Cape Town – a vibrant and diverse city filled with activities, cafés, sights, and much more. This is what makes our capital city lively and never boring, an adored location by locals and tourists alike. Most of us have already seen Table Mountain, the penguin colony, or the colourful houses of Bo Kaap, and therefore we’d like to introduce you to some of the not-so-usual activities in and around our beloved city. Whether you’re looking for a thrilling experience or a relaxed day out, we have you covered! Scroll through the top 20 things to do in Cape Town and find the one you would enjoy the most. To help you out, we’ve created categories for easier navigation: water activities, for adrenaline junkies, food & drink, family friendly activities, and fun things to do. Enjoy!

1. Kayak along the Atlantic Seaboard

 

Kayaking along the Atlantic Seaboard is an incredible experience that combines the beauty of nature with the thrill of adventure. One of the best places to start your kayaking adventure is at the V&A Waterfront, where you can rent a kayak and take a guided tour of the area. The V&A Waterfront is home to a variety of sea life, including seals, dolphins, and even the occasional whale. As you paddle along the coast, you'll be able to take in the breath-taking views of Table Mountain and Lion's Head, while also getting a taste of Cape Town's vibrant culture and history. Whether you're a seasoned kayaker or a beginner, this adventure is sure to be a highlight of your trip to Cape Town. 

Price: From R350.
Website: https://waterfrontkayak.co.za/rates

2. Watch the Sunset from a Yacht

Mirage, South Africa’s biggest, and the most luxurious sailing yacht would like to welcome you on board for a 1.5-hour sunset cruise. Enjoy a five-star experience, where you get to view the majesty of Table Mountain while floating along on the Atlantic Ocean and sipping an ice-cold beverage. What an end to any day! If you’re lucky, dolphins and seals will pay you a visit along your journey to show off their swimming skills. Don’t forget to pack a jersey, as the wind can pick up at any time. It’s a must-do experience when visiting Cape Town! 

Price: R385 per person.
Deal: Click here for the experience.

3. Try out Shark and Seal Kelp Forest Snorkelling

Discover marine life together with a qualified marine biologist in an underwater forest! Kelp forests are abundant in the waters around Cape Town and are home to a diverse range of marine life, including different species of sharks and fish. Equipment will be provided, so all you need to do is keep your eyes peeled for any movement. Don’t worry, the shark species found in this area are harmless and your guide will inform you of any safety precautions. This is a beach entry activity, and the snorkelling is no more than 50 metres from the coast.

Price: From R399.
Deals: Click here to view snorkelling deals.

4. Morning Walks along the Sea Point Promenade

One of the best ways to clear the mind and get ready for a busy day is a brisk walk or run by the ocean. Did you know that people who spend at least 20 minutes per day in a blue space (by the sea, lakes, and rivers) are happier and calmer than those who would do the same in more urban areas? The air is refreshing, and the promenade is not as busy in the early hours of the morning which makes it the perfect setting for some exercise. Along the picturesque 7km stretch we can find outdoor gyms that may be used for free as well as an Olympic-sized pool which opens at 7 am and costs only R33 to enter. If you are brave enough, jump in the ocean or a tidal pool for a refreshing yet beneficial 16-degree Celsius swim that will for sure wake you up!

Fun Activities in Cape Town

5. Watch Movies under the Stars

Between October and April, the Galileo Open Air Cinema opens its doors to moviegoers who want a not-so-common experience. Between Cape Town and the Winelands, they operate many venues that often rotate so it always feels new! However, the resident screenings are in Kirstenbosch Gardens and in Central Park, Century City. Indulge in picnic vibes with a delicious variety of food, such as gourmet burgers, pizza, wraps, popcorn, and a selection of snacks. Grab an ice-cold beverage - either alcoholic or non-alcoholic and enjoy the sunset before your favourite movie starts!

Price: From R129.
Website: https://thegalileo.co.za/

6. Enjoy a Scenic Helicopter Ride

Our beautiful city offers so much to see and explore, and one of the best ways to take it all in is by taking a scenic helicopter flight. During your 12-minute experience, a knowledgeable pilot will show you his favourite spots and share interesting facts about the sights. One of the highlights of the flight is flying over the iconic Table Mountain, which offers a panoramic view of the city and its surroundings. You'll also have the opportunity to admire Lion’s Head and Robben Island from a birds-eye view. If you would like to step up your game, book an experience including a divine 3-course meal at the V&A Waterfront.

Price: From R1,569 per person.
Deals: Find various helicopter deals here.

