of dark chocolate items to choose from.

From the banana bread ice cream volcano, which is my favorite, to their handmade chocolate ice cream, you can’t go wrong with any dessert option. The chocolate is rich and intense, yet still sweet and delicious. And if you’re in the mood for something a little extra, you can enjoy their tasty mocha, combining the best of chocolate and coffee!

If you love chocolate (who doesn’t, right?), then you better come and try Honest Chocolate Cafe when you are in Cape Town. The cafe is open from 9 AM to 6 PM every day.

How to Get to Cape Town?

From the US: Traveling from the U.S. to Cape Town typically involves at least one stopover, often in European or Middle Eastern cities. Airlines such as United Airlines and Delta Air Lines offer flights from various U.S. cities, including New York, Washington D.C., and Atlanta, to Cape Town. The flight can take anywhere from 14 to 20 hours. You can browse Skyscanner or Expedia to find deals on flights.

From Europe: Cape Town is well-connected to several European cities, offering both direct and connecting flights. Airlines such as British Airways, KLM, and Turkish Airlines operate flights from major European hubs like London, Amsterdam, and Frankfurt. A direct flight from Europe should take about 11 hours.

From Asia: You can reach Cape Town through connecting flights, often transiting through Middle Eastern or African hubs. Airlines such as Singapore Airlines and Qatar Airways operate flights from cities like Singapore and Doha to Cape Town. The flight duration varies, typically ranging from 15 to 20 hours.

How to Get from Cape Town Airport to Your Accommodation?

The best way to get from Cape Town International Airport to anywhere in the city is to download a taxi-hailing app like Bolt and Uber and call the taxi from there. Bolt is a bit more affordable and as reliable as other options, and it is the app I used to get around Cape Town the most.

At Cape Town airport, there is a designated pick-up zone for taxi-hailing apps, known as the E-hailing pick-up area, located inside Parkade 1. As you exit the central terminal, head right and follow the yellow signs to Parkade 1. You’ll eventually see a sign for the pick-up zone—just follow it, and you’ll get there in no time. Once you arrive, there are benches where you can sit while waiting for your taxi. Easy peasy!

The price of a taxi from the airport to the city typically ranges from 85 to 130 ZAR (4.6 to 7 USD), depending on where you’re staying in the city center and the traffic conditions. For example, it should take about 20 to 30 minutes to reach the City Bowl during non-rush hours. Traffic can get quite heavy during peak rush hours, so be sure to plan ahead if you’re arriving between 8 and 9 AM or 5 and 7 PM.

To get back to the airport, simply use the same app to hail a taxi. It’s convenient, safe, and reliable. Avoid the taxi drivers who approach you at the airport, even if they look like official taxi drivers — unless you’re looking for trouble 😅. They are scammers in disguise. Stick to the app, and you’ll have no issues here.

How to Get Around Cape Town?

By Uber/Bolt: Same goes for getting around the city. If you want to travel to far away places like Muizenberg Beach or anywhere in the city that’s not within walking distance, it’s best you stick to either Bolt or Uber. They are safe, reliable, and affordable.

By Walking: If the place you want to visit is not too far from your accommodation, walking can be a good option. However, be sure to stick to well-lit, busy streets instead of small, quiet alleyways. It’s also a good idea to avoid walking at night and instead use Bolt or Uber for safety. Also, avoid walking alone on hiking trails, especially those that start from the city and lead up to Table Mountain, as there have been reports of robberies in those areas. I’ll cover more on how to stay safe under the safety section below.

By Organized Tours: Another option is to join an organized tour, which takes the stress out of logistics and safety concerns, as the tour operators handle everything for you. This is especially useful for visiting places further from the city, like Cape of Good Hope, Boulder Beach, and others, where getting around without a car can be challenging. You can browse available organized tours here.

How Long to Spend in Cape Town?

Four days is the perfect amount of time to fall in love with Cape Town and experience its amazing outdoor activities. On your first day, embark on a day trip to explore Cape Peninsula, Boulders Beach, Cape of Good Hope, and Cape Point. On the second day, dive into the City Bowl and eat your way through Bree Street. For day three, enjoy a helicopter tour and explore the Waterfront. Finally, on your fourth day, take on the hike to Lion’s Head for stunning views of the city.

For a complete itinerary to Cape Town, check out:4 Days in Cape Town: A Backpacking Itinerary

Is it safe in Cape Town?

Safety is a significant concern in Cape Town, and for good reason, as there have been many reports of tourists being robbed, especially since COVID. Even my local friend warned me about it—she was robbed herself when she was working in the Woodstock area. Some guys surrounded her and robbed her in her office’s parking lot. I mean, if a local gets robbed here, it’s definitely something you need to be aware of. I spent over a week here without any issues, but I was extra careful about where I walked and how I presented myself when outside.

I stayed in the City Bowl area, which can be a little hectic and unsafe at times. However, since there are a lot of people out and about during the day, I was able to walk around and visit all the nearby museums without any issues. I stuck to the main roads and only explored the smaller streets when there were plenty of people around.

On the other hand, nights in the City Bowl can be a little sketchy. My room faced the main street, and I did hear a couple of gunshots at night, so I would recommend avoiding walking alone after sundown. Instead, use Uber or Bolt if you need to get around the city after dark.

