Known as South Africa‘s jewel, Cape Town offers stunning natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. Cape Town has something for everyone, whether you’re a thrill-seeker, a history buff, or just looking to relax. To help you plan your perfect trip, I’ll take you through the 20 best tours and excursions Cape Town has to offer, sharing personal insights, real prices, and reviews.
1. Table Mountain Aerial Cableway Tour
Table Mountain is an iconic symbol of Cape Town. Taking the aerial cableway to the summit offers breathtaking views of the city and the Atlantic Ocean.
My Experience
Riding the cableway felt like floating above the world. The rotating floor gave everyone a chance to take in the panoramic views, making it a must-do activity.
Key Details
- Price: $25 (R400)
- Duration: 1-2 hours
- Rating: 4.8/5
- Reviews: “Absolutely stunning views! A must-visit in Cape Town.”
- Website: Table Mountain Aerial Cableway
Pros & Cons
- Pros: Spectacular views, rotating cable car, easy access.
- Cons: Can get crowded, weather-dependent.
FAQ
Q: Is the cableway wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes, the cableway is fully accessible for wheelchairs.
2. Robben Island Tour
Robben Island, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned for 18 years. This tour offers a deep dive into South Africa’s history.
My Experience
Visiting Robben Island was a humbling experience. The tour guides, former political prisoners, shared first-hand accounts that brought history to life.
Key Details
- Price: $30 (R500)
- Duration: 3.5-4 hours
- Rating: 4.7/5
- Reviews: “A poignant and educational experience.”
- Website: Robben Island Museum
Pros & Cons
- Pros: Educational, guided by former prisoners, rich historical context.
- Cons: Long ferry ride, emotionally heavy.
FAQ
Q: Are there food facilities on Robben Island?
A: No, it’s recommended to eat before the tour.
3. Cape Point and Cape of Good Hope Tour
This tour takes you to the southwestern tip of Africa, offering rugged landscapes and a chance to witness the meeting of two oceans.
My Experience
Standing at Cape Point felt like standing at the edge of the world. The dramatic cliffs and powerful waves were awe-inspiring.
Key Details
- Price: $70 (R1,200)
- Duration: 8 hours
- Rating: 4.6/5
- Reviews: “Incredible views and wildlife. Worth the trip!”
- Website: Cape Point
Pros & Cons
- Pros: Stunning landscapes, rich biodiversity.
- Cons: Long drive, entry fees add up.
FAQ
Q: Can you hike to the Cape of Good Hope?
A: Yes, there are several hiking trails available.
4. Stellenbosch Wine Tour
Stellenbosch, just outside Cape Town, is a world-renowned wine region. This tour offers tastings at multiple estates.
My Experience
Tasting wines in Stellenbosch’s beautiful vineyards was a delightful experience. Each estate had its unique charm and flavors.
Key Details
- Price: $50 (R850)
- Duration: 6-8 hours
- Rating: 4.9/5
- Reviews: “A wine lover’s paradise!”
- Website: Stellenbosch Wine Routes
Pros & Cons
- Pros: Beautiful scenery, excellent wine.
- Cons: Can be expensive, not ideal for non-drinkers.
FAQ
Q: Are there non-alcoholic options available?
A: Yes, most estates offer grape juice tastings.
5. Boulders Beach Penguin Colony Tour
Home to a colony of African penguins, Boulders Beach offers a unique opportunity to get close to these charming birds.
My Experience
Watching the penguins waddle around was pure joy. The boardwalks made it easy to observe without disturbing them.
Key Details
- Price: $10 (R150)
- Duration: 1-2 hours
- Rating: 4.8/5
- Reviews: “Adorable penguins and beautiful beach.”
- Website: SANParks – Boulders
Pros & Cons
- Pros: Unique wildlife experience, family-friendly.
- Cons: Crowded in peak season.
FAQ
Q: Can you swim at Boulders Beach?
A: Yes, but only in designated areas to protect the penguins.
6. Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens Tour
Kirstenbosch is one of the world’s greatest botanical gardens, nestled against the eastern slopes of Table Mountain.
My Experience
Walking through Kirstenbosch felt like stepping into a lush paradise. The diversity of plant life was astonishing.
Key Details
- Price: $7 (R120)
- Duration: 2-3 hours
- Rating: 4.7/5
- Reviews: “A beautiful escape into nature.”
- Website: Kirstenbosch Gardens
Pros & Cons
- Pros: Stunning plant life, peaceful environment.
- Cons: Not much shade on hot days.
FAQ
Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, there are daily guided tours included in the ticket price.
7. Bo-Kaap Walking Tour
Bo-Kaap is known for its colorful houses and rich cultural history. This walking tour dives into the heart of Cape Malay culture.
My Experience
Walking through the vibrant streets of Bo-Kaap, I felt immersed in the neighborhood’s rich heritage. The guide’s stories brought the area to life.
Key Details
- Price: $20 (R350)
- Duration: 1.5-2 hours
- Rating: 4.5/5
- Reviews: “A culturally rich experience with stunning photo opportunities.”
- Website: Bo-Kaap Museum
Pros & Cons
- Pros: Rich history, photogenic spots.
- Cons: Some uphill walking.
FAQ
Q: Can you visit the houses in Bo-Kaap?
A: Some houses are open for tours, but many are private residences.
8. Shark Cage Diving
For adrenaline junkies, shark cage diving offers a chance to come face-to-face with great white sharks in their natural habitat.
My Experience
Descending into the cage and seeing a great white shark up close was both terrifying and exhilarating. It’s an experience I’ll never forget.
Key Details
- Price: $180 (R3,000)
- Duration: 4-6 hours
- Rating: 4.6/5
- Reviews: “An adrenaline-pumping adventure!”
