MileHacker Logo
Things to Do in Cape Town

Things to Do in Cape Town

Cape Town Western Cape, South Africa Travel Guide

Outdoor Adventures

Explore Cape Town's diverse natural settings with exciting activities.

Hiking & Trekking Routes

Lion's Head

A moderate hike. Scramble chains are available for the concluding ascent, which can be challenging. The return trip takes approximately 1.5-3 hours. It is popular for sunrise and sunset.

Table Mountain

Provides different routes, ranging from moderate (Platteklip Gorge – a sheer, direct ascent taking approximately 2-3 hours up) to challenging (Skeleton Gorge, Maclear's Beacon via the 12 Apostles). Guided hikes recommended.

Other Trails

Devil's Peak (challenging), Silvermine Nature Reserve (simpler to moderate), Cape Point Nature Reserve (various trails).

Water Sports & Activities

  • Surfing: Muizenberg (beginner-friendly, surf schools). Llandudno (challenging waves). Dungeons (advanced big wave).
  • Kayaking: V&A Waterfront canal, Hout Bay, or Simon's Town (kayak with penguins).
  • Stand-up Paddleboarding (SUP): Popular in the V&A Waterfront canal, Camps Bay, and Muizenberg. SUP Gear
  • Kiteboarding/Windsurfing: Bloubergstrand and Big Bay are world-renowned for their excellent wind conditions.

Shark Cage Diving

Paragliding & Abseiling

  • Paragliding: Tandem flights from Lion'the Top of or Signal Hill.
  • Weather-dependent activity.
  • Abseiling: Descend from top of Table Mountain (Abseil Africa).
  • GetYourGuide Paragliding

Canyoning & Ziplining

Safety First

Always check weather conditions and book activities with reputable, certified operators. Prioritize safety briefings and proper equipment use.

Cultural Immersion

Connect with South Africa's diverse heritage through engaging cultural experiences.

Workshops & Community Tourism

  • Cape Malay Cooking Classes: Highly recommended in Bo-Kaap for hands-on experience and cultural insights.
  • Art Workshops: Various galleries and studios painting, pottery, or drawing classes.
  • Drumming Workshops: Opportunities to learn djembe drumming and experience African rhythms.
  • Township Tours: Guided tours (Langa, Khayelitsha) into township life, history, community projects. Choose ethical operators.

Cultural Performances & Language

Cultural Performances & Festivals

Experience local music, dance, and traditional celebrations. African Dance and Drumming Shows at cultural restaurants. Cape Town Minstrel Carnival (early January): Annual street parade. Cape Town International A Festival of jazz music (March/April).

Language Learning

English is widely spoken. Learning a few Xhosa or Afrikaans using phrases is appreciated. Xhosa: Molo (hello), Enkosi (thank you). Afrikaans: Goeiemôre (hello), Dankie (thank you).

Historical & Community Sites

Robben Island Tours, Bo-Kaap Walks, District Six Museum. These sites offer profound cultural insights into Cape Town's past.

Robben Island History

A powerful symbol of democracy and freedom over oppression. Tours led by former political prisoners.

Bo-Kaap Culture

Explore brightly colored houses, cobblestone streets, and unique Cape Malay culture with guided walks.

District Six Memorial

Commemorates the forced removal of residents during apartheid. An emotional and educational site.

Relaxation & Wellness

Find tranquility and rejuvenation amidst Cape Town's beauty.

Spas & Retreats

  • Spa & Wellness Centers: Luxury hotels (One&Only Spa, Twelve Apostles Hotel Spa) and independent spas throughout the city treatments.
  • Hot Springs: Caledon Spa & Hotel (day trip, natural warm mineral springs). Montagu Hot Springs (farther away).
  • Yoga & Meditation: Numerous yoga studios in Cape Town. Retreats in surrounding Winelands or coastal towns.
  • Traditional Healing: Traditional healers (sangomas) form an important part of culture; formal tourist access limited.

Beach & Pool Options

Coastal Relaxation

Camps Bay and Clifton beaches a relaxed atmosphere for sunbathing and swimming. White sand, cool water, scenic beauty.

Pool & Beach Clubs

Many hotels have pools. Look for beach clubs in trendy areas like Camps Bay for a atmosphere.

Tranquil Spots

Arderne Gardens (Claremont) a historic arboretum with exotic trees. Company's Garden a peaceful green space in the city center.

Wellness Activities

Nature Walks

Gentle walks in Kirstenbosch Botanical Garden or Green Point Urban Park.

Garden Visits

Enjoy the tranquility and diverse flora at Kirstenbosch, an UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Ocean Breezes

Relax on the Atlantic Seaboard beaches or get a leisurely stroll along Sea Point Promenade.

Entertainment & Nightlife

Cape Town gets busy after dark, a variety of entertainment options.

Live Music & Nightclubs

  • Long Street: The epicenter of nightlife, many clubs, bars, pubs for dancing, live music (jazz, reggae, local bands).
  • The Verdant Dolphin (V&A Waterfront): A popular jazz restaurant.
  • Harrington's Cocktail Lounge (District Six): Live performances and DJ sets.
  • The Waiting Room (Long Street): An upstairs venue hosting diverse music acts.

Theater & Bar Districts

Theater & Performance

Cape Town's main venues for drama, opera, ballet, and musicals. Artscape Theatre Centre (Foreshore), Baxter Theatre Centre (Rondebosch), Fugard Theatre (District Six - check for reopening).

Bar Districts & Pub Crawls

Lively areas with sophisticated selections for drinks and socializing. Long Street: Famous for its lively bar scene. Bree Street: Trendier bars and restaurants. Kloof Street: Mix of trendy bars and eateries.

Late-Night Entertainment

Many clubs on Long Street stay open until late (02:00-04:00). GrandWest Casino and Entertainment World for casino entertainment (requires transport).

V&A Waterfront Entertainment

Offers more luxurious bars plus lounges, also a range of family-friendly entertainment, museums, and attractions.

Late-Night Fun

Many clubs on Long Street are open up to late (02:00-04:00). GrandWest Casino for casino entertainment, requiring transport.

Jazz & Local Scene

The Lush Dolphin for live jazz. Discover local bands in smaller venues on Long Street for authentic sounds.

Shopping & Markets

Traditional & Artisan Markets
  • Greenmarket Square (CBD): Craft stalls, souvenirs, African art. Haggling expected.
  • Old Biscuit Mill (Woodstock): Neighbourgoods Market on Saturdays for food, fashion, crafts.
  • Artisan Workshops: V&A Waterfront, Woodstock (independent designers), Church Street (antiques, art).
Luxury, Ethical & Souvenirs
  • Luxury Shopping: V&A Waterfront for international and local luxury brands. Bree, Kloof, Church Streets for boutiques.
  • Ethical Shopping: Support local artisans and fair trade initiatives. Inquire about provenance.
  • Souvenirs: Local art, beaded items, Rooibos tea, biltong, Amarula, wines, ostrich leather.

Shipping & VAT Refund

VAT Refund (15%) on exported goods; keep original tax invoices and present goods and passport at Cape Town International Airport upon departure. Major courier services are available for sending.

Activity Planning Summary

Outdoor Focus

  • Table Mountain hikes for stunning views.
  • Water sports at Muizenberg or Bloubergstrand.
  • Wildlife viewing at Boulders Beach (penguins).
  • Adventure like paragliding or shark cage diving.

Cultural & Leisure

  • Bo-Kaap cooking classes for cultural immersion.
  • Museums (Zeitz MOCAA, District Six) for history and art.
  • Spa treatments and relaxation spots.
  • Shopping at V&A Waterfront or local markets.