5-Day Scenic Adventure in Cape Town, South Africa
Cape Town, South Africa
5 days
About Cape Town, South Africa
Experience the vibrant culture and breathtaking beauty of Cape Town, South Africa. Nestled between the majestic Table Mountain and the sparkling waters of the Atlantic, Cape Town offers a unique blend of natural wonder and urban sophistication. Explore the historic Robben Island, the colorful Bo-Kaap neighborhood, and the bustling V&A Waterfront. Indulge in world-class wines in the nearby Winelands, or take a scenic drive along the Cape Peninsula to the Cape of Good Hope. Encounter penguins at Boulders Beach, or go whale watching in Hermanus. With its diverse wildlife, rich history, and warm, welcoming people, Cape Town is a destination that captivates the heart and soul. Whether you're an adventurer, a foodie, a history buff, or a nature lover, Cape Town has something for everyone.
5-Day Itinerary
Day 2
Botanical Gardens and Wine Tasting
Morning
Visit the Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden, a world-renowned garden nestled at the foot of Table Mountain.
Lunch
Enjoy lunch at a café within the gardens, surrounded by the stunning flora.
Afternoon
Take a guided tour of the Cape Winelands, sampling some of South Africa's finest wines.
Dinner
Dine at a vineyard restaurant, pairing your meal with locally produced wines.
Evening
Return to Cape Town and relax at your accommodation.
Day 3
Nature Reserve and Penguin Encounter
Morning
Head to the Cape Point Nature Reserve, home to diverse flora and fauna, as well as the iconic Cape of Good Hope.
Lunch
Have a picnic lunch at one of the many scenic spots within the nature reserve.
Afternoon
Visit Boulders Beach and enjoy the company of the resident African penguin colony.
Dinner
Enjoy a seafood dinner at a restaurant near the beach.
Evening
Take a moonlit walk along the beach, listening to the waves crash against the shore.
Day 4
Historical Journey through District Six and Robben Island
Morning
Explore the District Six Museum, which tells the story of the forced removal of residents during the apartheid era.
Lunch
Have lunch at a local café, sampling the diverse flavors of Cape Town.
Afternoon
Visit Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned for 18 years. Take a guided tour to learn about the island's history.
Dinner
Dine at a waterfront restaurant, enjoying the views of the city lights reflecting on the water.
Evening
Enjoy a live performance at one of the city's many theaters.
Day 5
Art, Shopping and Farewell Dinner
Morning
Visit the Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa, the largest museum of contemporary African art in the world.
Lunch
Enjoy lunch at a trendy café in the Silo District.
Afternoon
Spend the afternoon shopping at the V&A Waterfront, home to a wide range of high-end boutiques and local craft markets.
Dinner
Have your final dinner at a restaurant with views of the harbor, reflecting on your Cape Town adventure.
Evening
Take a final stroll along the waterfront, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere and beautiful views.
Attractions in Itinerary (10)
1Table Mountain
Iconic flat-topped mountain with cable cars and hiking trails offering stunning views.
2Bo-Kaap
Historical area known for its brightly colored homes and cobble stoned streets.
3Victoria & Alfred Waterfront
One of Cape Town's biggest tourist attractions, the waterfront offers a variety of shopping, dining, and entertainment options. It also serves as a departure point for ferries to Robben Island.
4Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden
World-renowned botanical garden nestled at the eastern foot of Table Mountain.
5Cape Winelands
A region known for its vineyards and gourmet food. Offers wine tasting tours and stunning landscapes.
6Cape Point Nature Reserve
A nature reserve within the Table Mountain National Park featuring a lighthouse, hiking trails, and stunning views.
7Boulders Beach
Famous for its colony of African penguins, Boulders Beach offers pristine sandy beaches and clear waters in a sheltered cove.
8District Six Museum
Museum preserving the memories of District Six, a mixed community forcibly removed during apartheid.
9Robben Island
Former prison island and now a World Heritage site, known for its history of apartheid.
10Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa
The Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa is a contemporary art museum located at the V&A Waterfront in Cape Town. It is the largest museum of contemporary African art in the world.
Local Food and Drinks (12)
Biltong
Biltong is a form of dried, cured meat that originated in South Africa. It is a popular snack in Cape Town and is often made from beef or game, such as springbok.
Boerewors
Boerewors is a type of sausage popular in South African cuisine. It is traditionally grilled on a barbecue and is a staple at social gatherings and family dinners in Cape Town.
Bunny Chow
Despite its name, Bunny Chow does not contain any rabbit. It is a South African fast food dish consisting of a hollowed-out loaf of bread filled with curry, originating from the Durban Indian community.
