CAPE TOWN TRAVEL
GENERAL- It is the oldest European settlement in Africa. Cape Town is one of Africa's most popular international tourist destinations. Cape Town has a favorable climate, beaches, a well-developed infrastructure and a beautiful natural setting. Cape Town is one of the most multicultural cities in the world and become a major destination for immigrants and expatriates in South Africa. It is located in the south-west corner of the country near the Cape of Good Hope, also the most southern city in Africa. Cape Town is the second largest city in South Africa (after Johannesburg) and the capital of the Western Cape Province, as well as the legislative capital of South Africa. The city is famous for its harbour and for Table Mountain and Cape Point. Cape Town has a friendly climate, beautiful natural scenery, also a well-developed infrastructure. Cape Town with a unique architectural heritage is a mix of styles of Netherlands, Germany, France, England, and Indonesia.
Best Time to Visit- For sun and swimming, the best time to visit is from October to mid-December and mid-January to Easter, when there’s an average of ten hours of sunshine a day. For the whale watching, the first migrating whales begin to appear along the southern Cape coast in July, usually staying until the end of November. Peak calving season is July and August.
HISTORY-The first Europeans to discover the Cape were the Portuguese, with Bartholomeu Dias arriving in 1488 after journeying south along the west coast of Africa. The next recorded European sighting of the Cape was after 9 years by Vasco da Gama in 1497, while he was searching for a route that would lead directly from Europe to Asia. Cape Town was first developed by the Dutch East India Company as a supply station for Dutch ships sailing to East Africa, India and the Far East. Dutch established the first permanent settlement in South Africa on 6 April 1652. The Dutch East India Company also introduced potatoes, orchards, vineyards and orange trees to Cape Town. Jan Van Riebeeck became the first governor of the Cape.
During that era, Great Britain continuously invading Dutch colonies, including Cape Town. The city changed hands between the Dutch and the British at least four times between 1795 and 1814. In the Anglo-Dutch Treaty of 1814, Cape Town was permanently ceded to Britain. It became the capital of the newly formed Cape Colony. With calls for greater independence from Britain, the Cape attaining its own parliament (1854) and a locally accountable Prime Minister (1872).The Cape Colony's growth speed up even more after an 1867,due to diamond discovery and the Witwatersrand (at Johannesburg) gold rush just under 20 years later. The neo-colonial Town Hall and a number of other ancient buildings still stand, dating from this era.
The immigrants who came to Cape Town in search of gold and diamonds soon found themselves in the middle of the Second Boer War, in which Great Britain was victorious (Boer were previously emigrant people from Netherland and Germany). Cape Town became the first capital of the Union of South Africa on 31May 1910, before achieving its status as the Republic of South Africa's legislative capital in 31 May 1961.
Best Time to Visit- For sun and swimming, the best time to visit is from October to mid-December and mid-January to Easter, when there’s an average of ten hours of sunshine a day. For the whale watching, the first migrating whales begin to appear along the southern Cape coast in July, usually staying until the end of November. Peak calving season is July and August.
HISTORY-The first Europeans to discover the Cape were the Portuguese, with Bartholomeu Dias arriving in 1488 after journeying south along the west coast of Africa. The next recorded European sighting of the Cape was after 9 years by Vasco da Gama in 1497, while he was searching for a route that would lead directly from Europe to Asia. Cape Town was first developed by the Dutch East India Company as a supply station for Dutch ships sailing to East Africa, India and the Far East. Dutch established the first permanent settlement in South Africa on 6 April 1652. The Dutch East India Company also introduced potatoes, orchards, vineyards and orange trees to Cape Town. Jan Van Riebeeck became the first governor of the Cape.
During that era, Great Britain continuously invading Dutch colonies, including Cape Town. The city changed hands between the Dutch and the British at least four times between 1795 and 1814. In the Anglo-Dutch Treaty of 1814, Cape Town was permanently ceded to Britain. It became the capital of the newly formed Cape Colony. With calls for greater independence from Britain, the Cape attaining its own parliament (1854) and a locally accountable Prime Minister (1872).The Cape Colony's growth speed up even more after an 1867,due to diamond discovery and the Witwatersrand (at Johannesburg) gold rush just under 20 years later. The neo-colonial Town Hall and a number of other ancient buildings still stand, dating from this era.
The immigrants who came to Cape Town in search of gold and diamonds soon found themselves in the middle of the Second Boer War, in which Great Britain was victorious (Boer were previously emigrant people from Netherland and Germany). Cape Town became the first capital of the Union of South Africa on 31May 1910, before achieving its status as the Republic of South Africa's legislative capital in 31 May 1961.
GEOGRAPHY-Cape Town is divided into its main City Bowl- an area surrounded by Signal Hill, Lion's Head, Table Mountain and Devil's Peak- as well as its northern and southern suburbs and the Atlantic Seaboard and the South Peninsula. The City Bowl includes Cape Town's main business district and its world famous harbour. In addition, Cape Town has a region called Cape Flats. This area is a flat, low-lying area to the southeast of the city centre.
i-False Bay-False Bay, named such because early navigators mistook Hangklip for Cape Point, is the largest bay in South Africa and one of the great bays of the world. False Bay, located on the south side of Cape Peninsula, South Africa. Cape Hangklip (east) and Cape Point (west) are about 20 miles apart. It is a well-sheltered bay. Its waters are approximately 10° F (5.5° C) warmer than those of Table Bay because of the influence of the Indian Ocean, and making the bay for swimming experiences. It is well supplied with fish. False Bay Coast, offers visitors a multitude of little hamlets and villages with myriads of art & craft shops, coffee shops, cafes, restaurants, B&Bs, pubs, picnic spots and scenic lookout points to explore and enjoy. The scenic beauty of the area is a big draw. Whale spotting during calving season is another highlight of a visit to False Bay and dolphins can be seen throughout the year. Some of the more popular areas along the False Bay Coast include the historically rich naval village of Simon’s Town, the stunning beaches of Muizenberg and Fish Hoek. Possibly the most iconic wildlife picture anyone has of False Bay, is the series of African penguin clusters on Boulders Beach at Simon's Town. Many visitors choose to come to False Bay via the train from Cape Town, alighting at Simon’s Town and spending the day along its Historical Mile.
ii-Table Bay-It was named because of the flat-topped Table Mountain dominates it. Table Bay is located in the Atlantic Ocean, located near the southern tip of Africa and forming the harbour of Cape Town. Extending north from Cape Town to Melkbosstrand, the bay is 12 miles (19 km) long and 8 miles (13km) wide; it contains Robben Island and is overlooked by Table Mountain. Although it was less sheltered than other bays along the coast, it was favoured by the availability of fresh water and therefore became a place of call for ships voyaging to India and the East. The shore was permanently settled (1652) by the Dutch.
iii-Cape Flates-The term Cape Flats refers to well, a flat, sandy stretch of land which is located on the outskirts of the city of Cape Town. The area is situated to the southeast of the central business district of Cape Town.
From the 1950s the area became home to people, the apartheid government designated as non-White and has been described by some as 'Apartheid's dumping ground'. Since then the Flats have been home to, much of the population of Greater Cape Town. The Cape Flats consists of a vast number of townships where the majority of coloured and African people live and is made-up of Black Townships, Coloured ghettoes and Shantytowns. It is the area in which most of Migrant labours were housed. Houses are usually tiny and overcrowded, and in most townships, there are blocks upon blocks of flats, which are equally tiny and serve as a breeding ground for gang and other unsavoury activities. The Flats’ as they are commonly known by locals, consist of township areas such as Bishop Lavis, Hanover Park, Langa, Nyanga, Khayelitsha, Manenberg and Steenberg. There is a rich struggle history in these areas and this is reflected in their cultural offerings and stories.
Despite its origins, and the harsh conditions under which people still live, taking into account the present government’s housing initiatives, the area is unique and has emerged as a vibrant and culturally diverse part of the city that stands in strong contrast to the largely 'white' suburbs of Cape Town.
iv-Atlantic Seaboard-The Atlantic Seaboard, also known as Cape Town’s ‘Riviera’, stretches from the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront on the north shore of Table Mountain all the way down the west side of the Cape Peninsula to Hout Bay. This incredibly beautiful stretch of coast is connected by the most picturesque, scenic drive along Victoria Road and properties on this stretch of South Africa.The Atlantic Seaboard includes the residential suburbs of Mouille Point, Green Point, Sea Point, Fresnaye, Bantry Bay, Clifton, Camps Bay, Bakoven, Llandudno and Hout Bay - all of which offer villas, guest houses and units with easy access to some of the world’s finest beaches.
v-Table Mountain National Park- Stretching from Signal Hill to Cape Point, this 220-sq km park is a natural wonder, its range of environments including granite and Sandstone Mountains, giant boulder strewn beaches and shady forests. The park protects an astounding diversity of plants and more than 1,470 flower species - the planet's richest floral kingdom - as well as animals such as cute snub-nosed dassies (rock hyraxes), caracals, and baboons. Within the park, Devil's Peak flanks the mountain on the east, and Lion's Head on the west, while the crags known as the Twelve Apostles loom over the beach resorts on the Atlantic coast.
vi-Ou Kaapse Weg-Its name "OuKaapseWeg" ('Old Cape Road'), this is actually a relatively modern road, which was opened in 1968. The pass is a major one covering a distance of 10.6 km and in that length contains 26 bends, curves and corners including three full horseshoe bends and another three corners in excess of 90 degrees. The pass offers a modern, well-built road with superb views over its entire length of both False Bay and the Atlantic Ocean with the Steenberg Mountains and Silvermine Nature Reserve with its winter waterfall keeping travelers entertained through the middle section. It gives access to Fish Hoek, Noordhoek, Kommetjie, Simon’s Town and the Cape Point Nature Reserve. Approximate driving distance between Cape Town City Centre and OuKaapseWeg is 31 kms.
There is a jeep track that runs more or less parallel, but higher up the northern side of the pass, which is purportedly an old wagon road used to cart ore from the silver mine.
vii-Twelve Apostles Mountain Range-The Twelve Apostles Mountain Range forms the back of Table Mountain, where you’ll find one of the most scenic stretches of coast in the world. It runs roughly from Kloof Nek (the saddle between Table Mountain and Lion’s Head) to Hout Bay. Victoria Road runs between Sea Point and Hout Bay. It is an incredible drive connecting Camps Bay as it runs along the entire length of the series of mountains, overlooking the Atlantic Ocean on the one side, and the magnificent crags, ridges, ravines, and gorges of the Twelve Apostles on the other. There are 18 peaks, although it really depends how you count. Each peak, however, has its own name. Take a drive along Victoria Road while you’re in town, or opt for a ride on the City Sightseeing bus. It will take a minimum of 30 minutes to Clifton.
viii-Haute Bay Town -Hout Bay is 30 minutes’ from the centre of Cape Town yet has a unique and timeless beauty that makes it so popular with locals and visitors. The area supplied the Dutch colony with wood during the 1650s that was used help build Cape Town. Hout Bay was formerly a fishing village and has managed to maintain its unique combination of fishing harbour and country atmosphere, despite development. Its long, sandy beach faces a bay framed by mountains and is quite simply exceptionally beautiful. Hout Bay produces the best fish and chips around. The busy little harbour is used by fishermen to bring in fresh catches, but also services a number of boat tours and charters, including a trip around the bay in a glass-bottom boat. A visit to Hout Bay is incomplete without a visit to the World of Birds, a wonderful bird park, to be the biggest in the Western Cape. Make sure that you time your visit to coincide with the feeding of the Squirrel monkeys.
ix-Chapman's Peak Drive, scenic drive, Cape Town (Scenic Drive) -It is one of the most spectacular marine drives anywhere in the world. Chapman’s Peak Drive winds its way between Noordhoek and Hout Bay. The 9km route, with its 114 curves, skirts the rocky coastline of Chapman's Peak, the 593m high southerly extension of Constantia Berg. The drive offers stunning 180° views with many areas along the route where you can stop and take in the scenery or sit down for a relaxing picnic. The route starts at the picturesque fishing harbour of Hout Bay and the climb winds steeply up to Chapman's Point, revealing breath-taking views of the sandy bays down below, until the road reaches lower levels again at Noordhoek.
i-False Bay-False Bay, named such because early navigators mistook Hangklip for Cape Point, is the largest bay in South Africa and one of the great bays of the world. False Bay, located on the south side of Cape Peninsula, South Africa. Cape Hangklip (east) and Cape Point (west) are about 20 miles apart. It is a well-sheltered bay. Its waters are approximately 10° F (5.5° C) warmer than those of Table Bay because of the influence of the Indian Ocean, and making the bay for swimming experiences. It is well supplied with fish. False Bay Coast, offers visitors a multitude of little hamlets and villages with myriads of art & craft shops, coffee shops, cafes, restaurants, B&Bs, pubs, picnic spots and scenic lookout points to explore and enjoy. The scenic beauty of the area is a big draw. Whale spotting during calving season is another highlight of a visit to False Bay and dolphins can be seen throughout the year. Some of the more popular areas along the False Bay Coast include the historically rich naval village of Simon’s Town, the stunning beaches of Muizenberg and Fish Hoek. Possibly the most iconic wildlife picture anyone has of False Bay, is the series of African penguin clusters on Boulders Beach at Simon's Town. Many visitors choose to come to False Bay via the train from Cape Town, alighting at Simon’s Town and spending the day along its Historical Mile.
ii-Table Bay-It was named because of the flat-topped Table Mountain dominates it. Table Bay is located in the Atlantic Ocean, located near the southern tip of Africa and forming the harbour of Cape Town. Extending north from Cape Town to Melkbosstrand, the bay is 12 miles (19 km) long and 8 miles (13km) wide; it contains Robben Island and is overlooked by Table Mountain. Although it was less sheltered than other bays along the coast, it was favoured by the availability of fresh water and therefore became a place of call for ships voyaging to India and the East. The shore was permanently settled (1652) by the Dutch.
iii-Cape Flates-The term Cape Flats refers to well, a flat, sandy stretch of land which is located on the outskirts of the city of Cape Town. The area is situated to the southeast of the central business district of Cape Town.
From the 1950s the area became home to people, the apartheid government designated as non-White and has been described by some as 'Apartheid's dumping ground'. Since then the Flats have been home to, much of the population of Greater Cape Town. The Cape Flats consists of a vast number of townships where the majority of coloured and African people live and is made-up of Black Townships, Coloured ghettoes and Shantytowns. It is the area in which most of Migrant labours were housed. Houses are usually tiny and overcrowded, and in most townships, there are blocks upon blocks of flats, which are equally tiny and serve as a breeding ground for gang and other unsavoury activities. The Flats’ as they are commonly known by locals, consist of township areas such as Bishop Lavis, Hanover Park, Langa, Nyanga, Khayelitsha, Manenberg and Steenberg. There is a rich struggle history in these areas and this is reflected in their cultural offerings and stories.
