cape town budget travel

• Travel Planning Guide

Travel Budget for Cape Town Visit Cape Town on a Budget or Travel in Style

• Cape Town Costs

• Cape Town Hotel Prices
• Best Cheap Hotels in Cape Town
• Best Adults Only Hotels in Cape Town
• Best Business Hotels in Cape Town
• Best Party Hotels in Cape Town
• Best Romantic Hotels for Couples in Cape Town
• Best Hotels for One Night in Cape Town
• Best Luxury Hotels in Cape Town
• Best Family-Friendly Hotels in Cape Town
• Best Hotels for a Weekend Getaway in Cape Town
• Best Pet-Friendly Hotels in Cape Town
• Best Hotels for One Week in Cape Town
• Best Beach Hotels in Cape Town
• Best Hotels for First Time Visitors in Cape Town
• Best Hotels for Scuba Diving in Cape Town
• Is Cape Town Expensive?
• How much does a trip to Cape Town cost?
• The 5 Best Day Trips from Cape Town
• Free Things to do in Cape Town, South Africa
• South Africa Costs
• Port Elizabeth
• Kruger National Park
• Johannesburg
• Drakensberg
• Hibiscus Coast
• How much does it cost to travel to Cape Town? (Average Daily Cost)
• Cape Town trip costs: one week, two weeks, one month

Is Cape Town expensive to visit?

• How much do I need for a trip to Cape Town?
• Accommodation, Food, Entertainment, and Transportation Costs
• Travel Guide

How much does it cost to travel to Cape Town?

You should plan to spend around $102 (R1,814) per day on your vacation in Cape Town. This is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors.

Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:

• $43 (R773) on meals
• $18 (R317) on local transportation
• $80 (R1,429) on hotels

A one week trip to Cape Town for two people costs, on average, $1,423 (R25,397) . This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

All of these average travel prices have been collected from other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.

• Travel Style: All Budget (Cheap) Mid-Range Luxury (High-End)
• Average Daily Cost Per person, per day $ 102 R 1,814
• One Week Per person $ 711 R 12,699
• 2 Weeks Per person $ 1,423 R 25,397
• One Month Per person $ 3,048 R 54,423
• One Week For a couple $ 1,423 R 25,397
• 2 Weeks For a couple $ 2,845 R 50,795
• One Month For a couple $ 6,096 R 108,846

How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to Cape Town cost?

A one week trip to Cape Town usually costs around $711 (R12,699) for one person and $1,423 (R25,397) for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

A two week trip to Cape Town on average costs around $1,423 (R25,397) for one person and $2,845 (R50,795) for two people. This cost includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

Please note, prices can vary based on your travel style, speed, and other variables. If you're traveling as a family of three or four people, the price per person often goes down because kid's tickets are cheaper and hotel rooms can be shared. If you travel slower over a longer period of time then your daily budget will also go down. Two people traveling together for one month in Cape Town will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.

A one month trip to Cape Town on average costs around $3,048 (R54,423) for one person and $6,096 (R108,846) for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.

Independent Travel

Traveling Independently to Cape Town has many benefits including affordabilty, freedom, flexibility, and the opportunity to control your own experiences.

All of the travel costs below are based on the experiences of other independent travelers.

Prices in Cape Town are reasonable and comparable to your average travel destination. Hotels, food, and sightseeing are generally within normal price ranges.

Within Africa, Cape Town is a moderately priced destination compared to other places. The overall cost of travel here is fair for the region and comparable to Johannesburg or Masai Mara.

For more details, and to find out if it's within your travel budget, see Is Cape Town Expensive?

How much money do I need for a trip to Cape Town?

The average Cape Town trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Cape Town travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers.

Accommodation Budget in Cape Town

Average daily costs.

Calculated from travelers like you

The average price paid for one person for accommodation in Cape Town is $40 (R714). For two people sharing a typical double-occupancy hotel room, the average price paid for a hotel room in Cape Town is $80 (R1,429). This cost is from the reported spending of actual travelers.