Bobotie
Bobotie is a South African dish consisting of spiced minced meat baked with an egg-based topping. It is of Cape Malay origin and is a well-loved traditional meal in Cape Town.
Malva Pudding
Malva Pudding is a sweet and sticky baked dessert of Cape Dutch origin. It contains apricot jam and has a spongy caramelized texture. A cream sauce is often poured over it while it is hot, and it is usually served with custard or ice cream.
Koeksisters
Koeksisters are a traditional South African dessert. They are twisted or braided doughnuts, deep-fried and then soaked in a sweet syrup. They are a popular treat in Cape Town.
Potjiekos
Potjiekos is a traditional Afrikaner stew, made with meat and vegetables and cooked over coals in a round, cast iron, three-legged pot. The dish has been a part of South African culture for centuries and is a favorite in Cape Town.
Rooibos Tea
Rooibos Tea is a herbal tea that is a favorite in Cape Town. It is made from the leaves of the Rooibos bush, native to South Africa. It is enjoyed hot or cold and is often served with a slice of lemon and honey.
Melktert
Melktert is a South African dessert consisting of a sweet pastry crust containing a creamy filling made from milk, flour, sugar and eggs. It is a traditional Afrikaner dessert, commonly found in Cape Town.
Umngqusho
Umngqusho is a traditional South African dish made from samp (crushed maize) and beans. It is a staple food in many households in Cape Town.
Chakalaka
Chakalaka is a South African vegetable relish, usually spicy, that is traditionally served with bread, pap, samp, stews or curries. It is a popular side dish in Cape Town.
Amarula
Amarula is a cream liqueur from South Africa. It is made with sugar, cream and the fruit of the African Marula tree. It is a popular drink in Cape Town and is often served over ice.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit Cape Town, South Africa is during its summer months, from November to February. During this time, the weather is warm, sunny, and perfect for beach activities and exploring the city's outdoor attractions. However, if you're interested in whale watching, the ideal time is between July and November. For wine enthusiasts, the best time to visit the wineries is from late January to April. Please note that December to January is the peak tourist season, so it might be a bit crowded.
National holidays
Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.
| Date | Day | Holiday Name |
|---|---|---|
January 1 | Mon | New Year's Day |
March 21 | Thu | Human Rights Day |
March 29 | Fri | Good Friday |
April 1 | Mon | Family Day |
April 27 | Sat | Freedom Day |
May 1 | Wed | Workers' Day |
June 16 | Sun | Youth Day |
June 17 | Mon | Day off for Youth Day |
August 9 | Fri | National Women's Day |
September 24 | Tue | Heritage Day |
December 16 | Mon | Day of Reconciliation |
December 25 | Wed | Christmas Day |
December 26 | Thu | Day of Goodwill |
How to get around
Car Rental
Renting a car is a popular option for getting around Cape Town. It gives you the freedom to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace. There are numerous car rental companies available at the airport and throughout the city.
Ridesharing
Ridesharing services like Uber and Bolt are widely available in Cape Town. They are a convenient and often cheaper alternative to traditional taxis. You can book a ride using the respective apps on your smartphone.
Public Bus
Cape Town has a reliable and extensive public bus system known as MyCiti. The buses are modern and comfortable, and they cover most parts of the city and its suburbs. You will need a myconnect card to pay for your trips.
Minibus Taxis
Minibus taxis are a common form of public transport in Cape Town. They operate on set routes and you can hail them from the roadside. They are a cheap and fast way to get around, but can be crowded during peak hours.
Bicycle
Cape Town is a bike-friendly city with dedicated cycling lanes in many areas. You can rent a bike from various outlets in the city and explore at your own pace. It's a great way to see the city and get some exercise at the same time.
Train
Metrorail operates train services in Cape Town. The trains connect the city center with the suburbs and some outlying towns. They are a cheap way to travel, but can be crowded during peak hours and delays are not uncommon.
City Sightseeing Bus
The City Sightseeing Bus is a hop-on, hop-off tour bus that covers most of Cape Town's major attractions. It's a convenient way to see the city, especially if you're short on time.
Taxi
Traditional metered taxis are available in Cape Town, but they are not as common as in other cities. They can be hailed on the street or booked in advance. They are more expensive than minibus taxis or ridesharing services.
Foot
Cape Town's city center is compact and walkable, making it easy to explore on foot. Many of the city's major attractions, like the V&A Waterfront, Long Street, and the Company's Garden, are within walking distance of each other.