7. Visit a Music Festival

Cape Town and its surroundings are very famous for their vibrant outdoor music festivals. There are many events throughout the year, and they showcase a diverse range of genres, from electronic and hip-hop to rock and jazz. All you need is camping gear, funky clothes, and some friends to enjoy the vibes with. Some of these events offer glamping, as well as built-in accommodation facilities if you are not a fan of camping. Some of the most famous festivals include Afrikaburn, Rocking the Daisies, Cape Town International Jazz Festival, Kirstenbosch Summer Concert Series and many more. There’s still plenty of time to explore!

Price: From R350.

8. Cruise Around the Coast in a Vintage Convertible

Enjoy the trip of a lifetime and explore the beauties of Cape Town in a vintage Ford Cobra! These cars, which were originally manufactured in the 1960s, are considered classic and iconic vehicles. They are known for their powerful engines and sleek, sporty design that everybody admires. All eyes will be on you for sure! If you are interested in this exclusive experience, several packages are available: take someone on a date and keep the vehicle overnight or invest in a dream ride and enjoy the Cobra for 23 hours. Let the wind blow through your hair while you visit the most spectacular sites.

Price: From R2500.
Website: https://www.capecobrahire.com/

Food & Drink in Cape Town

9. Explore the Spice Route in Paarl

Get lost and find yourself at the Spice Route in Paarl, home to endless possibilities and fun! The once major stop on the spice trading route in the 17th century continues to play an important role for the wine industry and visitors from all over the world. Paarl is only a 45-minute, scenic drive from Cape Town’s City Centre, which makes it a perfect weekend trip. Purchase the Spice Route Passport for R280 and let the fun begin! It includes 6 wine tastings paired with cured meats, 4 CBC beer tastings, 5 chocolate - and 3 spirit tastings. But this farm village has much more to offer: explore adventure trails, Pilates classes, pottery studios, gift shops, restaurants and more to have a truly unforgettable day. 

Website: https://www.spiceroute.co.za/

10. Visit Vineyards with the Wine Tram

Your trip to the Western Cape would not be complete without visiting Franschhoek and its exquisite wine farms - and the best way to do it is aboard the famous Wine Tram! This unique experience combines the beauty of the region's vineyards with the convenience of a hop-on, hop-off tram service, making it the perfect way to explore the many wineries in the area. It is super flexible, so you can tailor the tour to your liking and decide which farms to visit and what experiences to try out. You may also opt in for a curated wine experience if you prefer a planned outing. These are slightly pricier, but they do include a 3-course lunch, several tastings, and a lecture. So don’t wait any longer, book your tickets and take the ride of a lifetime!

Price: From R280 per person.
Website: https://winetram.co.za/

11. Discover Cape Town’s Café Culture

Cape Town's café culture is a story that has been brewing for centuries. It all began with the arrival of the Dutch East India Company in the 17th century, which brought with them the first coffee plants to be grown in South Africa. The city's café culture truly began to flourish in the early 20th century, when coffee shops started popping up all over Cape Town, becoming a hub for socialising and conversation. Today, coffee shops also function as workplaces for digital nomads and creative individuals. Just walk along Kloof street, Green Point, or the City Centre and find the café with the most unique atmosphere. Enjoy a fantastic breakfast and a quality beverage to kickstart your day. Either for work or leisure, The Mother City has numerous options to offer.

12. Indulge in a Gin-Tasting Experience

Cape Town is not only famous for its world-class wines but gins as well! There are approximately 30 gin distilleries in the Western Cape area and most of them welcome visitors for tastings. Characterised by juniper berries and several botanicals, this infused spirit is ideal for many refreshing cocktails. The Gin Room would like to invite you for a truly Capetonian experience: a tasting including 4 types of gin and tonic. It is located at the V&A Waterfront; therefore, a spectacular view can be expected during the experience. Invite a friend or two and enjoy an exceptional outing together.

Price: R89 for 2.
Deal: Click here for the deal.

For Adrenalin Junkies

13. Paraglide above The Mother City

Paragliding is an unforgettable experience that everybody should try at least once in their lives. Gather all your courage and glide off one of the popular launch sites around Cape Town! These include Lion's Head, Signal Hill, and Table Mountain. Lion's Head offers a great panoramic view of the city and the Atlantic Ocean, while Signal Hill provides a unique perspective of the city's central business district during an approximately 30-minute flight. A professional instructor will take care of you and record some footage to make your experience truly memorable. Weather conditions such as strong winds and poor visibility can change the time and day of your flight, as safety is a priority. Stop thinking and book your dream flight with one of the best instructors Cape Town has to offer!

Price: From R1,099.
Deals: The best Paragliding deals.

