Whether you have lived here all your life or recently moved to the Mother City, tourist activities in Cape Town are not only for those who are visiting for the first time. Even those who have lived their entire lives in this part of the world can fall in love with the city when seeing it with fresh eyes. To help you enjoy your home city even more, we’ve put together a list of our favourite, local-approved tourist activities in Cape Town.
Tourist Activities in Cape Town That Even Locals Will Love
Fall in love with the city all over again with these local-approved tourist activities in Cape Town.
1/ Experience Table Mountain.
It’s surprisingly easy to forget that we have a magnificent flat-topped mountain right in front of us that is ideal for exploring. Whether you venture up the mountain in a cable car, try a hike up Lion’s Head or take a stroll on Tafelberg Road, everyone should experience Table Mountain at least a few times a year.
2/ Take a spin on the Wheel of Excellence.
When was the last time you took a spin on the Wheel of Excellence at the V&A Waterfront? If you’re anything like me, you may have gone up on the wheel once, only to forget about it from that day onwards. This giant Ferris wheel offers some of the most incredible views imaginable. It’s also plenty of fun to see the city from high above.
3/ Enjoy a Cape sunset.
We are blessed with a staggering number of sundowner spots. How often do you make a plan to watch the sun go down over the city or the ocean? Find your favourite viewing spot, bring a few friends or perhaps a picnic with some bubbly or alcohol-free drinks, and catch a spectacular sunset.
4/ Take a boat cruise.
Boat cruises are a fantastic way to get out onto the ocean and see the world from new perspectives. The Waterfront is a great place to take a cruise, but you could also try Kalk Bay Harbour, Simon’s Town Harbour or even Hout Bay Harbour as well. Whatever time you venture out to sea, this experience is worth every cent.
5/ Discover the Bo Kaap.
The gorgeous Bo Kaap is hugely popular with tourists. But many locals drive past it daily without taking the time to stop and explore. Try a walking tour, visit the local spice market, stop for an authentic Cape Malay dish at Bo-Kaap Kombuis and enjoy the amazing views of this historic village.
6/ Visit Robben Island.
Many South Africans have either only been to Robben Island once (likely in school or very long ago), or they have never been at all. A visit to this island is the best way to get a deeper understanding of the place where former president Nelson Mandela spent so many of his years. You will come away with new appreciation for the sacrifices that were made in South Africa’s journey to freedom.
7/ Shop curios at Greenmarket Square.
Greenmarket Square is often dismissed as a cheesy, tacky tourist shopping spot that sells mostly junk. But amid the clothing and cheap trinkets, you can find some beautiful goodies. Even if you don’t spend any money, just walking around the market or stopping at a local cafe is always rewarding.
8/ Try a helicopter tour.
Helicopters are without a doubt one of the best ways to take in the many amazing sights of the city and its surrounds. The wrap-around windows of helicopters make them ideal for soaring into the sky, looking out onto oceans, fields and other landscapes and watching the world below.
9/ See penguins at Boulders Beach.
A visit to Boulders Beach is always an experience. No matter how long you have lived in the city, nothing compares to a day out in nature, swimming alongside African penguins. Entry into the reserve is cheap and you can take a picnic as long as you take your trash with you when you leave.
10/ Take a drive along the False Bay coast.
After visiting Boulders, we suggest taking a drive out to Cape Point, travelling along the False Bay coastline and taking in the magical sight of oceans and unspoiled landscapes. This part of the world feels like it is far away from the city, offering a great place for a day trip.
Which tourist activities in Cape Town do you love the most as a local? Share your favourite tourist activities in Cape Town below to let us know how you love to discover your city!
