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The Best Stress-Relieving Things to Do in Cape Town for Students

You know that feeling after surviving a semester of exams and battling through math classes? I know that feeling well, and I know just how to get rid of it. 

Having wandered around Cape Town, I’ve found the perfect escapes to recharge and have some fun. From free walking tours to experiencing farm life, Cape Town offers the ultimate student survival kit.

So, take a break from those textbooks and join me on a tour of the best student-friendly activities in the city!

Join a free walking tour to explore the city’s history

Website: https://freewalkingtourscapetown.co.za/ 

Address: Motherland Coffee, 138 St Georges Mall

Phone: +27 76 636 9007

Operating Hours:

  • Open daily – 9:30 AM to 4:20 PM

Free Walking Tours are a fantastic, budget-friendly way for students to explore and learn about the city.

I did all three tours they offer—the historic city tour, the Apartheid to Freedom tour, and the Bo-Kaap tour. Each tour starts at Motherland Coffee, which is perfect for grabbing a quick bite or coffee before you begin.

These tours are accessible, lasting just over 90 minutes each, and they also point out great local spots for food and drinks, making them a must-do for every student.

Pro Tip:
Consider tipping between R10 and R50 per person based on the tour’s duration, your satisfaction level, and the group size. Your tips not only support the guides’ livelihood but also help maintain the quality of the tours.

Relax at Green Point Park

Address: 1 Fritz Sonnenberg Rd, Green Point

Phone: +27 21 444 4258

Operating Hours:

  • Open daily – 7 AM to 7 PM

Green Point Park is a great spot for students to relax, explore, and get some exercise. When I visited with friends, we were drawn to the open spaces and fresh ocean breeze from the Sea Point promenade.

Walking through the wetlands, we saw various water birds and plants. We also had a lot of fun at the outdoor gym, using the free fitness equipment for a unique workout.

The biodiversity garden, with its interactive boards, was a cool way to learn about local plants. Picnicking here is also a good idea, with plenty of areas to sit and enjoy a meal together.

Pro Tip:
For a hassle-free trip to the park, use the City Sightseeing Bus and buy tickets online for a discount. Board the red line and get off at stop 12 for the most direct access to the park’s entrance.

View South Africa’s natural and cultural history at Iziko Museums

Website: https://www.iziko.org.za/ 

Address: 25 Queen Victoria St, Gardens

Phone: +27 21 481 3800 

Operating Hours:

  • Open daily – 9 AM to 5 PM

Students will find the Iziko Museums an enriching experience. These museums, located near the city centre along the Museum Mile, offer a wide range of exhibits.

When I visited, the South African Museum’s natural history collections, including dinosaur fossils and marine exhibits, fascinated me. The Planetarium’s captivating shows also transported us through the cosmos.

Another highlight was the Iziko Bo-Kaap Museum, which houses a rich collection of artefacts, offering a glimpse into the vibrant life of the Cape Muslim community.

Pro Tip:
To make the most of your visit to the museum, arrive early to enjoy the tranquil Company Gardens and the vibrant history they hold. 

Get Moving at Battery Park

Website: https://www.waterfront.co.za/battery-park-waterfront/ 

Address: 19 Dock Rd, Victoria & Alfred Waterfront

Phone: +27 21 408 7600 

Operating Hours:

  • Open daily – 7 AM to 7 PM

Battery Park is a great hangout spot for students in Cape Town. I’ve been there a few times, and it’s always buzzing with activity.

One thing I really like about it is the skate and scooter park. It’s perfect for beginners like me, with small drops and a manageable difficulty level. If skating isn’t your thing, there’s also a play park for kids, a soccer field, and a basketball court.

The whole place is safe and clean, which is a big plus for an inner-city spot. And if you just want to chill, you can take a stroll along the canal and through the garden paths.

Pro Tip:
As you stroll through the park, take a moment to delve into the past by reading the heritage storyboards that detail the significance of the Amsterdam Battery, a pivotal defence structure built in 1784.

Interact with various bird species at World of Birds

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Website: https://worldofbirds.co.za/ 

Address: Valley Rd, Hout Bay 

Phone: +27 21 790 2730 

Operating Hours:

  • Open daily – 9 AM to 5 PM

World of Birds is the largest bird park in Africa, and it’s a fantastic destination for students to explore. With over 3,000 birds and small animals from 400 different species, it’s a unique opportunity to see a diverse range of wildlife up close.

When we visited, the tropical gardens made for a peaceful setting to observe the birds in their natural habitats. Walking among these birds was both fun and educational, as we learned about different species without disturbing them.