Despite its origins, and the harsh conditions under which people still live, taking into account the present government’s housing initiatives, the area is unique and has emerged as a vibrant and culturally diverse part of the city that stands in strong contrast to the largely 'white' suburbs of Cape Town.
iv-Atlantic Seaboard-The Atlantic Seaboard, also known as Cape Town’s ‘Riviera’, stretches from the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront on the north shore of Table Mountain all the way down the west side of the Cape Peninsula to Hout Bay. This incredibly beautiful stretch of coast is connected by the most picturesque, scenic drive along Victoria Road and properties on this stretch of South Africa.The Atlantic Seaboard includes the residential suburbs of Mouille Point, Green Point, Sea Point, Fresnaye, Bantry Bay, Clifton, Camps Bay, Bakoven, Llandudno and Hout Bay - all of which offer villas, guest houses and units with easy access to some of the world’s finest beaches.
v-Table Mountain National Park- Stretching from Signal Hill to Cape Point, this 220-sq km park is a natural wonder, its range of environments including granite and Sandstone Mountains, giant boulder strewn beaches and shady forests. The park protects an astounding diversity of plants and more than 1,470 flower species - the planet's richest floral kingdom - as well as animals such as cute snub-nosed dassies (rock hyraxes), caracals, and baboons. Within the park, Devil's Peak flanks the mountain on the east, and Lion's Head on the west, while the crags known as the Twelve Apostles loom over the beach resorts on the Atlantic coast.
vi-Ou Kaapse Weg-Its name "OuKaapseWeg" ('Old Cape Road'), this is actually a relatively modern road, which was opened in 1968. The pass is a major one covering a distance of 10.6 km and in that length contains 26 bends, curves and corners including three full horseshoe bends and another three corners in excess of 90 degrees. The pass offers a modern, well-built road with superb views over its entire length of both False Bay and the Atlantic Ocean with the Steenberg Mountains and Silvermine Nature Reserve with its winter waterfall keeping travelers entertained through the middle section. It gives access to Fish Hoek, Noordhoek, Kommetjie, Simon’s Town and the Cape Point Nature Reserve. Approximate driving distance between Cape Town City Centre and OuKaapseWeg is 31 kms.
There is a jeep track that runs more or less parallel, but higher up the northern side of the pass, which is purportedly an old wagon road used to cart ore from the silver mine.
vii-Twelve Apostles Mountain Range-The Twelve Apostles Mountain Range forms the back of Table Mountain, where you’ll find one of the most scenic stretches of coast in the world. It runs roughly from Kloof Nek (the saddle between Table Mountain and Lion’s Head) to Hout Bay. Victoria Road runs between Sea Point and Hout Bay. It is an incredible drive connecting Camps Bay as it runs along the entire length of the series of mountains, overlooking the Atlantic Ocean on the one side, and the magnificent crags, ridges, ravines, and gorges of the Twelve Apostles on the other. There are 18 peaks, although it really depends how you count. Each peak, however, has its own name. Take a drive along Victoria Road while you’re in town, or opt for a ride on the City Sightseeing bus. It will take a minimum of 30 minutes to Clifton.
viii-Haute Bay Town -Hout Bay is 30 minutes’ from the centre of Cape Town yet has a unique and timeless beauty that makes it so popular with locals and visitors. The area supplied the Dutch colony with wood during the 1650s that was used help build Cape Town. Hout Bay was formerly a fishing village and has managed to maintain its unique combination of fishing harbour and country atmosphere, despite development. Its long, sandy beach faces a bay framed by mountains and is quite simply exceptionally beautiful. Hout Bay produces the best fish and chips around. The busy little harbour is used by fishermen to bring in fresh catches, but also services a number of boat tours and charters, including a trip around the bay in a glass-bottom boat. A visit to Hout Bay is incomplete without a visit to the World of Birds, a wonderful bird park, to be the biggest in the Western Cape. Make sure that you time your visit to coincide with the feeding of the Squirrel monkeys.
ix-Chapman's Peak Drive, scenic drive, Cape Town (Scenic Drive) -It is one of the most spectacular marine drives anywhere in the world. Chapman’s Peak Drive winds its way between Noordhoek and Hout Bay. The 9km route, with its 114 curves, skirts the rocky coastline of Chapman's Peak, the 593m high southerly extension of Constantia Berg. The drive offers stunning 180° views with many areas along the route where you can stop and take in the scenery or sit down for a relaxing picnic. The route starts at the picturesque fishing harbour of Hout Bay and the climb winds steeply up to Chapman's Point, revealing breath-taking views of the sandy bays down below, until the road reaches lower levels again at Noordhoek.
x-Devil’S Peak- Devil's Peak is one of the famous Cape Town landmarks, the north-eastern neighbour of Table Mountain . Devil's Peak stands 1,000 metres (3,281 ft.) high, less than Table Mountain's 1,087 metres (3,566 ft.). It provides the stunning backdrop to the University of Cape Town. There are many different routes on the peak, although actual rock climbing is discouraged due to the unstable nature of the rock. A climb of Devil's Peak can take anything from about 2 hours. A good place to start is Rhodes' Memorial, a popular place for tourists, on the slopes behind the university. From here one can hike up to the contour path and follow this south to the base of Newlands Ravine, or one can head for the blockhouse at the foot of the Mowbray Ridge. Other routes on the Cape Town side can be accessed from Tafelberg Road. The Rhodes Memorial to Cecil Rhodes, and the University of Cape Town are situated on the eastern slopes of Devil's Peak.
xi-Lion’S Head- Lions Head in Cape Town is the distinctive shaped mountain slope found alongside Table Mountain on its west side. The proud lion overlooks the city and Table Bay. Lion's Head is a mountain in Cape Town, between Table Mountain and Signal Hill. Lion's Head peaks at 669 metres (2,195 ft.) above sea level.
Hiking up Lions Head- Hiking Time: 1 to 2 hours (up and down) - The five-kilometre hike climbs 500 metres as it encircles Lions Head. Along the path, you will find a series of chains and ladders to assist you as you scramble up a particularly steep section of rocky faces. Walkers with children are advised to take the more child-friendly alternate route around the chains. The summit is a popular spot for paragliding due to the thermals and the nearby beaches. It is also a popular spot for sun-downers. Lions Head is also a popular spot for Full-moon hikes. Take a walk on the wild side tonight and climb up Lion’s Head in Cape Town. Lion’s Head is the perfect place to go on a full moon walk for panoramic views at dusk.
Hiking up Lions Head- Hiking Time: 1 to 2 hours (up and down) - The five-kilometre hike climbs 500 metres as it encircles Lions Head. Along the path, you will find a series of chains and ladders to assist you as you scramble up a particularly steep section of rocky faces. Walkers with children are advised to take the more child-friendly alternate route around the chains. The summit is a popular spot for paragliding due to the thermals and the nearby beaches. It is also a popular spot for sun-downers. Lions Head is also a popular spot for Full-moon hikes. Take a walk on the wild side tonight and climb up Lion’s Head in Cape Town. Lion’s Head is the perfect place to go on a full moon walk for panoramic views at dusk.
xii-Signal Hill- Signal Hill Cape Town is a flat-topped hill that is situated west of the city at five minutes’ drive. Signal Hill offers stunning views over Cape Town, Table Bay, and the glittering Atlantic Ocean from its 350-meter summit. The hill forms the body of the adjacent Lion's Head peak and forming part of Table Mountain. Signal flags were flown from here to send messages to approaching ships and to communicate weather warnings, as well as anchoring instructions to ensure visiting ships were prepared for any stormy weather whilst they were docked in Cape Town's harbour.
There is a famous Noon Gun which is fired every day at 12h00 on the dot. The daily noon gun (cannon) is not only Cape Town’s oldest living tradition, but also the guns used (there are two of them, just in case one of them fails) are two of the oldest in the world still in daily use. In earlier days, this "noon gun" served to give the exact time to ships anchored in the bay. Today it is fired electronically from the South African Astronomical Observatory (except Sundays and public holidays), and its accuracy comes from an atomic clock. Originally, the Signal Hill guns were utilized to notify the public when a ship was in trouble. It’s also where you can enjoy some of the best views in the city. This viewing point got its name from its position high above the peninsula.
On a sunny day, drive up or walk up this hill for a terrific view over the V&A Waterfront, the harbour, the rest of the city, Table Mountain, Devil's Peak, the ocean and Robben Island. In the evenings, Signal Hill is a little like ‘lovers lane’ - popular with couples who are up there to enjoy the lights and the romance of the Table Mountain backdrop, particularly during summer when Table Mountain is lit at night. Reaching the viewpoint is as easy as driving up Kloof Nek Road from the city and then taking a right at the top of the hill.
There is a famous Noon Gun which is fired every day at 12h00 on the dot. The daily noon gun (cannon) is not only Cape Town’s oldest living tradition, but also the guns used (there are two of them, just in case one of them fails) are two of the oldest in the world still in daily use. In earlier days, this "noon gun" served to give the exact time to ships anchored in the bay. Today it is fired electronically from the South African Astronomical Observatory (except Sundays and public holidays), and its accuracy comes from an atomic clock. Originally, the Signal Hill guns were utilized to notify the public when a ship was in trouble. It’s also where you can enjoy some of the best views in the city. This viewing point got its name from its position high above the peninsula.
On a sunny day, drive up or walk up this hill for a terrific view over the V&A Waterfront, the harbour, the rest of the city, Table Mountain, Devil's Peak, the ocean and Robben Island. In the evenings, Signal Hill is a little like ‘lovers lane’ - popular with couples who are up there to enjoy the lights and the romance of the Table Mountain backdrop, particularly during summer when Table Mountain is lit at night. Reaching the viewpoint is as easy as driving up Kloof Nek Road from the city and then taking a right at the top of the hill.
xiii-Cape Peninsula-The Cape peninsula comprises a rocky and steep spine extending towards the south up to the Atlantic Ocean. More than 70 peaks with average height of 300 meter are situated within the official territory of Cape Town. The Cape Peninsula is a generally rocky peninsula that juts out into the Atlantic Ocean at the south-western extremity of the African continent. At the southern end of the peninsula are Cape Point, and the Cape of Good Hope. The Cape Point is about 2.3 kilometres
(1.4 mi) to its east of Cape of Good Hope. On the northern end of peninsula is Table Mountain, overlooking Cape Town. The peninsula is 52 km long from Mouille point in the north to Cape Point in the south. The Cape Peninsula has an unusually rich biodiversity. Its vegetation consists predominantly of several different types of the unique and rich Cape Fynbos. The Cape of Good Hope is sometimes given as the meeting point of the Atlantic and Indian Oceans. Thus, the west coast of the Peninsula is invariably referred to as the "Atlantic Coast", but the eastern side is known as the "False Bay Coast". It is at Cape Point (or the Cape of Good Hope) that the ocean to the south is often said to be divided into the Atlantic Ocean to the west, and the Indian Ocean to the east. But the meeting point is at Cape Agulhas, about 200 km (120 mi) to the southeast towards Hermanus.
xiv-Cape Agulhas - It is the geographic southern tip of the African continent and the beginning of the dividing line between the Atlantic and Indian Oceans. It is 170 kilometres (105 mi) southeast of Cape Town. Historically, the cape has been known to sailors as particularly hazardous - notorious for winter storms and huge rogue waves that can reach a spectacular height of 30 metres - so it is no surprise that it's littered with wrecks. It is the official meeting place, decided by the International Hydrographical Organisation. Historic red and white Cape Agulhas Lighthouse as the icon that denotes the tip of Africa.
POPULATION-4,50,000 (city) 40,00,000(Metro)
AREA- 400.28 km2 (City)
CO-ORDINATES- 33°55′31″S 18°25′26″E
TIME ZONE-UTC+2
CLIMATE- During summer, the sun can rise as early as 05:30 and set as late as 20:00.
MONTH JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC
Av H 26 26 25 23 20 18 17 18 19 21 23 25
in C
Av L 16 16 14 12 09 08 07 07 09 11 13 15
in C
AIRPORT-Cape Town International Airport (CPT) is the primary airport serving the city of Cape Town, and is the second-busiest airport in South Africa and third-busiest in Africa. Located approximately 20 kilometres (12 mi) from the city centre. The airport has domestic and international terminals, linked by a common central terminal. The airport has direct flights from South Africa's other two main urban areas, Johannesburg and Durban, as well as flights to smaller centers in South Africa. Internationally, it has direct flights to several destinations in Africa, the Middle East, Asia and Europe. The main terminal building has three floors: The departures are located in the upper floors and arrivals in the lower floors. On the third floor, there are some retails and cafés as well as a Spur/Cactus Bar and a Smoking area.
International Terminal: It is located at the north (left side of the terminal building). Is required to firstly check-in into the Central Terminal.
Domestic Terminal: It is located at the south (right side of the terminal building). Is required to firstly check-in into the Central Terminal.
CRUISE PORT- Most cruise ships dock at Table Bay Harbour, within walking distance of the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront. But some larger ships dock at Duncan dock.The Cruise Terminal is situated on
E-Berth in the Duncan Dock, Port of Cape Town. Adjacent to the V&A Waterfront, it is within walking
distance of the Cape Town CBD.
A-SIGHTS AND ATTRACTIONS AT CAPE TOWN-
http://www.visitacity.com/en/cape-town/attractions-map
http://www.capepointroute.co.za/day-tours-cape-point.php
(1.4 mi) to its east of Cape of Good Hope. On the northern end of peninsula is Table Mountain, overlooking Cape Town. The peninsula is 52 km long from Mouille point in the north to Cape Point in the south. The Cape Peninsula has an unusually rich biodiversity. Its vegetation consists predominantly of several different types of the unique and rich Cape Fynbos. The Cape of Good Hope is sometimes given as the meeting point of the Atlantic and Indian Oceans. Thus, the west coast of the Peninsula is invariably referred to as the "Atlantic Coast", but the eastern side is known as the "False Bay Coast". It is at Cape Point (or the Cape of Good Hope) that the ocean to the south is often said to be divided into the Atlantic Ocean to the west, and the Indian Ocean to the east. But the meeting point is at Cape Agulhas, about 200 km (120 mi) to the southeast towards Hermanus.
xiv-Cape Agulhas - It is the geographic southern tip of the African continent and the beginning of the dividing line between the Atlantic and Indian Oceans. It is 170 kilometres (105 mi) southeast of Cape Town. Historically, the cape has been known to sailors as particularly hazardous - notorious for winter storms and huge rogue waves that can reach a spectacular height of 30 metres - so it is no surprise that it's littered with wrecks. It is the official meeting place, decided by the International Hydrographical Organisation. Historic red and white Cape Agulhas Lighthouse as the icon that denotes the tip of Africa.
POPULATION-4,50,000 (city) 40,00,000(Metro)
AREA- 400.28 km2 (City)
CO-ORDINATES- 33°55′31″S 18°25′26″E
TIME ZONE-UTC+2
CLIMATE- During summer, the sun can rise as early as 05:30 and set as late as 20:00.
