Things to do & places to visit in Western Cape, South Africa

South Africa’s most popular tourist destination offers the urban thrills of Cape Town, its adjacent wine country and an aura of the rich political history of South Africa. The Overberg's perfect whale-watching perches provide excitement of a different nature. The Garden Route's lakes and forests and the Klein Karoo's ostrich-farming towns and vineyards present another take on the Cape. For extra kicks, try bungee jumping or cage-diving among Great Whites.

Western Cape #1 destination in South Africa 2023. The average rating score is 4.50 based on 233.9k traveler reviews, of 813 attractions. Timezone: Africa/Johannesburg, current date and time: Sunday, May 05, 2024, 15:07.

Western Cape Weather Statistics view more »

General weather summary in May

73°F - 47°F

Temperature Highs - Lows

Moderately chilly with a gentle breeze

Feels like

10%

Chance of rain

30.0 millimeters

Amount

11.5 mph

Wind speed

57%

Humidity

10.4

Daylight length

7:16 AM

Sunrise

5:41 PM

Sunset

51%

Cloud cover

Sweater

What to wear

Top things to do (27)

Top destinations in Western Cape 100

See more 88 destinations »

Top places to visit (30 attractions) view more »

5.0 Table Mountain (18.4k reviews)
- An absolute must.
Spent 2-3 hours Mountains

The mountain in the middle of Cape Town offers many hikes and magnificent views in all directions. See more..
5.0 Robberg Nature Reserve (2.597 reviews)
- A great day out
Sunday: 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM Nature & Wildlife Areas

With a clearly marked trail all around and stunning views at every turn, we loved being out on the Robberg Peninsula. There are 3 trails to follow, each taking in overlapping and increasingly long routes. We completed the full hike and, with only moderate levels of fitness, we were certainly glad to get to the end 4.5 hours after setting out but loved every step. From the high up north side views look out over Plett and down over colonies of resident seals, while from the south side the trail drops down to almost sea-level where we spent time sitting and watching the endless waves crashing in. The access road to the peninsula is good and it is easily reached from Plett. The carpark was very full when we arrived in the middle of the day but the trail didn't feel overly busy. The small cafe shack selling drinks and treats was much appreciated at the end of our hike. Entrance fees are charged (R60). See more..
5.0 Chapman's Peak Drive (1.154 reviews)
- Possibly the most scenic drive, you'll ever find
Scenic Drives

Chapman’s Peak Drive toll road winds its way between Noordhoek and Hout Bay on the Atlantic Coast on the south-western tip of South Africa. Chapman’s Peak Drive is one of the most spectacular marine drives in the world. Chapman’s Peak Drive is affectionately known as #Chappies. See more..
5.0 AfriCanyon River Adventures (1.142 reviews)
- A great experience
Sunday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM Canyoning & Rappelling Tours • Adrenaline & Extreme Tours • Nature & Wildlife Tours

Thank you to our guides Seth and Puna for the great adventure experience today. The weather was drizzly, but that didn’t matter as we doned wetsuits, harnesses, life jackets and helmets - and masks. Many Jumps into rock pools, swimming in the river, a zip line or 2, and an abseil in and walk out of the kloof made an all round great experience. Whilst advertised as fine for all, I suggest the excursion is avoided if you are not suitably fit, or afraid of heights and jumping into rivers. I would recommend hiring the AfriCanyon shoes as they appeared to be less slippery than our takkies. You are essentially in the water for most of the time. See more..
5.0 Waterford Estate (772 reviews)
- Outstanding experience on the Porcupine Trail
Sunday: 9:00 AM - 4:30 PM Wineries & Vineyards

Waterford Estate is situated in the picturesque Blaauwklippen Valley in Stellenbosch, with vineyards planted on the slopes of the Helderberg Mountain. The Helderberg Mountain range is the closet range to the ocean, this has a significant influence on our wines. The cooling effect of the ocean brings freshness and the warmth of Stellenbosch adds richness to our wines. The Estate’s building visually impacts on a seamless whole, which complements the surrounding natural beauty of the farm. The Waterford Estate winery offers a relaxing setting (voted the Best Cellar Door Experience in 2021 by Tim Atkin) where guests can sit and enjoy various tasting options as well as a delicious meal at SALT Restaurant. With the wine cellar built surrounding the courtyard, guests can observe the workings of the winery, and get a true feel for the wine making process with disrupting the tranquillity of their tasting experience. See more..
4.5 Table Mountain Aerial Cableway (17.2k reviews)
- Worth it
Sunday: 8:00 AM - 8:30 PM Spent 1-2 hours Trams