This close-up experience made us appreciate the importance of conservation. 

Pro Tip:
After your trip, chill out at the new Hornbill Café. Sit back, sip a cool drink, and think about all the cool stuff you did today.

Pick Roses at The Chart Farm

Website: https://chartfarm.co.za/roses/ 

Address: 1A Klaasens Rd, Wynberg

Phone: +27 79 684 8797 

Operating Hours:

  • Open daily – 9 AM to 4 PM

The Chart Farm is a wonderful spot where students can immerse themselves in nature and enjoy a delightful day picking roses. As you walk among rows of colourful flowers, you’ll be surrounded by beautiful colours and the fragrance of fresh roses.

On my recent visit, I spent over an hour selecting magnificent long-stemmed roses, and the sight was nothing short of breathtaking.

Students will appreciate the hands-on experience of choosing and cutting their own flowers, making it a perfect activity for a relaxed weekend. The presence of bees buzzing around adds to the charm of the farm.

Pro Tip:
Make your way to The Chart Farm’s restaurant where the panoramic views will elevate your brunch to new heights. Indulge in their flaky croissants and classic Eggs Benedict, and don’t forget to top off your meal with a creamy milkshake

Immerse in Nature at Kirstenbosch Gardens

Website: https://www.sanbi.org/gardens/kirstenbosch/ 

Address: Rhodes Dr, Newlands

Phone: +27 21 799 8783

Operating Hours:

  • Monday to Wednesday – 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM
  • Thursday – 8 AM to 5 PM
  • Friday to Sunday – 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM

Kirstenbosch Gardens is an amazing place for students to experience the beauty of nature. The Boomslang Canopy Walk was a highlight for us, offering a 130-m walk among the treetops with high railings that made it safe for everyone.

We spent hours exploring and found so many interesting flowers, shrubs, butterflies, and even some pheasants. The kids we saw enjoyed running around and discovering new things at every turn.

For lunch, we found a nice shady spot under a tree and had a picnic, which was a great way to relax and enjoy the surroundings.

Pro Tip:
Don’t miss the Kirstenbosch Summer Sunset Concerts, where the natural slope of the concert lawn offers a splendid view. Remember to arrive early to claim a spot on the grassy slope. It’s well worth the trek with your picnic basket in tow!

Explore Ocean Wonders at Two Oceans Aquarium

Website: https://www.aquarium.co.za/ 

Address: Dock Rd, Victoria & Alfred Waterfront

Phone: +27 21 418 3823

Operating Hours:

  • Monday to Friday – 9:30 AM to 6 PM
  • Saturday & Sunday – 9 AM to 6 PM

The Two Oceans Aquarium at the V&A Waterfront is an awesome spot for students to learn about ocean life.

When we went, we timed our visit with the feeding sessions for the penguins, sharks, and other fish, and it was amazing to see them up close. The Touch Pool was a big hit with everyone. The kids loved interacting with anemones, starfish, and seaweed.

The Penguin Encounter was another highlight. Getting face-to-face with the cute rockhopper penguins was something we all enjoyed. 

Pro Tip:
Celebrate your birthday for free at the Two Oceans Aquarium. Just bring a valid ID to unlock a sea of wonders without spending a dime!

Create Custom Pottery at Clay Café

Website: https://claycafe.co.za/ 

Address: Clay Cafe, Main Rd, Hout Bay

Phone: +27 71 685 4934

Operating Hours:

  • Open daily – 9 AM to 5 PM

The Clay Café is a fantastic spot for students to relax and get creative. When we visited, we had a blast choosing from the wide selection of ceramics to paint.

One of the highlights is the outdoor playground, which includes a jungle gym, a giant tyre swing, and a mini climbing wall. This makes it a great option if you’re looking to bring younger siblings along.

I recommend heading there with a group of friends. It’s a fun way to hang out and try something different. 

Pro Tip:
For enduring beauty in ceramic creations, always hand wash with mild soapy water to maintain vibrant colours and detail. 

Play a Round of Mini Golf at Putt-Putt

Website: https://www.puttputtcapetown.co.za/ 

Address: 6 Beach Road, Muizenberg

Phone: +27 21 788 8800

Operating Hours:

  • Monday to Friday – 10 AM to 4 PM
  • Saturday & Sunday – 9 AM to 6 PM

The putt-putt course in Sea Point is a fantastic, affordable outing for students. With two courses, each featuring 18 stages, a game costs just R33 and takes around 45-60 minutes to complete. 

When we played, the friendly staff provided us with all the necessary equipment, including balls, golf clubs, scorecards, and pencils.