MONTH JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC
Av H 26 26 25 23 20 18 17 18 19 21 23 25
in C
Av L 16 16 14 12 09 08 07 07 09 11 13 15
in C
AIRPORT-Cape Town International Airport (CPT) is the primary airport serving the city of Cape Town, and is the second-busiest airport in South Africa and third-busiest in Africa. Located approximately 20 kilometres (12 mi) from the city centre. The airport has domestic and international terminals, linked by a common central terminal. The airport has direct flights from South Africa's other two main urban areas, Johannesburg and Durban, as well as flights to smaller centers in South Africa. Internationally, it has direct flights to several destinations in Africa, the Middle East, Asia and Europe. The main terminal building has three floors: The departures are located in the upper floors and arrivals in the lower floors. On the third floor, there are some retails and cafés as well as a Spur/Cactus Bar and a Smoking area.
International Terminal: It is located at the north (left side of the terminal building). Is required to firstly check-in into the Central Terminal.
Domestic Terminal: It is located at the south (right side of the terminal building). Is required to firstly check-in into the Central Terminal.
CRUISE PORT- Most cruise ships dock at Table Bay Harbour, within walking distance of the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront. But some larger ships dock at Duncan dock.The Cruise Terminal is situated on
E-Berth in the Duncan Dock, Port of Cape Town. Adjacent to the V&A Waterfront, it is within walking
distance of the Cape Town CBD.
A-SIGHTS AND ATTRACTIONS AT CAPE TOWN-
http://www.visitacity.com/en/cape-town/attractions-map
http://www.capepointroute.co.za/day-tours-cape-point.php
001-TABLE MOUNTAIN-Table Mountain is included in Natural Seven Wonders of the World. Table Mountain is a flat-topped mountain forming a prominent landmark overlooking the city of Cape Town in South Africa. It is a significant tourist attraction, with many visitors using the cableway or hiking to the top. It is South Africa’s most photographed landmark.
The main feature of Table Mountain is the level plateau approximately 3 kilometers (2 mi) from one side to other side, edged by impressive cliffs. The highest point on Table Mountain is towards the eastern end of the plateau and is marked by Maclear’s Beacon, a stone cairn built in 1865 by Sir Thomas Maclear for trigonometrical survey. It is 1,086 metres (3,563 ft.) above sea level, about 19 metres (62 ft.) higher than the cable station at the western end of the plateau. It’s hard to imagine, but the mountain’s distinctive flat top – a three-kilometre level plateau – was once the bottom of a valley.
The flat top of the mountain is often covered by orographic clouds, formed when a south-easterly wind is directed up the mountain’s slopes into colder air, where the moisture condenses to form the so-called “table cloth” of cloud. Legend attributes this phenomenon to a smoking contest between the Devil and a local pirate called Van Hunks.
Conditions between the Lower and Upper Cable Stations can vary considerably. Please bring a warm jacket.
The mountain forms part of the Table Mountain National Park. The park encompasses the Table Mountain chain stretching from Signal Hill in the north to Cape Point in the south and the seas and coastline of the peninsula. Table Mountain, which is home to the richest, yet smallest floral kingdom on earth.
http://www.tablemountain.net
On the top of mountain, there is a Table Mountain Cableway Wi-fi Lounge at the Upper Cableway Station. Officially opening its doors in April 2016, the Lounge offers FREE wireless internet connection, numerous plug and USB points and seating areas as well as a small on-the-go-styled café available to all.
i-Café-At the upper cable station, one will find a restaurant and a curio shop. The self-service restaurant offers a wide range of foods ranging from hot breakfast, the hot meal of the day. The Cableway Cocktail Bar.Cafe features a small viewing terrace and serves as the starting-point of three short walks, which highlight the gigantic scale of the landscape.
ii-Walk on the Plateau-There are three easy walks on the plateau – the Dassie Walk, the Agama Walk, and the Klipspringer Walk. There are also free guided walks that depart – on the hour – from the Twelve Apostles Terrace.
The main feature of Table Mountain is the level plateau approximately 3 kilometers (2 mi) from one side to other side, edged by impressive cliffs. The highest point on Table Mountain is towards the eastern end of the plateau and is marked by Maclear’s Beacon, a stone cairn built in 1865 by Sir Thomas Maclear for trigonometrical survey. It is 1,086 metres (3,563 ft.) above sea level, about 19 metres (62 ft.) higher than the cable station at the western end of the plateau. It’s hard to imagine, but the mountain’s distinctive flat top – a three-kilometre level plateau – was once the bottom of a valley.
The flat top of the mountain is often covered by orographic clouds, formed when a south-easterly wind is directed up the mountain’s slopes into colder air, where the moisture condenses to form the so-called “table cloth” of cloud. Legend attributes this phenomenon to a smoking contest between the Devil and a local pirate called Van Hunks.
Conditions between the Lower and Upper Cable Stations can vary considerably. Please bring a warm jacket.
The mountain forms part of the Table Mountain National Park. The park encompasses the Table Mountain chain stretching from Signal Hill in the north to Cape Point in the south and the seas and coastline of the peninsula. Table Mountain, which is home to the richest, yet smallest floral kingdom on earth.
http://www.tablemountain.net
On the top of mountain, there is a Table Mountain Cableway Wi-fi Lounge at the Upper Cableway Station. Officially opening its doors in April 2016, the Lounge offers FREE wireless internet connection, numerous plug and USB points and seating areas as well as a small on-the-go-styled café available to all.
i-Café-At the upper cable station, one will find a restaurant and a curio shop. The self-service restaurant offers a wide range of foods ranging from hot breakfast, the hot meal of the day. The Cableway Cocktail Bar.Cafe features a small viewing terrace and serves as the starting-point of three short walks, which highlight the gigantic scale of the landscape.
ii-Walk on the Plateau-There are three easy walks on the plateau – the Dassie Walk, the Agama Walk, and the Klipspringer Walk. There are also free guided walks that depart – on the hour – from the Twelve Apostles Terrace.
- Join A Guided Walk-Thirty-minute guided tours happen on the hour from 09:00 to 15:00 daily, departing from the Twelve Apostles Terrace (below the Café). These are free, family-friendly walks,the guide will share the story of Table Mountain and the Cableway, and provide any assistance you may require.
iii-Flora- Table Mountain and the Back Table have an unusually rich biodiversity. Table Mountain's vegetation types form part of the Cape Floral Region protected areas. These protected areas are a World Heritage Site, and an estimated 2,285 species of plants are confined to Table Mountain and the Cape Peninsula range. Of the 2,285 species on the Peninsula 1,500 occur in the 57 km2 area comprising Table Mountain and the Back Table.
iv-Cableway- The Table Mountain Cableway takes passengers from the lower cable station on Tafelberg Road to the top, about 302m (991ft.) above sea level, to 1067 m(3501ft.) to explore the summit. The cable-cars carry up to 65 passengers per trip. The journey up the mountain takes about five minutes and the cars rotate through 360 degrees during the trip, travelling at a speed of up to 10m per second, giving you spectacular views of the mountain below. Cars depart from the lower cable station on Tafelberg Road every 10 to 15 minutes. The upper cable station offers views overlooking Cape Town, Table Bay and Robben Island to the north, and the Atlantic Seaboard to the west and south. The cableway opens at 08h00 in the summer months (16 September to 30 April) and at 08h30 in winter (1 May to 15 September) and last car at 20.30hrs (up).Conditions between the Lower and Upper Cable Stations can vary considerably. Please bring a warm jacket.
Rates- R190 (one way) R330 (two way). From (8am - 1pm)
www.tablemountain.net
v-Hiking On Table Mountain-There are over 350 trails that lead to the top for all types of hikers, from casual strollers to the more experienced ones. The easier trails include the Constantiaberg, the Silvermine or the Cape of Good Hope.Platteklip Gorge, a prominent gorge up the centre of the main table, is one of the most popular routes up the mountain. The ascent is straightforward and should take between one and three hours. Hiking the Table Mountain National Park is mostly free with the exception of some areas where conservation fees are to be paid like the Kirstenbosch Garden, Cape Point or Boulders.
vi-Rock Climbing –There is the option to jump off a cliff with Abseil Africa. This 367-foot (112-meter) drop off the edge of Table Mountain has to be the most thrilling. The abseil experience takes about 45 minutes in total and includes a demonstration, the abseil, and a short hike back up to the top.
www.abseilafrica.co.za
Rates- R190 (one way) R330 (two way). From (8am - 1pm)
www.tablemountain.net
v-Hiking On Table Mountain-There are over 350 trails that lead to the top for all types of hikers, from casual strollers to the more experienced ones. The easier trails include the Constantiaberg, the Silvermine or the Cape of Good Hope.Platteklip Gorge, a prominent gorge up the centre of the main table, is one of the most popular routes up the mountain. The ascent is straightforward and should take between one and three hours. Hiking the Table Mountain National Park is mostly free with the exception of some areas where conservation fees are to be paid like the Kirstenbosch Garden, Cape Point or Boulders.
vi-Rock Climbing –There is the option to jump off a cliff with Abseil Africa. This 367-foot (112-meter) drop off the edge of Table Mountain has to be the most thrilling. The abseil experience takes about 45 minutes in total and includes a demonstration, the abseil, and a short hike back up to the top.
www.abseilafrica.co.za
002-VICTORIA AND ALFRED WATER FRONT- It all started off with a small jetty now is the 123-hectare (303.81acres) property, considered one of South Africa’s most popular attractions, with its stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean, Table Bay and Table Mountain. Prince Alfred, second son of Queen Victoria, visited the Cape Colony harbour in 1860 as a sixteen-year-old Royal Navy Midshipman on HMS Euryalus. He made a big splash with the colonials on this first-ever visit by a member of the Royal Family. The first basin of the new Navy Yard was named after him and the second after his mother.
The historic waterfront today boasts a variety of shops, restaurants and nightlife. The waterfront also is home to art galleries, an aquarium, an amphitheatre with live entertainment that is usually free, and a ship museum, among other attractions. Watch a show in the amphitheatre and take a romantic sunset harbour cruise. Finally, as the stars come out and the city lights up, climb into the Cape Wheel for the inimitable 360° view of the marina, the city and the stadium, all framed in the foreground of Table Mountain. The V&A Waterfront, in the heart of Cape Town’s working harbour, is South Africa’s most visited destination for both tourists and locals alike, and a great departure point for the best day’s tours in Cape Town.
http://www.waterfront.co.za
http://www.waterfront.co.za/maps-and-floorplan
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Be1hMkkTPZA
The historic waterfront today boasts a variety of shops, restaurants and nightlife. The waterfront also is home to art galleries, an aquarium, an amphitheatre with live entertainment that is usually free, and a ship museum, among other attractions. Watch a show in the amphitheatre and take a romantic sunset harbour cruise. Finally, as the stars come out and the city lights up, climb into the Cape Wheel for the inimitable 360° view of the marina, the city and the stadium, all framed in the foreground of Table Mountain. The V&A Waterfront, in the heart of Cape Town’s working harbour, is South Africa’s most visited destination for both tourists and locals alike, and a great departure point for the best day’s tours in Cape Town.
http://www.waterfront.co.za
http://www.waterfront.co.za/maps-and-floorplan
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Be1hMkkTPZA
i-Two Oceans Aquarium- This amazing aquarium is located on the water’s edge on the V&A Waterfront with more than 3000 creatures and 88 species on show. The aquarium has large glass windows and see-through tunnels. There are seven sections each dedicated to a particular aspect of marine life. There is the Predator Exhibit where ragged-tooth sharks and other scary creatures can be seen through an 11 meter wide and 4 meter high acrylic panel. The Ocean Basket Kelp Forest Exhibit is an underwater forest of kelp plants with fish, sea urchins and lobsters swimming between the “trees.” The forest has sea bamboo, split fan kelp and bladder kelp. In the Penguin Exhibit, there are African penguins, rock hopper penguins and African black oystercatchers. Visitors can sit in a bird hide above the rock hopper rookery to watch the penguin environment. There is also an Indian Ocean Gallery, an Atlantic Ocean Gallery, Microscope Exhibits and a Smart Living Challenge Zone where visitors can think about their impact on the environment, energy, biodiversity and waste. The aquarium offers a number of special experiences like educational puppet shows, arts and crafts activities with a marine theme and the AfriSam Children’s Play Center for young kids. There are feeding times for visitors to watch, shark talks, a café, penguin encounters, a touch pool and a chance to dive with sharks.
Opening Hours: Daily 9:00am-6pm
- I&J Ocean Exhibit – 12h00 and 14h00
- Penguin Exhibit – African penguins daily at 11h30 and 14h30
Opening Hours: Daily 9:00am-6pm
ii-Nobel Square, Cape Town- Around the V&A Waterfront in Cape Town, at the square are four larger-than-life bronzed gentlemen standing in a row. They are the central characters of Nobel Square, dedicated to South Africa’s four Nobel Peace Prize laureates: Albert Luthuli, Desmond Tutu, FW de Klerk and Nelson Mandela. These great men all played their part in helping South Africa to democracy after decades of apartheid.
- Albert Luthuli, president of the African National Congress (ANC) in 1952, was the first African to win the Nobel Peace Prize. He received his award in December 1961 after being allowed briefly out of South Africa to attend the Nobel ceremony in Oslo.
- Archbishop Emeritus Desmond Tutu, who was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1984, is one of the world’s most beloved leaders. His fame stretches far beyond South Africa’s borders and his words are relevant to the world at large.
- FW de Klerk was South Africa’s last president during apartheid. In 1990 he heralded the social and political winds of change in South Africa by releasing Nelson Mandela from prison, unbanning the ANC and its alliance partners, and working with Mandela and others to establish the country’s new Constitution.
iii-Clock Tower- Clock Tower in the V&A Waterfront is a great historical landmark. The Victorian Gothic-style Clock Tower is an icon of the old Cape Town harbour. It was the original Port Captain's Office built in 1882. The pointed Gothic windows surrounds the structure with a clock, imported from Edinburgh, as a main feature. The red walls are the same colour as they were in the 1800's, having been carefully matched to scrapings of the original paint. The Clock Tower boasts an old tidal-gauge mechanism on the bottom floor, which was used to check tide levels. The second floor holds a decorative mirror room, which enabled the port captain a full view of all harbour activities. The clock mechanism can be found on the top floor and thanks to the restoration of this national monument in 1997, the original clock is still in use today.
iv-Nelson Mandela Gateway(Jetty 1 Museum) - Jetty 1 Museum is a national monument separate from the Exhibition and Information Centre. Originally an embarkation building for Robben Island prisoners used at the time of the imprisonment of Nelson Mandela, today it is a museum featuring the history of Robben Island and honoring those who fought against apartheid.
This building was, in fact, the start and end point of the journeys taken by all traveler - prisoners, wardens or staff - heading to and from Robben Island. Take a closer look and will notice a little board just outside the entrance that denotes its historical importance. Inside is a full account of Robben Island, before and after apartheid. The holding cells are very similar to the cells on the island, with hard beds and empty benches in the waiting room, the walls covered in copies of applications for visitors' permits. Tours of Robben Island depart from this complex. Even if you don’t plan a visit to the island, one can visit the museum , with its focus on the struggle for equality.