The best views of Cape Town are seen from the top of Table Mountain. The Cableway takes you to the summit in under 5 minutes and the cable car's rotating floor ensure that all visitors get a 360 degree aerial view of the city. The 65-passenger cable car runs from Tafelberg Road to the top of Table Mountain. To date the Cableway has transported more than 28 million visitors to the summit. A million visitors from all over the world use the Cableway annually. See more..
4.5 Victoria & Alfred Waterfront (14.4k reviews)
- Go early before the crowds
Sunday: 9:00 AM - 9:00 PM Spent More than 3 hours Marinas • Piers & Boardwalks

Unfortunately some of the places at the V & A were closed over the Christmas/New Year holidays so I couldn't see all the places I wanted to e.g. the MOCCA Museum. If you go early in the morning you can avoid some of the crowds that gather later in the day. Luckily the area is large enough to cater to all these visitors, but getting a seat in a cafe can be problematic. There are some great shops there, but the prices tend to be higher than elsewhere in town. The excellent Robben Island tour leaves from here. It is a great place for photos and people watching. See more..
4.5 Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden (10.0k reviews) from $5.34
- Superb Botanical Gardens
Spent 2-3 hours Gardens

Situated on the eastern slopes of Table Mountain, Kirstenbosch is internationally acclaimed as one of the seven most magnificent botanical gardens in the world. The 528 hectares estate includes a cultivated garden and a nature reserve. The developed garden displays collections of southern African plants including many rare and endangered species. There are also visitor facilities in the garden including restaurants, a nursery, a gift shop, a bookshop and a permanent Zimbabwean stone sculpture exhibition. See more..
4.5 Cape Point Nature Reserve (9.073 reviews) from $4.42
- Cape Point beauty
Spent More than 3 hours Nature & Wildlife Areas

At the tip of the Cape Peninsula, 60km SouthWest of Cape Town, lies Cape Point. Located within the southern section of Table Mountain National Park; a declared World Heritage site, as part of the Cape Floral region. The Park encompasses 7750Ha of rich and varied Fauna and Flora. Cape Point is a nature entusiast's paradise. Rugged rocks and sheer cliffs towering more than 200 metres above the sea and cutting deep into the ocean provide a spectacular background for the Parks’ rich bio-diversity. The scenic beauty of Cape Point is not its sole allure; it is also an international icon of great historical interest with many a visitor drawn to the area because of its rich maritime history. Home to the Flying Dutchman Funicular and the Two Oceans restaurant. See more..
4.5 Boulders Beach Penguin Colony (8.395 reviews)
- Adorable!!!!
Sunday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Beaches • Nature & Wildlife Areas

The sheltered inlet of Boulders Beach is located in the Cape peninsula near Simon's Town. Here exists a protected colony of African penguins which can be viewed in their natural habitat via wooden walkways. There is also an excellent beach for swimming nearby. See more..
4.5 Cape of Good Hope (6.931 reviews)
- Well Worth the Trip!
Sunday: 7:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Nature & Wildlife Areas • Lookouts

Contrary to popular belief the Cape of Good Hope is not the southernmost point of the African continent. Instead, it is Cape Agulhas which we were not lucky enough to get to on our voyage. However, our trip to the Cape of Good Hope and Table Mountain National Park was fantastic! It's worth the hike up the hill to the lighthouse and the flora and fauna are just wonderful to enjoy. I saw wild Zebra, Ostrich, Kudu and Spring Bok and a large female Baboon was hanging around or picnic area waiting for just the right morsel to appear. She did spy a nice man and child's ice cream, but they weren't giving it up and managed to evade her. After going through the garbage, she decided she was not happy with leftovers and promptly moved to the exit of the cafe where she managed to swipe a whole fresh lunch from a man's hand. Of course, he was stunned and not thrilled but as a rule of thumb goes you NEVER argue with a hungry Baboon and gracefully surrender your goods. Highly entertaining and worth the time! See more..
4.5 Lion's Head (4.331 reviews)
- Amazing sunset
Spent 1-2 hours Mountains

