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22 Best Outdoor Activities in Cape Town to Add to Your Bucket List

| Last Updated: September 2024

I’m someone who’s always chasing the next thrill, and Cape Town has always been my go-to adventure destination. But after my trip to Camps Bay, I realized that I had only scratched the surface of what the city has to offer. 

The city has so much more to offer. Its unparalleled natural beauty and diverse landscapes make it ideal for many outdoor activities.

If you like to hike trails or do adrenaline-pumping activities, here are the best outdoor activities you can do while staying in Cape Town. 

Ride a scooter around Table Mountain

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Location: Kloof Nek Parking Area, 209 Tafelberg Rd, Table Mountain (Nature Reserve)

Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours

Operating hours:

  • Monday to Saturday: 8 AM-5 PM

Website

Costs: 

  • R820 (driver)
  • R385 (passenger)

I rode one of their non-motorized scooters and explored the rugged mountain terrain and lush fynbos vegetation. The experience was refreshing and peaceful!

It’s also perfect for kids. However, they must be at least ten years old to drive the scooter and at least four years old to ride as passengers.

Pro tips:
Visit during the morning or late afternoon for cooler weather. 

Wear comfortable clothing and closed shoes. Also, bring water to hydrate in between. 

Explore Boomslang Cave

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Location: Echo Valley, above Kalk Bay, accessible via Boyes Drive 

Duration: Approximately 2 to 3 hours (including hiking and exploring the cave)

Operating hours:

  • Daylight hours 

Cost: 

  • R31 for adults
  • R16 for children 

Exploring Boomslang Cave combines a moderate hike with caving. The cave isn’t a simple walk-through because the passages vary in size. Some are wide-open areas where you can stand upright, while others are tight squeezes where you’ll need to crawl on your hands and knees.

But coming out of the cave, you’ll be rewarded by the beautiful vistas of Kalk Bay, the picturesque ocean, and its surrounding mountains. The view alone makes those challenges worthwhile.

Pro tips:
Pack a flashlight with extra batteries. The cave is dark—as in pitch black. Because of this, one flashlight from the guide may not be enough to see the path ahead.  Don’t go caving if you’re claustrophobic.

Some tunnels will require you to crawl on your belly through a narrow gap. The tight squeezes can be too intense for those uncomfortable in enclosed areas.

Go through an obstacle course at Constantia Nek Forest

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Location: 1 Hout Bay Main Road, Constantia Nek

Duration: Approximately 2 hours (including training and harnessing)

Operating hours:

  • Wednesday to Sunday: 9 AM-5 PM

Website

Costs: 

  • R140 – Acro-Twigs for kids
  • R180 – Monkey Moves for beginners
  • R220 – Tarzan Swing for teens and adults
  • R280 – High flying for advanced participants

In the misty mountains of the Constantia Nek Forest, there’s a treetop playground for adrenaline junkies, young and old. The Acrobranch Constantia has four obstacle courses—each providing a unique, exhilarating adventure.

Children can use two of their courses, while the other two are for adults. Each of them has ziplines, cargo nets, and elevated platforms you can use to channel your inner Indiana Jones.

Pro tips:
Book in advance since there are limited slots available here. 

Wear comfortable clothing and closed shoes instead of sandals or open-toed shoes. And if you have long hair, tie it back to prevent it from getting tangled. 

E-bike through Stellenbosch

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Location: Lanzerac Rd, Karindal, Stellenbosch

Duration: 

  • Half-day tour: 4.5 hours 
  • 2.5-hour tours available at 9:00 AM, 12:00 PM, and 2:30 PM

Operating hours:

  • Monday to Thursday & Saturday: 9 AM-12:30 PM; 1:30 PM-5 PM
  • Friday: 9 AM-5 PM

Website

Costs: 

  • R850 for adults
  • R550 for children ages 3-9 years

I took an e-bike tour through the beautiful Stellenbosch vineyards and enjoyed it without the strain of regular cycling. 

The tour started from Stellenbosch Central and ended at Stark-Conde, where I savored wine, snack platters, and coffee. 