• Accommodation 1 Hotel or hostel for one person $ 40 R 714
• Accommodation 1 Typical double-occupancy room $ 80 R 1,429

Hotel Prices in Cape Town

Looking for a hotel in Cape Town? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.

Find the best hotel for your travel style.

Actual Hotel Prices The average hotel room price in Cape Town based on data provided by Kayak for actual hotel rooms is $79. (Prices in U.S. Dollars, before taxes & fees.)

Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world.

Recommended Properties

• Panaview Bed & Breakfast Budget Hotel - Kayak $ 59
• Ellerman House Luxury Hotel - Kayak $ 628

Transportation Budget in Cape Town

The cost of a taxi ride in Cape Town is significantly more than public transportation. On average, past travelers have spent $18 (R317) per person, per day, on local transportation in Cape Town.

• Transportation 1 Taxis, local buses, subway, etc. $ 18 R 317

Recommended Services

• 1.Cape Town Airport Transfer (&Private tour trips during yo Stay) Viator $ 17
• Township Tour by Lwafika Tours and Transfers in Cape Town Viator $ 69

Flights to Cape Town

Rental cars in cape town, food budget in cape town.

While meal prices in Cape Town can vary, the average cost of food in Cape Town is $43 (R773) per day. Based on the spending habits of previous travelers, when dining out an average meal in Cape Town should cost around $17 (R309) per person. Breakfast prices are usually a little cheaper than lunch or dinner. The price of food in sit-down restaurants in Cape Town is often higher than fast food prices or street food prices.

• Food 2 Meals for one day $ 43 R 773

Recommended

• Private South African Cape Malay Cooking Class Viator $ 98
• Private Authentic Cape Malay Cooking Class in Manenberg with Locals Viator $ 92

Entertainment Budget in Cape Town

Entertainment and activities in Cape Town typically cost an average of $24 (R427) per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.

• Entertainment 1 Entrance tickets, shows, etc. $ 24 R 427

Recommended Activities

• Cape Peninsula & Penguins Private Day Tour, Entrances Included. Viator $ 180
• Franschhoek wine Tram & Stellenbosch Town Full day tour Viator $ 65

Tips and Handouts Budget in Cape Town

The average cost for Tips and Handouts in Cape Town is $2.90 (R52) per day. The usual amount for a tip in Cape Town is 5% - 15% .

• Tips and Handouts 1 For guides or service providers $ 2.90 R 52

Alcohol Budget in Cape Town

The average person spends about $21 (R383) on alcoholic beverages in Cape Town per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.

• Alcohol 2 Drinks for one day $ 21 R 383
• Wildlife Safari, Olive, Beer and Wine Tasting Day Tour from Cape Town Viator $ 227
• Stellenbosch Valley. Private wine tour with winemaker in Swedish or English. Viator $ 172

Water Budget in Cape Town

On average, people spend $0.30 (R5.31) on bottled water in Cape Town per day. The public water in Cape Town is not usually considered safe to drink.

• Water 2 Bottled water for one day $ 0.30 R 5.31

Related Articles

Cape town on a budget.

Neighborhoods

Food and dining, transportation, more related articles.

We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works .

Subscribe to our Newsletter

By signing up for our email newsletter, you will receive occasional updates from us with sales and discounts from major travel companies , plus tips and advice from experienced budget travelers!

Search for Travel Costs

Some of the links on this website are sponsored or affiliate links which help to financially support this site. By clicking the link and making a purchase, we may receive a small commission, but this does not affect the price of your purchase.

Travel Cost Data

You are welcome to reference or display our travel costs on your website as long as you provide a link back to this page .

A Simple Link

For a basic link, you can copy and paste the HTML link code or this page's address.

Travel Cost Widget

To display all of the data, copy and paste the code below to display our travel cost widget . Make sure that you keep the link back to our website intact.

