Cape Town is the perfect blend of modern big city life and natural wonders, from Table Mountain to dense forests and rolling vineyards. Here are five ways to explore:
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Cape Town manages to mix a modern metropolis with breathtaking natural beauty like few other big cities. Cosmopolitan cafes, cutting-edge art and culture and award-winning food and drink live in harmony with beautiful beaches, the staggering Table Mountain, one of the New 7 Wonders of the world, dense forests and sprawling vineyards. Rather than try to navigate its eclectic offerings alone, it pays to get a sightseeing tour to show you around. Here are five of the best in Cape Town:
2 Oceans Helicopter Flight with Boat Tour Ticket
For an overview – quite literally – of the South African capital, this helicopter flight takes some beating. As the name suggests, you get two oceans for the price of one, seeing the Atlantic Ocean on one side of the Cape Peninsula and continue till you get to the Indian Ocean on the other side. This is also the best way to see how Cape Town edges against the natural wonder of Table Mountain, with civilisation abruptly giving way to nature. You’ll also see Cape Town Stadium, one of the venues of the 2010 World Cup. Then, travel down the coast of the Atlantic Ocean, passing Signal Hill, Camps Bay, and Clifton Beach along the way. From €242.74.
Boo at GetYourGuide
Half-Day Tour Through Cape Town’s Townships
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It’s worth remembering before you even set foot in a township that these are a stark reminder of South Africa’s apartheid; that is, they were undeveloped urban areas reserved for non-whites. It’s also worth remembering that many people still see them as an example of segregation, with Cape Town’s richer town centre population largely white. Armed with this understanding, and not just the want of an Instagram pic in a township, this tour does a great job at delving deeper into the divisions in the city’s past and present, with a local guide giving a rich background on District Six, the area best known for its forceful removal of over 60,000 inhabitants during the 1970s Apartheid regime. From €40.21.
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From Cape Town: Franschhoek Wine Tram Hop-on Hop-off
The wine industry is a huge part of Cape Town and the surrounding area’s economy. This tram is a wonderfully quirky sightseeing opportunity, rolling through the picturesque Franschhoek Valley and its rolling vineyards, breath-taking scenery, warm hospitality, world-class cuisine, fine wines and a 300-year history. There are two tram lines to choose from, both taking in a number of wine estates, with the tram or tram bus passing every 60 minutes. All you have to do is hop off, try some wines, from everything from boutique to marquee estates, and then at the end of the day get taken back to Cape Town by bus. From €34.28.
Book at GetYourGuide
Guided Hike to the Top of Table Mountain
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It’s hard not to notice Table Mountain, the imposing backdrop to Cape Town. But don’t just look at it while you down another glass crisp glass of Chardonnay – climbing it not only gives the best view in town (including a helicopter, in our opinion) but it is also an outdoor adventure right on the city’s doorstep. The India Venster hike is challenging, with rugged terrain and technical challenges, but for anyone reasonably fit this makes for an incredible half-day out. From the majestic fountain ledge you’ll get a spectacular view of Camps Bay and Clifton and at the top there is something even more exciting – a cable car, so you don’t have to walk all the way back. From € 85.82.
Book at GetYourGuide
Cape Town City Tour
An excellent way to see the sights of the city, this tour speeds between key sites in a private vehicle—an ideal way to save time and see more of Cape Town. The itinerary of this day-long tour takes in Table Mountain, Bo-Kaap, Camps Bay, and Signal Hill. It’s all organised to minimise hassle – so perfect for anyone short of time – with free WiFi and bottled water onboard to keep you connected and hydrated. From €60.08.
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