Before arriving at a wine estate, you’ll pass by historical sites and the Eerste River. It’s an excellent mix of adventure and relaxation.

Pro tips:
Mid-week tours are the best options to avoid the weekend rush. Morning tours are also awesome.

You’ll get a cooler, more comfortable ride, especially in summer. 

Visit in spring or autumn. You’ll enjoy the beautiful vineyard view in airy weather.

Sandboard and quad-bike on the Atlantis Dunes

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Location: Atlantis Dunes, approximately 45 minutes from Cape Town

Duration: 

  • Sandboarding: Approximately 2 hours
  • Quad Biking: Typically 1 hour 

Operating hours:

  • Daily: 8:30 AM-6 PM

Website

Costs: 

  • R1,900 – Ultimate sandboarding 
  • R1,600 – 1-hour quad tour 
  • R2,000 – Private 1-hour quad tour 
  • R1,000 – Half-hour quad tour 
  • R3,000 – Private 4×4 sandboarding 

Experience the thrill of sandboarding and a quad ride in the stunning Atlantis Dunes. Whether you do one or both, you’ll get an adrenaline rush!

If safety is your concern, don’t worry. You and your group will get a safety briefing and basic instructions on techniques so you can glide down the soft dunes safely.

Pro tips:
Sunscreens and a hat are a must to get through the sun’s intense heat. 

If you want to avoid the heat, book during the cooler months between April and November. 

Cycle along the promenade at Sea Point

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Location: Sea Point Promenade

Duration: 1 hour to full day until sunset

Operating hours:

  • Monday to Sunday: 8:30 AM-6 PM

Website

Costs: 

  • Upcycle: R199-R495
  • Kids bikes: RR99-R380
  • Tandems: R238-R918 

Nothing beats the scenery Sea Point Promenade has to offer. You can see the panoramic Atlantic Ocean and Lion’s Head as you ride through the area on a traffic-free route!

Rent a bike from one of Up Cycles’ stations. The Sea Point Pavilion station is nearest to the Promenade. The station allows you to return these bikes by sunset to enjoy the uninterrupted views. 

Pro tip:
Helmets and locks are included in the rental. It’s also advisable to reserve your bike in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.

Go on a sunset drive along Chapman’s Peak

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Location: Between Hout Bay and Noordhoek

Operating hours:

  • Opens 24/7 

Website

Cost: R36 – Toll fee for cars 

Navigating through Chapman’s Peak Drive offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean, rugged cliffs, and picturesque beaches. In a nine-kilometer drive with 144 curves, you’ll experience a magical sunset sweetening the stunning landscape. 

There are many lookout points along the way, so remember to take your cameras with you to photograph the gorgeous scenery. 

Pro tips:
Before planning your trip, check the local sunset time. The exact timing varies by season.
It can get chilly in the evening, so bring a jacket or blanket to stay comfortable while watching the sunset.

While sunset drives are spectacular, the route is also beautiful during daylight hours, making it an excellent option for a leisurely drive and a stop for a picnic.

Visit the Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden

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Location: Rhodes Dr, Newlands

Duration: 2-3 hours

Operating hours:

  • Summer: 8 AM-7 PM 
  • Winter: 8 AM-6 PM

Website

Costs: 

  • R200 for international visitors
  • R80 for South African citizens, SADC nationals, and those with residency visa

Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden offers the best of Cape Town’s biodiversity. As a nature enthusiast, I come here for a peaceful escape.

Get this: you can explore over 7,000 flora species, of which 2,500 are endemic to the Cape Peninsula. Also, they have five trails perfect for a relaxing hike or walk: Braille Trail, Boekenhout Trail, Stinkwood Trail, Yellowwood Trail, and Silvertree Trail.

Pro tips:
There are two ways to get there: 

By Car: Drive 13 km from Cape Town’s city center.By Bus: From City Sightseeing, the Hop On Hop Off Bus stops at Kirstenbosch.

Parking is also free. Head to Gates 1, 2, and 3 to take advantage of this perk.