Lion's Head in Cape Town is a peak situated at 669 meters above sea level. The hike up Lions Head takes approximately 90 minutes at a moderate pace. Lions Head trail is steep but do-able, while the 5.5km trail packs a punch (Both ways). The views from Lions head are amazing. Take a look around you and see the beauty. Lions Head hike is the preferred route for mountain enthusiasts, the easiest of the routes in Cape Town. See more..
4.5 The Cango Caves (4.242 reviews)
- We were fascinated by Oudtshoorn’s Cango Caves
Spent 1-2 hours Caverns & Caves

Though damaged through shortsighted tourism schemes in the 1960s, these caves are still worth a visit for their eerie dark tunnels and stunning limestone formations. See more..
4.5 Signal Hill (3.885 reviews)
- The Sunset Bus to Signal Hill
Spent 2-3 hours Mountains • Nature & Wildlife Areas

Signal Hill is so named because it was a site for flying flags to communicate weather conditions, thus providing opportune vistas of spectacular views. See more..
4.5 Hout Bay (3.343 reviews)
- Hout Bay is a must
Spent 1-2 hours Bodies of Water

Enclosed by ocean, mountains and wine farms, the former fishing village offers a country affair with some adventure thrown in. See more..
4.5 Knysna Elephant Park (2.973 reviews)
- Interactive and engaging
Sunday: 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Nature & Wildlife Areas

The Knysna Elephant Park (est. 1994) was the first facility in South Africa to house and care for orphaned African elephants. Over the last 25 years, the park has cared for and raised more than 40 elephants. These animals include relocated animals, orphaned calves, elephants rescued from culls and ex-circus animals. Some have become part of the resident herd, others have moved onto other reserves and facilities in the Western and Eastern Cape, depending on their personalities, bonds with other animals and welfare needs. The present KEP herd numbers ten – the largest domesticated matriarchal herd in the country. Our style of management offers guests the opportunity to get up close and personal with our elephants, on elephant terms. Responsible and educational interactions allow guests to appreciate the awe-inspiring presence of these animals, but still give the elephants the space and freedom to choose where they want to move, what they want to eat and who they want to interact with. See more..
4.5 Camp's Bay Beach (2.816 reviews)
- Definitely worth a visit
Beaches

Just up Kloof Nek Road from the center of town is this thriving beach community. Plenty of trendy nightclubs, shops and cafes bring diners and shoppers, while tranquil seas and fine white sand draw sun worshippers and swimmers. See more..
4.5 Knysna Heads (2.580 reviews)
- Just go for the view
Geologic Formations

Situated at the end of GeorgeRex Avenue this is a must do. You don’t have to lay anything it’s always open, I am sure you will see amazing sunsets, or might even spot a whale or dolphin. Walk around all the viewpoints at the top and take a plunge in the cold refreshing water at the bottom - nice jetty to enter water at the NSRI building. See more..
4.5 Birds of Eden (2.393 reviews) from $17.84
- SO MANY BIRDS TO SEE OUTSTANDING
Sunday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Nature & Wildlife Areas

Birds of Eden is part of the South African Animal Sanctuary Alliance (SAASA). Birds of Eden is the largest single-dome free flight aviary in the world, spanning 2.3 hectares of natural forests, streams and dams. With over a kilometer of walkways, visitors can experience the thrill of spotting almost 3500 previously captive birds of over 200 different species flying free and living natural lives. The scenery alone warrants a visit with hundreds of different plant and tree species plus there are giant fruit bats, golden-handed tamarins and the smallest of the antelopes, Blue duikers. Visits to Birds of Eden are self-guided and you are free to wander for as long as you wish at your own pace. Guided tours for group bookings can also be arranged on request at no additional cost. See more..
4.5 Cango Wildlife Ranch (2.361 reviews)
- Great place to visit
Sunday: 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Nature & Wildlife Areas

Cango Wildlife Ranch is internationally recognised as one of South Africa’s premier tourism attractions. Conveniently situated en route to the Cango Caves near Oudtshoorn, the Ranch offers visitors a huge variety of awe-inspiring activities at one location for a value-packed price – suitable for the whole family and open 365 days a year! In addition to our wonderful encounter programs, where you can meet an ambassador cheetah, the ranch also offers two Firsts: Lemur Falls – the first interactive Lemur experience in Africa! - and Crocodile Cage Diving - a World First - where you can test your mettle against the dangerous gaze of a Nile Crocodile via a steel cage lowered into their watery domain! As a PAAZA (Pan-African Association of Zoos and Aquaria) accredited facility, a proud member of WAZA(World Association of Zoos and Aquariums), and a multiple winner of TripAdvisor's Certificate of Excellence, Cango Wildlife Ranch remains a unique world-class facility which strives to provide conservation through education by means of various conservation projects, initiatives and informative guided tours! A significant percentage of all proceeds go straight back into our conservation initiatives providing you with ethical and unforgettable fun and memories. For unlimited adventure for the whole family – visit Cango Wildlife Ranch! See more..
4.5 District Six Museum (2.108 reviews) from $2.79
- A real eye opener on discrimination
Sunday: Speciality Museums