Boat trips to Robben Island also depart from here. The ferry trip takes 30 minutes to the tiny harbour. Ferries depart at 09:00, 11:00, 13:00 and 15:00, weather permitting, from Nelson Mandela Gateway, at the V&A Waterfront in Cape Town. The standard tour to Robben Island is three-and-a-half-hours long, including the two half-hour ferry rides.
This building was, in fact, the start and end point of the journeys taken by all traveler - prisoners, wardens or staff - heading to and from Robben Island. Take a closer look and will notice a little board just outside the entrance that denotes its historical importance. Inside is a full account of Robben Island, before and after apartheid. The holding cells are very similar to the cells on the island, with hard beds and empty benches in the waiting room, the walls covered in copies of applications for visitors' permits. Tours of Robben Island depart from this complex. Even if you don’t plan a visit to the island, one can visit the museum , with its focus on the struggle for equality.
Boat trips to Robben Island also depart from here. The ferry trip takes 30 minutes to the tiny harbour. Ferries depart at 09:00, 11:00, 13:00 and 15:00, weather permitting, from Nelson Mandela Gateway, at the V&A Waterfront in Cape Town. The standard tour to Robben Island is three-and-a-half-hours long, including the two half-hour ferry rides.
v-Cape Town Diamond Museum- Located at the V&A Waterfront, next to the Robben Island Ferry. But, this is about so much more than an exhibition. The Museum of Gems & Jewellery invites locals and international visitors to learn about the history of diamond mining in South Africa. The Cape Town Diamond Museum pays tribute to the world’s most precious gem, the diamond. It is a must-see for any visitor to Cape Town and best of all, offering free admission to the Museum. In addition, they can take a behind-the-scenes peek into the skills of diamond cutters and polishers in the Shimansky factory.
The museum is open from 9am to 9pm, seven days a week.(Free admission)
The museum is open from 9am to 9pm, seven days a week.(Free admission)
vi-Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa- Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa (Zeitz MOCAA) collects, preserves, researches, and exhibits twenty-first century art from Africa and its Diaspora. Over one hundred galleries are dedicated to a permanent collection; temporary exhibitions; and Centres for Art Education, Curatorial Excellence, Performative Practice, Photography, the Moving Image, and the Costume Institute.
It is housed in the historic Grain Silo at the V&A Waterfront. Built in 1921, and at 57m tall, the Grain Silo remains an icon of the Cape Town skyline. Zeitz MOCAA is in the nine floors.
Daily Admission:-R 200 per adult.
It is housed in the historic Grain Silo at the V&A Waterfront. Built in 1921, and at 57m tall, the Grain Silo remains an icon of the Cape Town skyline. Zeitz MOCAA is in the nine floors.
Daily Admission:-R 200 per adult.
vii-Chavonnes Battery Museum-The Chavonnes Battery was built in 1726,over when the Alfred Basin was constructed. Like buried treasure, it was uncovered again and turned into a museum in 1999.Experience the ancient walls of Table Mountain rock and granite, cemented with a mixture made by burning seashells on Robben Island, still there after almost three centuries. Touch the cannons and see the different types of cannon balls and uniforms. Wear an 18th Century Tricorne hat and experience how people dressed at this bustling halfway stop between Europe and the East.
viii-Victoria Wharf Shopping Centre-The main shopping centre has two levels comprising stores and restaurants. The V&A Waterfront is home to more than 450 retail outlets that range from household accessories to boutiques, spa products, and Afrocentric keepsakes. Local and international brands mean that shoppers will be able to find an endless variety of just about anything imaginable.
ix- Harbour Cruise- The Waterfront Harbour Cruise departs from and returns to the jetty outside the Two Oceans Aquarium at the V&A Waterfront. The Cruise runs every 30 minutes, on the hour and half-hour.
Wild Horizons Waterfront Adventures- Coastal Atlantic Sea Board Cruises- The Coastal Atlantic Sea Board cruise includes a trip down the coast towards Sea Point and provides an impressive perspective of Cape Town from the sea. Sightings include views of the Mother City, Table Mountain and Robben Island creating a memorable trip. The cruise boat offering half hour cruises as well as one-hour cruises around the Old Harbour and International Docks.
Where: Start and end at Quay 5 , V & A Waterfront, Cape Town
a-Sunset Champagne Cruises
Duration-Approximate length of cruise: 90min
Ticket-Adults R390
b-Bay Sail
60 minutes: Adults R210
90 minutes: Adults R280
c-Harbour Cruise
Approximate length of cruise: 30 min. (hourly departures)
Ticket-100R(30mts)
Timeslot(Dawn is a 40 seater harbour cruise boat)
11:30-12:00 12:30-13:00 13:30-14:00 14:3015:00
15:30-16:00 16:30-17:00 17:30-18:00
http://www.waterfrontadv.co.za/boat-trip-in-cape-town.html
http://www.waterfront.co.za/activities/sea
Wild Horizons Waterfront Adventures- Coastal Atlantic Sea Board Cruises- The Coastal Atlantic Sea Board cruise includes a trip down the coast towards Sea Point and provides an impressive perspective of Cape Town from the sea. Sightings include views of the Mother City, Table Mountain and Robben Island creating a memorable trip. The cruise boat offering half hour cruises as well as one-hour cruises around the Old Harbour and International Docks.
Where: Start and end at Quay 5 , V & A Waterfront, Cape Town
a-Sunset Champagne Cruises
Duration-Approximate length of cruise: 90min
Ticket-Adults R390
b-Bay Sail
60 minutes: Adults R210
90 minutes: Adults R280
c-Harbour Cruise
Approximate length of cruise: 30 min. (hourly departures)
Ticket-100R(30mts)
Timeslot(Dawn is a 40 seater harbour cruise boat)
11:30-12:00 12:30-13:00 13:30-14:00 14:3015:00
15:30-16:00 16:30-17:00 17:30-18:00
http://www.waterfrontadv.co.za/boat-trip-in-cape-town.html
http://www.waterfront.co.za/activities/sea
x-Cape Town Helicopters-
Price: R5300/pp
Price: R2700/pp
Price: R2100/pp
Price: R2000/pp
List of Operatores-
http://www.waterfront.co.za/activities/air
https://www.helicopterscapetown.co.za
http://sporthelicopters.co.za
http://www.waterfront.co.za/activities/air
https://www.nachelicopterscapetown.com/scenic-flights/
- Full Peninsula Scenic Flight- Take the Full trip from Cape Town to the Cape of Good Hope. View the Cape Peninsula from all angles before flying along the False Bay Coast and onto Cape Town.
Price: R5300/pp
- Two Oceans Scenic Flight- Take off from the V&A Waterfront & enjoy a scenic flight along the Atlantic Coast over to False Bay, passing Fish Hoek to Muizenberg. Receive a Free City Sightseeing Bus Ticket with every Two Ocean Flight.
Price: R2700/pp
- Robben Island Scenic Flight- A Robben Island helicopter tour offers an unrivaled experience that lets you see this amazing island.
Price: R2100/pp
- Atlantico Scenic Flight-A City Helicopter scenic flight along the Atlantic Coast viewing famous spots like the Cape Town Stadium, the 4 Beaches of Clifton, Camps Bay and the Twelve Apostles. Swing around Karbonkelberg.
Price: R2000/pp
List of Operatores-
http://www.waterfront.co.za/activities/air
https://www.helicopterscapetown.co.za
http://sporthelicopters.co.za
http://www.waterfront.co.za/activities/air
https://www.nachelicopterscapetown.com/scenic-flights/
xi-The Cape Wheels-The Cape Wheel is a giant observation wheel that offers a spectacular 360-degree panoramic view of Cape Town, and the surrounding area from the vibrant V&A Waterfront precinct. Your viewing experience across the Mother City includes Table Mountain, Robben Island, Cape Town City Skyline, Paarl Mountains, and the Cape Town Stadium. The Cape Wheel offers 30 fully enclosed air- conditioned cabins that will take you 40 metres above the ground in safety and comfort on the 12 – 15 minute, four-revolution ride.
Hours of operation-10h00 - 22h30
Ticket- R140.00
Hours of operation-10h00 - 22h30
Ticket- R140.00
x-South African Maritime Museum-The harbour history of Cape Town lies in the Maritime Museum in the V&A Waterfront, close to the Two Oceans Aquarium. The Iziko Maritime Centre features an overview of shipping in Cape Town, and the earliest existing model of Table Bay harbour, completed in 1885 by prisoners and warders of Breakwater Prison, forms part of the exhibitions. Images depicting Table Bay from the 17th to 20th century give an idea of the development of the harbour.
Where-1st Floor, Union-Castle House, Dock Road, V & A Waterfront, Cape Town
When-Open Monday to Sunday from 10h00 to 17h00
Closed on Workers Day and Christmas Day.
How Much-Free
Where-1st Floor, Union-Castle House, Dock Road, V & A Waterfront, Cape Town
When-Open Monday to Sunday from 10h00 to 17h00
Closed on Workers Day and Christmas Day.
How Much-Free
xii-Hotels At V&A Waterfront-
- Victoria & Alfred Hotel
- Jackie O Luxury Yacht And Hotel
- The Portswood Hotel
003-THE CASTLE OF GOOD HOPE-It’s the oldest existing colonial building in South Africa. Its position marks the original shoreline before years of land reclamation changed the Table Bay coastline.The Castle of Good Hope, shaped like a pentagon, is the oldest surviving colonial building in South Africa. The Dutch East India Company started construction on it in 1666 to replenish supplies for ships; its gate design includes the coats of arms of several Dutch cities. It is a Cape military installation today.
In 1652, the Dutch East India Company (DEIC) settled on the shores of Table Bay to establish a refreshment base for ships en route from Europe to East Asia, and to maintain its monopoly over the Spice Trade. Jan van Riebeeck, the first Commander of the Cape, erected the original Fort de Goede Hoop (Fort of Good Hope).The Castle of Good Hope operated as the seat of government of the DEIC until 1795, when the colony was occupied by the British. It served as the official residence of the Governor of the Cape for the first half of the 19th century. In 1917, the Castle was handed over to the South African National Defence Force who still operates the Castle today. In 1936, the Castle was declared a National Monument.
A tour of the Castle’s two museums and expansive grounds offer fascinating insight into Cape Town’s military and cultural past.The Military Museum tells the history of the Cape, while the Iziko Museum displays historical paintings and antique furniture, known as the William Fehr collection.
If you visit, you can also catch the changing of the guard at noon and the Key Ceremony (replicating the ceremonial unlocking of the Castle) at 10am and noon every weekday.
Hours of operation - 09h00 - 16h45
Know before you go
Key Ceremony: 10h00 & 12h00
Canon firing 10h00, 11h00 & 12h00
Guided tours: 10h00, 11h00, 12h00, 14h00, 15h00 & 16h00
Tours- Free guided tours leave from the Information Desk in the Visitors' Centre (Gate 1) at 10h00 and 14h00 Mondays to Saturdays. There is an additional 11h00 tour on Tuesdays. There are no tours on Sundays. Tours are 90 minutes to 2 hours long. Capacity is limited to 15 people, and places are allocated on a first-come-first-served basis.
Address- Corner of Darling Street and Buitenkant Street, Cape Town, South Africa.
In 1652, the Dutch East India Company (DEIC) settled on the shores of Table Bay to establish a refreshment base for ships en route from Europe to East Asia, and to maintain its monopoly over the Spice Trade. Jan van Riebeeck, the first Commander of the Cape, erected the original Fort de Goede Hoop (Fort of Good Hope).The Castle of Good Hope operated as the seat of government of the DEIC until 1795, when the colony was occupied by the British. It served as the official residence of the Governor of the Cape for the first half of the 19th century. In 1917, the Castle was handed over to the South African National Defence Force who still operates the Castle today. In 1936, the Castle was declared a National Monument.
A tour of the Castle’s two museums and expansive grounds offer fascinating insight into Cape Town’s military and cultural past.The Military Museum tells the history of the Cape, while the Iziko Museum displays historical paintings and antique furniture, known as the William Fehr collection.
If you visit, you can also catch the changing of the guard at noon and the Key Ceremony (replicating the ceremonial unlocking of the Castle) at 10am and noon every weekday.
Hours of operation - 09h00 - 16h45
Know before you go
Key Ceremony: 10h00 & 12h00
Canon firing 10h00, 11h00 & 12h00
Guided tours: 10h00, 11h00, 12h00, 14h00, 15h00 & 16h00
Tours- Free guided tours leave from the Information Desk in the Visitors' Centre (Gate 1) at 10h00 and 14h00 Mondays to Saturdays. There is an additional 11h00 tour on Tuesdays. There are no tours on Sundays. Tours are 90 minutes to 2 hours long. Capacity is limited to 15 people, and places are allocated on a first-come-first-served basis.
Address- Corner of Darling Street and Buitenkant Street, Cape Town, South Africa.
004-CAPE TOWN CITY HALL-Built in 1905, Cape Town City Hall is a striking mix of Italian Neo-Renaissance and British colonial style. It is located on the Grand Parade to the west of the Castle and is built from honey-coloured oolitic limestone imported from Bath in England. The 60-meter-high bell-tower, with a carillon installed in 1923, was modelled on Big Ben in London. Highlights of the interior include the beautiful mosaic floors, marble staircase, and impressive stained glass. The Cape Philharmonic Orchestra, a multi-functional, full-time professional symphony orchestra, regularly performs in City Hall's auditorium (on most Thursdays). The venue also hosts choir competitions, school bands, variety shows, African music, jazz and more. Notice the balcony overlooking Grand Parade where Nelson Mandela, the country's future president, addressed a jubilant crowd in 1990 when released, after 27 years in prison. City Hall, as its name suggests, was built to function as the centre of city administration and as such housed the offices of the City of Cape Town. These have since moved to the Cape Town Civic Centre. City Hall lies between Buitengracht and Darling Streets. On 24 July 2018, a statue of Nelson Mandela on the balcony overlooking the Grand Parade was unveiled. It was on the same spot where he made a speech when he was released from prison on 11 February 1990.
Grand Parade- South Africa's oldest public space in front of City Hall. The square is surrounded by the Cape Town City Hall, the Castle of Good Hope, and the Cape Town railway station. The square is also used as a market place and parking area but has also been the venue of major political rallies. It was the first place where Nelson Mandela addressed South Africans following his release from prison in 1990 and following his election as president on 9 May 1994.On Wednesdays and Saturdays, the Grand Parade turns into a Market.
Central Library- Nearby Drill Hall, dating from 1889 and where Queen Elizabeth II celebrated her 21st birthday has been sensitively restored and turned into the city’s Central Library.
Address- Darling Street, Cape Town, South Africa.
Grand Parade- South Africa's oldest public space in front of City Hall. The square is surrounded by the Cape Town City Hall, the Castle of Good Hope, and the Cape Town railway station. The square is also used as a market place and parking area but has also been the venue of major political rallies. It was the first place where Nelson Mandela addressed South Africans following his release from prison in 1990 and following his election as president on 9 May 1994.On Wednesdays and Saturdays, the Grand Parade turns into a Market.
Central Library- Nearby Drill Hall, dating from 1889 and where Queen Elizabeth II celebrated her 21st birthday has been sensitively restored and turned into the city’s Central Library.