Picnic at Cape Point Vineyards

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Location: Silvermine Rd, Noordhoek

Contacts: +27 21 789 0900

Operating hours:

  • Monday to Wednesday & Friday to Sunday: 12 NN-8 PM (last seating at 6 PM)
  • Thursday: 12 NN-2:30 PM (last seating at 1:30 PM)

Website

Costs: R200 per person

A gourmet picnic amidst the stunning Atlantic ocean views is just *chef’s kiss!* That’s why I love coming to Cape Point Vineyards. This picnic package from the vineyards blends the beauty of nature with gastric delights such as bobotie wraps, seasonal vegetable quiche, and chocolate brownies.

 The vineyard is a family-friendly space with a jungle gym and a secluded spot next to a peaceful dam. 

Pro tips:
The estate requires its visitors to book picnic baskets at least 24 hours in advance.

Don’t worry about bringing blankets and pillows. The management provides soft blankets, cozy pillows, and charming wicker hampers for a comfortable picnic experience. 

Wine Tasting in the Beau Constantia

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Location: 1043 Constantia Main Rd, Constantia

Duration: Approximately 1 to 2 hours

Operating hours:

  • Monday to Thursday: 11 AM-6 PM
  • Friday to Sunday: 11 AM-7 PM

Website

Costs: 

  • Pas de Nom Tasting: R85 per person (3 wines)
  • Premium Beau Constantia Tasting: R160 per person (4 wines)
  • Mixed Tasting: R130 per person (combination of red and white wines)
  • Cheese/Meat Platters: Starting from R300 for two

Don’t leave Cape Town without going wine tasting in Beau Constantia. Situated on the steep slopes of Constantia Nek, the boutique wine farm delivers spectacular views of False Bay and its surrounding mountains. Relish the scenery while enjoying a glass of wine under the trees.

Besides wine, the estate also has a selection of cheese and meat platters that are a perfect pairing for wines. 

Pro tips:
We recommend pre-booking your slot. That’s because there is limited seating available, especially on weekends. 

Come during the late afternoon for a picturesque sunset view over the vineyards and bay.

Strawberry Picking at Polkadraai Farm

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Location: Outside of Stellenbosch

Duration: 20-30 minutes

Operating hours:

  • Daily: 9 AM-4 PM

Website

Cost: Containers start R50

Nothing beats munching on juicy, handpicked strawberries in Strawberry Picking at Polkadraai Farm.

Each row of bushes was laden with juicy red berries waiting to be picked. I got the ripest, most vibrant berries—perfectly red and sweet-smelling. Filling up my container was satisfying!

Pro tips:
The farm is closed in December.

Monitor weather updates. Your strawberry picking may be affected by bad weather conditions. 

Barbecue on the beach at Oudekraal

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Location: Oudekraal Nature Reserve, Victoria Road, between Llandudno and Camps Bay

Operating hours:

  • Daily: 8 AM-6 PM

Costs: 

  • R36 per adult, R18 per child; R25 per vehicle (for South African citizens)
  • R72 per adult, R36 per child; R25 per vehicle (for SADC Nationals)
  • R144 per adult, R72 per child; R25 per vehicle (for foreign visitors)

This gem is a new discovery for me. Nestled within the Table Mountain National Park, the secluded Oudekraal beach has 25 braai spots scattered among lush vegetation and large boulders. Here, you can enjoy a relaxing day, grill your favorite meat or seafood, and have a great time. 

Enjoy your meal in a picturesque environment while surrounded by calm waters. And, of course, you can always hit the beach for swimming and snorkeling.

Pro tip:
Arrive early to secure a good braai spot, as they can fill up quickly, especially on weekends. 

Bring all your supplies, including food, drinks, sun protection, and a cooler for perishables. 

Note that there is a strict no-alcohol policy unless you hire a pavilion for private events. Enjoy the beautiful views of the Twelve Apostles while you cook and relax!

Swim at St. James Tidal Pool

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Location: Main Rd, Cape Town

Operating hours:

  • Open 24/7

Cost: Free 

St. James’ Tidal Pool is one of nature’s finest natural swimming pools just below the railway line in the St. James suburb. I had a fantastic time swimming there, taking a refreshing dip without the crashing waves.

