Adjacent to the Kruger National Park, the Sabi Sand Nature Reserve is a private premier viewing destination. It was the first-ever private nature reserve established in South Africa. The landscape features 65 000 hectares of savannah-covered land interspersed with watering holes, dry river beds, Lowveld woodlands, and the perennial Sabi and Sand rivers. This spectacular reserve offers exceptional game viewing opportunities with frequent sightings of the renowned Big Five as well as cheetah, zebra, giraffe, and a variety of antelope. Visitors can enjoy excellent wildlife viewing, dining under the stars, guided bush walks and enjoying a stay in some of South Africa’s most luxurious safari lodges.
Sandwiched between the towering Outeniqua Mountains and the Indian Ocean, Knysna is a large town often referred to as the ‘Garden of Eden’, surrounded by stunning bays perfect for sailing, boating, and swimming; picturesque beaches and lagoons; and world-renowned forests. This well-catered town is also a perfect base for safari expeditions at nearby parks such as Knysna Elephant Park, and close-up animal experiences at centres such as Jukani Wildlife Sanctuary, Tenikwa Wildlife Awareness Centre, Birds of Eden, and Monkeyland Primate Sanctuary. From here, enjoy ample opportunities for surfing, swimming, yachting, jet-skiing, boating, fishing, and golfing. Visitors can also look forward to an array of wonderful markets, a picturesque waterfront filled with superb restaurants and shops, and several fantastic art galleries. Make sure to take a ferry trip to the famed Knysna Heads and sample the local oysters.
De Kelders is a small town in Walker Bay, about two hours drive from Cape Town. Protected coves and inlets provide the ideal conditions for Southern Right Whales to mate and give birth, and, every year between July and November, these giant creatures can be spotted in the waters. A collection of caves offer much to explore; at Klipgat, some of the oldest human remains and stone artefacts have been found; while Drup Kelders presents a freshwater pool cave perfect for swimming and decorated by striking stalagmites and stalactites. The tranquil cove at Standford’s Bay is another perfect place to swim, surrounded by 150-year-old fig trees. Visitors can also enjoy hiking, angling, quad biking, and horse riding in the area, and the exquisite natural beauty of the Walker Bay Nature Reserve. Make sure to visit one of the local restaurants, too, which serve up wonderful fresh seafood.
Stellenbosch is the second oldest city in South Africa and is primarily known for its picturesque vineyards and wineries. The city is surrounded by the Stellenbosch Mountains, providing a breathtaking backdrop for visitors. The historic town is characterized by oak-lined streets and Cape Dutch buildings with characteristic white houses, pointed gables, and tall doors. Stellenbosch University is one of the country's most prestigious universities, attracting many students each year.
THINGS TO DO
- Winetasting at the surrounding wineries
- Cycling through the vineyards (Bike tour with wine tasting: https://www.adventureshop.co.za/stellenbosch-tours/guided-bike-tour/)
- Stellenbosch University’s Botanical Garden
- Rupert Museum, Stellenbosch Village Museum
- Strawberry picking at Mooiberg Strawberry Farm
- Vine Hopper: (6 Wineries, https://vinehopper.co.za/)
- Dylan Lewis Sculpture Garden (www.dylanlewis.com/garden/visit-the-garden)
OUR RESTAURANT AND WINERY RECOMMENDATIONS:
- Jardine Restaurant (www.restaurantjardine.co.za)
- Rust en Vrede (www.rustenvrede.com)
- De Vrije Burger (www.bertusbasson.com)
- The Fat Butcher (www.fatbutcher.co.za)
- Rykaart's (www.rykaarts.co.za/)
- Jordan Wine Estate & Restaurant (www.jordanwines.com)
- Stark-Condé Wines (www.stark-conde.co.za)
- Delaire Graff Estate (www.delaire.co.za)
- De Morgenzon (www.demorgenzon.co.za)
- Waterford Estate (www.waterfordestate.co.za)
- Bartinney Wine Estate (www.bartinney.co.za)
Cape Town is the second largest city in South Africa and the capital of the Western Cape province. Cape Town is also affectionately known as the "Mother City" due to its importance as the first city to be founded during the South African colonial era. The city is characterized by a cultural diversity that can be traced back to the influences of Indonesian, French, Dutch, British and German settlers. These have influenced not only the architecture and language, but also the country's cuisine and winemaking methods. These diverse influences have made Cape Town a unique city that keeps its rich history alive to this day.
