Ten things to do in Cape Town, South Africa

Catch a cable car up Table Mountain

Get a birds-eye view of the City Bowl as you ride up to the peak of Table Mountain, the prominent landmark that overlooks the city of Cape Town. Experience a South African sunset of long days and balmy evenings as you take in the truly spectacular sight. Make sure to bring your camera!

Dive into shark-infested waters

Adrenaline junkies gather round! This is not for the faint of heart. South Africa boasts one quarter of the world's shark species, and around 40 of these call the waters surrounding Cape Town home. Make the journey to Gansbaii, the white shark capital of the world, 175km from Cape Town, and it's there you can cage dive with these magnificent creatures.

Take a lesson in South African history at Robben Island

South Africa has a fascinating and inspirational history, that needs to be remembered. Robben Island is a symbol of both centuries of oppression and the triumph of hope, and became synonymous with the former leader of the free and democratic South Africa, Nelson Mandela.

Waddle down to a penguin colony

Spy on the slippery sea life at Boulder's Beach, which is home to the African Penguin Colony. This is one of the few sites where this vulnerable bird can be observed at close range. Make sure to use the binoculars that dot the walkway to get a better look.

Dip your toes in hidden waters at Oudekraal

Offering a protected cove at the bottom of a set of steep stairs, Oudekraal provides an area of relaxation, away from bustling crowds and whirring jetskis. As this beach is inside Table Mountain National Park, there is a small entrance fee, but the splendour that awaits inside is worth every penny.

Sip the best afternoon tea in the world at Mount Nelson Hotel

Get ready to arch your pinky - the Mount Nelson Hotel, also known as the Pink Palace, boasts the best afternoon tea in the world. Enjoy delicate finger sandwiches filled with rare roast beef and rocket, followed by a delectable dark chocolate cake. Don't forget the freshly baked scones with clotted cream and jam.

Toast the Cape Winelands

Only an hour's scenic drive from Cape Town, the Cape Winelands feels like another world. Rolling vineyards, towering mountains and historic wine estates are more than enough to keep you satisfied. The Winelands, and their rustic, rural gems offer more than just wine presses and vineyards. Discover them for yourself.

Explore the continent's unique tastes and flavours at Africa Café

Cape Town offers adventurous eaters tastes from across the African continent, and no place could do the African cuisine more justice than Africa Café. Have your pick of everything from Xhosa spinach patties and Mozambican per-peri prawns to Ethiopian lamb. You'll be going back for thirds!

Visit the colourful town of Bo-Kaap

Formerly known as the Malay Quarter, Bo-Kaap is a traditionally multicultural area. Known for its brightly coloured homes and cobble stone streets, it is one of the oldest residential areas in Cape Town, dating back to the 18th Century.

Grasp an understanding of Cape Town's beginning at the Castle of Good Hope

The Castle of Good Hope is the oldest surviving building in South Africa, and has been the centre of civilian, political and military life since 1666. Standing as a reminder of Cape Town's colonial past, the Castle is also a beacon of the city's future. Art and photography exhibitions are often hosted within its walls, proving to be a cultural hub for tourists and locals alike.