Also, the brightly colored Victorian beach huts create a beautiful backdrop for a relaxing day at the water. 

Pro tips:
Visit early in the morning or during weekdays to avoid crowds, especially in summer. 

Bring your own snacks and drinks, as the pool has no facilities. 

The best time to swim is during low tide when the water is calmer. 

Enjoy the scenic coastal walk along the beach after swimming, and watch for marine life, such as seals and dolphins!

Discover the secret Diaz Beach

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Location: Cape Point

Operating hours:

  • Daylight hours

Cost: Free

I love visiting Diaz Beach, a stunning, secluded beach at the western tip of Cape Point. Although walking down can be challenging, the breathtaking views and a sense of isolation will reward you. 

The beach features pristine white sand and the clear turquoise waters of the Atlantic Ocean. Besides that, there are dramatic 200-meter-high cliffs framed by towering rocky outcrops. Going here, you’ll be spoiled with its beauty and scenery. 

Pro tips:
Go early in the morning. You’ll avoid the wind, and there’ll be fewer people on the beach. 

Make sure to wear proper hiking shoes. 

You’ll be trekking down, so bringing plenty of water is always wise.

Surfing at Muizenberg Beach

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Location: Beach Rd, Muizenberg

Operating hours:

  • Daily: 6 AM-8 PM

Costs: 

  • R450-R600 per person for surf lessons (varies by school)
  • R150-R250 per day for surfboard rental

Known for its consistent, gentle waves, Muizenberg Beach is the perfect spot for surfing in South Africa, especially if it’s your first time hitting the waves. 

The surfing community here is amiable. You’ll have supportive instructors willing to guide you during your first try. 

Plus, you’ll find surf schools, shops, and restaurants here. 

Pro tips:
The best time to surf is during the early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy calmer conditions. 

Check the surf report and weather conditions before heading out. 

Kayak with penguins

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Location: Boulders Beach, Simon’s Town

Duration: Approximately 2 hours

Operating hours:

  • Monday to Sunday: Departures at 8:30 AM (summer) and 9 AM (winter)

Website

Costs: 

  • R450 per person
  • R400 for children under 17

Seeing African penguins has always been on my bucket list. That’s why I headed to Boulders Beach, where you can see them by kayaking.

The journey starts at the Simon’s Town jetty. At the beginning, safety officers conduct a safety briefing and give out instructions before embarking on a memorable journey along the False Bay coastline. 

Also, what I love about this activity is that you’ll observe other marine life, such as seals and dolphins, aside from the playful penguins. 

Pro tips:
Dress appropriately for the weather, and bring a windbreaker, sun protection, and a towel, as you may get splashed. 

Arrive early to enjoy the surroundings and prepare for an unforgettable adventure with the penguins!

Snorkel with seals at Duiker Island

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Location: 8 Albert Road, Hout Bay

Duration: Approximately 3 hours (including boat ride and snorkeling time)

Operating hours:

  • Monday to Friday: 8:30 AM-4 PM
  • Saturday: 9 AM-4 PM
  • Sunday: 9 AM-1 PM

Website

Cost: R450 per person

From the penguins, we turn to the seals. Whenever I come to Cape Town, I stop by Cape Fur Seal Colony at Duiker Island to see these playful sea creatures frolicking in the waves. 

These mammals spend around 40 to 60 minutes on average in the water. That’s why snorkeling provides a more thrilling opportunity to interact with the “puppies of the sea.”

Pro tips:
Check the weather updates before booking since the activity is weather-dependent.

Visit during warmer months, typically from October to June. Cute seal pups are present in late summer!
Dress in layers to swim comfortably. The water temperature can be very low—ranging from 10°C to 15°C.