THINGS TO DO
The city offers countless wonderful opportunities to tailor your stay according to your preferences. Here are our personal highlights:
Scenic helicopter flight over Cape Town: Explore the beautiful landscape of the Cape Peninsula from above! Private helicopter flights are becoming increasingly popular, and especially during a visit to Cape Town, it's an unforgettable experience! Depending on the tour, you'll fly over the most popular regions and beach coves in Cape Town, always with Table Mountain in view. We can book you a private flight or join with other guests, but please note that these helicopter rides are weather-dependent. (www.helicopterscapetown.co.za)
City tour on the red double-decker: With the Open Top Bus, you can comfortably take a city tour combined with a leisurely stroll on foot. During your tour, you'll see historical buildings (e.g., the Parliament, the City Hall, the colorful Bo-Kaap Quarter, and Company's Garden). Keep your camera ready. (www.citysightseeing.co.za/en/cape-town)
Constantia Winelands: The Constantia wine-growing region is, so to speak, Cape Town's "home vineyard," about 15km from the city center. Discover Cape Town's most hidden wine route and learn about the history of the oldest wine-growing region in South Africa! Our personal recommendation: a wine tasting at the historic Groot Constantia estate. (www.groot-constantia-wine-estate)
The Lion Trail: The Lion Trail is a guided walk through fynbos, forests, and beaches, ending with a beautiful ride on an electric scooter along the Sea Point Promenade. With fascinating stories, ever-changing views, and delicious local cuisine, the Lion Trail is the ideal way to explore Cape Town's biodiverse nature and discover what makes Cape Town unique (https://www.theliontrail.co.za/)
Cape of Good Hope: Drive along the Chapman's Peak Drive, passing kilometers of white sandy beaches and the sparkling sea, almost reaching the tip of the South African Cape. From there, you'll have a breathtaking view of the Atlantic Ocean. On the way back, make a stop in Simonstown and visit the penguin colony at Boulders Beach. Kalkbay is worth a stroll or a coffee stop.
Cape Peninsula - Hout Bay: Hout Bay is an idyllic and popular place on the Cape Peninsula. The drive from Camps Bay, along a dream road by the sea, is an experience in itself. Hout Bay is now the center of lobster and snoek fishing, and the fishing harbor gives the small coastal town a lively atmosphere. Behind the town begins Chapman's Peak Drive, one of the most beautiful coastal roads on earth
Hike or cable car ride to Table Mountain: Enjoy breathtaking views of Cape Town and the ocean while choosing either a challenging hike or a relaxed cable car ride. Especially during the peak travel season between October and March, we recommend taking the cable car's Fast Track to avoid long wait times. Climb to the summit and let the beauty of nature and the city enchant you. Table Mountain is a must-visit for every South Africa traveler!
Township Tour - Uthando: If you want to socially engage during your vacation, consider taking a township tour and supporting Uthando, a non-profit organization. Uthando aims to advance social projects with individually and personally developed guided tours of any size. A township tour will surely leave an unforgettable impression, providing a deep insight into the real challenges of South Africa and its residents. Uthando develops and promotes assistance programs in areas such as HIV, drug and alcohol abuse, and abused women and children (www.uthandosa.org)
Kirstenbosch Botanical Garden: This renowned garden, located on the eastern slopes of Table Mountain, houses and protects the plant life of southern Africa (Fynbos or 'Fine Bush'). Approximately six thousand plant species, including ancient cicadas, many protea, erica, pelargonium, and fern species, are nurtured and cared for here. Throughout the year, the gardens showcase a colorful display of flowers, shrubs, and trees. In the summer months, the popular Sunday afternoon summer concerts take place here. Our tip: Monday to Friday, free guided tours of the botanical garden are available at 10:00 am, 11:00 am, and 2:00 pm (Saturday at 10:00 am). Duration: approximately 90 minutes. (https://www.sanbi.org/gardens/kirstenboch/visitor-information/guided-tours/) For more activities and ideas, visit Inside Guide: www.insideguide.co.za/cape-town
E-Bike Tours: Cape Town offers fantastic destinations for bike tours. To cover longer distances effortlessly, renting an e-bike is recommended (www.ebikecapetown.com).