Location plays a role in your safety as well. For example, Waterfront feels pretty safe most of the time, as it’s quite far from the city center, so you might want to consider staying in that area. The City Bowl is fine during the day but can be eerily quiet at night, so it may not be the best place to stay if you’re concerned about safety after dark.

Also, if you plan to hike Table Mountain, avoid hiking alone! Some trails, like Lion’s Head, are safe to hike solo if you start your hike at this parking lot rather than those that begin right from the city. I’ve heard reports of tourists being robbed on trails that start in the city. Once you start from the parking lot, it’s safer, as the trail goes straight up to Lion’s Head, and you’ll find many people hiking this trail throughout the day, from sunrise to sunset.

There are many other hiking trails around Table Mountain, and some of them can be quite remote and dangerous, both in terms of thieves and the weather. Remember to avoid hiking alone and always pack for all kinds of weather, as conditions can change drastically once you’re up there. It’s also easy to get lost, as there are numerous trails that crisscross one another, so make sure you know your route. Even today, tourists still tragically lose their lives up there after getting lost, and sometimes the rescue teams can’t reach them in time.

Also, don’t keep money in your hotel room. Maids have been known to go through your stuff, and if they find anything they can take without you noticing, they will. Big electronics are generally safe, but money is easy to lose track of, and they might grab a few bills while cleaning. Trust me, I’ve had my bag searched by the maids—I noticed the zips weren’t where I had left them many times. They didn’t take anything because I always keep my money with me, but they definitely went through my things. So, keep your valuables with you, not in the hotel room.

All in all, trust your instincts. If you’re unsure about your safety, don’t take the risk. Nothing is worth putting your life in danger. If a street looks sketchy, avoid it. Hike with others, avoid walking alone at night, don’t flaunt your wealth, and you should be fine here.

What to Pack for Cape Town?

As you may already know, I am an advocate of light traveling, and indeed, packing light for a journey like this is a unique art form. Here are some packing tips for your upcoming trip to Cape Town, South Africa:

• Walking/Hiking Shoes: With all the walking and possible hiking during your travel, a comfortable pair of shoes is a must. I recommend the Timberland 3-Eye Classic Boat Shoes that are my go-to pair for long strolls and hikes.
• Breathable Shirts: Given the potential for hot weather, pack a few breathable shirts for your outdoor adventures.
• Shorts/Jeans: Anticipate lots of walking during your travels? Be sure to pack some breathable shorts and a pair of Levi’s jeans for when the weather cools. For women, leggings are excellent for both hot and cold climates, so consider packing some as well.
• Fleece Jacket: For colder weather, layering is the key, and a fleece jacket makes an excellent insulating layer. I recommend the Columbia Steens Mountain Fleece (for women).
• Outer Shell Jacket: An outer shell jacket is great for windy or rainy conditions. I highly recommend the Columbia Watertight Jacket (for women). It’s lightweight, breathable, and even comes in a cool orange color.
• Microfiber Towel: A Microfiber towel is the ideal backpacker’s towel due to its lightness, quick drying, and compressibility.
• Camera: You should also pack a good camera for your trip so that you can capture all the beautiful experiences you might have. I recommend the Sony a7R V camera together with the Sony 24-70mm f2.8 GM II lens, which is probably the highest-performance camera and lens combination you can get right now.
• Power Bank: Keep your electronics charged on the go with a 20,000+ mAh Power Bank.
• Water Bottle: The Hydro Flask Trail Water Bottle is a great insulated water bottle to have with you in cities or on hiking trails. It is lightweight and can keep your water cold or warm for more than 12 hours. It’s a total game-changer.
• Universal Adapter: You’ll need just one universal adapter to plug in your electronics in any country you visit.
• Packing Cubes: Packing Cubes will help you save space in your backpack and keep all your belongings organized.
• Daypack: The Langly Alpha Globetrotter is my go-to everyday camera backpack. It’s large enough to carry all my travel gear, and it comes with plenty of slots and pouches. Plus, it’s stylish as hell!
• Large Backpack: You will need a large backpack to carry all of your stuff. I recommend the Osprey Atmos AG 65L backpack. With excellent weight distribution and a lifetime guarantee, you can’t go wrong with Osprey.

For more information on what I pack in my backpack for this trip, check out: My Packing List: 60 Travel Essentials.

Further Reading for South Africa

If you are looking for more articles about South Africa, here are a few articles that might help you plan your trip:

• Looking for a complete Cape Town itinerary? Check out: 4 Days in Cape Town: A Backpacking Itinerary.
• For the best hike in Cape Town, you can’t go wrong with Lion’s Head Peak. Check out A Complete Hiking Guide to Lion’s Head for all the details.
• Thinking of visiting Blyde River Canyon? You absolutely should! Here’s what my experience was like: Visiting Blyde River Canyon, South Africa.
• Kruger National Park was my first-ever safari experience, and I was hooked! Here’s how my adventure unfolded: 4 Days Exploring Kruger National Park with Viva Safaris.
• Curious about what biking around a township in Jo’Burg is like? Check out: Exploring Soweto on a Bike.
• To see all articles about South Africa, be sure to check out our South Africa travel guide page.
• Looking for more travel guides for Africa? You will find more over at our Africa page.
• For more of my travel guides, visit my Destinations page.