Address- Darling Street, Cape Town, South Africa.
005-GREENMARKET SQUARE-This historical flea market is located on a cobbled square and surrounded by historical buildings.Greenmarket Square is one of the liveliest hubs in Cape Town. It’s the second oldest public space in Cape Town, after the Grand Parade.The square was built in 1696, when a Burgher Watch House(now Old Town Hall)was erected.This building later became the Old Town House, and still stands on the square today. It’s an impressive building, with pillars, and a crest over the upper balcony.Over the years, the square has served as a slave market, a vegetable market, a parking lot and more recently, a flea market trading mainly African souvenirs, crafts and curios.
At Greenmarket Square, you can pick up local art, crafts, fabrics and artefacts from almost every country on the continent at this open-air gathering place. There are few coffee shops, restaurants and hotels bordering on Greenmarket Square, convenient for customers who need to relax after shopping.
At Greenmarket Square, you can pick up local art, crafts, fabrics and artefacts from almost every country on the continent at this open-air gathering place. There are few coffee shops, restaurants and hotels bordering on Greenmarket Square, convenient for customers who need to relax after shopping.
006-ST. GEORGE'S CATHEDRAL-It is the Anglican cathedral in Cape Town. The cathedral replaced a church built in 1834 on the same site, and is still incomplete. It kept its doors opened to people of all races throughout the apartheid era. It is a stunning example of the Victorian-era design with magnificent stained glass windows. The central panel of the great west window is dominated by the figure of the triumphant Christ. Due to its proximity to parliament, it is often a refuge and a source of inspiration for parliamentarians. St George's Cathedral is where parliament, religious leaders and members of parliament gathered for a prayer service.
007- PARLIAMENT OF SOUTH AFRICA/HOUSE OF PARLIAMENT-The city of Cape Town, despite not being the capital of South Africa, is home to South Africa’s Parliament - Cape Town is the legislative capital, whilst the seat of government is in Pretoria. It is from here that the President gives his State of the Nation Address, after the opening of Parliament. Built in 1885, the South African Houses of Parliament have since been one of the most dramatic political arenas in the world.Near Company’s Garden and the South African National Library on the left and the Houses of Parliament on right. Visitors can buy tickets to sit in the public gallery during parliamentary sessions between January and June, although you need to remember to have your passport with you. The parliament building itself, which also houses the Library of Parliament, is beautiful, with its central dome and Corinthian porticos and pavilions. There is a tour of Parliament every weekday on the hour, from 9am to 12am. There is also another Friday tour from 2pm to 4pm. Group numbers are limited to 25.
Lying in the uppermost corner of Company Gardens, with their entrance on Parliament Street.
Address- Parliament St, Cape Town City Centre, Cape Town, 8000, South Africa.
Lying in the uppermost corner of Company Gardens, with their entrance on Parliament Street.
Address- Parliament St, Cape Town City Centre, Cape Town, 8000, South Africa.
008-CASTLE & SLAVE LODGE-The Slave Lodge is one of the oldest buildings in Cape Town. The building has answered to many names in the last three centuries, namely; Slave Lodge, Government Offices Building, Old Supreme Court, and SA Cultural History Museum. All these names reflect the long and rich history of the building.
In 1998 this museum was renamed the Slave Lodge. Under the umbrella theme, ‘From human wrongs to human rights”. Exhibitions on the lower level of this museum explore the long history of slavery in South Africa.
While millions of enslaved Africans were shipped to the Americas during the Trans-Atlantic slave trade, another slave port was thriving at the tip of Africa. Between 1653 and 1856, 71,000 slaves were captured in South East Asia and brought to Cape Town by the Vereenigde Oost-IndischeCompagnie (VOC) or Dutch East India Company. Many were sold to colonial homes and farmers, while the rest were retained by the VOC and housed in a slave lodge on the periphery of the Company’s Garden. South Africa’s slaves were mainly from India, Indonesia, East Africa, Mauritius and Madagascar.
When slavery was finally abolished by the British in 1834, South Africa’s slaves were some of the last to be freed in the British Empire. A four-year transition period followed the Abolition Act, during which time former slaves had to learn trades.
The Slave Lodge operated until 1811, when it was transformed into government offices by the British colonial authorities. Later, the lodge served as a Supreme Court and the SA Cultural History Museum before it was renamed the Iziko Slave Lodge Museum in 1998.
Two centuries later, the Slave Lodge is no longer a place of pain and misery. It is now an educational center that helps to keep the memory of South Africa’s slaves alive.
In 1998 this museum was renamed the Slave Lodge. Under the umbrella theme, ‘From human wrongs to human rights”. Exhibitions on the lower level of this museum explore the long history of slavery in South Africa.
While millions of enslaved Africans were shipped to the Americas during the Trans-Atlantic slave trade, another slave port was thriving at the tip of Africa. Between 1653 and 1856, 71,000 slaves were captured in South East Asia and brought to Cape Town by the Vereenigde Oost-IndischeCompagnie (VOC) or Dutch East India Company. Many were sold to colonial homes and farmers, while the rest were retained by the VOC and housed in a slave lodge on the periphery of the Company’s Garden. South Africa’s slaves were mainly from India, Indonesia, East Africa, Mauritius and Madagascar.
When slavery was finally abolished by the British in 1834, South Africa’s slaves were some of the last to be freed in the British Empire. A four-year transition period followed the Abolition Act, during which time former slaves had to learn trades.
The Slave Lodge operated until 1811, when it was transformed into government offices by the British colonial authorities. Later, the lodge served as a Supreme Court and the SA Cultural History Museum before it was renamed the Iziko Slave Lodge Museum in 1998.
Two centuries later, the Slave Lodge is no longer a place of pain and misery. It is now an educational center that helps to keep the memory of South Africa’s slaves alive.
009-COMPANY GARDEN-The Company’s Garden is situated in Queen Victoria Street, at the top of Adderley Street, and adjacent to the South African Parliament. Company's Garden is a large public park and botanical garden set in the heart of Cape Town, home to a rose garden, Japanese garden, fish pond and aviary. The garden was originally created in the 1650s. The Garden is also home to the South African Museum and the Cape Town Holocaust Centre here, where you can view exhibits about the atrocities suffered by Jews during World War II. There is the Rutherford Fountain—which still stands on the original spot where it was erected in 1864—and the well pump embedded in an oak tree which dates back to 1842.
The Company’s Garden Restaurant- They serve traditional Capetonian fare, along with standard lunch food—burgers, sandwiches, and fish and chips.
South African National Gallery-The garden is also home to the South African National Gallery. The gallery houses an impressive permanent collection of South African, African, British, French, Dutch and Flemish art.
http://resource.capetown.gov.za
The Company’s Garden Restaurant- They serve traditional Capetonian fare, along with standard lunch food—burgers, sandwiches, and fish and chips.
South African National Gallery-The garden is also home to the South African National Gallery. The gallery houses an impressive permanent collection of South African, African, British, French, Dutch and Flemish art.
http://resource.capetown.gov.za
010-BO-Kaap-The Bo-Kaap is an area of Cape Town, South Africa formerly known as the Malay Quarter. It is a former township, situated on the slopes of Signal Hill above the city centre and is a historical centre of Cape Malay culture in Cape Town.Bo-Kaap is known for its brightly coloured homes and cobble stoned streets.
Because the aboriginal tribes in the (Cape Town) area resisted the Dutch, slaves were initially imported from Malaysia, Indonesia(from Batvia) and other parts of Africa, hence the name “Malay”. Most of the new residents were Muslim, and several mosques were built in the area.Early Muslim settlers, many of whom were skilled tailors, carpenters, shoe makers and builders. Dutch devlopers here started purchasing the land and built several small “huurhuisjes” (rental houses), which they leased to their slaves and at that time these time all houses were white. On 1 August 1834, all slaves in the British Empire were freed,and the slaves were allowed to buy the properties, all the houses were painted bright colours by their owners as an expression of their freedom.Many of the families in the Bo-Kaap have been living there for generations. Today the Bo-Kaap community is a significant part of our cultural heritage.The first established Muslim mosque in South Africa, the Auwal Mosque, can also be found in the Bo-Kaap.
Bo Kaap Museum- The oldest building in the Bo-Kaap is in Wale Street and currently houses the Bo-Kaap Museum. This is the best place to discover the real history of the area and to get a glimpse into the life of a typical Malay family. It displays the local Islamic culture and heritage as well as the history of the Cape Malay people – the original inhabitants of the Bo Kaap. The building is believed to date back to the 1760s.It has amazing yellow wood floors, a typical Cape Dutch architecture, teak door and window frames and themed rooms that include a traditional bridal chamber. Entry fees are affordable, making this a must for anyone visiting the area.
Because the aboriginal tribes in the (Cape Town) area resisted the Dutch, slaves were initially imported from Malaysia, Indonesia(from Batvia) and other parts of Africa, hence the name “Malay”. Most of the new residents were Muslim, and several mosques were built in the area.Early Muslim settlers, many of whom were skilled tailors, carpenters, shoe makers and builders. Dutch devlopers here started purchasing the land and built several small “huurhuisjes” (rental houses), which they leased to their slaves and at that time these time all houses were white. On 1 August 1834, all slaves in the British Empire were freed,and the slaves were allowed to buy the properties, all the houses were painted bright colours by their owners as an expression of their freedom.Many of the families in the Bo-Kaap have been living there for generations. Today the Bo-Kaap community is a significant part of our cultural heritage.The first established Muslim mosque in South Africa, the Auwal Mosque, can also be found in the Bo-Kaap.
Bo Kaap Museum- The oldest building in the Bo-Kaap is in Wale Street and currently houses the Bo-Kaap Museum. This is the best place to discover the real history of the area and to get a glimpse into the life of a typical Malay family. It displays the local Islamic culture and heritage as well as the history of the Cape Malay people – the original inhabitants of the Bo Kaap. The building is believed to date back to the 1760s.It has amazing yellow wood floors, a typical Cape Dutch architecture, teak door and window frames and themed rooms that include a traditional bridal chamber. Entry fees are affordable, making this a must for anyone visiting the area.
011-DISTRICT SIX AND MUSEUM-The area known as District Six got its name from having been the Sixth Municipal District of Cape Town in 1867. Its earlier unofficial name was Kanaldorp, a name supposedly derived from the series of canals running across the city.
During the apartheid regime of the 1960s and ’70s, the segregating Group Areas Act, saw all the non-white residents of District Six evicted and relocated further outside the city.
It was called “slum clearing,” but the true intention was to fill the desirably located neighbourhood with white residents and high rises.
District Six was crowded with a multiracial blend of working class people, Jews, Muslims, and Christians alike, many of whom were descended from freed slaves and immigrants. In the mid–20th century, a population of roughly 60,000 lived there.
The excellent and sobering District Six Museum provides context as well as rotating exhibits on the residents who were forcibly removed from their homes. Another highlight is St. Mark’s Anglican Church, built in 1867. The government was unable to bulldoze the historic religious building, and instead offered its clergy a resettlement stipend. They declined, and St. Mark’s continued to host the same community in the original location, now driving from all over Cape Town to attend service.
On the museum's floor is a large-scale map where former residents are encouraged to label their old homes and features of their neighbourhood.
The District Six Museum is located at 25A Albertus St & Buitenkant Street.
www.districtsix.co.za
During the apartheid regime of the 1960s and ’70s, the segregating Group Areas Act, saw all the non-white residents of District Six evicted and relocated further outside the city.
It was called “slum clearing,” but the true intention was to fill the desirably located neighbourhood with white residents and high rises.
District Six was crowded with a multiracial blend of working class people, Jews, Muslims, and Christians alike, many of whom were descended from freed slaves and immigrants. In the mid–20th century, a population of roughly 60,000 lived there.
The excellent and sobering District Six Museum provides context as well as rotating exhibits on the residents who were forcibly removed from their homes. Another highlight is St. Mark’s Anglican Church, built in 1867. The government was unable to bulldoze the historic religious building, and instead offered its clergy a resettlement stipend. They declined, and St. Mark’s continued to host the same community in the original location, now driving from all over Cape Town to attend service.
On the museum's floor is a large-scale map where former residents are encouraged to label their old homes and features of their neighbourhood.
The District Six Museum is located at 25A Albertus St & Buitenkant Street.
www.districtsix.co.za
012-THE UNIVERSITY OF CAPE TOWN-The country's oldest university and a leading higher education institution in South Africa, which enrolls about 26 000 students annually. Founded in 1829 as a high school for boys known as the South African College (today, SACS boys' school is situated in Newlands),UCT developed into a fully-fledged university between 1880 and 1900. Its development was spurred on by the discovery of diamonds and gold to the north (Johannesburg), with the requirement for engineering skills.UCT is proud to number among its alumni three Nobel laureates, namely author JM Coetzee, biophysicist Sir Aaron Klug and nuclear physicist Professor Allan McLeod Cormack. Another famous alumnus was Professor Chris Barnard, the first man in the world to perform a heart transplant. The main teaching campus, known as Upper Campus, is located on the Rhodes Estate on the slopes of Devil's Peak.
013-RHODES MEMORIAL-Rhodes Memorial, built in remembrance of Cecil John Rhodes who contributed greatly to the formation of the sub continent.Rhodes Memorial is a structure that was built in 1912 on the slopes of Devil's Peak a short hike below the block house, and above the University of Cape Town.Built on the site where Rhodes was said to sit and restlessly contemplate his future. The structure has 49 steps, one for each year that Rhodes lived, leading up to a statue of the man leaning his head on his right hand.The stairs are lined with granite walls on which statues of eight lions look out over Cape Town.Rhodes’ bust lies at the memorial, at the foot of the steps and identical to the statue in Kensington Palace Gardens in London.At the bottom of the steps is a bronzed equestrian with the horse having one leg raised in the air and the equestrian shading his eyes from the sun as he looks out over Cape Town's northern suburbs.The memorial today is a popular venue for tea or lunch at the restaurant, which now occupies the original cottage built by Herbert Baker between 1910 and 1912.
014-KIRSTENBOSCH NATIONAL BOTANICAL GARDENS-The garden is set against a backdrop of Table Mountain, a fact that offers visitors some pretty stunning views. The Kirstenbosch National Botanic Gardens, established in 1913, is one of the world’s great botanical gardens, and was the first to concentrate on a country’s native plants. Kirstenbosch features not only plants from the Cape area but also from throughout southern Africa.More than 20,000 native South African plant species are collected, grown, and studied. Landscape gardens feature numerous varieties of flora from the Cape Floral Kingdom. Covers 1,305 acres (528 hectares); blends seamlessly with the natural vegetation of Table Mountain. Hikers may enjoy a walk on the trail that starts in the garden and leads to the top of Table Mountain. Kirstenbosch is the most famous of nine national botanical gardens in South Africa.Of particular historical interest are a hedge of wild almond-trees planted by Jan van Riebeeck in 1660 and an avenue of camphor and fig trees planted by Cecil Rhodes in 1898.Don't miss the proteas, the scented garden; the impressive collection of cycads; the Sculpture Garden, and the Botanical Society Conservatory, a custom-built greenhouse with plants from arid regions.Includes a fragrance garden and a section where plants used by sangomas (traditional African healers) are grown.Well-marked trails thread through the wooded slopes, and the Tree Canopy Walkway provides panoramic views across the mountain-backed gardens. One of the trails leads through a ravine to the summit of Table Mountain.
