Blessed with natural beauty, South Africa’s Cape Town is home to many iconic attractions including places like Table Mountain, Robben Island, Kirstenbosch National Botanical Gardens, and Victoria & Alfred Waterfront. However, the Mother City has its own share of lesser-known spots worth visiting. To explore the city from a different point of view, here is a list of the most underrated experiences in Cape Town.
1 Explore Spier’s Vineyards on a Segway
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A 300-year-old farm, Spier Vineyards is a great place to visit while staying in the Mother City. One of the best ways to explore these vineyards is by taking a Segway Tour. Hop on this two-wheeled electric vehicle and visit the most intimate parts of the vineyards and learn all about the farm’s biodynamic farming approach. Travelers can opt for the 1-hour tour which costs R250 per person or take the 2-hour Segway tour for R400 per person. Make sure to book well in advance.
2 Hop Aboard the Franschhoek Wine Tram
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There is no shortage of excellent experiences in Cape Town and the popular hop-on-hop-off tram called Franschhoek Wine Tram is definitely of them. Home to dozens of award-winning wine estates, the Franschhoek Valley is a popular destination for both foodies and wine lovers. With plenty to explore, this wine tram offers easy access to many wine estates where you can experience wine tasting and superb cuisine. To make things even better, there are six routes available: the Orange Line, Purple Line, Blue Line, Green Line, Red Line, and Yellow Line.
3 Snorkel Next to Seals Just off Hout Bay
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Hout Bay is one of the rare places in the region where travelers can swim and play with Cape fur seals. There is a huge colony of seals just off Hout Bay and snorkeling with these lovely creatures is an experience unlike any other. The Animal Ocean runs these short trips and they are super professional. Seals might be a bit defensive on land, but under the water, seals are known to be fun and happy to interact with humans.
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4 Go on a Hike to Twee Toll and Crystal Pools Waterfalls
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When we are talking about underrated experiences in Cape Town, it would be a shame not to mention the natural wonders like Twee Toll and Crystal Pools waterfalls. To escape the busy center of the Mother City, go on a hike near Gordon’s Bay to discover the fabulous crystal pool or visit Bains Kloof where you will find the magnificent Tweede toll. Make sure to bring your swimming shorts and a picnic, since this is a full day activity. You will also need to obtain a special permit which allows you to go on both of these hikes.
5 Hot-Air Balloon Trip over Cape Winelands
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Although you can visit the Cape Winelands by car, train, or tram, the most unique way to explore this beautiful wine region is in a hot-air balloon. During this one-hour hot-air balloon flight, you’ll have the best views of the lush meadows and rolling vineyards of the Cape Winelands. The tour also includes complimentary tea and coffee and a full breakfast at the Grande Roche Hotel in Paarl. Winelands Ballooning runs only one flight per day, so make sure to reserve well in advance. Our Stellenbosch Big and Sizzling Bubbles Full Day Tour offers you an opportunity to enjoy a breathtaking sunrise Hot Air Balloon Ride over the region.
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6 Kayaking with Whales in Hermanus
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The whale season in Hermanus runs from July and November and this is the best time to paddle in Walker Bay and admire an abundance of marine life from a kayak. If you get lucky, you might even spot a whale or two. The 2-hour tour in a marine reserve is definitely one of the best experiences in Cape Town for travelers who wish to enjoy sightings of whales, penguins, sea birds, and Cape fur seals. Check out our boat-based whale watching full-day tour for the best whale experience in Cape Town
Need help in planning the perfect holiday? We’ve offer a wide variety of exciting tours in and around Cape Town, contact us today for bookings. Learn more about the Mother City, how to get around, things to do in Cape Town, and more from our blog. We can help you find the perfect place to stay in Cape Town.