• Privacy / Terms of Use
• Activities, Day Trips, Things To Do, and Excursions

How to Save Money When You Visit Cape Town

Cape Town is one of the most beautiful cities in the world. With its stunning beaches, towering mountains, and vibrant cultures, it should come as no surprise that it’s a popular hub for….well, everybody. It’s a place that sucks visitors in. I have tons of friends who have gone there and ended up staying for months.

And, though it’s a fairly inexpensive destination (I’m talking $2 USD cocktails), I always like to present people with tips and tricks on how to save money to eek out those extra savings.

To help you save money when you visit, here’s how to visit Cape Town on a budget (there’s only a few things you need to know as the city is already very affordable for visitors):

Table of Contents

1. Visit during the off-season

2. consider staying in a hostel, 3. utilize ridesharing apps, 4. opt for do-it-yourself excursions, 5. take a free walking tour, 6. look for cheap eats, 7. use discount sites, 8. look for free (or cheap) activities.

Cape Town’s peak tourist season is December through February, when the city is filled with hordes of tourists looking escape the cold of the winter in the Northern Hemisphere. Prices for everything from activities to accommodation are notoriously high during these months. If you can, plan your trip for the shoulder season (March through May or September through November) when prices are much more reasonable. That alone will save you a fortune!  

Accommodation is one of the biggest expenses when traveling, and Cape Town is no exception. Thankfully, there’s a wide range of accommodation styles to choose from — from guesthouses to hotels to short-term rentals. If you’re on a tight budget, hostels are the cheapest option . However, if you’re looking for something nicer, you can still find great deals on Airbnb or Booking.com if you book at least three months in advance.

Once things sell out and there are fewer options, hotel prices skyrocket, so make sure not to leave it until the last minute.  

The MyCiti bus system is a popular and inexpensive way to get around, but it’s not always the safest, especially at night. Instead, use ridesharing apps like Uber or Bolt. It’s safer, faster, and still very cheap by Western standards.

The average cost for a short ride is 30-50 ZAR ($1.65–2.75 USD), and if you’re planning on using ridesharing frequently, it might be worth getting an Uber Pass for 100 ZAR ($5 USD), which gives you a 10% discount on each ride.

If you’re staying for a month or more, renting a car for about $300–500 USD per month could be a good option — but be aware that gas and parking fees may add up to be more than it would cost to use a ridesharing app. For the best car rental prices, use Discover Cars .  

Alternatively, you can get a cheap car rental for 450 ZAR per day and slash the cost substantially by splitting it between people. Not only is it cheaper to plan excursions yourself, but it gives you the flexibility of doing the trip at your leisure and stopping wherever you want, without feeling rushed.

Other popular trips, such as visiting wine country and whale watching in Hermanus, are also easily accessible on your own.

For a list of popular activities and excursions, check out Get Your Guide .  

One of the first things I do when I arrive in a new destination is take a free walking tour. It’s the best way to get the lay of the land, see the main highlights, and connect with a local guide that can share insider tips and advice.

Free Walking Tour Cape Town runs daily free tours in English — no advance booking required. (Just make sure to tip your guide at the end!)  

Eating out can be quite affordable around Cape Town. Most restaurants, even in the more tourist-centered areas, have food ranging from $5 to $10 USD per meal (and even cheaper at some places).

Vagabond Kitchens is a great spot for inexpensive wraps and quick meals, and Giovanni’s has a deli counter with delicious, home-style meals typically under $5 USD. Eastern Food Bazaar and Mojo Market (in Sea Point) are two other cheap options as well.

In addition, food delivery apps often have deals that make it even cheaper than in person. If you get Uber Pass, you’ll get a discount on Uber Eats as well, and paired with the buy-one-get-one-free promos and other meal deals that are consistently advertised at various restaurants, this can be even cheaper than cooking for yourself.  

In addition to food delivery discounts, websites such as Hyperli and Wikideals are popular within South Africa for discounted food, drinks, and activities.

If you are traveling in a pair, The Entertainer app is also a great way to get buy-one-get-one-free offers on food and drinks around town.