The Centenary Tree Top Canopy Walkway-The Centenary Tree Top Canopy Walkway is a curved steel and timber bridge walkway that winds its way through, and over, the trees of the Arboretum. Inspired by a snake skeleton, and informally called 'The Boomslang' (meaning tree snake), it takes you from the forest floor through the trees until suddenly you find yourself above the tree canopy enjoying panoramic views of the iconic Kirstenbosch mountains, the garden itself and out across Cape Town to the Hottentots Holland mountains beyond. The Arboretum is situated between the Protea Garden, Cycad Amphitheatre, the Dell, Mathews Rockery and the Concert Lawn. There is no additional entry fee to walk on The Boomslang.
Shuttle car tours of the garden leave from the Visitors' Centre (Gate 1), on the hour, daily, from 09h00 to 15h00, on fair-weather days. The shuttle car can accommodate a maximum of 7 passengers. Tickets for the Shuttle Car Tours cost R65 per person, additional to Garden entry fee.
The Garden is open every day from 08h00 to 19h00 during summer (Sep-Mar), 08h00 to 18h00 during winter (Apr-Aug).
Entry Ticket- R70 Adult.
Location-Kirstenbosch lies 13 km from Cape Town's city centre, well signposted on all major roads.
http://www.sanbi.org/gardens/kirstenbosch
https://in.pinterest.com/elianaschwerin/south-african-flowers-plants/more_ideas/?ideas_referrer=1
Fynbos includes proteas, ericas, restios, as well as geophytes, daisies, legumes and vygies.
The country's national flower, the king protea (Proteacynaroides), is perhaps the most famous species of fynbos, along with ericas and reeds.
The Centenary Tree Top Canopy Walkway-The Centenary Tree Top Canopy Walkway is a curved steel and timber bridge walkway that winds its way through, and over, the trees of the Arboretum. Inspired by a snake skeleton, and informally called 'The Boomslang' (meaning tree snake), it takes you from the forest floor through the trees until suddenly you find yourself above the tree canopy enjoying panoramic views of the iconic Kirstenbosch mountains, the garden itself and out across Cape Town to the Hottentots Holland mountains beyond. The Arboretum is situated between the Protea Garden, Cycad Amphitheatre, the Dell, Mathews Rockery and the Concert Lawn. There is no additional entry fee to walk on The Boomslang.
Shuttle car tours of the garden leave from the Visitors' Centre (Gate 1), on the hour, daily, from 09h00 to 15h00, on fair-weather days. The shuttle car can accommodate a maximum of 7 passengers. Tickets for the Shuttle Car Tours cost R65 per person, additional to Garden entry fee.
The Garden is open every day from 08h00 to 19h00 during summer (Sep-Mar), 08h00 to 18h00 during winter (Apr-Aug).
Entry Ticket- R70 Adult.
Location-Kirstenbosch lies 13 km from Cape Town's city centre, well signposted on all major roads.
http://www.sanbi.org/gardens/kirstenbosch
https://in.pinterest.com/elianaschwerin/south-african-flowers-plants/more_ideas/?ideas_referrer=1
Fynbos includes proteas, ericas, restios, as well as geophytes, daisies, legumes and vygies.
The country's national flower, the king protea (Proteacynaroides), is perhaps the most famous species of fynbos, along with ericas and reeds.
- The Pincushion Protea or Leucospermum is a genus of about 50 species of flowering plants in the family Proteaceae. It’s native to South Africa and Zimbabwe and occupies a variety of habitats from scrub and forest to mountain slopes.
015-CAPE TOWN STADIUM-Shaped like a giant, traditional African hat and wrapped with a Teflon-mesh membrane designed to catch and reflect natural light, built for the 2010 World Cup.The stadium now has a seating capacity of 55 000. The stadium is now the home ground of the Ajax Cape Town football team and is set to host many international football and rugby events in the future.
The 72 cables arranged like the spokes of a bicycle wheel, connecting to a steel compression ring that rests 34.5m above the pitch, adds visual spectacle. A glass roof covers the stands and bathes the stadium in natural light by day. At night, enhanced by pitch lighting, the effect evokes a burning ring of fire around the stadium.The stadium lies a short walk away from the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront.
Cape Town Stadium Tour-The tour takes you all around the stadium and tells you more about the construction of the facility, the world-class materials that were used in the building of the stadium and simply all the work that goes into maintaining this impressive multi-purpose facility. There are three sessions per day (10h00, 12h00 and 14h00) and you simply show up just before the start, pay and you’re on your way. Each tour lasts an hour and ends at our memorabilia shop.
The 72 cables arranged like the spokes of a bicycle wheel, connecting to a steel compression ring that rests 34.5m above the pitch, adds visual spectacle. A glass roof covers the stands and bathes the stadium in natural light by day. At night, enhanced by pitch lighting, the effect evokes a burning ring of fire around the stadium.The stadium lies a short walk away from the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront.
Cape Town Stadium Tour-The tour takes you all around the stadium and tells you more about the construction of the facility, the world-class materials that were used in the building of the stadium and simply all the work that goes into maintaining this impressive multi-purpose facility. There are three sessions per day (10h00, 12h00 and 14h00) and you simply show up just before the start, pay and you’re on your way. Each tour lasts an hour and ends at our memorabilia shop.
016-LONG STREET, CAPE TOWN-One of the oldest streets in Cape Town. In the late 1800s, it was the longest street in Cape Town, stretching from the harbour all the way to Tamboerskloof in the upper part of the city. Long Street is a major part of the city’s street culture.The street is lined with numerous Victorian buildings that have been restored over the years. Among these, you’ll find the oldest slave church in South Africa (now the SA Mission Museum) and the Palm Tree Mosque, dating back to 1820.
The CBD is the heart of Cape Town, and Long Street is its major artery.Running from Orange Street all the way through the CBD up to the Foreshore, close to the Cape Town International Convention Centre. Long Street is not really that long when it comes to roads in Cape Town.Long Street, is a place where music, food and fun is serious business.The street has all kinds of private decks, balconies, rooftop lounges and other vantage points where exclusive parties are held.Stroll down this bustling street, here are a few things that make Long Street Cape Town worth a visit.
a-Royale Eatery-Royale is a legendary burger joint that serves some of the best gourmet burgers and milkshakes that Cape Town has to offer. It’s unique in that it also caters for vegetarians and vegans—with a lot of care and thought put into their veggie burger options.
b-Lola’s- It has a ton of options for breakfast and lunch–including some great vegetarian fare–and also offers stellar smoothies, coffee, and craft beer.
c-Beerhouse-The Beerhouse has 99 different types of local and international beer and is one of the best places to go in Cape Town if you’re a bit of beer connoisseur. They offer tasting trays, so you can try a bit of everything, and a fantastic menu that is designed to complement the brews.
d- The Dubliner-The Dubliner is a comfortable, old-school Irish bar at the top of Long Street. It features live music on every night of the week but is particularly busy on weekends, when it becomes a late-night destination for locals and tourists to converge and drink and dance the night away.
e- Second Time Around- Second Time Around is an iconic vintage fashion shop on Long Street. The shop has been around for ages but consistently manages to source amazing vintage fashion–everything from retro jewellery to fur coats.
f- The Long Street Antique Arcade-The Long Street Antique Arcade is a small labyrinth of antique shops catering to both serious collectors and the casually curious. You can find African and Asian art, maps, historical military gear, coins, and vintage clothing.
The CBD is the heart of Cape Town, and Long Street is its major artery.Running from Orange Street all the way through the CBD up to the Foreshore, close to the Cape Town International Convention Centre. Long Street is not really that long when it comes to roads in Cape Town.Long Street, is a place where music, food and fun is serious business.The street has all kinds of private decks, balconies, rooftop lounges and other vantage points where exclusive parties are held.Stroll down this bustling street, here are a few things that make Long Street Cape Town worth a visit.
a-Royale Eatery-Royale is a legendary burger joint that serves some of the best gourmet burgers and milkshakes that Cape Town has to offer. It’s unique in that it also caters for vegetarians and vegans—with a lot of care and thought put into their veggie burger options.
b-Lola’s- It has a ton of options for breakfast and lunch–including some great vegetarian fare–and also offers stellar smoothies, coffee, and craft beer.
c-Beerhouse-The Beerhouse has 99 different types of local and international beer and is one of the best places to go in Cape Town if you’re a bit of beer connoisseur. They offer tasting trays, so you can try a bit of everything, and a fantastic menu that is designed to complement the brews.
d- The Dubliner-The Dubliner is a comfortable, old-school Irish bar at the top of Long Street. It features live music on every night of the week but is particularly busy on weekends, when it becomes a late-night destination for locals and tourists to converge and drink and dance the night away.
e- Second Time Around- Second Time Around is an iconic vintage fashion shop on Long Street. The shop has been around for ages but consistently manages to source amazing vintage fashion–everything from retro jewellery to fur coats.
f- The Long Street Antique Arcade-The Long Street Antique Arcade is a small labyrinth of antique shops catering to both serious collectors and the casually curious. You can find African and Asian art, maps, historical military gear, coins, and vintage clothing.
017-CANAL WALK SHOPPING MALL-Canal Walk is the 3rd largest shopping centre in Africa.( Gateway Centre in Durban is the largest and the Sandton City complex in Johannesburg is larger when including the Nelson Mandela Square annex.) Built in what the developers call "Cape Venetian architecture", the shopping centre hosts over 400 stores, numerous restaurants, 20 cinemas plus a game arcade.Food options include 19 restaurants, 16 fast food stores and 6 coffee shops. All favourite eateries such as McDonalds, KFC, Nando’s, Subway are there. Canal Walk is also home to a 17 screen Nu Metro Cinema showing all of the latest movies.
Canal Walk is part of the Greater Century City which includes numerous other attractions including Intaka Island, the award winning wetlands and eco-tourism attraction spanning 16 hectares; Ratanga Junction, South Africa's rst full scale theme park,
with over 30 rides; Golf Village, with driving range and all the necessary facilities; and the Protea Hotel Island Club, with 23 luxury suites and fitness centre.
Address: Century Blvd, Century City, Cape Town, 7441, South Africa.
Canal Walk is part of the Greater Century City which includes numerous other attractions including Intaka Island, the award winning wetlands and eco-tourism attraction spanning 16 hectares; Ratanga Junction, South Africa's rst full scale theme park,
with over 30 rides; Golf Village, with driving range and all the necessary facilities; and the Protea Hotel Island Club, with 23 luxury suites and fitness centre.
Address: Century Blvd, Century City, Cape Town, 7441, South Africa.
018-SAUNDER’S ROCK BEACH-Saunders' Rock Beach is situated off the coast of Bantry Bay between Sea Point and Camps Bay. This beach got its name from the natural
occurrence of granite in the rocks protruding from the shore. Saunders' Rock beach is secluded, which makes it perfect for a total retreat and peaceful atmosphere. Situated within the Atlantic Seaboard, the beach's waters are icy, but the beach itself is predominantly wind free and comes absolutely with its own tidal pool and shower.The beautiful white sand of the beach is dotted with rocky outcrops, which add a distinctive character to Saunders’.
From Sea Point Promenade,there is a Viewing Point , place from where one can view the Twelve Apostle Mountains and sun set.
occurrence of granite in the rocks protruding from the shore. Saunders' Rock beach is secluded, which makes it perfect for a total retreat and peaceful atmosphere. Situated within the Atlantic Seaboard, the beach's waters are icy, but the beach itself is predominantly wind free and comes absolutely with its own tidal pool and shower.The beautiful white sand of the beach is dotted with rocky outcrops, which add a distinctive character to Saunders’.
From Sea Point Promenade,there is a Viewing Point , place from where one can view the Twelve Apostle Mountains and sun set.
019-CLIFTON BEACH-It is situated on the west Atlantic side only ten minutes from the city centre(6kms). Clifton is actually a series of four beaches separated by a stretch of granite boulders. All the beaches have almost pure white sand and offer beautiful views and sunsets.Each beach attracts its own type of crowd: 4th Beach is popular with teenagers, 3rd Beach attracts Cape Town's gay community, 2nd Beach is frequented by models, and 1st Beach is for people with dogs or those who want a more laid-back experience.
Unfortunately though the water looks blue and appealing, but always very chilly averaging around 12 to 16 °C, and only bearable on a hot summer day.
Unfortunately though the water looks blue and appealing, but always very chilly averaging around 12 to 16 °C, and only bearable on a hot summer day.
020-CAMPS BAY-Situated just a 15-minute drive from the city centre or V&A Waterfront, Camps Bay was made for Cape Town's December - February mid-summer months.Camps Bay is one of the most vibrant and trendy suburbs in Cape Town, and lies just beyond the four beaches of Clifton. Its exceptionally beautiful setting is set by the Twelve Apostles and Lion’s Head.
The beachfront of Camps Bay is a long stretch of white, palm tree-lined sand and along its length is a boulevard that forms part of a series of pavement cafes, bistros and restaurants specialising in Mediterranean fare that has earned Camps Bay its trendy and cosmopolitan character.It’s protected by massive granite boulders, allowing for wind-free sunbathing and calm waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling.
Clifton’s four beaches offer some rare people-watching opportunities and the lawn overlooking 4th beach is a popular paragliding landing spot.
Camps Bay is known for the quality of its seafood restaurants.
https://www.tripsavvy.com/things-to-do-in-camps-bay-south-africa-4159301
The beachfront of Camps Bay is a long stretch of white, palm tree-lined sand and along its length is a boulevard that forms part of a series of pavement cafes, bistros and restaurants specialising in Mediterranean fare that has earned Camps Bay its trendy and cosmopolitan character.It’s protected by massive granite boulders, allowing for wind-free sunbathing and calm waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling.
Clifton’s four beaches offer some rare people-watching opportunities and the lawn overlooking 4th beach is a popular paragliding landing spot.
Camps Bay is known for the quality of its seafood restaurants.
https://www.tripsavvy.com/things-to-do-in-camps-bay-south-africa-4159301
021-FISH HOEK BEACH-Fish Hoek beach is well known as one of the safest swimming beaches in the Cape which makes it increasingly popular for families. Fish Hoek, meaning “Fish Corner" is a seaside town on the False Bay side of the Cape Peninsula. Fish Hoek beach is approximately 1.5km long and offers a flat surface of white sands perfect for family outings, sun tanning, beach games, and walks. The bay is protected from strong currents, making it fantastic for swimming, body boarding, kayaking, surfing, and sailing.There is a very good restaurent at the beach-The Galley.
022-MUIZENBERG BEACH-Muizenberg Beach is a coastal suburb of Cape Town. The sandy beach is not very long, but the water is warmer to swim in than other Cape Beaches. Its biggest attraction, however, may be the waves that make it popular with surfers; it is where surfing began in South Africa. Muizenberg Beach is a good place to learn this water sport, with lessons readily available.It is located in Fals Bay.
