Top Things to Do in Cape Town, South Africa

Cape Town offers an array of experiences that cater to every kind of traveller. From its iconic natural landmarks to its vibrant cultural scenes and opportunities for meaningful engagement, here’s a guide to making the most of your visit.

Cape Town is one of South Africa’s three capital cities. It serves as the legislative capital, meaning it’s where the country’s Parliament is located. The administrative capital is Pretoria (where the executive branch operates), and the judicial capital is Bloemfontein (home to the Supreme Court of Appeal).

For IVI volunteers, you will have your weekends free to explore this amazing city! Here is a guide of the top things to do in Cape Town!

Table Mountain and Lion’s Head: Hiking With a View

Towering over the city, Table Mountain is Cape Town’s most iconic natural landmark. Its flat summit offers sweeping views of the city, the ocean, and the Cape Peninsula. Visitors can take a rotating cable car to the top or tackle one of the many hiking trails, such as Platteklip Gorge or Skeleton Gorge. The mountain is part of the Table Mountain National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and is home to an impressive array of endemic plants and wildlife. It’s a must for any nature lover or outdoor enthusiast.

Adjacent to Table Mountain, Lion’s Head is another popular hiking destination, especially known for its sunrise and full moon hikes. The trail is moderately challenging and winds around the peak, providing 360-degree views of the city, beaches, and mountain range. The final section involves some scrambling and ladders, but the reward is well worth it. This is one of the best ways to experience Cape Town’s unique landscape and connect with its adventurous spirit.

*Safety Tip: If doing the Lion’s Head track for sunset, bring a good torch with you in case it gets dark on the way down, and walk in a group for safety. Try to avoid staying until it gets dark.

Robben Island: Remembering the Past

Robben Island is a deeply symbolic site in South African history. For decades, it was used as a political prison during apartheid, most famously incarcerating Nelson Mandela for 18 years. Today, it’s a living museum and UNESCO World Heritage Site. Guided tours are often conducted by former prisoners who share personal stories that bring the island’s history to life in an unforgettable way. The ferry ride to the island also offers views of Cape Town’s skyline and Table Mountain from the sea.

Walking through the prison, visitors can see Mandela’s former cell and the limestone quarry where prisoners endured hard labour. The experience is emotional and educational, providing insight into South Africa’s struggle for freedom and justice. A trip to Robben Island not only deepens your understanding of the country’s past but also highlights the resilience of its people and their journey toward reconciliation.

Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden

Nestled at the foot of Table Mountain, Kirstenbosch is one of the world’s great botanical gardens. Visitors can stroll through themed gardens, enjoy picnics, and walk along the tree canopy walkway known as the “Boomslang.”

Cape Point and the Cape of Good Hope

A dramatic coastal reserve within the Table Mountain National Park, Cape Point offers breathtaking cliffside views, scenic hiking trails, and the famous lighthouse. It’s also a spot where you can witness the meeting point of two oceans.

Muizenberg Beach

Famous for its colourful beach huts and gentle waves, Muizenberg is a great place to learn how to surf. The beach has a relaxed vibe and a long promenade lined with eateries and surf shops.

District Six Museum

This powerful museum tells the story of a community forcibly removed during apartheid. Through photographs, maps, and personal stories, visitors learn about Cape Town’s complex social history and ongoing journey of healing.

These activities showcase Cape Town’s diverse blend of natural beauty, history, and modern culture.

Boulders Beach: Penguins!

Located near the coastal village of Simon’s Town, Boulders Beach is famous for its colony of African penguins. These endangered birds have made the protected beach their home, and boardwalks allow visitors to observe them without disturbing their habitat. Watching the penguins waddle along the sand, swim in the clear waters, or nest in the bushes is a heartwarming experience for adults and children alike.

The beach itself is beautiful, with large granite boulders creating sheltered coves that are ideal for swimming. The water here is cold but refreshing, and the setting is idyllic. Boulders Beach is part of the Table Mountain National Park Marine Protected Area, ensuring conservation efforts remain strong. For those interested in wildlife and photography, this is a truly unique spot to add to your Cape Town itinerary.

Bo-Kaap and the Heart of Cape Town Culture

One of the most vibrant and photogenic neighbourhoods in Cape Town is Bo-Kaap, known for its brightly painted houses and cobblestone streets. Formerly known as the Malay Quarter, the area is rich in history and culture, home to descendants of enslaved people and immigrants from Southeast Asia. It has a distinct Cape Malay influence, seen in the architecture, cuisine, and traditions.

