Cape Town stands as one of Africa's most captivating destinations. Where else can you find yourself straddling atop ancient mountains in the morning and diving into maritime history by afternoon (along with the sea creatures that we share the nearby waters with)?
If your time is limited, and you really want to say you saw the best parts of Cape Town, then this guide is just for you!
Robben Island is a profound pilgrimage every visitor must undertake. The ferry ride across Table Bay sets the stage for an emotional journey through South Africa's apartheid history. Walking through the prison where Nelson Mandela spent 18 of his 27 imprisoned years, guided by former political prisoners, offers a perspective that no history book can give.
Table Mountain, Cape Town's iconic flat-topped sentinel, deserves its place among the New Seven Wonders of Nature. Whether you brave the two-hour hike or take the rotating cable car, the panoramic views of the city, coastline, and Twelve Apostles mountain range will leave you breathless.
Our advice? Book your cable car ticket online to avoid the crowds.
Kirstenbosch is so much more than another pretty garden; it's a masterpiece of biodiversity set against the eastern slopes of Table Mountain. The Centenary Tree Canopy Walkway, affectionately known as the 'Boomslang,' winds through the treetops, offering a bird's-eye view of this botanical paradise. Time your visit during summer for one of the magical sunset concerts
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Chapman's Peak Drive deserves its reputation as one of the world's most scenic coastal roads. With its 114 curves hugging the cliffside between Noordhoek and Hout Bay, this engineering marvel provides photo opportunities at every turn. Pack a picnic and stop at one of the numerous viewpoints. Hell, you might even spot whales during migration season!
For a deeper understanding of Cape Town's complex history, the District Six Museum stands as a poignant reminder of forced removals during apartheid. The personal artefacts and photographs tell stories of a vibrant community torn apart, while former residents often serve as guides, sharing firsthand accounts that bring the exhibits to life.
Lion's Head, Table Mountain's spiral-peaked neighbour, offers perhaps the city's most rewarding hike. The trail wraps around the peak like a ribbon, revealing different city views at each turn.
The Two Oceans Aquarium displays unique marine life that live and thrive where the Indian and Atlantic Oceans meet. The kelp forest exhibit, one of only three in the world, fascinates each visitor with its underwater forest scene, while the predator tank brings you face-to-face with ragged-tooth sharks.
Township tours provide crucial insight into contemporary South African life. In places like Khayelitsha, local guides share stories of community resilience, entrepreneurship, and vibrant culture. These tours support community initiatives and offer authentic cultural exchanges that let you see into the heart of South Africa, a side not many visitors get to experience.
Paragliding from Signal Hill or Lion's Head provides phenomenal views and an incredible adrenaline rush. Tandem flights with experienced pilots let you soar like a bird over the Atlantic Seaboard, with the possibility of spotting whales and dolphins below.
To truly engage yourself in all these bucket-list experiences, choosing the right accommodation is important, and this is where the newkings boutique hotel comes in.
The newkings hotel is an ideal launch pad for your Cape Town adventures. The hotel's central location means you're just minutes from the Table Mountain cable car station, while the V&A Waterfront (where Robben Island tours depart) is a short drive away.
With their deep local knowledge, our concierge team can arrange your township tours or help book your adrenaline-pumping adventures!
