South Africa‘s Cape Town is a dream destination for travelers seeking culture, natural beauty, and adventure. From Table Mountain to the Cape of Good Hope, this South African gem offers something for every type of traveler. This 10-day itinerary is the perfect way to discover Cape Town without breaking the bank for those watching their budgets.
Key Takeaways
- Cape Town is accessible for budget travelers. Many attractions, hikes, and cultural sites are either free or very affordable.
- Public transport: Use the MyCiTi Bus for easy and cheap access to popular spots in and around Cape Town.
- Food: Street food and local markets offer budget-friendly meals that don’t skimp on flavor.
- Planning: Booking tours in advance can sometimes save you money and help you secure a spot during peak seasons.
Day 1: Arrival and Settling In
Taking a tour of the center of the city
As you touch down at Cape Town International Airport, you’ll feel the excitement in the air. Start by heading to your budget-friendly accommodation. I recommend staying in a budget-friendly guesthouse or backpacker’s hostel in the city center, such as The Backpack (address: 74 New Church St., Gardens, Cape Town, 8001; map: Google Maps) or Paternoster Backpackers (address: 4 Paternoster Rd., De Waterkant, Cape Town).
Afternoon: A visit to the V&A Waterfront is a must-do
Once you’re settled in, head over to the V&A Waterfront—a vibrant area offering free attractions like watching seals basking by the harbor, browsing street art, and enjoying the stunning views of Table Mountain. You’ll also find budget-friendly eateries where you can sample South African dishes for affordable prices. Visit The Watershed, an open-air market where you can explore local crafts and souvenirs at a fraction of the cost found in the tourist hotspots.
Personal Insight: When I first visited Cape Town, the bustling V&A Waterfront was the perfect introduction to the city’s energy and culture. It’s easy to spend hours here, but my advice is to stay mindful of your budget. There are plenty of free activities and affordable meals!
Rating: 4.5/5
Hours: Open daily from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM
Official Website: V&A Waterfront
Evening: Sunset at Signal Hill
End your first day with a drive or a hike to Signal Hill for a panoramic sunset view of the city, mountains, and ocean. It’s completely free, and the views are absolutely worth it.
Day 2: Visit to Table Mountain and a tour of the city
Morning: Hike Table Mountain
A trip to Cape Town wouldn’t be complete without visiting Table Mountain. While the cable car ride can be expensive, there’s a more budget-friendly option: hiking! Platteklip Gorge is one of the most popular hiking routes to the top, offering incredible views of the city and surrounding areas. The hike is strenuous but manageable for beginners.
Personal Insight: Table Mountain was one of the first places I visited during my stay in Cape Town. While hiking was challenging, the rewards at the top—breathtaking views and a sense of accomplishment—were more than worth it. Be sure to bring plenty of water and wear sturdy shoes.
Price: Free (hiking)
Cable Car: ZAR 360 one-way / ZAR 550 return
Official Website: Table Mountain
Afternoon: Stroll Through Company’s Garden
After your hike, head down to Company’s Garden in the heart of Cape Town. This lush green space is the perfect spot to relax after a hike, enjoy a picnic, or take in the local flora and fauna. Entry is free, and you can visit the nearby South African Museum for a minimal fee to learn about the country’s natural and cultural history.
Day 3: The Historical Heart of Cape Town
Morning: Robben Island
For history lovers, a visit to Robben Island is an absolute must. While the ferry tickets aren’t exactly cheap, it’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience that you can’t miss. Take a guided tour to learn about Nelson Mandela’s time in prison, along with the island’s significance in South Africa’s fight for freedom.
Price: ZAR 400 (return ferry)
Departure: V&A Waterfront
Official Website: Robben Island
Personal Insight: Visiting Robben Island was an emotional experience for me. Standing in the same prison cell as Mandela gave me an entirely new perspective on the country’s history and struggles. It’s one of those experiences that stays with you long after you leave.
Afternoon: District Six Museum
After returning from Robben Island, head to the District Six Museum, which offers a glimpse into the area’s painful history of apartheid-era forced removals. The museum is very affordable, and it’s an essential stop for anyone wanting to understand Cape Town’s complex past.