The area is well-maintained and clean, making for a pleasant environment. Although you might have to wait your turn at each hole due to the course’s popularity, the overall experience is enjoyable and offers great value for money.

Pro Tip:
Remember to dress appropriately for the weather, as it can get quite hot, but the wind off the sea can cool things down quickly. 

Participate in hands-on science experiments at Cape Town Science Centre

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Website: https://www.ctsc.org.za/ 

Address: 370B Main Road, Observatory

Phone: +27 21 300 3200

Operating Hours:

  • Monday to Saturday – 9 AM to 4:30 PM

The Cape Town Science Centre is a fantastic place for students to explore science through hands-on learning. During our visit, we enjoyed over 250 interactive exhibits and challenging puzzles.

The science shows were a highlight, with engaging demonstrations that made complex concepts easy to grasp. We also participated in a workshop that tied directly into our school curriculum, allowing us to conduct practical experiments.

The exhibitions were both fun and educational, offering insights into various scientific principles. 

Pro Tip:
Maximise your learning potential at the centre by engaging with the WCED Masterclasses. They provide a complete method for exam prep, including theory reviews, practice problem-solving, and exam strategy sessions.

Join the Street Art Tour in Woodstock

Website: https://www.jumaarttours.co.za/woodstock-street-art-tour 

Address: Woodstock Exchange, 66 Albert Road, Woodstock

If you’re ever in Woodstock, you’ve got to check out Juma Mkwela’s Street Art Tour. It’s a solid 60 to 90 minutes of walking around the area, soaking in the vibrant street art scene that’s been a major player in transforming this neighbourhood.

Juma, the guide, knows his stuff inside out. He’s friendly, down-to-earth, and really knows how to break down the stories behind the art.

You’ll see murals tackling everything from nature to social issues, each with its own message. It’s a cool way to understand how street art can shape a community and make it safer and more lively. 

Pro Tip:
Consider wearing comfortable shoes and bringing a camera. Comfortable footwear will ease your walk through the vibrant streets, while a camera will help you capture and preserve the dynamic art you’ll encounter.

Foster a love for reading at the Book Lounge

Website: https://booklounge.co.za/ 

Address: 71 Roeland Street

Phone: +27 

Operating Hours:

  • Monday to Friday – 9 AM to 6 PM
  • Saturday – 9 AM to 4 PM
  • Sunday – 10 AM 4 PM

The Book Lounge is a haven for book lovers and a sanctuary for young minds eager to explore the wonders of literature. As a frequent visitor, I can attest to the enchanting experience it offers to students. 

But what sets this place apart for us youngsters is their epic kids’ section. Every Saturday morning at 11 AM, they host a free storytime.

During school holidays, the bookstore comes alive with additional activities, ensuring that young visitors are always engaged and inspired.

Pro Tip:
At The Book Lounge, not only can you lose yourself in a good book, but you can also savour the perfect cup of coffee. It’s the ideal retreat for bibliophiles and coffee aficionados alike.

Learn and connect with nature at Intaka Island

Website: https://intaka.co.za/ 

Address: Grand Central Precinct, 2 Park Ln, Century City

Phone: +27 21 552 6889 

Operating Hours:

  • Open daily – 7:30 AM to 7 PM

Intaka Island has become a regular spot for me, especially when friends want to explore. It’s a sizable area dedicated to wetlands and birdlife, boasting an impressive array of 177 indigenous plant species and over 120 types of birds.

What’s particularly noteworthy is their commitment to education, offering tailored programs for everyone from young children to university students. During holidays, special programs for kids make the visit even more engaging for younger visitors.

Another highlight is the tranquil ferry ride with panoramic views of the wetlands. After that, you can enjoy a leisurely stroll along the 2-km footpaths. 

Pro Tip:
Book a guided trail walk to delve deeper into the ecosystem’s secrets with a knowledgeable ranger. It’s the best way to gain intimate knowledge of the island’s diverse birdlife and plant species.

Befriend farm animals at Imhoff Farm

Website: https://imhofffarm.co.za/higgeldy-piggeldy-farm-yard-cape-town/ 

Address: Kommetjie Road, Kommetjie

Phone: +27 (0)21 783-2007 

Operating Hours:

  • Open daily – 9 AM to 4 PM

Imhoff Farm is a fantastic spot for a day of fun activities. When I visited with my friends, we had a blast riding camels along Noordhoek Beach.

The farm also offers 4×4 rides, face painting, and a petting zoo with adorable animals. We especially enjoyed feeding the animals and exploring the farm stall, which had delicious tartlets, teas, jams, rolls, and biltong (dried meat).