14. Kloofing in Kamikaze Canyon

Kamikaze Canyon, located just outside of Cape Town is known for its spectacular scenery, challenging terrain, crystal clear pools and lush vegetation. This full-day activity involves hiking to the top of the canyon, then descending through a 65-metre waterfall with jumps from 3 to 22 metres high – it is not for the faint-hearted! A professional guide, who will accompany you during your kloofing experience, will make sure of your safety and entertainment. A hearty breakfast is included in your package as well as a refreshing drink upon finishing your day. Don’t forget to pack your sunblock, towel, water, and a change of clothes!

Price: R1899 for two.
Deal: Canyoning experience for 2.

15. Experience Sandboarding in Atlantis

Snowboarding’s close sibling, sandboarding will give you the same satisfaction of sliding down snowy mountains. Atlantis is famous for its large sand dunes, which can reach up to 50 metres. The town is only a 45-minute drive from Cape Town and is very popular amongst tourists and locals as well. Whether you're a first-timer or an avid sand boarder, they provide a great adventure and memorable experience for you, your friends and your family. Pack your hat, sunblock, and water when you are preparing for the day as it can get very hot! If you are looking for a thrilling experience, this one is definitely for you.

Price: From R599 for 2.
Deal: Find various sandboarding deals here.

Family-Friendly Activities

16. Surprise Someone with a Horseback Outride Experience

Kids or adults? A scenic horse riding experience is always a good idea. Spend a relaxing morning or afternoon while discovering the scenic spots of Cape Town. You get to choose between specialised riding experiences such as beach rides, trail rides, wine country rides and horseback safaris. Either beginners or advanced riders are welcome, as your guides will tailor the experience to your needs to make sure you have the best and most memorable day. Choose your favourite terrain, book your preferred time, and let the fun begin!

Price: From R399.
Deals: Click here for the latest deals.

17. Garden tour of Babylonstoren

Babylonstoren is a 3,5 hectares historical Cape Dutch farm located in the Franschhoek Valley in South Africa, known for its beautiful gardens and farm-to-table dining experiences. The name was inspired by the mythological story of the hanging gardens of Babylon, which were said to be created in the 6th century BC. Visitors can take a tour of the farm, which includes the gardens, fruit and vegetable fields, and the farm's vineyards. There are more than 300 types of plants which are all edible or have medicinal uses. The tour also includes a visit to the farm's hotel and spa, as well as the opportunity to taste some of the farm's produce and wines. If you are interested in taking a tour of Babylonstoren, it is recommended that you book in advance as tours fill up quickly. The farm's garden is a true oasis, showcasing a unique combination of traditional and modern gardening techniques which is surely worth a visit!

Price: R80 – under 18 it is free!
Website: https://babylonstoren.com/visit-our-garden

18. Segway through Stellenbosch Vineyards

Are you looking for a unique experience? Then we think this one is for you. Ride along Middelvlei Wine farm’s trails and enjoy the wind in your hair! During this 1-hour experience, you will be accompanied by a qualified guide who will do a practice run with you before the real deal. It is a family-friendly adventure, so bring the small ones along too – kids under 10 years old can ride with adults, and above that, they may use their own Segway. After the experience, it is a must to try the vineyard’s world-class wines and famous Boerebraai! Don’t forget to book for this though. It is also a perfect activity for team building: start the day in the conference room, then freewheel down the hills followed by a delicious lunch and wine tasting. 

Price: R529 for 2.
Deal: Find the latest Scootours deals here.

19. Release your Creativity in a Clay Café

Visiting a clay café is a fun and creative way to spend time with friends and family, and Cape Town has several options for those interested. A clay café is a pottery studio where you can create your own ceramic pieces, with the guidance and support of experienced staff as well as enjoy some food and beverages. Usually, there are pre-made items as well, which can be glazed and once they are fired, you can take them home and proudly use them. Visiting a clay café is a brilliant idea whether it is a birthday party, a bachelorette, and even a romantic date. So, book this activity to release your inner creativity!

Price: From R160.
Website: https://claycafeinthecity.com/

20. Watch Kite Surfers and the Sunset at Blouberg Strand

Blouberg Beach is a popular destination that is known for its stunning sunset setting over the Atlantic Ocean and the iconic Table Mountain. It is considered one of the best sundowner spots in the world and we are not surprised! During daylight, the beach is also particularly popular among surfers and kite surfers which is true entertainment for visitors. Invite a few friends, pack your cooler boxes, and enjoy the breath-taking views of the Mother City. There are also a number of restaurants and bars along the beachfront that offers seating with a view if you prefer a more sophisticated setting. The best part is that you don’t have to break the bank to enjoy such a superior experience.