Before booking excursions or going out to eat, I’d recommend checking these sites to see if there are any deals you can get — there are some great ones!  

• Hike up Table Mountain
• Visit the District Six Museum
• Hit the beach
• Hike up Lion’s Head
• Visit Slave Lodge
• Watch the sunset from Signal Hill

For more suggestions, check out my guide to Cape Town . It has tons of budget-friendly suggestions!

By timing your trip wisely, finding affordable accommodation, making use of safe and cheap transportation options, planning your own excursions, and being selective about your activities, you can enjoy all the wonders of this stunning city without breaking the bank.

Book Your Trip: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight Find a cheap flight by using Skyscanner . It’s my favorite search engine because it searches websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is being left unturned.

Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld . If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as it consistently returns the cheapest rates for guesthouses and hotels.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

• SafetyWing (best for everyone)
• InsureMyTrip (for those 70 and over)
• Medjet (for additional evacuation coverage)

Want to Travel for Free? Travel credit cards allow you to earn points that can be redeemed for free flights and accommodation — all without any extra spending. Check out my guide to picking the right card and my current favorites to get started and see the latest best deals.

Need Help Finding Activities for Your Trip? Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace where you can find cool walking tours, fun excursions, skip-the-line tickets, private guides, and more.

Got a comment on this article? Join the conversation on Facebook , Instagram , or Twitter and share your thoughts!

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products and companies I use and the income goes to keeping the site community supported and ad free.

Related Posts

GET YOUR  FREE TRAVEL STARTER KIT

Enter your email and get planning cheatsheets including a step by step checklist, packing list, tips cheat sheet, and more so you can plan like a pro!

Escape With Annual Leave

Maximize Experience Minimize Expense

1000 USD Budget Travel in Cape Town: Astounding 9 Day Itinerary

Penguin encounter, the supreme landscape of Table Mountain, safari experience, beautiful houses, beaches, etc. Cape Town has so many to offer for travelers. Is budget travel in Cape Town possible?

Of course, Yes!

In this blog post, I will show you the itinerary with a budget for my 9 days in Cape Town.

We had a wonderful journey with fascinating scenes in the city center, near the coast, at a UNESCO heritage site, at the beach, and on the mountain. Furthermore, we enjoyed bunch of water-mouthing cuisines and even had a meal at LookOut Hout Bay with 30 oysters. On top of that, we lived in a super spacious high quality inn, cottage, apartment, and hotel.

This wonderful trip only cost us less than USD 1,000 per head. I want you to have as much fun as we had in Cape Town. Thus, I will show you our 9 day itinerary for budget travel in Cape Town, for you to have the same (or better) high-valued trip.

Table of Contents

Is traveling in Cape Town expensive?

Definitely not! Compared to the price level in the US, Cape Town is 2.5 times cheaper . To be more specific, you have many high-quality options in Cape Town. For example, for each ride of MyCitibus , the most (if not only) safe public local transport is around 9 ZAR (~ 0.5 USD). A 20km Uber ride from Cape Town International Airport to Cape Town City Center is around 240 ZAR (~ 13.5 USD).

For accommodations, a 26-meter room in an inn with a common kitchen and FREE laundry was only USD 26 per night.  An apartment near the Boulders beach (the African penguin colony) was around USD 65 per night. A cottage at the game reserve with 3 buffets, 2 game drives, and complimentary activities was only USD 405 for two persons.

For attractions, usual museums like Six District Museum and Castle of Good Hope costs around 50 ZAR (~ 3 USD). Even for the most expensive one – Robben Island, the ticket price was only 600 ZAR (~33 USD) covering a half-day journey. For food, all the restaurants are amazing with handsome offers. If you are looking for game meats, you can also buy them from supermarkets like Woolworths for cooking.

In short, depending on your preference, you can definitely structure a super high-quality budget travel in Cape Town ( one of the best destinations in Africa ).

How many days should I stay in Cape Town?