- Website: Shark Cage Diving
Pros & Cons
- Pros: Thrilling, unique experience.
- Cons: Expensive, weather-dependent.
FAQ
Q: Is it safe to go shark cage diving?
A: Yes, all operators adhere to strict safety protocols.
9. District Six Museum Tour
The District Six Museum tells the poignant story of the forced removals during apartheid. It’s a powerful and educational visit.
My Experience
Walking through the museum, I felt the weight of history. The personal stories and photographs were deeply moving.
Key Details
- Price: $5 (R80)
- Duration: 1-2 hours
- Rating: 4.7/5
- Reviews: “A must-visit for understanding Cape Town’s history.”
- Website: District Six Museum
Pros & Cons
- Pros: Educational, well-curated exhibits.
- Cons: Emotional content can be heavy.
FAQ
Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, guided tours are available and highly recommended.
10. Langa Township Tour
Langa is the oldest township in Cape Town. This tour offers an authentic look at daily life and community spirit in the township.
My Experience
Visiting Langa provided a deeper understanding of local life. The warmth and resilience of the community were inspiring.
Key Details
- Price: $30 (R500)
- Duration: 2-3 hours
- Rating: 4.6/5
- Reviews: “A heartfelt and enlightening experience.”
- Website: Langa Township Tours
Pros & Cons
- Pros: Insightful, supportive of local communities.
- Cons: Can be emotionally heavy.
FAQ
Q: Can I take photos during the tour?
A: Yes, but it’s polite to ask for permission first.
11. Chapman’s Peak Drive
Chapman’s Peak Drive, one of the world’s most scenic coastal routes, offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean, mountains, and cliffs.
- Price: Toll fee is approximately R50 (around $3) per vehicle.
- Duration: The drive takes about 30 minutes one way, but it’s worth spending a few hours enjoying the viewpoints and picnic spots.
- Operating Hours: Open daily, but it may close during adverse weather conditions.
- Website: Chapman’s Peak Drive
12. Two Oceans Aquarium
Situated at the V&A Waterfront, the Two Oceans Aquarium showcases marine life from the Atlantic and Indian Oceans, making it a fascinating stop for families.
- Price: Approximately R210 (around $12) for adults.
- Duration: Allocate about 2-3 hours to explore the aquarium.
- Operating Hours: Open daily from 9:30 am to 6 pm.
- Website: Two Oceans Aquarium
13. Cape Town City Sightseeing Bus
The City Sightseeing Bus offers a convenient way to explore Cape Town’s top attractions, with hop-on, hop-off options.
- Price: Approximately R230 (around $14) for a day pass.
- Duration: The full route takes about 2 hours, but you can spend a whole day hopping on and off.
- Operating Hours: Buses run daily from 8:30 am to 5:30 pm.
- Website: City Sightseeing Cape Town
14. Hout Bay Seal Island Boat Trip
A boat trip from Hout Bay to Seal Island lets visitors observe a large colony of Cape fur seals in their natural habitat.
- Price: Approximately R100 (around $6) for adults.
- Duration: The boat trip takes about 1 hour.
- Operating Hours: Trips operate daily, weather permitting.
- Website: Drumbeat Charters
15. Constantia Valley Wine Tour
Constantia Valley, the oldest wine-producing region in the Southern Hemisphere, offers scenic vineyards and historic wine estates.
- Price: Tasting fees range from R50 to R150 (around $3 to $9) per estate.
- Duration: A half-day to full-day tour is recommended.
- Operating Hours: Most estates open from 10 am to 5 pm.
- Website: Constantia Valley
16. Langa Township Tour
Langa, Cape Town’s oldest township, offers cultural tours that provide insights into South Africa’s history and community life.
- Price: Guided tours typically cost around R300 to R600 (around $18 to $35) per person.
- Duration: Tours last about 2-3 hours.
- Operating Hours: Available daily with prior booking.
- Website: Langa Township Tours
17. District Six Museum
The District Six Museum preserves the memory of the vibrant community that once thrived before the apartheid-era forced removals.
- Price: Approximately R50 (around $3) for adults.
- Duration: 1-2 hours to explore the exhibits.
- Operating Hours: Open Monday to Saturday from 9 am to 4 pm.
- Website: District Six Museum
18. Cape Town Helicopter Tour
For a unique perspective, a helicopter tour offers panoramic views of Cape Town’s landmarks, including Table Mountain and the Cape Peninsula.
- Price: Prices start from R1,500 (around $85) per person for a 15-minute flight.
- Duration: Tours range from 15 minutes to an hour.
- Operating Hours: Available daily, weather permitting.
- Website: NAC Helicopters Cape Town
19. World of Birds Wildlife Sanctuary and Monkey Park
Nestled in Hout Bay, this sanctuary houses over 3,000 birds and small animals, making it a perfect visit for nature lovers.
- Price: Approximately R140 (around $8) for adults.
- Duration: 2-3 hours is ideal to explore the sanctuary.
- Operating Hours: Open daily from 9 am to 5 pm.
- Website: World of Birds
20. Signal Hill Sunset Picnic
Signal Hill is a popular spot for watching the sunset over Cape Town, with a panoramic view of the city, Table Mountain, and the ocean.
- Price: Free entry; you can bring your own picnic.
- Duration: 1-2 hours, typically around sunset.
- Operating Hours: Accessible 24/7, but it’s most popular in the late afternoon and early evening.
Conclusion
Cape Town’s tours and excursions offer something for every type of traveler. Whether you’re marveling at nature, delving into history, or seeking adrenaline, the Mother City will leave you with unforgettable memories. By choosing any of these top 20 tours, you’re sure to experience the best Cape Town has to offer.