Important information
CurrencyR ZAR
Time zoneUTC+2
Driving sideLeft
Emergency phoneAmbulance: 10177; Fire: 10177; Police: 10111
Drinking waterYes
Power sockets
Voltage230 V
Things to know about Cape Town, South Africa as a first time visitor
1
Cape Town is located in the Southern Hemisphere, so its seasons are opposite to those in the Northern Hemisphere. Summer is from December to February, and winter is from June to August.
2
The official language is English, but you'll also hear Afrikaans and Xhosa spoken.
3
The currency used is the South African Rand (ZAR). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's also good to have some cash on hand for smaller vendors.
4
Tipping is customary in Cape Town. It's usual to tip 10-15% in restaurants. For taxi drivers, rounding up to the nearest 10 Rand is common.
5
Cape Town is generally safe for tourists, but like any major city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings, especially at night.
6
Public transportation is available but can be unreliable. Renting a car or using ride-hailing services like Uber are popular options.
7
Cape Town is in the South Africa Standard Time zone, which is 2 hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT+2).
8
South Africa uses Type M plug sockets. The standard voltage is 230 V, and the standard frequency is 50 Hz.
9
Tap water in Cape Town is safe to drink, but due to periodic water shortages, it's recommended to use water sparingly.
10
Cape Town is known for its strong winds, especially in summer. Be prepared for sudden changes in weather.
11
Sunscreen is a must, as the sun can be very strong, especially during the summer months.
12
Cape Town has a diverse food scene, with a mix of African, European, and Asian influences. Try local dishes like bobotie and bunny chow.
13
Cape Town is a wine lover's paradise, with numerous vineyards and wine tasting tours available in the surrounding areas.
14
Cape Town has a vibrant nightlife, with a range of bars, clubs, and live music venues to choose from.
15
Shopping in Cape Town offers a mix of high-end boutiques, local artisan markets, and shopping malls.
16
Cape Town is a great city for outdoor activities, with opportunities for hiking, surfing, and wildlife spotting.
17
South Africa has a high rate of HIV/AIDS. It's important to take precautions if engaging in activities that could expose you to the virus.
18
Cape Town can get quite chilly in the winter (June to August), with temperatures ranging from 45°F to 63°F (7°C to 17°C).
19
In summer (December to February), temperatures can range from 60°F to 80°F (15°C to 27°C).
20
Healthcare in Cape Town is of a high standard, but it's recommended to have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical expenses.
Basic Afrikaans to know as a first time visitor
English phrase | Native phrase | Pronunciation | When to use it |
|---|---|---|---|
Hello | Hallo | Hah-low | Greeting someone |
Goodbye | Totsiens | Tot-see-ens | Leaving or saying goodbye |
Please | Asseblief | Ass-eh-bleef | Making a request |
Thank you | Dankie | Dahn-kee | Expressing gratitude |
Yes | Ja | Yah | Agreeing or affirming |
No | Nee | Nay | Disagreeing or denying |
Excuse me | Ekskuus | Eks-koos | Getting attention or apologizing |
I'm sorry | Ek is jammer | Eck iss yah-mer | Apologizing |
Do you speak English? | Praat jy Engels? | Praat yay Eng-els? | Asking if someone speaks English |
I don't understand | Ek verstaan nie | Eck fer-stahn nee | Not understanding something |
Where is the bathroom? | Waar is die badkamer? | Vahr iss dee bad-kah-mer? | Looking for the bathroom |
How much does this cost? | Hoeveel kos dit? | Who-veal koss dit? | Asking for the price |
I need a doctor | Ek het 'n dokter nodig | Eck het 'n dok-ter no-dick | In case of emergency |
Can you help me? | Kan jy my help? | Kan yay may help? | Asking for help |
Can I use my credit card? | Kan ek my kredietkaart gebruik? | Kan eck may kree-deet-kahrt ge-brake? | Asking to pay with credit card |
I would like to order | Ek wil graag bestel | Eck vil graag bestel | Ordering food or drinks |
Water, please | Water, asseblief | Vah-ter, ass-eh-bleef | Asking for water |
Cheers | Gesondheid | Ge-sund-hate | Making a toast |
Good morning | Goeie môre | Goo-ya more-ah | Morning greeting |
Good night | Goeie nag | Goo-ya nag | Saying goodnight |
Packing List
Clothing
Lightweight clothing for warm days
Warm clothing for cooler nights
Rain jacket or umbrella
Comfortable walking shoes
Swimwear
Sunglasses
Hat for sun protection
Toiletries
Travel-sized shampoo and conditioner
Body wash or soap
Toothbrush and toothpaste
Deodorant
Razor and shaving cream
Sunscreen
Insect repellent
Prescription medications
First aid kit
Travel documents and essentials
Passport
Driver's license or ID card
Credit and debit cards
