From Cape Town, it’s easy to visit the remainder of the province’s breathtaking surroundings. Whatever your interests, there is plenty to see and do in the Western Cape, whether you want to go on a safari, visit the Cape Winelands, or simply enjoy the breathtaking scenery. My top five-day trips from Cape Town are listed below.
Advertisement
1. WEST COAST
The West Coast is home to broad beaches, flower-filled meadows, modest fishing communities, and charming old cities. From the amazing wildflower fields along the Wildflower Trail between August and October to a completely unplugged camping weekend in the hilly region of the Cederberg, there is plenty to see and do.
In the nearby Darling Brewery, Darling residents may enjoy craft beer and gourmet lunch fare, while Atlantis is home to gigantic sand dunes that are perfect for sandboarding. Explore the many mountain bike paths that wind through the West Coast National Park, or take a day excursion to one of the many fishing villages like Paternoster or Saldanha Bay.
Visit Club Mykonos to try jet-skiing or sailing, check out the restaurants and spas, and send the kids to enjoy a huge and colorful play area.
Distance: 1-6 hours, depending on where you go
Highlights: A real road-trip feel, wildflowers in spring, quiet beaches, family-friendly fun, local beer, and wine
Stay over: Club Mykonos
2. THE KAROO
There are numerous opportunities for fantastic day outings in the area because the Karoo begins an hour from Cape Town and spreads throughout the southern half of the country. In sharp contrast to the mountains and forests of the Cape, it is a semi-arid area.
Here, quirky small communities are connected by long, straight roads that span scrubland to the horizon. On the grassy stubs, sheep graze, and occasionally little koppies (hills) appear in the landscape.
There’s also the recognizable Ronnies Sex Shop, the self-described “oddest bar in Africa,” which was once only known as “Ronnie’s Store” before comically becoming famous after the adjective was vandalized onto the signboard.
The charming and ancient village of Prince Albert is tucked away behind the magnificent Swartberg pass and is the ideal getaway from the city.
Aquila Private Game Reserve is a notable feature of the Karoo region. Only there can you go on a safari and view the Big Five close to Cape Town. Go on a safari for a half-day or a full day to see lions, leopards, or the big, majestic African elephants up close. On a full-day excursion, you get a buffet breakfast and lunch as well as the chance to cool off in the forest by swimming in one of the stunning swimming pools.
Distance: 1-6 hours, depending on where you go
Highlights: See the big five, explore historic towns, and get in touch with the real, rugged side of South Africa
Stay over: Aquila Private Game Reserve
Advertisement
3. CAPE POINT
Cape Point, with its cliffs soaring above the seas that crash at its base, has to be one of the most picturesque promontories in the entire globe. The views of the ocean are unending, making the surroundings here incredibly spectacular. Seabirds build their nests in the rocks perched above the azure waves, and tiny undiscovered beaches are tucked away in exclusive coves.
Together with other small species, you can observe the fabled dassies (rock hyrax) and ride the Flying Dutchman Funicular to the top lighthouse for postcard-perfect panoramas. Unique locally manufactured fynbos body products are available at The Parks Store.
You’ll pass through the beachside communities of Kalk Bay and the False Bay Coast along the way, which is home to a plethora of taverns, eateries, small antique shops, and art galleries. Moreover, you’ll pass Simon’s Town, where you may swim with African penguins at Boulders Beach and get up close to them. From Cape Town, each of these neighborhoods is the ideal day excursion.
Distance: 1 hour from Cape Town
Highlights: See the penguins, stunning scenery, restaurants, beaches
Stay over: Cape of Good Hope cottages
4. THE WINELANDS
The exquisite wine produced in the Western Cape is one of its main draws. There are many day trips you may do, including the 20-minute drives from the city to the Stellenbosch Wine Route, Helderberg Wine Route, Durbanville Wine Route, and Constantia Wine Route. The Franschhoek Wine Tram, which shuttles passengers between some of the area’s greatest wine estates without requiring them to operate a vehicle, is my favorite way to enjoy the Winelands. Taking the City Sightseeing bus from the V&A Waterfront will also get you there.
Distance: 1 hour from Cape Town
Highlights: Wine, wine, wine!
Stay over: There are loads of B&Bs, lodges, and guest houses to stay at. Take your pick!
5. THE WHALE ROUTE
The Whale Road passes through some breathtaking countryside and some adorable small towns that are ideal for day getaways. Of course, the optimum time to visit is between June and November, when whales are most active.
The annual Whale Festival is held in Hermanus during the prime whale-watching season. Beautiful beaches and a wide variety of inexpensive seafood eateries can be found in the town. A rich history is presented in charming museums, and there are also natural areas with breathtaking walking routes that overlook the sea.
Get off at Cape Agulhas, Africa’s southernmost point, en route; it offers stunning coastal rockpools and a stunning sea panorama.
Distance: 2 hours from Cape Town
Highlights: The southernmost tip of Africa, whale watching, seafood
Stay over: There are many options along the entire coast.