B-CAPE TOWN NEARBY PLACES-
B-CAPE TOWN NEARBY PLACES-
001-ROBBIN ISLAND- For nearly 400 years, Robben Island was a place of exile where rulers sent those they regarded as outcasts and troublemakers. In 1999 the island was declared a World Heritage Site. Robben Island is located in Table Bay, some 6.9km west of Bloubergstrand, and stands some 30m above sea level. Robben Island is roughly oval in shape, 3.3 km long north-south, and 1.9 km wide. It was also used as a post office, a grazing ground, a mental hospital and an outpost. Daily tours of about 4 hours long, including the ferry rides are offered (weather permitting) from the V & A Waterfront in Cape Town.
During the apartheid years, Robben Island was used to isolate opponents of apartheid and to crush their morale. Freedom fighters, like Nelson Mandela, spent 18 years of his 27 years in prison on Robben Island. South African presidents Kgalema Motlanthe and Jacob Zuma were also spent time there. Most of the buildings date back to the Second World War with 9.2 inch guns and bunkers bearing testimony to the armaments erected to defend Cape Town. The first person who successfully make the swim from Robben Island to the mainland – (no easy feat given the treacherous rocks, icy water, and possibility of sharks) – was a convict called Jan Rykman in 1690. Roughly 132 species of bird – including a colony of African Penguins – have made the island their home.
Tour- Daily tours depart by ferry from the Nelson Mandela Gateway at V& A Waterfront. The ferry trip takes 30 minutes to the tiny harbour of the Island. From there a bus ride takes one to historic places like the kramat, leper graveyard, a church designed by Sir Herbert Baker and the lime quarry where political prisoners endured lengthy hours of tough physical labour. Driving along the shipwreck coast you can spot some antelope, plentiful seabirds and the lighthouse. The last stop is the maximum-security prison.
Tour Schedule-Ferries depart at 9am, 11am and 1pm, weather permitting, from Nelson Mandela Gateway, at the V&A Waterfront in Cape Town.
Tickets- R360 (return-morning)
www.robben-island.org.za
During the apartheid years, Robben Island was used to isolate opponents of apartheid and to crush their morale. Freedom fighters, like Nelson Mandela, spent 18 years of his 27 years in prison on Robben Island. South African presidents Kgalema Motlanthe and Jacob Zuma were also spent time there. Most of the buildings date back to the Second World War with 9.2 inch guns and bunkers bearing testimony to the armaments erected to defend Cape Town. The first person who successfully make the swim from Robben Island to the mainland – (no easy feat given the treacherous rocks, icy water, and possibility of sharks) – was a convict called Jan Rykman in 1690. Roughly 132 species of bird – including a colony of African Penguins – have made the island their home.
Tour- Daily tours depart by ferry from the Nelson Mandela Gateway at V& A Waterfront. The ferry trip takes 30 minutes to the tiny harbour of the Island. From there a bus ride takes one to historic places like the kramat, leper graveyard, a church designed by Sir Herbert Baker and the lime quarry where political prisoners endured lengthy hours of tough physical labour. Driving along the shipwreck coast you can spot some antelope, plentiful seabirds and the lighthouse. The last stop is the maximum-security prison.
Tour Schedule-Ferries depart at 9am, 11am and 1pm, weather permitting, from Nelson Mandela Gateway, at the V&A Waterfront in Cape Town.
Tickets- R360 (return-morning)
www.robben-island.org.za
002-CAPE OF GOOD HOPE- Cape of Good Hope is the southern tip of Africa and the dividing point between the Atlantic and Indian Oceans. The true southernmost point is Cape Agulhas, about 200 km (120 mi) southeast. At the southern end of the peninsula are the Cape of Good Hope, and about 2.3 kilometres (1.4 mi) to its east is Cape Point. Cape Town is about 50 kilometres to the north of the Cape, at the north end of the peninsula. The Cape of Good Hope is sometimes given as the meeting point of the Atlantic Ocean and Indian Ocean. The term Cape of Good Hope has also been used in a wider sense, to indicate the area of the early European colony in the vicinity of the cape. Both the Cape of Good Hope and Cape Point offer spectacular scenery. It was originally named the Cape of Storms by Portuguese explorer Bartholomew Dias in 1488. It was later renamed, by King John II of Portugal, the Cape of Good Hope because of the great optimism created by the opening of a sea route to India and the East. One of the highest sea cliffs at 250 meters (820 ft.) above sea level, it provides an excellent vantage point for whale and dolphin watching. The Cape of Good Hope has some of the most brilliant scenery for those participating in active sports, be it on land or on or in the water from scenic walks to hiking & biking, swimming in the tidal pools, diving & surfing, fishing and angling, and bird, whale and animal watching all over the reserve.
Cape Point- The landmark attraction of the route is Cape Point at the end of the Cape Peninsula, with the legendary Cape of Good Hope. The cape is, about 2.3 kilometres (1.4 mi) east and a little north of the Cape of Good Hope on the southwest corner. The peak above Cape Point is higher than that above the Cape of Good Hope. There is a major peak that dominates the skyline locally but there is also a smaller peak about 100 m (328 ft.) further south. The higher peak has the old lighthouse on the top. The Flying Dutchman Funicular runs from a car park to the north up to slightly below the level of the old lighthouse and a short flight of steps leads to a viewing platform around the base of the lighthouse. The Flying Dutchman Funicular lifts you 238 metres above the ocean, to the lighthouse; the ride offers the most breath-taking panoramic views. Enjoy lunch at the Two Oceans Restaurant or pick up a bite at the Food Shop. You can experience the grandeur of one of the highest sea cliffs and freshest air in South Africa. Take some time to explore this fascinating reserve and discover some of the history and shipwrecks that scatter the coastline.
Cape Point- The landmark attraction of the route is Cape Point at the end of the Cape Peninsula, with the legendary Cape of Good Hope. The cape is, about 2.3 kilometres (1.4 mi) east and a little north of the Cape of Good Hope on the southwest corner. The peak above Cape Point is higher than that above the Cape of Good Hope. There is a major peak that dominates the skyline locally but there is also a smaller peak about 100 m (328 ft.) further south. The higher peak has the old lighthouse on the top. The Flying Dutchman Funicular runs from a car park to the north up to slightly below the level of the old lighthouse and a short flight of steps leads to a viewing platform around the base of the lighthouse. The Flying Dutchman Funicular lifts you 238 metres above the ocean, to the lighthouse; the ride offers the most breath-taking panoramic views. Enjoy lunch at the Two Oceans Restaurant or pick up a bite at the Food Shop. You can experience the grandeur of one of the highest sea cliffs and freshest air in South Africa. Take some time to explore this fascinating reserve and discover some of the history and shipwrecks that scatter the coastline.
Flying Dutchman Funicular- Located at Cape Point, the Flying Dutchman funicular, is a cable-railway believed to be the only commercial funicular of its type in Africa. It is named after the local legend of the Flying Dutchman ghost ship which is still said to be haunting the waters around Cape Point. The Flying Dutchman Funicular saves visitors a long uphill walk from the car park to see the old lighthouse and enjoy the panoramic views. The line runs from a lower station at the Cape Point car park, up an incline through dense fynbos to the upper lighthouse. The funicular leaves from the lower station every three minutes, comfortably accommodates 40 passengers per car, and can transport 450 persons to the upper lighthouse per hour.
Ticket-65Rands (Return)
Ticket-65Rands (Return)
Light House at Cape Point- The old lighthouse has stood here since 1860 serving as a warning to those rounding 'the fairest Cape' and that rises 238 metres above the sea. The 360 degree views from up here and from any viewpoint on the walk to the top, are spectacular. It has long since been decommissioned for being built in the wrong place, the old Cape Point lighthouse is an important icon of the Cape Peninsula, and captures the imaginations of visitors who ascend to this spot and look down at the rocky coastline and the ocean. It feels like you can see all the way down to Antarctica.
New Light House at Cape Point-The new lighthouse is at a lower elevation (87 meters; 285.5 feet above sea level).The light of the new Cape Point lighthouse is the most powerful on the South African coast, with a range of 63 miles (101 km; 55 nmi) and an intensity of 10 mega candles in each flash. There are paths to both the old and new lighthouses at Cape Point. The walk to the old lighthouse is short but steep, along a well-hewn path. You also have the alternative of taking the funicular railway. If you want to add an hour or two to your hike, take the cliff path from Cape Point to the Cape of Good Hope. The latter part of it is boardwalk and the path easy to follow, and yet it is one of the best kept secrets of the reserve.
http://www.capepointroute.co.za/seeit-capepoint.php
http://www.capepointroute.co.za/seeit-capepoint.php
003-SIMON’S TOWN- Simon’s Town is one of the most charming villages in Cape Town. Situated about 40 km outside of the city, en route to the Cape Point Nature Reserve. South African navy is located here and steeped in nautical history - its cobbled streets alive with restored cottages and homes, whilst the main road is full of shops, coffee shops and restaurants.
Simon’s Town is the Dutch East India Company first established the South African Navy’s largest naval base. A small dockyard facility in Simon’s Town in 1743. This was taken over by the British Royal Navy in the 1790s, under whom the facility was further developed over the following century and a half. A pair of stone storehouses dating from the 1740s stand on the seafront where they were built by the Dutch East India Company, marking the initial location of the yard. Immediately adjacent is the earliest Royal Naval building on the site (a combined Mast-House, Boathouse and Sail Loft); dating from 1815, it now serves as the South African Naval Museum.
Simon’s Town’s historical mile, St George’s Street, has 21 buildings over 150 years’ old and includes a local museum, the navy museum and a toy museum. This stretch also includes the Church of St Francis, said to be the oldest Anglican Church in the country, a Mosque built in 1926, and the Dido Valley Cemetery, filled with gracious headstones. Visit the Simon’s Town museum for a truly historical experience. View the frigates and submarines from a distance that are docked at the Naval Base harbour.
Simon’s Town is the Dutch East India Company first established the South African Navy’s largest naval base. A small dockyard facility in Simon’s Town in 1743. This was taken over by the British Royal Navy in the 1790s, under whom the facility was further developed over the following century and a half. A pair of stone storehouses dating from the 1740s stand on the seafront where they were built by the Dutch East India Company, marking the initial location of the yard. Immediately adjacent is the earliest Royal Naval building on the site (a combined Mast-House, Boathouse and Sail Loft); dating from 1815, it now serves as the South African Naval Museum.
Simon’s Town’s historical mile, St George’s Street, has 21 buildings over 150 years’ old and includes a local museum, the navy museum and a toy museum. This stretch also includes the Church of St Francis, said to be the oldest Anglican Church in the country, a Mosque built in 1926, and the Dido Valley Cemetery, filled with gracious headstones. Visit the Simon’s Town museum for a truly historical experience. View the frigates and submarines from a distance that are docked at the Naval Base harbour.
Just Nuisance and Jubilee Square, Simon’s Town: -A life size bronze statue of this legendary Great Dane stands proud in Jubilee Square in front of the hotel. "Just Nuisance"was the world famous dog who was awarded the title of Able Seaman in the Royal Navy.
The great Dane dog that befriended the Royal Naval sailors during World War 2 and was buried with full military honour s. He considered that all sailors were his friends. He has become a Simon’s Town mascot.
How to reach-Driving in from Cape Town or the Airport will take about 40 to 50 minutes. You can take the slower coastal route through Muizenberg and Fish Hoek or the faster OuKaapseWeg (Old Cape Road) over the stunning mountain pass.
The great Dane dog that befriended the Royal Naval sailors during World War 2 and was buried with full military honour s. He considered that all sailors were his friends. He has become a Simon’s Town mascot.
How to reach-Driving in from Cape Town or the Airport will take about 40 to 50 minutes. You can take the slower coastal route through Muizenberg and Fish Hoek or the faster OuKaapseWeg (Old Cape Road) over the stunning mountain pass.
Boulders Beach Penguin Colony- Boulders Beach remains the only place in the world where one can get up close to African Penguins. Penguin viewing is made easier by boardwalks that lead visitors across the beaches as well as to an information centre, which is managed by SAN Parks.
Visiting the African Penguin Colony, at Boulder’s Beach is a part of the South African National Parks and all along the Penguin Viewing Path, you’ll be able to see penguins in their natural habitat. Elevated boardwalks to Foxy Beach provide excellent viewing opportunities for penguins and whales. Giant granite boulders protect the beach area.
In 1983 a pair of African penguins were spotted on Foxy Beach at Boulders and in 1985 they began to lay. Since then the colony has grown rapidly.
Some 3km southeast of Simon’s Town and an hour’s drive from Cape Town, this picturesque area, with enormous boulders dividing small, sandy coves, is home to a colony of more than 2000 African penguins. To help stop the loss of chicks, and provide a safe breeding environment, Boulders Coastal Park management has introduced artificial nesting boxes, which you will see during walk through the area. Just around the corner from the seaside village of Simons Town turn left off main road to Boulders Visitor Centre to visit the famous colony of African Penguins - once called Jackass Penguins for their hilarious braying call. Every year over 60 000 visitors come to Simon’s Town to photograph and watch the famous Boulders Beach Penguins. The park charges an entrance fee to access these shores.
Average Statistics: Weight - 2,1 To 3,7 kilograms.
Height - 50 cm (19.7 inches)
Entrance fees- R75 for adults.
Visiting the African Penguin Colony, at Boulder’s Beach is a part of the South African National Parks and all along the Penguin Viewing Path, you’ll be able to see penguins in their natural habitat. Elevated boardwalks to Foxy Beach provide excellent viewing opportunities for penguins and whales. Giant granite boulders protect the beach area.
In 1983 a pair of African penguins were spotted on Foxy Beach at Boulders and in 1985 they began to lay. Since then the colony has grown rapidly.
Some 3km southeast of Simon’s Town and an hour’s drive from Cape Town, this picturesque area, with enormous boulders dividing small, sandy coves, is home to a colony of more than 2000 African penguins. To help stop the loss of chicks, and provide a safe breeding environment, Boulders Coastal Park management has introduced artificial nesting boxes, which you will see during walk through the area. Just around the corner from the seaside village of Simons Town turn left off main road to Boulders Visitor Centre to visit the famous colony of African Penguins - once called Jackass Penguins for their hilarious braying call. Every year over 60 000 visitors come to Simon’s Town to photograph and watch the famous Boulders Beach Penguins. The park charges an entrance fee to access these shores.
Average Statistics: Weight - 2,1 To 3,7 kilograms.
Height - 50 cm (19.7 inches)
Entrance fees- R75 for adults.
Whale Watching Tour by Simon’s Town Boat Company cruise to False Bay- The boat-based whale watching in False Bay, is the Simon’s Town Boat Company. This area is sheltered from the open ocean, surrounded by stunning views & provides an ideal winter home for the Southern Right Whales. They visit each year between June & November to mate, calve, or simply to get away from the icy Antarctic winter. Interacting with these gigantic & magnificent mammals (the size of 12 elephants).The whale tours are operated by Ocean View Masiphumelele Fishing and depart daily from Simon’s Town at 10:30 and 14.00. This tour is operated from their marina by Ocean View Masiphumelele Fishing (PTY) Ltd. who is the sole permit holder for boat based whale watching in False Bay.