Cash in local currency
Travel insurance documents
Hotel and car rental reservations
Emergency contact information
Electronics and gadgets
Smartphone
Charger for smartphone
Power adapter for South Africa
Digital camera
Charger for digital camera
Portable power bank
Headphones
Miscellaneous items
Travel guidebook for Cape Town
Snacks for travel
Reusable water bottle
Travel pillow and blanket
Earplugs and eye mask
Travel-sized laundry detergent
Plastic bags for dirty clothes
Weather Conditions
Cape Town, South Africa, is known for its Mediterranean climate, which means it has warm, dry summers and mild, moist winters. If you're planning to visit during the summer months, which are from November to February, expect temperatures to range from 63°F to 80°F (17°C to 27°C). It's the perfect weather for beach activities and exploring the city's outdoor attractions. However, it's also the peak tourist season, so be prepared for crowds. Don't forget to pack your sunscreen, hats, and light clothing to protect yourself from the sun. The autumn months, March to May, are also a great time to visit. The temperatures during this period range from 59°F to 75°F (15°C to 24°C). The city is less crowded, and the weather is still warm enough for outdoor activities. Winter, from June to August, is the wettest season in Cape Town. Temperatures can drop to around 46°F (8°C) and go up to 63°F (17°C). If you're planning to visit during this time, pack warm clothing and waterproof gear. Despite the rain, this is a great time to visit if you enjoy indoor activities and want to avoid crowds. Spring, from September to October, sees temperatures ranging from 55°F to 70°F (13°C to 21°C). This is a beautiful time to visit as the city is in bloom. Regardless of when you visit, remember that Cape Town's weather can be unpredictable. It's always a good idea to check the forecast before your trip and pack a variety of clothing options. Also, keep in mind that the sun in South Africa is particularly strong, so always wear sun protection, even on cloudy days.
| Month | Hi / Lo (°C) | Weather Overview |
|---|---|---|
January | 27° / 15° | January is one of the hottest months in Cape Town, with plenty of sunshine and warm temperatures. It's a great time for beach activities and exploring the city. |
February | 28° / 15° | February continues the summer trend with hot, sunny days. It's a perfect time for outdoor activities and wine tours. |
March | 26° / 14° | March sees the start of autumn, with slightly cooler temperatures. It's a good time for hiking and exploring nature. |
April | 24° / 12° | April is a mild month with less rainfall, making it ideal for outdoor exploration and sightseeing. |
May | 21° / 9° | May brings the start of winter with cooler temperatures and more rainfall. It's a good time to visit museums and indoor attractions. |
June | 19° / 7° | June is one of the coolest months in Cape Town, with frequent rain. Indoor activities and whale watching are popular during this time. |
July | 19° / 7° | July is the coldest month, with high chances of rain. It's a good time for indoor activities and enjoying the local cuisine. |
August | 20° / 8° | August sees the end of winter with slightly warmer temperatures. It's a good time for whale watching and spring flower viewing. |
September | 21° / 9° | September marks the start of spring with warmer temperatures and less rain. It's a great time for hiking and wildlife spotting. |
October | 23° / 11° | October offers mild temperatures and less rainfall. It's a good time for outdoor activities and exploring the city. |
November | 25° / 13° | November sees the start of summer with warm temperatures and little rain. It's a great time for beach activities and wine tours. |
December | 26° / 14° | December is a hot, sunny month, perfect for enjoying the beaches and outdoor activities. It's also a busy tourist season, so expect crowds. |
Did you know?
Places near by Cape Town, South Africa
Stellenbosch
Known for its well-preserved Cape Dutch architecture and wine estates.
Franschhoek
Famous for its wine estates and gourmet restaurants.
Hermanus
Best known for southern right whale watching during the southern winter and spring.
Paarl
Known for its scenic beauty and deep viticulture and fruit growing heritage.
West Coast National Park
A paradise for bird lovers and a haven for botanists and all nature lovers.
Klein Karoo
Known for its ostrich farms and Cango Caves.
Agulhas National Park
The southernmost tip of Africa, where the Indian and Atlantic Oceans meet.
Robertson
A town in the Western Cape known for its wine and roses.
Simon's Town
Home to the South African Navy and Boulders Beach, a colony of African Penguins.
Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden
Acclaimed as one of the great botanic gardens of the world.
