The Cape Explorer Wine Tour may just be what you are looking for if you would like to experience all the scenic beauty of South Africa‘s Cape Winelands while also savoring some of the world’s best wines at the same time. On this tour, you’ll get an opportunity to explore some of the country’s finest vineyards, charming towns, and picturesque landscapes, all the while indulging in the rich flavors of South African wines, which will appeal to people of all tastes. But is it worth it? In this review, I’ll share my firsthand experience, provide all the details you need to decide if the Cape Explorer Wine Tour should be on your South African travel itinerary, and answer key questions like “Which wineries do you visit?” and “What are the pros and cons?”
Key Takeaways
- The Cape Explorer Wine Tour takes you to top wineries in Stellenbosch, Franschhoek, and Paarl, offering scenic views, expert guidance, and a delightful wine experience.
- Simonsig, Franschhoek Cellar, and Rhebokskloof Wine Estate are standout stops.
- The tour is 8-9 hours long and includes pick-ups from central locations in Cape Town.
- The wine tram experience is not included, but the tour is still comprehensive.
- The pros include a stress-free experience, a variety of wineries, and expert wine guides. The cons include limited time at each estate and additional lunch costs.
I wholeheartedly recommend the Cape Explorer Wine Tour to anyone visiting South Africa, whether you’re a wine aficionado or just looking to enjoy a scenic and delicious day in one of the world’s most famous wine regions.
What is the Cape Explorer Wine Tour?
The Cape Explorer Wine Tour is a full-day wine tour that takes you through some of the most renowned wine estates in the Cape Winelands region. Departing from Cape Town, the tour lets you experience South Africa’s wine culture in a relaxed, fun, and informative way. Whether you’re a wine connoisseur or a casual enthusiast, the tour offers something for everyone.
You’ll visit iconic wineries, enjoy guided wine tastings, and explore charming towns like Stellenbosch and Franschhoek, all while being chauffeured in comfort. For many, this tour offers the perfect opportunity to experience the beauty of the Cape Winelands while learning about wine production from local experts.
Which Wineries Do You Visit?
One of the highlights of the Cape Explorer Wine Tour is the opportunity to visit top-tier wineries in the region. Three standout wineries included in the tour are:
1. Simonsig Wine Estate, Stellenbosch
- About: Simonsig is one of the oldest wine estates in Stellenbosch, established in 1688. Known for its excellent MCC (MĂ©thode Cap Classique) sparkling wines, it’s a must-visit for wine lovers. The estate offers an elegant tasting experience where you can try their acclaimed Kaapse Vonkel sparkling wines and a variety of reds and whites.
- Address: Kromme Rhee Rd, Stellenbosch, South Africa
- Google Map Link: Simonsig Wine Estate
- Website: Simonsig Wine Estate
2. Franschhoek Cellar
- About: Franschhoek Cellar offers a laid-back atmosphere combined with a rich history, producing some of the finest wines in the region. The estate is located in the heart of the Franschhoek Valley, an area known for its French influence and incredible wines. Expect to taste a wide range of wines, from their signature Chardonnay to rich reds and blends.
- Address: R45, Franschhoek, South Africa
- Google Map Link: Franschhoek Cellar
- Website: Franschhoek Cellar
3. Rhebokskloof Wine Estate
- About: Nestled in the Paarl Valley, Rhebokskloof Wine Estate is a beautiful place to relax and enjoy a wide selection of wines. The estate offers a charming experience with breathtaking views of the mountains and vineyards. Rhebokskloof is known for producing a wide variety of wines, including elegant reds like Pinotage and Shiraz, as well as crisp whites.
- Address: R101, Paarl, South Africa
- Google Map Link: Rhebokskloof Wine Estate
- Website: Rhebokskloof Wine Estate
These wineries are just a glimpse of the exceptional places you’ll visit during the Cape Explorer Wine Tour. The tour allows you to explore each estate, learn about the wine-making process, and indulge in wine tastings that showcase the unique flavors of the region.
Where Do You Get Picked Up From?
The Cape Explorer Wine Tour offers convenient pick-up locations throughout Cape Town. Most tours pick you up from your hotel, accommodation, or a central location within the city. Common pick-up points include:
- V&A Waterfront – A popular spot for tourists staying in Cape Town’s city center.
- City Bowl – Pick-ups from various accommodations in the city center, including Gardens and Tamboerskloof.
- Green Point – A short distance from the waterfront and other popular tourist areas.
It’s important to confirm the pick-up location when booking, as pick-up times can vary depending on your location in Cape Town.
