Cape Town
2,446 km²
1652
September to March (Summer)
Be embraced by the Mother City
Cape Town is one of South Africa’s must-see destinations, frequently named as one of the best cities in the world. Under the gaze of the iconic Table Mountain, visitors are spoilt for choice with the cosmopolitan cuisine, diverse cultural experiences and array of exciting activities. Cape Town is the ideal starting or finishing point for your safari or beach holiday in South Africa.
Cape Town’s abundant attractions
As a whole, South Africa is commonly referred to as ‘A world in one country’. And nowhere is this notion better exemplified than in Cape Town.
By its very nature, it would seem the Mother City was always destined to attract visitors into her welcoming embrace.
Even from a distance, Cape Town promises adventure. Rising above the cool waters of the Atlantic Ocean, the unmistakable silhouette of Table Mountain suggests a place of adventure, panoramic landscapes and enduring memories.
Cape Town’s beaches and natural attractions
Below, the city is ringed by white, sandy beaches and waters rich in marine life. Here, you can soak up the sun’s rays in the company of fun-loving locals and a smattering of international celebrities.
A short drive from the city centre takes you to Boulders Beach, home to a charming colony of penguins – one of the most unique wildlife encounters in Cape Town, South Africa.
If you love the outdoors, you’ll love exploring Cape Town’s many trails, whether on foot, on a bike or on horseback. Table Mountain National Park is a great place to start.
Within just minutes of leaving the city centre, you can immerse yourself in the rhythms of nature amid an astonishing diversity of fauna and flora.
Endless list of things to do in Cape Town
A key ingredient in Cape Town’s appeal is its people. Rightfully proud of their home, the locals are eager to share their way of life and the past that shaped their present.
As such, you’ll find an abundance of attractions that celebrate the city’s diverse multinational influences.
Whether your interests are historical, cultural or traditional, there are districts, museums, galleries, live performances, and Cape Town tour packages that herald the city’s multicultural identity.
Cape Town’s restaurants and nightlife
To fuel your experience, Cape Town is renowned for its cuisine. No matter what your taste or budget, you will find it in the Mother City.
Unsurprisingly, seafood is commonplace, whether as street food or served in many of Cape Town’s amazing restaurants.
In keeping with the city’s cosmopolitan environment, popular dishes are widely available, often with a local twist. To wash it all down, there are bars, coffee shops and nightclubs aplenty.
On the continent, Cape Town’s nightlife is legendary.
A brief history of Cape Town
Long before Cape Town became a city, the area was home to the Khoekhoe and San peoples, whose presence and culture shaped the region for thousands of years.
In 1652, Dutch settlers arrived to establish a resupply station for passing ships, marking the beginning of colonial expansion.
Over time, Cape Town grew into South Africa’s first city and, under British colonial rule, became a key port and the country’s legislative capital.
It also played a pivotal role in the anti-apartheid movement, a legacy that lives on in its diverse and dynamic communities.
Today, Cape Town reflects a rich tapestry of histories, cultures, and resilience.
Where to stay in Cape Town
In keeping with all this variety, accommodation options in Cape Town cater to all tastes and budgets.
From camping to ultra-luxurious private villas, and from social hostels to secluded retreats, there’s a place for everyone to rest their heads after a fun-filled day in this vibrant city.
Accessible Table Mountain
Rising over 1000 metres above the city, you can summit on foot or by cable car.
A unique floral kingdom
The endemic fynbos flora has earned the city UNESCO World Heritage Site Status.
Award-winning city
Cape Town is regularly nominated for Best City, Best Cuisine and Best Beach awards.
WHEN TO GO
Best time to visit Cape Town
When to visit Cape Town depends in part on what your interests are, although it is popular throughout the year.
The peak tourism season runs from late November to early March, coinciding with the summer months, and is ideal for time outdoors and on the beach.
To avoid the crowds, visit during the spring months of September and October when blooming flowers and mild weather predominate.
If you plan to go whale-watching, you’ll see plenty of these ocean giants between June and November.
Autumn (fall), over April and May, offers the calm weather and rich light sought after by photographers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Dry Season
November to MarchIdeal for beach and outdoor activities
Rainy Season
May to AugustBest for surfing, cultural experiences and whale-watching (from June to November)
Why to go
For a taste of Africa in familiar surroundings
Multi-award-winning Cape Town offers visitors a taste of Africa, all while being surrounded by the comfortably familiar.
The city’s world-class tourism facilities have been refined over time to exceed the expectations of the most world-weary traveller.
Accessible from across the globe, the city’s diverse cultural heritage means all visitors are always welcome. And, like any good host, the city comfortably accommodates all manner of interests, tastes and backgrounds.
Whether you are interested in nature, sport, arts, history, culture, cuisine, architecture or simply want to get away from it all, Cape Town has got you covered.
“South Africa is a dream destination – different landscapes (mountains, savanna, white beaches, turquoise water, boulders, dunes, forests…) a great diversity of animals (from penguins to cheetahs and meerkats), friendly and open-minded locals and as city highlight the wonderful Cape Town. One highlight followed the other and three weeks just flew by.”Alexandra Keppeler and family | South Africa Experience Guest
Where to stay in Cape Town
Locations and distances
Direct flights to Cape Town International Airport are available from hubs in the United Kingdom, Europe, the Middle East and North America. Additionally, regular flights are serviced from several national airports.
By road, Cape Town is roughly 1,400 kilometres (15.5 hours) from Johannesburg and nearly 800 km (8.5 hours) from Port Elizabeth. The national road network is modern and in good condition.
Luxury train options are available from Pretoria.
- Cape Town (V&A Waterfront)
- Stellenbosch 50 km | 45 minutes by road
- Hermanus 125 km | 2 hours by road
- Johannesburg (International Airport) 1420 km | 2 hours flight
- Kruger National Park (Skukuza) 1790 km | 2.5 hours flight
- Addo Elephant NP (Africamps Addo) 815 km | 9 hours by road
- George 435 km | 55 minutes flight | 5 hours by road
- Cape of Good Hope 65 km | 1.5 hours by road
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