Adults: R990.00
How to reach- When you arrive in Simon’s Town it’s a ten minute walk or you can use the local taxi service (Rikkis) to take you directly to the Town Pier.
Cell: +27 83 257 7760
Website: - www.boatcompany.co.za
http://boatcompany.co.za/i_whaleviewing.html
C-CAPE TOWN DAY TOURS–
https://www.visitacity.com/en/cape-town/activities/all-activities
Adults: R990.00
How to reach- When you arrive in Simon’s Town it’s a ten minute walk or you can use the local taxi service (Rikkis) to take you directly to the Town Pier.
Cell: +27 83 257 7760
Website: - www.boatcompany.co.za
http://boatcompany.co.za/i_whaleviewing.html
C-CAPE TOWN DAY TOURS–
https://www.visitacity.com/en/cape-town/activities/all-activities
001-Cape Town City & Table Mountain Tour-
Price from R1,500 PP
Duration -6 Hours
Included- Table Mountain cable car fees.
Price from R1,500 PP
Duration -6 Hours
Included- Table Mountain cable car fees.
- Travelers are picked up from their hotel between 7:30am and 8am.
- The first part of the tour is to the summit of Table Mountain via the cable car.
- We then take a drive through to the city centre and enjoy a walk through the Company Gardens. (1 hour)
- We will take you to visit ‘The Arch’ as it is lovingly known by the locals. It is a statue erected in memory of Desmond Tutu.
- the ‘People’s Cathedral’ more traditionally known as St. George’s Cathedral.
- Step inside the Slave Lodge.
- The next part of the day tour is a drive through the various parts of the city. (1 hour)
002-Fully Inclusive Cape Point and Peninsula Day Tour-
From -R2190 PP
Duration-1 day
Included-All entrances fees to Cape Point, Boulders and the Botanical Gardens.
From -R2190 PP
Duration-1 day
Included-All entrances fees to Cape Point, Boulders and the Botanical Gardens.
- Guests are picked up from their hotel at 08H30 .
- The first part of the day tour sees us heading along the Atlantic Seaboard to Clifton and Camps Bay to see how the rich and famous live. There is an incredible view point at Llandudno.
- head off towards the quaint fishing town of Hout Bay.
- we head through to one of the worlds most scenic and breath-taking coastal drives known as Chapmans Peak.
- Once through the pass we drive through to the Cape of Good Hope, the home of the infamous Cape Pint.
- This nature reserve is home to the famous fynbos plant species that is abundant in the Cape as well as a variety of endemic antelope and zebra species.
- After lunch we drive through to the Naval headquarters of South Africa known as Simons Town. We will also spend some time at the Boulders Beach with the resident inhabitants-penguins.
- The final part of the day tour sees us spending some time at the Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens which showcases 5 of South Africa’s six different biospheres.
- Back in your hotel by about 17H00
003-Shark Cage Diving Day Tour-Most of the shark viewing and cage diving operations take place during the winter months (April to October), in and around Shark Alley. During summer (November to March), the location shifts closer to the beach, where it appears that sharks go to mate and give birth. This time is regarded as the low-season, as great white sharks are clearly less interested in feeding and are seldom are as numerous and active as during winter. This is also the time when the seals breed, so there are plenty of drowned pups around, making it less easy to lure the Great Whites to the boats. The trip to the diving grounds at Dyer Island is only six nautical miles from the launch site at Kleinbaai (just outside Gansbaai), and the journey takes 15-20 minutes. Once the site has been reached the vessels are anchored for 4-5 hours. Being a surface feeder, Great White Shark activity takes place on or very close to the surface, so watching them from a boat is the way to go – let alone slipping into a cage for an even better view.
Divers in the cage- aim for 4.
i-Great White Shark Tours- www.sharkcagediving.net
ii-Marine Dynamics - www.sharkwatchsouthafrica.com
iii-Shark Diving Unlimited - www.sharkdivingunlimited.com
iv-Shark Lady- www.sharklady.co.za;
v-UnrealDive - www.unrealdive.com
vi-White Shark Ecoventures - www.white-shark-diving.com
vii-White Shark Projects- www.whitesharkprojects.co.za
viii-African shark eco charts- https://secure.activitybridge.com
Price-From R2,900 PP
Duration-1 day
Included-i-Return transfers from Cape Town to the Gansbaai return ( self-drive options available)
ii-Breakfast
Divers in the cage- aim for 4.
i-Great White Shark Tours- www.sharkcagediving.net
ii-Marine Dynamics - www.sharkwatchsouthafrica.com
iii-Shark Diving Unlimited - www.sharkdivingunlimited.com
iv-Shark Lady- www.sharklady.co.za;
v-UnrealDive - www.unrealdive.com
vi-White Shark Ecoventures - www.white-shark-diving.com
vii-White Shark Projects- www.whitesharkprojects.co.za
viii-African shark eco charts- https://secure.activitybridge.com
Price-From R2,900 PP
Duration-1 day
Included-i-Return transfers from Cape Town to the Gansbaai return ( self-drive options available)
ii-Breakfast
- you will be collected from Cape Town and take the 2.5 hour drive through to Gansbaai. The route is mind blowing in terms of scenery as we journey over the Hottentots-Holland Mountains past beautiful lakes, rocky outlets and wine farms. We pass through Hermanus which is famous for its whale sightings before we arrive in Gansbaai.
- Upon arrival we a hearty breakfast awaits.
- We board the boat and take the 20 minute trip to Dyer Island. Approximately 20 minutes.
- Once the sharks are found, the cage will be lowered into the water.
- Depending on weather conditions and shark activity we usually spend about 3 hours observing the sharks.
- We then drive you back to Cape Town.
004-Combo Marine Wildlife Cruise + Cape Town City Tour (African Eagle Day Tours)-
From- R1399
Depart: 11:00 Return: 17:30
Detailed Itinerary-
From- R1399
Depart: 11:00 Return: 17:30
Detailed Itinerary-
- Table Mountain Cable Car (optional)
- South African Museum & the Company Gardens
- Parliament buildings
- City Hall & Castle of Good Hope
- Malay Quarter/ Bo-Kaap
- Green Market Square
- Signal Hill
- Camps Bay & Clifton
- Short Diamond factory tour (optional)
- Table Bay's rich wildlife during an amazing boat ride-1h30 boat cruise
- Wi-Fi on board
005-Cape Peninsula Full Day(African Eagle Day Tours)-
From -R1250
Depart: 08:00 Return: 17:30
Includes-Entrance fee to Cape Point Nature Reserve and Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens.
Detailed Itinerary-
Peninsula Tour Full Day Itinerary-
From -R1250
Depart: 08:00 Return: 17:30
Includes-Entrance fee to Cape Point Nature Reserve and Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens.
Detailed Itinerary-
Peninsula Tour Full Day Itinerary-
- Clifton & Camps Bay along the Atlantic Seaboard
- Twelve Apostles mountains
- Hout Bay & Seal Island Boat Trip
- Chapman’s Peak Drive
- Noordhoek
- Ostrich-viewing drive by
- Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve
- Cape Point
- False Bay
- Penguin Colony (optional)
- Simon's Town
- Muizenberg- world-renowned surfing spot
- Constantia
006-Shark Cage Diving Full Day Tour(African Eagle Day Tours)-
From-R2440
Depart: 05:00 Return: 18:00
Detailed Itinerary
From-R2440
Depart: 05:00 Return: 18:00
Detailed Itinerary
- Early pick up at your hotel, en route to Gansbaai
- Breakfast, overview of the day and safety briefing
- Launch from Gansbaai Harbour
- Anchor near Shark Alley and start cage-diving
- Approx 2-3 hours out at sea to enjoy the interaction with one of the natures most awesome predators
- Viewing of Great White Sharks, seals, various birdlife and whales in season
- Return to Gansbaai harbour
- Lunch and viewing of DVD of the day
- Collection Of Cage Diving Certificates (On Request)
- Return to Cape Town
- Wi-Fi on board
007- Hop On-Hop Off Tours-Classic Ticket - 1 Day, 3 tour loops-
For - R200.00
Duration-Valid for the day when first presented -1 Day
This ticket allows you access to all 4 bus tour loops: - The Red City tour to the Table Mountain Cableway - The Blue Mini Peninsula tour - The Purple Constantia Valley Wine tour and - The Yellow Downtown Walk On board.
Tour assistance office-
* V&A Waterfront, located outside the Two Oceans Aquarium
* CBD, located at 81 Long Street
* Camps Bay, located opposite the Bay Hotel on Victoria Road
Red City Tour (Every 20 minutes) 11 Stops
Mini Peninsula Tour (Every 20/30 minutes) 14 Stops
Purple Wine Tour (Every 20 minutes) 3 Stops
Cape Point & Penguins.
D-CAPE TOWN ADVENTURE ACTIVITIES-
For - R200.00
Duration-Valid for the day when first presented -1 Day
This ticket allows you access to all 4 bus tour loops: - The Red City tour to the Table Mountain Cableway - The Blue Mini Peninsula tour - The Purple Constantia Valley Wine tour and - The Yellow Downtown Walk On board.
Tour assistance office-
* V&A Waterfront, located outside the Two Oceans Aquarium
* CBD, located at 81 Long Street
* Camps Bay, located opposite the Bay Hotel on Victoria Road
Red City Tour (Every 20 minutes) 11 Stops
Mini Peninsula Tour (Every 20/30 minutes) 14 Stops
Purple Wine Tour (Every 20 minutes) 3 Stops
Cape Point & Penguins.
D-CAPE TOWN ADVENTURE ACTIVITIES-
001- PARAGLIDING SIGNAL HILL LION’S HEAD-The whole experience can take as little as 1 hour (and it can be in the air for 30 mins of that). The flight planning is 100% weather dependant. The sport simply need a good state of health – Good walking shoes and 30 mts. to 2 hours. Paragliders have no frame, and the wing is an elliptical-shaped parachute that folds up to the size of a backpack when it’s not being used.You will welcomed, signed up, briefed on the launch, securely clipped in and it's generally a few light steps and we are flying. There is no feeling of sinking or falling at all, since we glide, nearly horizontally, through the air at around 40 km/hr.
Price- ParaglidingTandem Flight: R1300pp
In Flight Photography & Videor R300pp
Return ShuttleR100pp.
http://www.parapax.co.za
http://hi5paragliding.co.za
Price- ParaglidingTandem Flight: R1300pp
In Flight Photography & Videor R300pp
Return ShuttleR100pp.
http://www.parapax.co.za
http://hi5paragliding.co.za
002-TANDEM SKY DIVING- Head to the skydive drop zone, a 20-minute drive north along the R27, or West Coast road as it’s more commonly known. On a tandem jump, you are strapped to a Tandem Instructor with a special harness that is attached to a specially designed parachute large enough to support both of you. After only 15 minutes of ground briefing, you will enjoy a spectacular 20-minute aircraft ride, experiencing the finest views of the West Coast, Cape Town, Robben Island and Table Mountain.Out the door for a 120mph/200kph freefall, falling about 25-30 seconds from 9,000ft. The Tandem Instructor opens the parachute at about 5000ft, and a peaceful 3-4 minute parachute ride to the ground follows.
Price-
Tandem SkyDive-R2 850 pp
HandiCam Video & Photos-R 800 pp additional
Camera Flyer Video & Photos-R 1140 pp additional
Pick-up & Drop-Off (Cape Town area)-R 500 pp
https://www.mothercityskydiving.co.za/
https://www.adrenaline-hunter.com
Price-
Tandem SkyDive-R2 850 pp
HandiCam Video & Photos-R 800 pp additional
Camera Flyer Video & Photos-R 1140 pp additional
Pick-up & Drop-Off (Cape Town area)-R 500 pp
https://www.mothercityskydiving.co.za/
https://www.adrenaline-hunter.com
003-ZIPLINE-Capecanopy Tours- Situated in the Hottentots Holland Nature Reserve, one hour from Cape Town. Fully guided trip (13 platforms, 11 slides and a swing bridge) and Complimentary light lunch. After a safety briefing and kitting up at the reception, guests will be transported by 4×4 high into the mountain range: this is where the fun begins. Slide along steel cables from platform to platform, taking you past waterfalls and through valleys, enjoying all that mother nature has to offer. With 13 platforms and slides up to 320m long.
Price-Canopy Tour R895 per person.
http://www.saforestadventures.co.za
http://capecanopytour.co.za/
https://www.adrenaline-hunter.com
Price-Canopy Tour R895 per person.
http://www.saforestadventures.co.za
http://capecanopytour.co.za/
https://www.adrenaline-hunter.com
004-ABSEILING- The panoramic views from the top of Table Mountain are breath taking, but the views from the abseil are even better. Descending the side of a sheer cliff you will have Camps Bay, the Atlantic Seaboard and the deep blue ocean at your feet with the Twelve Apostles at your side.
Price- R1195pp
http://abseilafrica.co.za/
https://www.africanbudgetsafaris.com
https://www.adrenaline-hunter.com
Price- R1195pp
http://abseilafrica.co.za/
https://www.africanbudgetsafaris.com
https://www.adrenaline-hunter.com
005-HOT AIR BALOONING-Hot Air Ballooning –Winelands
ZAR 3900 per person
https://www.africantravel.com/hot-air-ballooning/hot-air-ballooning-winelands
ZAR 2950 for two person
GoBallooning.co.za
ZAR 3900 per person
https://www.africantravel.com/hot-air-ballooning/hot-air-ballooning-winelands
ZAR 2950 for two person
GoBallooning.co.za
006-MICROLIGHT FLIGHT-SKY ADVENTURE-Microlight flights are one of the most preferred adventure activities in South Africa, because of good weather that makes more flying hours possible. Microlighting is an exciting way to get an aerial view of the beautiful landscape and terrain.
Price-30 minutes R 889
https://www.celestialgifts.co.za/activity-gift-vouchers/introductory-microlight-flight-cpt.html
Price-30 minutes R 889
https://www.celestialgifts.co.za/activity-gift-vouchers/introductory-microlight-flight-cpt.html
007-Gyrocopter Flight over Cape Town-from ZAR1600/person
DURATION-1 hr. The flight will last 30 minutes.
Starting time: 9:00 am, 11:00 am.
Experience a whole new adventure with this Gyrocopter (helicopter microlight) tour and take in the spectacular views of the Table Mountain, City Bowl, and the Gorge.
Come and get a bird’s-eye view of Cape Town and take in the sights from a different perspective.
https://www.adrenaline-hunter.com
PRESENTED BY - V P GUPTA
DURATION-1 hr. The flight will last 30 minutes.
Starting time: 9:00 am, 11:00 am.
Experience a whole new adventure with this Gyrocopter (helicopter microlight) tour and take in the spectacular views of the Table Mountain, City Bowl, and the Gorge.
Come and get a bird’s-eye view of Cape Town and take in the sights from a different perspective.
https://www.adrenaline-hunter.com
PRESENTED BY - V P GUPTA