The number of days you should stay in Cape Town depends on your personal preferences, interests, and the activities you wish to do. For example, in our 9-day itinerary it did not cover the winery but included a safari experience.

In general, you need to be highly selective if you are only staying 3 days in Cape Town or just a weekend. However, you shall have sufficient time to cover all major must-go, see, or eat in around 9 days.

Budget Travel in Cape Town : 9-day itinerary

First thing first, before we go deep into the itinerary, let’s check out the summary first.

Day 1: Arrival and settle down at Cape Town City Center

The best way to get to the city center from Cape Town International Airport is via Uber. It is the cheapest way and costs for around 240 ZAR (~ 13 USD). MyCiti bus was available in the past and most recommended. However, the airport route has been suspended since 2022.

Alternatively, you can also drive or take a taxi from the airport, but it does not fit our 9-day itinerary. After settling down, you could take advantage of the remaining time for dinner at Long Street.

Long Street is a vibrant and iconic street located in the heart of Cape Town’s city center. It is also famous for its night activities including bars, music performances, and lots of restaurants. You could find different kinds of beers, wines, and spirits during the night.

There are a lot of local security on duty even at night on Long Street. However, you should still watch out for your valuables and phone against pickpocketing.

Day 2: Local walking tour, Robben Island, and dinner at V&A waterfront

Beginning on day 2, you can start discovering the city center more. There are a lot of iconic areas in the city such as Bo-Kaap, Company’s Garden, City Hall, Greenmarket Square, different museums, and churches with history. I recommend you to book a free walking tour in advance for the day.

Most of the walking tours in Cape Town would start from Greenmarket Square near a beautiful church. From there, they will take you to maim icons of the city such as Old Newspaper House, Berlin Wall, St George’s Cathedral, Company Garden, Slave Lodge, District Six, City Hall, etc.

Comparing to walking to each icon yourself, you can learn some history and background behind each of them. I joined a 3-hour walking tour by Guruwalk ( Best of Cape Town: Free Tour – GuruWalk ) and found it very worthwhile.

Robben Island Tour

After the walking tour, make your way to the V&A Waterfront to catch a ferry to Robben Island after lunch. Robben Island is a UNESCO World Heritage. It has a long history even dating back to the 1600s and is notorious for its usage as political prison for holding Nelson Mandela for 18 years in recent history.

You shall purchase a ticket online beforehand to secure your seat. There are several timeslots available on the official website. You may also want to get to the ferry terminal at Clock Tower District of V&A Waterfront at least 30 minutes earlier before the boarding time. This is to ensure you do not miss the ferry and also have enough time to visit the exhibition center at the terminal after clearing the security check.

A ferry will take around an hour from V&A to Robben Island. The tour package will include a tour-guided bus ride on the island with introductions to the island’s history. There will be several bus stops for photo taking of the beautiful views of the coastline. Amongst that, you will also have a chance to visit the prison cell that used to hold Nelson Mandela. During the visit, you will also have a chance to get first-hand stories led by former political prisoners.

After the whole visit, you can visit the souvenir shop near the pier while waiting for the return trip. The whole Robben Island tour is around 3 to 4 hours. After landing at V&A Waterfront, you could have your dinner at Quays District of V&A Waterfront by crossing the bridge from the Clock Tower District.

There are plenty of dining options in Quays District from fast-food, to mid-range restaurants to fine dining. We picked a seafood restaurant called Knysna Oyster Company which offers a variety of oysters and other seafood at a reasonable price.

Day 3: Staying overnight at Aquila Private Game Reserve

If you have never been to any Safari in Africa, I would recommend you use day 3 for that. The closest safari to Cape Town is the Aquila Private Game Reserve. I did an overnight there at the Karoo Cottage for 7,542 ZAR (~ 405 USD) for two persons during Christmas.

By staying overnight, you will be entitled to two game drives, a breakfast, lunch, and dinner buffet, and other activities such as complimentary drinks, swimming pool access, and stargazing at night. The only difference between different types of rooms is mainly the size.