Price: ZAR 45
Official Website: District Six Museum
Day 4: A Day in the Winelands (Affordable Wine Tasting)
Morning: Visit Stellenbosch
Take a day trip to Stellenbosch, located just under an hour’s drive from Cape Town. Known for its rolling vineyards and charming town center, Stellenbosch offers affordable wine tours at many wineries. Some options even offer “walk-in” tastings without prior booking, which is perfect for spontaneous trips!
Price: Free to stroll around; wine tastings from ZAR 40 – ZAR 100
Google Map Link: Stellenbosch
Personal Insight: I was pleasantly surprised by how affordable Stellenbosch was. While wine tasting can quickly add up, there are several budget-friendly wineries offering fantastic wines at great prices.
Day 5: Cape Peninsula
Morning: Drive to the Cape of Good Hope
On Day 5, it’s time for a scenic road trip along the Cape Peninsula. Starting from Cape Town, make your way to Cape Point and the Cape of Good Hope, two iconic landmarks. The drive is stunning, and while the entrance fee to the national park is a little steep, the beauty of the place is worth it.
Price: ZAR 360 entrance fee
Afternoon: Visit Boulders Beach (Penguins!)
Next, head to Boulders Beach in Simon’s Town to see the famous African penguins. While there’s a small entrance fee, it’s totally worth it for an up-close penguin experience.
Price: ZAR 160
Day 6: Nature Reserves and Beaches
Morning: Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens
Start your day with a visit to Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, which is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful gardens in the world. You can stroll through the well-maintained paths, marvel at the indigenous plants, and even take a treetop walk for stunning views over Cape Town.
Price: ZAR 75
Official Website: Kirstenbosch Gardens
Afternoon: Muizenberg Beach
Spend the afternoon at Muizenberg Beach, known for its colorful beach huts and laid-back vibe. It’s a popular spot for surfing, but even if you’re not into surfing, the beach is a great place to unwind and people-watch.
Price: Free
Google Map Link: Muizenberg Beach
Day 7: Cultural Exploration
Morning: Iziko South African Museum
For a deeper dive into South African culture, spend your morning at the Iziko South African Museum. The museum covers everything from paleontology to the country’s history and heritage. It’s affordable and a great way to learn about the country’s diverse cultural landscape.
Price: ZAR 40
Official Website: Iziko Museum
Day 8: Adventure Day in Cape Town
Morning: Hike Lion’s Head
On Day 8, challenge yourself with a hike up Lion’s Head. The hike is a bit more technical than Table Mountain, but it offers one of the best 360-degree views of Cape Town, especially at sunrise or sunset.
Price: Free
Google Map Link: Lion’s Head
Afternoon: Paragliding at Signal Hill
For the ultimate adventure, head to Signal Hill for a paragliding experience. It’s one of the most affordable places to try paragliding in the world. Get a bird’s-eye view of Cape Town and the ocean, and feel the rush of adrenaline as you soar through the skies.
Price: ZAR 1,200
Official Website: Cape Town Paragliding
Day 9: Taking a tour of Cape Town’s markets and neighborhoods
Morning: Old Biscuit Mill
Start your day at The Old Biscuit Mill, a funky market in Woodstock where local artisans and food vendors offer their goods. It’s a great place to sample street food, buy local crafts, and experience Cape Town’s creative energy.
Price: Free to explore; food items from ZAR 30
Google Map Link: Old Biscuit Mill
Day 10: Relaxing in Cape Town
Morning: Visit Camps Bay
On your last day, take some time to relax on Camps Bay Beach, known for its soft sand and vibrant atmosphere. There are numerous affordable cafes and restaurants where you can enjoy a meal with a view of the ocean.
Price: Free
Google Map Link: Camps Bay
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What’s the best time to visit Cape Town on a budget?
A1: The best time is during the off-peak seasons—May to August—when prices for accommodation and activities tend to drop.
Q2: How can I save on transportation in Cape Town?
A2: The MyCiTi Bus is a convenient and affordable way to get around Cape Town.
This 10-day itinerary is packed with diverse activities—from hiking, history, and adventure to relaxation and cultural exploration—all designed to make the most of Cape Town without blowing your budget. Whether you’re a history buff, thrill-seeker, or nature lover, Cape Town offers endless possibilities for every type of traveler.