Stand-Up Paddleboarding at the Waterfront

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Location: Battery Park, V&A Waterfront

Duration: 30 minutes to 1 hour

Operating hours:

  • Daily: 9 AM-6 PM

Website

Costs: 

  • R250- 1-hour SUP rental 
  • R200- 30-minute SUP rental 
  • R 550- 90-minute ocean SUP rental with instructor 

Stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) at the V&A Waterfront lets you experience Cape Town’s waterways from a unique viewpoint. You can encounter seals, dolphins, and penguins, whether gliding through the calm canals on a SUP Cape Town’s self-guided tour or venturing along the Atlantic seaboard with a guide. 

SUPing is ideal for all ages and skill levels, offering a great workout amidst the stunning surroundings of the Waterfront. The calm waters make it a perfect activity for beginners looking to enjoy the beauty of Cape Town.

Pro tips:
Children are permitted to participate as long as they are assisted by an experienced instructor. SUP Cape Town also hosts birthday parties and team-building experiences.

Consider bringing a waterproof camera to capture your adventure!

Ziplining at Hottentots Holland Nature Reserve

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Location: Suicide Gorge, Grabouw

Duration: 4 hours

Operating hours:

  • Daily, 7:30 AM-4 PM 

Website

Cost: R1,095 per person

The zipline tour through the Hottentots Holland Nature Reserve is excellent for those keen to explore the rugged Cape Fold Mountains. 

Gliding from platform to platform, you’ll take in breathtaking views of fynbos forests, valleys, and waterfalls. This unforgettable adventure, about an hour from Cape Town, lasts around four hours, with tours departing every half hour.

Pro tip:
Bring comfortable clothes and closed shoes for ziplining. A small backpack can be handy, but keep it light. 

Go tandem paragliding

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Location: 2 Signal Hill Rd, Signal Hill

Duration: 30 minutes 

Operating hours:

  • Daily: 8 AM-7 PM

Website

Cost: R1,700

If you’re eager to take your adventure to the next level, then tandem paragliding is for you. After you take a short run to launch, the paraglider catches the wind, lifting you effortlessly into the sky while your pilot steers. 

The rush of a takeoff is just the first part. You’ll behold the peaceful, astonishing views of the city, ocean, and mountains. Depending on the wind, flights may last between five to 30 minutes. Initially, the pilot controls the paraglider, then you’ll have the chance to take over after. 

Your journey will end with a smooth descent to Sea Point’s promenade. 

Pro tips:
Book in advance. There are limited slots due to the high demand, especially during peak tourist seasons, usually between November and March. 

Check the weather update. Paragliding is weather-dependent, so prepare in case of cancellations. 

Sunset Catamaran Cruise

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Location: Quay 5, V&A Waterfront

Duration: Approximately 1.5 to 2 hours

Operating hours:

  • Daily: 9 AM-7 PM

Website

Cost: R390 (includes two glasses of sparkling wine)

Cruising aboard a sleek 39-foot catamaran with a glass of bubbly is the most suitable way to enjoy a sunset in Cape Town. Book a sunset cruise at Waterfront and see stunning views of the city’s skyline and the majestic Table Mountain from the catamaran. 

Pro tips:
The cruise operator gets busy during peak tourist seasons, especially during the summer. Make sure to book in advance to secure a slot.

Check the weather forecast and be prepared for changes in plans due to wind and waves.

Tour Robben Island

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Location: Robben Island

Costs: R360 for adults & R200 for U18s

Duration: 3.5 to 4 hours (including ferry ride)

Operating hours:

  • Daily: 9 AM-3 PM

Website

Cost: 

  • R400 for adults
  • R210 for children

I went to Robben Island for a historical tour. The island has served many roles for 400 years: a prison, a hospital, and a military base. 

In addition, the island also hosts diverse wildlife, including a colony of African penguins, Cape fur seals, and over 132 bird species. 

The island housed political prisoners, including Nelson Mandela who spent 18 years here. In fact, most tour guides are former political prisoners who share their own stories alongside the island’s history. 

Pro tips:
Ferries depart from the Nelson Mandela Gateway at the V&A Waterfront daily at 9 AM, 11 AM, and 3 PM. Arrive early because of long queues and a security checkpoint.

Book directly on their website or through providers such as GetYourGuide and the Robben Island Museum official website. 
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