Guidebook to Cape Town Day Trips

Introduction

Welcome to the breathtaking city of Cape Town, where natural wonders and unforgettable experiences await you at every turn. With its stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and rich history, Cape Town is a dream destination for adventurers and nature enthusiasts alike. In our Safari365 guidebook to Cape Town day trips, we unveil suggested gems of Cape Town through a series of unforgettable day trips.

From the iconic Table Mountain to the vibrant Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, Cape Town offers a myriad of outdoor activities that will leave you in awe of its natural beauty. Explore the rugged coastline as you embark on a thrilling drive along Chapman’s Peak, or immerse yourself in the splendour of the Cape Winelands, where vineyards and majestic mountains converge.

If you’re seeking adventure, venture to the Cape of Good Hope, the southwestern most point of the African continent, and marvel at its dramatic cliffs and diverse marine life. Alternatively, experience the magic of Boulders Beach, home to a colony of adorable African penguins.

Whether you’re craving a dose of adrenaline or a tranquil escape, Cape Town’s day trips have something for everyone. So pack your bags and get ready to uncover the natural wonders that make this city truly unforgettable. Here are four of our favourite Cape Town day trips:

Cape Peninsula

A trip around the Cape Peninsula is an ever popular Cape Town day tour. Travel from the city to the Cape of Good Hope and Cape Point. Cape Point Nature Reserve is perfect for nature lovers; the reserve is home to stunning flora and fauna as well as ruggedly dramatic scenery. While here, visit Cape Point – the most south western point in South Africa, take a stroll along Dias Beach; and admire Cape Point Lighthouse either by hiking or taking a trip on the ferry.

During a tour through the Cape Peninsula, highlights include Muizenberg, Kalk Bay, Simon’s Town, and Boulder’s Beach, which is home to colonies of adorable African Penguins.

A Cape Peninsula day trip is filled with breathtaking natural scenery, interesting culture, and history. A drive along Chapman’s Peak and through Hout Bay at sunset is the perfect way to end a spectacular adventure.

Day trips to Cap Point to see penguins with Safari365
Penguins on Boulders Beach near Cape Point.

Whale Coast and Hermanus

Located 90 minutes from Cape Town, along the Cape Whale Coast Route, is the charming seaside town of Hermanus. The town is famous for being a prime whale watching destination. From July to November, pods of whales migrate along the whale coast, with September- November being the best time for viewing. Visitors are almost guaranteed to see a few spouts, fins, and tails!  The area also provides mating and breeding grounds for the Southern Right Whale. While watching for whales, keep an eye out for the town Whale Crier and his conch shell!

There are a number of things to see and do while in Hermanus. Embark on the cliff, walk along the coastline, explore the town, and enjoy the markets, cafes, and restaurants. You can even enjoy a meal in a restaurant carved into a cave at Beintang’s Cave.

If you have more time in the area, further away from the centre of town, visit Fernkloof Nature Reserve or experience the delicious delights of the Hemel en Aarde Wine Valley.

A whale jumping out of the water in Hermanus.

Cape Winelands

A day spent enjoying the sights and sampling the tastes of the Cape Winelands is a quintessential experience to have when visiting the Western Cape. South Africa is famed for producing world-class wines, and the Cape Winelands are the heart of wine production in the country. Towns such as Stellenbosch and Franschhoek are the perfect destinations for exploring award-winning wineries in the surrounding valleys.

Follow the various wine routes to experience delicious vintages, excellent hospitality, and gourmet food. Stellenbosch is the oldest wine route in the country, boasting 148 wine farms. Franschhoek is a fantastic destination for wine aficionados and foodies, as it is a hot spot for fine dining. Franschhoek is also home to the wine tram – a unique way to explore the Franschhoek Wine Valley.

The combination of dramatic mountain ranges, rolling vineyards, and historical Cape Dutch architecture makes the Cape Winelands one of the Western Cape’s most popular attractions.

Day trips to Cape Winelands with Safari 365.
The lush vineyards that can be found in the Cape Winelands.

Cape Town and Table Mountain Full Day Tour

Embark on a full-day tour of Cape Town and Table Mountain, beginning with a scenic ride on the Table Mountain Aerial Cableway to take in panoramic views of the city and its surroundings. Descend to explore the vibrant Bo-Kaap neighborhood, known for its colourful houses and rich Cape Malay heritage, followed by a delicious lunch at a local restaurant. Afterward, visit the peaceful Company’s Garden, home to historical landmarks like the South African National Gallery and the Houses of Parliament. Continue to the bustling V&A Waterfront, where you can shop, dine, or visit the Two Oceans Aquarium. The day concludes with a guided city tour, highlighting key sites such as the Castle of Good Hope, City Hall, and the District Six Museum, before returning to your accommodation. This tour offers a rich exploration of Cape Town’s natural wonders and cultural treasures, making it an unforgettable day in one of the world’s most beautiful cities.

Day trips to Table Mountain with Saafari365
Table Mountain with the Twelve Apostles mountain range in the background.

Looking to go on your own adventure? Start planning the perfect Cape Town Holiday today!