They also have a restaurant that not only provides tasty food but also has a play area for kids with a stunning view from its hilltop location.

Pro Tip:
Enhance your visit to the farm by embracing the auditory delight of The Sound Garden. It’s a versatile space that’s a shop and nursery during the day and transforms into a vibrant performance and event venue on select evenings.

Relive childhood nostalgia at the Warrior Toy Museum

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Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/p/Warrior-Toy-Museum-100069644760455/ 

Address: 1067 King George Way, Simon’s Town

Operating Hours:

  • Monday to Friday – 10 AM to 2 PM
  • Saturday & Sunday – 10 AM to 3 PM

The Warrior Toy Museum is packed with vintage toys, from dinky cars to dolls, model boats, trains, and aeroplanes. 

It was great to see students around, all equally fascinated and enjoying the trip down memory lane. The entry fee is just R10, making it a budget-friendly activity.

I noticed that they also sell collectables, which is perfect if you’re looking to start or add to a collection. 

Pro Tip:
Visit the South African Naval Museum after exploring the Warrior Toy Museum and Shop. It’s a mere 9-minute walk away, offering a seamless journey into South Africa’s rich naval heritage.

Book a treetop zip lining and obstacle adventure at Acrobranch

Website: https://acrobranch.co.za/  

Address: 1 Hout Bay Main Rd, Hout Bay

Phone: +27 21 201 1121

Operating Hours:

  • Wednesday to Sunday – 9 PM to 5 PM

Acrobranch is an amazing treetop adventure park filled with ziplining, treetop obstacles, and aerial walkways. When my friends and I visited, we booked a two-hour session and had a blast moving from tree to tree. 

I tackled the high ropes and tricky crossings, which included ladders, tunnels, and bridges.

The zipline through the forest was a major highlight. It was exhilarating to feel the wind rush by. The whole experience was great for team building. We had to communicate and work together to navigate the obstacles.

Pro Tip:
Choose comfortable, practical attire. Wear clothes that allow easy movement and closed shoes that can handle a bit of dirt.

Visit Ratanga Park for a refreshing outdoor escape

Address: 4 Conference Ln, Century City

Ratanga Park is a peaceful green space with plenty of room to relax and exercise. Whenever I go here, I often see students enjoying the wide open spaces for a casual soccer game or a peaceful study session under the trees.

The park’s two bridges over the canal provide picturesque spots for photos, and the large picture frame is a favourite for capturing group shots. 

Runners and dog walkers frequent the park, taking advantage of its open spaces and green scenery. 

For those needing a break from studying, the kiddie’s play area with its jungle gym and swings is perfect for a bit of light-hearted fun. The surrounding coffee shops and restaurants offer great spots to grab a drink or a snack after a stroll.

Pro Tip:
Consider riding the Century City Tramway at the park for a unique 20-minute tour that’s both educational and entertaining for students.

Trek to Just Nuisance’s Grave

Media from yourvetlianne

Address: SA Navy Signal School Rd, Cape Peninsula

Operating Hours:

  • Monday to Friday – 9 PM to 3 PM

Just Nuisance, the legendary canine enlisted in the Royal Navy, rests atop Red Hill in Klaver Camp, commemorated with full military honours. Recently, I went on this trek to visit the dog, and it was quite an experience.

You catch a train to Simon’s Town and then head to Jubilee Square to check out the statue before hitting the trail. Following Barnard Street, you’ll find the Signal School Steps, leading you up to the grave site on Red Hill.

It’s about an hour-long walk, and along the way, you’ll see some stunning flora, like those colourful pincushions and rare Swartkop spiderheads if you’re lucky. Keep your eyes on black girdled lizards and cheeky chacma baboons along the way. 

Pro Tip:
Delve into the fascinating story of Just Nuisance’s Royal Navy adventures by paying a visit to Simon’s Town Museum.

Ride a bike and explore Sea Point Promenade

One of Cape Town’s most beloved spots is the Sea Point Promenade, a vibrant hub where locals and visitors alike gather for leisurely activities. 

Renting a bike here allows you to embark on a journey filled with salty sea breeze and breathtaking vistas. Whenever I visit this place, I take in the calming smell of the ocean and the soothing sound of the waves.

For students looking to explore Sea Point and Green Point within a short timeframe, cycling along the promenade offers an efficient yet enjoyable option, condensing the experience into an hour-long adventure.

Pro Tip:
Head to the western end of Sea Point Promenade to savour local flavours from the food stalls and secure a prime spot for sunset views.
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