OUR RESTAURANT RECOMMENDATIONS
Fine Dining:
- FYN Restaurant (www.fynrestaurant.com)
- Pier Restaurant (www.pier.restaurant/food)
- La Colombe at Silvermist (www.lacolombe.co.za)
Stylish & Hip:
- Willoughby & Co (Sushi, www.willoughbyandco.co.za)
- TANG (Japanese, www.tanghospitality.com)
- Dorp Hotel Restaurant (www.dorp.co.za)
- Grand Africa Café & Beach (Beach Bar, www.grandafrica.com)
- Bilboa (www.bilboa.co.za)
- Ramenhead (Authentic Ramen Restaurant, run by the team of FYN Restaurant, www.ramenhead.co.za)
- Belly of the Beast (www.bellyofthebeast.co.za)
- The Strangers Club (Breakfast, www.thestrangersclub.co.za)
Cape Peninsula:
- Harbour House (Seafood & Sushi, www.harbourhouse.co.za)
- Steenberg Winery & Bistro (www.steenberg-vineyards.co.za)
- Chefs Warehouse at Tintswalo Atlantic (www.chefswarehouse.co.za/cw-tintswalo)
A special cooking tour in Bo-Kaap allows you to experience the culture of South Africa through the culinary path (http://www.bokaapcookingtour.co.za/)
Find more restaurant tips in and around Cape Town here: www.insideguide.co.za/cape-town/restaurants-in-cape-town
We recommend, especially if you plan to visit top restaurants in Cape Town and the Winelands, to make reservations through the website www.dineplan.co.za 1-2 months before your trip. Often, a credit card deposit is required, and the amount will be deducted during lunch or dinner at the restaurant!
Markets:
Here, you'll find organic fruit and vegetable stands, street food from around the world, and local art. Often, there is live music or a DJ on-site.
- Hout Bay Harbour Market (www.bayharbour.co.za)
- Old Biscuit Mill (Woodstock (www.theoldbiscuitmill.co.za)
- Oranjezicht City Farm Market (www.ozcf.co.za/market-day)
Here is an overview of the 20 most beautiful markets in the Western Cape: www.insideguide.co.za/cape-town/markets/
SHOPPING RECOMMENDATIONS IN AND AROUND CAPE TOWN
- Victoria & Alfred Waterfront (www.waterfront.co.za)
- Tribal Trends (www.tribal-trends.business.site)
- Baraka Gifts & Dekor (www.barakashop.co.za)
ANKES RECOMMENDATIONS
Swimming or kayaking with penguins: In addition to visiting the penguin colony at Boulders Beach (Entrance: R 170.00 per person), you also have the opportunity to swim with the Jack-Ass Penguins. A small public beach (Foxy Beach), somewhat secluded from the main colony in Simon's Town, provides the chance to observe the African penguins up close, also possible from a kayak. (https://kayakcapetown.co.za)
First Thursdays: Every first Thursday of the month, art galleries in Cape Town stay open until at least 9 pm, and many Capetonians gather to stroll through the galleries with a glass of wine in hand, enjoying the relaxed atmosphere. No entrance fee is charged. The evening unfolds along Bree Street and Church Street in the city center, year-round and regardless of weather conditions (www.first-thursdays.co.za). On every third Thursday of the month, the event takes place in studios, galleries, and museums along Roeland Street, Buitenkant Street, and Harrington Street.
And here are some more insider tips for Cape Town and the Cape Peninsula: https://insideguide.co.za/cape-town/hidden-gems/
Additionally, you can find more recommendations for hiking trails on the Inside Guide: https://insideguide.co.za/cape-town/hiking-trails/
