Day Trips Cape Town

Day Trips from Cape Town

Cape Town is a beautiful city surrounded by stunning natural scenery, making it an ideal base for exploring the surrounding areas on day trips. Here are some popular options:

Boulders Beach and Simon’s Town

  • Distance from Cape Town: 35 km (22 miles), approximately 45 minutes by car
  • What to do: Visit the famous Boulders Beach penguins, explore the charming town of Simon’s Town, and enjoy lunch at one of the many restaurants.
  • Tips: Be sure to book tickets in advance for the penguin colony, and consider visiting early morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds.

Cape Peninsula

  • Distance from Cape Town: 70 km (43 miles), approximately 1 hour by car
  • What to do: Drive along the Atlantic coast, stopping at beaches like Camps Bay and Clifton, and visit the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve.
  • Tips: Take a picnic lunch and enjoy it at one of the many scenic spots, and be sure to book tickets in advance for the Cape Point Funicular.

Stellenbosch Wine Region

  • Distance from Cape Town: 50 km (31 miles), approximately 45 minutes by car
  • What to do: Visit wine farms like Vergelegen or Spier, enjoy a wine tasting and lunch at one of the many excellent restaurants.
  • Tips: Book wine tastings in advance, especially on weekends, and consider hiring a driver or taking a guided tour if you plan to indulge in wine tasting.

Table Mountain and the Winelands

  • Distance from Cape Town: 30 km (19 miles), approximately 30 minutes by car
  • What to do: Take the Table Mountain Aerial Cableway to the top of the mountain, then visit the nearby Winelands towns like Paarl or Franschhoek.
  • Tips: Book tickets for the cableway in advance, especially during peak season, and consider combining with a wine tasting or lunch at one of the many excellent restaurants.

Robben Island

  • Distance from Cape Town: 12 km (7.5 miles), approximately 30 minutes by ferry
  • What to do: Take a guided tour of the island, including the prison where Nelson Mandela was held.
  • Tips: Book tickets in advance, especially during peak season, and be prepared for a moving and thought-provoking experience.

General Tips

  • Be sure to check the weather forecast before heading out, as Cape Town’s weather can be unpredictable.
  • Pack sunscreen, a hat, and comfortable walking shoes, as well as a light jacket or sweater, even in summer.
  • Consider hiring a car or taking a guided tour if you’re not familiar with the area or prefer not to drive.
  • Don’t forget your camera, as the scenery is simply stunning!