How Long Does the Tour Last?
The Cape Explorer Wine Tour is a full-day experience, typically lasting around 8-9 hours. Most tours begin in the morning, around 8:30 AM, and end in the late afternoon, around 5:30 PM. This gives you plenty of time to enjoy the scenic drive, visit the wineries, and participate in wine tastings at each stop.
Expect a leisurely pace with enough time to take in the beautiful landscapes, wander through the wineries, and enjoy a delicious lunch at one of the estates. You’ll also have some free time to explore the quaint towns and villages that dot the Cape Winelands.
Do You Get to Go on the Wine Tram?
While the Cape Explorer Wine Tour does not typically include the famous Franschhoek Wine Tram, it’s worth noting that the tour does offer a similarly immersive experience. The Franschhoek Wine Tram is a separate, hop-on-hop-off tram service that takes you to various wineries in the Franschhoek Valley.
If you’re interested in the wine tram experience, you can book it separately, but keep in mind that it’s not part of the standard Cape Explorer Wine Tour package. However, the wine tour still offers a comfortable and guided tour to top wineries in both Stellenbosch and Franschhoek, making it a great option for those who prefer a more structured itinerary.
What Are the Pros of the Cape Explorer Wine Tour?
1. Scenic and Relaxed Experience
The tour takes you through some of the most beautiful regions in South Africa. The rolling vineyards, stunning mountains, and charming towns make for a picturesque backdrop to your wine adventure.
2. Expert Wine Guides
The wine guides are passionate and knowledgeable, offering insights into each wine estate’s history, the wine-making process, and the region’s wine culture. This adds a personal touch to your tour and elevates the experience.
3. Convenient and Stress-Free
One of the major benefits of the Cape Explorer Wine Tour is the convenience. You don’t need to worry about transportation, directions, or planning your itinerary. Everything is taken care of, allowing you to relax and enjoy the day.
4. Diverse Wineries
The tour takes you to a variety of wineries, each offering something different in terms of wine styles and atmosphere. Whether you prefer red, white, sparkling, or fortified wines, the tour gives you a broad selection to enjoy.
5. Great for All Wine Lovers
Whether you’re a novice or an expert, the Cape Explorer Wine Tour caters to all levels of wine enthusiasts. The informative and friendly guides ensure you learn something new, no matter your experience level.
What Are the Cons of the Cape Explorer Wine Tour?
1. Limited Time at Each Winery
While the tour visits several wineries, the time spent at each estate can be quite short, especially if you’re looking for a deeper dive into the wine-making process. Some visitors might feel that they don’t get enough time to fully explore each location.
2. Not Ideal for Wine Tram Enthusiasts
If you’re specifically seeking the Franschhoek Wine Tram experience, this tour may not be ideal since it doesn’t include the tram ride.
3. Lunch is Extra
While the tour does include several wine tastings, lunch is usually an optional extra. Some guests may expect lunch to be included in the price of the tour, but the cost typically varies depending on the winery or estate.
4. Tour Group Size
Depending on the time of year and the tour provider, the group size can vary. Some people might find large groups less personal or feel that they miss out on the intimate wine-tasting experience.
Is the Cape Explorer Wine Tour Worth It?
Overall, I believe the Cape Explorer Wine Tour is absolutely worth it for anyone looking to experience the charm of the Cape Winelands in a relaxed, informative, and scenic way. It provides an excellent introduction to South African wines, with the opportunity to visit several top-tier wineries and learn from knowledgeable guides.
The tour is perfect for those who want to avoid the hassle of planning their own itinerary, allowing you to sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride. While it might not include the Franschhoek Wine Tram, it more than makes up for it with its beautiful route, fantastic wineries, and excellent customer service.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How much does the Cape Explorer Wine Tour cost?
Prices for the Cape Explorer Wine Tour typically range from R1000 to R1500 per person. This may vary based on the provider, inclusions, and season. Lunch and certain wine tastings may be extra.
2. What is the best time of year for the Cape Explorer Wine Tour?
The best time to take the tour is during South Africa’s spring and summer months, from October to March. The weather is pleasant, and the vineyards are lush and vibrant.
3. Can I buy wine during the tour?
Yes! Many wineries offer a selection of wines for purchase. Some may even offer discounts to tour participants.
4. Do I need to book the tour in advance?
It’s highly recommended to book the tour in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons (November through March), as spots can fill up quickly.
5. Can the Cape Explorer Wine Tour be customized?
Some tour operators offer private or customized wine tours. If you’re interested in a more personalized experience, consider asking about special requests when booking.