Visitors can explore the Bo-Kaap Museum, sample traditional dishes like bobotie and samoosas, or join a cooking class with a local family. The call to prayer from nearby mosques adds to the atmosphere of this culturally rich enclave. Bo-Kaap offers more than a great photo—it’s a place to engage with Cape Town’s multicultural identity and learn about the community’s contributions to the city’s heritage.

Cape Winelands: World-Class Wines

Just an hour’s drive from Cape Town, the Cape Winelands offer a picturesque escape with vineyard-covered hills, historic estates, and charming towns like Stellenbosch, Franschhoek, and Paarl. This region produces some of the world’s finest wines, from robust reds to crisp whites, and wine tastings are a highlight of any visit.

Many estates also serve gourmet meals with spectacular views of the mountains and valleys. Beyond wine, the Winelands are rich in history and art, with galleries, gardens, and Cape Dutch architecture dotting the landscape. Spend a day touring cellar doors or stay overnight to enjoy the slower pace and refined ambiance of this stunning area.

V&A Waterfront

This vibrant harbour area is a mix of shopping, dining, museums, and attractions like the Two Oceans Aquarium. It’s a lively place to explore local crafts, take a boat tour, or just enjoy the views of Table Mountain.

Typical Weather and Best Time to Visit

Cape Town has a Mediterranean climate, with warm, dry summers from December to February and cooler, wetter winters from June to August. Summer is the peak tourist season, ideal for beach outings, hikes, and cultural festivals. Expect clear skies, sunshine, and temperatures between 25–30°C (77–86°F).

The shoulder seasons—March to May and September to November—are arguably the best times to visit. The weather is still pleasant, and the crowds thin out, making it easier to explore attractions. Winter brings rain, but it’s also a good time for whale watching along the coast and enjoying lower accommodation rates. Each season has its charm, depending on what you want from your trip.

Things to Do Further Afield

Cape Town is also a gateway to stunning destinations beyond the city. The Garden Route, stretching from Mossel Bay to Storms River, is one of South Africa’s most scenic drives. It features lush forests, dramatic coastlines, and charming towns like Knysna and Plettenberg Bay. Activities along the route include hiking in Tsitsikamma National Park, canoeing on the Wilderness lagoons, and bungee jumping from Bloukrans Bridge.

To the north, the Cederberg Mountains offer remote hiking trails, ancient San rock art, and star-studded night skies. Wine lovers may also enjoy exploring the less-touristy Swartland region. Meanwhile, nature reserves like West Coast National Park burst into colour with wildflowers during spring. For those with extra time, road trips from Cape Town offer a deeper dive into South Africa’s natural diversity.

Volunteering in Cape Town

For those looking to make a positive impact while traveling, Cape Town offers several meaningful volunteer opportunities through IVI.

The Kindergarten Teaching program involves working with local pre-schools where volunteers assist with basic lessons, arts and crafts, and playful activities. Many of these children come from disadvantaged backgrounds, and your presence helps provide a more supportive learning environment. It’s a rewarding experience where cultural exchange and education go hand in hand.

Join our mission to protect one of the world’s fastest and most endangered animals- the cheetah, on our cheetah conservation program. Once thriving across Africa and Asia, cheetahs are now under serious threat. As a volunteer, you’ll work alongside experienced conservationists to care for captive-born cheetahs and support efforts to return them to the wild. This hands-on experience is a unique opportunity to contribute directly to their survival and the future of wildlife conservation.

Join us for an unforgettable adventure in Cape Town, South Africa, with our immersive Culture Week Program. This unique experience is your gateway to exploring the rich heritage, fascinating history, and vibrant culture of one of the world’s most exciting cities.

Through a mix of engaging activities, cultural insights, and meaningful interactions, you’ll get to know the heart and soul of Cape Town’s diverse communities. Each day promises new discoveries, from famous landmarks to hidden gems in local neighbourhoods, offering a deep and memorable cultural experience.

All projects are locally led and emphasize sustainability and cultural sensitivity. Volunteers are housed in shared accommodation and have weekends free to explore Cape Town. Whether you’re a student on a gap year or a professional seeking meaningful travel, our programs offer a structured way to give back.