The apartheid nationalist government destroyed District Six in the 1960s. This memorial museum contains maps, photographs and other reminders of this old vibrant neighborhood. Site walks and tours in the Museum with ex-resident storytellers are also offered. See more..
4.5 Tenikwa Wildlife Awareness Centre (2.008 reviews)
- Get close to incredible animals
Sunday: 7:30 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Nature & Wildlife Areas

Tenikwa grew from humble beginnings in 2002 when the owners started rehabilitating injured birds in a wooded shed behind their house. Today Tenikwa has grown to be one of the largest active Wildlife Rehabilitation Centres in the Western Cape, attending to a diverse variety of animals accepting both terrestrial and marine mammals and birds. Rehabilitating injured and abandoned Wildlife with the goal to release them back to the wild. Our centre rescue, rehabilitate and release between 250 - 450 wild animals annually. We work closely with nature/conservation authorities in our area, CapeNature, SANParks, BirdLife, and SANCCOB. Our Awareness Centre ensures that our Rehabilitation facilities are sustainable, funding the rehabilitation work and to raise awareness of the conservation issues in South Africa, Tenikwa offers various, programs throughout the day, catering for all ages and fitness levels with a focus on providing a conservation-based, informative tour. Guests learn about the indigenous wild cats of South Africa and why they are disappearing from our landscape.Species include African Wild Cats, Serval, Caracal, Cheetah, Leopard and Lions. The Tenikwa encounter is a great follow-on to a game reserve / safari experience; from viewing the cats at a distance to the opportunity to study these beautiful animals at close quarters. Tenikwa also has a Meerkat Meander where visitors can see Meerkats and Tortoises and there is also a variety of indigenous waterfowl, Blue Cranes and Marabou Storks to delight bird watchers. Tenikwa supports the upliftment of local communities through Eco tourism and is environmentally responsible. Entrance fees fund Tenikwa's NPO Wildlife Rehabilitation and Release Programme. Open 365 days a year. Amenities include a Tea Garden for light meals, Parking, Wheel-chair Friendly, Mothers Corner See more..
4.5 Monkeyland Primate Sanctuary (1.995 reviews)
- Unexpected goodness!
Sunday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Nature & Wildlife Areas

Monkeyland Primate Sanctuary is the world's first multi-species, free roaming primate sanctuary with 12 hectares of indigenous forest which is home to over 500 primates of 9 different species; Squirrel, Capuchin, Howler, Vervet and Spider monkeys, Saki, Gibbon, Ring-tailed and Black-and-white Ruffed Lemurs all enjoy the freedom to climb trees, forage amongst the undergrowth and live a life that is far removed from where they came. Ex-pets, laboratory animals and surpluses from zoos that used to live in cages now have the opportunity to behave in a way that is natural to them. Our experienced rangers will guide you on a one-hour tour of the forest, pointing out the different species whilst offering a wealth of information on their ecology and conservation. An added attraction is the 128m long suspension bridge that stretches across the forest canopy offering magnificent views of the surrounding forests. See more..
4.5 Clifton Beaches (1.888 reviews)
- Fine beaches where Cape Town's happy few reside
Spent More than 3 hours Beaches

Just over 6km southwest of Cape Town's city center, Clifton has fine beaches down below steep rocky slopes. Many wealthy people are living here in luxurious villas and apartment blocks that almost reach the ocean. As if the climate will never change and sea levels will never rise. The sandy beaches can easily be reached by staircases at different points on the coastal road. Often these points double as MyCiTi bus stops of which there are four. Don't expect restaurants and noisy bars, there are just some vendors selling snacks and cool drinks. Surfers and peace and quiet seekers dominate the beaches. Lovely! See more..
4.5 The Old Biscuit Mill (1.677 reviews)
- Laid back flee market & four court
Sunday: Spent 2-3 hours Flea & Street Markets

