So you’re planning time in Cape Town? Brilliant choice! This Mother City is absolutely magic – a stunning collision of dramatic landscapes, fascinating history, and vibrant culture that’ll have you planning your next visit before you’ve even left.
As Australia’s leading Africa specialists, we’ve been perfecting Cape Town itineraries for years, and trust us, we know every hidden corner and secret spot. Here’s your essential Cape Town hit list – but stick around, because we’re about to spill some serious insider secrets afterward!
Cape Town classic: simply can’t miss list
1. Table Mountain – Whether you hike up like a legend (Jono, Patrick) or take the cable car like a sensible human (Danica and oh so many of our team and guests!), those panoramic views over the city and coastline are absolutely breathtaking. Pro tip: Go at sunset if you can rise early! We’ll have a guide and driver waiting with a hot cup of coffee to kick start the adventure!
2. Cape Point & Cape of Good Hope – Think Australia’s Great Ocean Road, but with baboons and a serious dose of maritime history! These dramatic cliffs mark where the Atlantic and Indian Oceans collide (no you don’t see it like two waves crashing into each other), all wrapped up in a stunning nature reserve that’s perfect for exploring.
3. Beaches (With bonus Penguins!) – Camps Bay is where the beautiful people sip champagne with Table Mountain as their backdrop. Boulders Beach is where adorable African penguins waddle about like they own the place (spoiler: they do). And Muizenberg? Those iconic rainbow beach huts and excellent surf breaks that make it Instagram gold.
4. Wine regions – Constantia sits right in the greater Cape Town area for your convenient wine fix. Venture further to Stellenbosch and Franschhoek for world-class tastings that’ll ruin you for wine anywhere else. You’re welcome! And yes drink driving is illegal here too, so we’ve got you covered with wine experts as your private guides and drivers.
5. V&A Waterfront – This bustling precinct is shopping and dining heaven, plus it’s where you’ll catch the ferry to…
6. Robben Island – The former prison that held Nelson Mandela is now a UNESCO World Heritage site. Your tour guide? A former inmate who’ll share stories that’ll give you goosebumps. Absolutely unmissable.
7. Bo-Kaap – This kaleidoscope of colorful houses showcases Cape Malay culture at its finest. Join a foodie tour or cooking class and prepare your taste buds for an adventure.
8. District Six Museum – A deeply moving tribute to the apartheid-era forced removals. It’s heavy, it’s important, and it’ll change how you see the city.
9. Castle of Good Hope – The oldest colonial building in South Africa, and it’s got stories to tell!
10. Sharks & Whales – Gansbaai is shark cage diving central (we don’t sell these, but you can book direct), plus we do offer marine safaris that are absolutely spectacular. Swing around to Hermanus between June and November for world-class whale watching right from the shore.
Phew!
That’s quite the list, right?
But here’s the thing – if you know us well, you’ll know we never settle for “standard.” Many of our guests want those hidden gems we’re always raving about, so they book a private driver/guide and vehicle and dive into our secret stash of local favourites.
Ready for some insider intel? We’re about to share a few of our best-kept secrets…
Shh… don’t tell everyone though – we’d hate to spoil the magic!
Hidden Gem #1
Kalk Bay – The coolest village you may not know
Forget the tourist traps – this working fishing village tucked between mountains and sea is where Cape Town’s soul really lives. Just imagine cobbled streets, quirky galleries, and craft stalls popping up on street corners, all wrapped in a laid-back, retro vibe.
Start at the working harbour where colourful fishing boats unload their catch while cheeky seals wait for scraps. Grab fresh fish straight off the boat, browse local artisan stalls, and watch the daily drama unfold. The Dalebrook Tidal Pool at sunrise is pure magic – think mermaid vibes and golden light (our daughter’s words, not ours!).
Wander Main Road for vintage treasures at Kalk Bay Books, artisanal chocolate at Honest Chocolate, and the legendary Kalky’s fish and chips – plastic tablecloths, shouting waitresses, and the best snoek on the coastline since 1996. Pure, unapologetic perfection and casual vibe.
The Boyes Drive scenic route offers whale watching (June-November) and waterfall views, while the Echo Valley hike leads to the famous Boomslang Caves – a through-mountain tunnel that’ll blow your mind. But be sure to have a guide with you for safety.
Perfect for: A full day of authentic Cape Town charm
Image: Goodwin Family exploring Kalk Bay
Hidden Gem #2:
Art for the heart – Cape Town’s creative soul
Ready to dive deep into the Mother City’s creative side? These art sanctuaries will blow your mind and feed your soul in the most delightful settings.
First up, Norval Foundation. This place is a cultural oasis in Constantia Valley, where contemporary buildings seamlessly blend into landscapes of protected freshwater wetlands and sculptural indigenous gardens. World-class exhibitions meet art alfresco – and here’s the kicker: kids are actually invited to climb on the artworks! Chef Matt Manning’s Grub & Vine serves honest seasonal fare paired with SA’s finest wines.
Next, the Goodman Gallery. It has been synonymous with South Africa’s best artists since 1966, now spanning Cape Town to London and New York. Housed in a stunning 19th-century former convent in trendy De Waterkant, they showcase artists like El Anatsui and Yinka Shonibare – art that unapologetically confronts power and champions social responsibility.
Dylan Lewis Sculpture Garden in Stellenbosch transforms Mulberry Farm’s majestic slopes into home for over 100 stunning bronze sculptures exploring “the wilderness within.” Seven hectares of indigenous fynbos hide these masterpieces in dappled glades and secret grottos (visits by appointment only – we can arrange this).
For the gritty, authentic experience, explore Woodstock and Salt River’s transformation into an alternative arts hub. Hunt down galleries along Albert and Sir Lowry Roads, check out the Old Biscuit Mill, and discover some of the city’s best street art.Visit Red Flag at 30 Kent street, then track down Side Street Studios, Bronze Age, the Print Gallery and more. Now if you’re in Salt River, the locals like to keep Table Seven to themselves! It’s the head quarters of chefs Luke and Katie Wonnacott’s catering business. Hidden down an alleyway at The Salt Orchard, the industrial chic space hosts private events by night but on weekdays Luke uses lunch hour as a testing ground for new dishes! It’s an informal setting, long school refectory style table, seats at the kitchen counter and a short blackboard menu of dishes that change every day! The team rustles up simple, creative delicious plates with food influences from all over the world. Don’t miss Table Seven but Monday to Fridays only. For those hunting down halal, go for Happy Uncles.
Perfect for: Art lovers wanting to see Cape Town’s creative renaissance beyond the tourist galleries
That’s two of Cape Town’s hidden gems
If you want to do Cape Town hidden gems, book your safari holiday with Encompass Africa!