5 Things to do in Cape Town on a cruise holiday
Sitting on the shore of Table Bay, Cape Town is the capital city of South Africa and is a favourite destination for holiday makers from around the world. Cruise ships frequently dock in the city’s famous harbor, allowing time to explore the many fantastic tourist attractions on offer.
Here’s our guide to the top 5 things to see and do in Cape Town:
Take a cable car up Table Mountain
Established in 1929, more than 20 million visitors have ridden this revolving cable car 1067 meters up the side of Table Mountain. Views from the top are breathtaking and look out over the city and across the bay to Robben Island. If that’s not enough, there’s also a restaurant and souvenir shop at the top as well as 3 scenic walking trails to choose from. Make sure you leave enough time to enjoy everything the mountain has to offer. Many people spend a whole day at the top. If you want to try something a bit different try walking back down instead of taking the cable car. It can be a bit tough in areas but is manageable for anyone in reasonable fitness.
Visit the penguins on Boulders Beach
Cape Town is renowned for its beautiful beaches and fabulous coastlines, but Boulders Beach stands out from the crowd for one simple reason – it’s home to a colony of around 3,000 African Penguins. You can view the penguins from above on a network of specially designed wooden walkways, but swimmers can also swim close to the beach for a different view. Either way, you will have to pay a small entrance fee. If you visit at the right time of year you may also be lucky enough to see seals, dolphins or even whales in the bay.
Head to the hills for wine tasting
The hills surrounding Cape Town are full of commercial vineyards and a short drive will take you to the heart of the wine country. The most famous regions for wine tasting are Franschoek and Stellenbrosch. Both areas offer a selection of different wineries as well as well a handful of guesthouses and cafes. The chocolate shop in Franschoek is particularly recommended. For a more unusual way to explore wine country hire a bike and ride through the rural landscapes on pedal power.
Dare to dive with the sharks
If you really want to experience the thrills of Cape Town then head to ‘Shark Alley’ for a once in a lifetime experience in the midst of the countries enormous shark population. Protected by a specially designed cage you can float on the surface of the water as the hungry sharks are fed around you. If you’re a certified scuba diver you can use scuba equipment, but it’s also possible to use a snorkel and mask if you are less confident under the waves. If you’re feeling a little less brave you can also choose to observe the action from the boat.
Relax at the bars and restaurants on Long Street
If all that adventure has worn you out then it’s time to take a trip to Long Street, where Cape Town locals go to relax and enjoy good food at the many bars and restaurants that line the street. During the day you can also take a leisurely walk and soak up the bohemian vibe as your browse through the many book stores.
For more information on cruises to South Africa please call 0800 008 6677 to speak to one of our Cruise Experts, or alternatively please visit www.cruiseline.co.uk