Where Cape Town meets for culinary delights and fine local designs. A vibrant community in the heart of Woodstock where talented people come together to share, collaborate and show off their heartfelt passions. The Old Biscuit Mill is home to dynamic office spaces, a range of workshops and designer stores, decadent restaurants, food stalls as well as an inspiring line-up of day and night-markets, festivals and productions. Come and explore the Old Biscuit Mill and meet some of South Africa’s most innovative and creative designers, artists, photographers and connoisseurs of fine taste and décor. Moreover, the Mill – as it’s affectionately known – houses some of the city’s most charming architecture and, since its revitalisation over 10 years ago, has secured its spot as one of Cape Town’s favourite destinations See more..
4.5 Swartberg Pass (1.659 reviews)
- Beautiful and accessible with a sedan
Sunday: 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM Scenic Drives

We drove from Oudtshoorn to Prince Albert via the Swartberg Pass, all in a sedan vehicle. The road condition was mostly good and the scenery continuously beautiful. The road is narrow at places but we managed when we had to pass oncoming vehicles (approach the turns slowly to check for oncoming vehicles). Be sure to take some water with. A nice day trip from Oudtshoorn is to travel via the Swartberg Pass to Prince Albert, have lunch at one of the many lovely eateries, and return via the equally picturesque Meiringspoort (take the short hike to the waterfall) or the other way around. Swartberg Pass is not recommended at night or in rainy conditions, but otherwise it is definitely worth it. See more..
4.5 Franschhoek Motor Museum (1.627 reviews)
- A literal time machine...
Spent < 1 hour Speciality Museums

BY APPOINTMENT ONLY. LIMITED TIME SLOTS. The Franschhoek Motor Museum offers visitors a special opportunity to look back at more than 100 years of motoring history with its unique and exciting collection of vehicles, motorcycles, bicycles and memorabilia in the magnificent setting of L'Ormarins. Across the length and breadth of Southern Africa, only one place can adequately portray the evolution of the automobile, The Franschhoek Motor Museum. See more..
4.5 Safari Ostrich Farm (1.596 reviews)
- Enjoyable insights in South Africa’s ostrich capital
Sunday: 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM Farms

Safari Ostrich Farm, established in 1956, welcomes you to the ostrich capital of the world. Come and enjoy the worlds only Tractor tour through a working ostrich farm. Get up close and personal with the worlds largest bird. Take awesome photographs, get to see chicks, feed an ostrich, hold a huge 2,5kg ostrich egg. Get to see different species of ostrich - Kenyan, Zimbabwean, South African and rare white ostriches. Learn about the industry, leather, feathers and carving eggs. A full hour of interesting stuff to see and do. Enjoy our cafe or restaurant for set menu or ala carte options See more..
4.5 Groot Constantia (1.583 reviews)
- Iconic
Sunday: 9:00 AM - 5:30 PM Spent 2-3 hours Historic Sites • Wineries & Vineyards

Groot Constantia is South Africa's oldest wine producing estate, (est: 1685). Situated 20 minutes from the Cape Town CBD and one of Cape Town's Big 7 tourist attractions, Groot Constantia is a must visit for the whole family. With two outstanding restaurants, Jonkershuis and Simon's, wine tastings, chocolate and wine pairing, cellar tours and a museum that reminds one of a bygone era, this beautiful historic winery is a popular attraction that exudes natural beauty. Groot Constantia can also be reached hoping on City Sightseeing's Wine Bus. See more..
4.5 Boschendal (1.547 reviews)
- Wish we could stay a lifetime.
Sunday: 9:00 AM - 9:00 PM Spent More than 3 hours Historic Sites • Wineries & Vineyards • Farms

If you have the opportunity to stay at Boschendal, do. Our family fell in love with this place. We rented a 3bd orchard cottage for 3-nights. I wish we could have stayed for a week, or perhaps a lifetime. We're used to US prices, and a similar property in Napa would be, I expect, 5x or 10x the price. Even if the prices were the same, I'd much rather go back to Boschendal. The grounds and gardens were stunning. Our cottage was delightful. The breakfasts were a highlight of our stay. We enjoyed relaxing around our (indoor and outdoor) fireplaces during the day it rained and enjoyed the gardens, mountain biking and even a chilly swim on our day of sun. My only regret is that we didn't stay longer, and that Boschendal is so far away. See more..