Thus, I highly recommend you go for the standard lodge for the best value option. The price is around 5,500 ZAR (~ 305 USD) for two persons, but the room is not usually available. The reserve has a detailed itinerary and all other information online which are very transparent. For, transfer to and return to Cape Town from Aquila safari. You will need to email them directly at  [email protected] and it will cost around 1,550 ZAR (~86 USD) per person.

You can also call their hotline for any enquiry at 021 430 7260. I have tried a few times and they are very helpful.

Want to know the exact experience? Check out my dedicated post for the Aquila reserve .

If you have visited other safaris before, you may use this day for a trip to winery. It would not affect (or even lower) your plan for budget travel in cape town.

Day 4:  Company Garden & V&A after the morning game drive

If you are staying at Aquila Game Reserve like us, you will be spending your time on the buffet and game drive in the morning. By the time you get back to Cape Town city center, it would be around 2 or 3 PM.

You can use the remaining afternoon session for a walk in the Company’s Garden. The entrance of the Garden is free and it has a rich history since foundation in the 1650s by the Dutch East India Company. Over time, it has become a popular recreational space for the locals and tourists with walkways, ponds, and beautiful landscaping.

There are a few museums in the Company’s Garden such as Iziko South African Museum, South African Jewish Museum, and South African National Gallery. You could pay a visit based on your interest but please be aware of the opening hours.

At night, you could have dinner at the city center V&A Waterfront. Noting that there are 9 districts at V&A Waterfront with unique attractions each. You will probably need several visits during your trip to Cape Town to cover the most.

Day 5: Full-day tour of Cape Peninsula

Having spent 2 days for the city center and 2 days for the Safari, the 5 th day will focus on the Cape Peninsula. There are multiple must-go icons in the Cape Peninsula at the South of Cape Town city center.

The most efficient and budget-friendly way is to book a local tour online for that. Despite some variations, most tours will depart early in the morning and end at around 6 PM after visiting most of the attractions at the Cape Peninsula.

They tend to stuff everything in the itinerary but the schedule or actual attractions may vary depending on the road conditions. Sometimes they have to give up small attractions on the day to make time for the main ones. I have included all the main attractions below which most local tours would cover.

I booked my tour “Cape of Good Hope and Penguins Full-Day Tour From Cape Town “ via Agoda ( Cape of Good Hope and Penguins Full-Day Tour From Cape Town (agoda.com)

) online given it seems to be the cheapest. Also, I picked this because it ends at Boulders Beach where I choose to stay for another full day.

I highly recommend you stay at Boulders Beach or Hout Bay (then take an Uber back to Boulders Beach) after the tour. Spending only 20 minutes at Boulders Beach is definitely not enough.

Some of my friends joke by saying those packed itinerariea are the tours about “what I could have seen”. Still, I suppose it fits our budget travel plan and most of the attractions in the Cape Peninsula only require less than 15 minutes.

EXCEPT for the Boulders Beach!

Main attractions in the Cape Peninsula Tour

Duiker Island & Hout Bay – The Seal Colony Island near Hout Bay. The boat ticket for a ride passing by is around ZAR 110 (~ 14 USD) per person. The boat ride is around 40 minutes starting from the Hout Bay pier. During the ride, you will have plenty of time to take photos of the seal-crowded island from the boat. Please note the seals may smell due to their density and numbers.

After the boat ride, there are famous restaurants like The Lookout Hout Bay and Fish Market Kout Bay at the Hout Bay.

Chapman’s Peak Drive – The drive onto Chapman’s Peak Drive. It is the best 9km long side road landscape for the view of the Atlantic Ocean and cliffs with a long beach. It is very amazing, especially during sunset.

Cape of Good Hope – Located at the merge of the cold Atlantic and the Indian Oceans. It is a must-go point for every first-time visitor to Cape Town. It belongs to part of Cape Point Nature Reserve, renowned for its hiking trails, and lighthouses, and even more renowned for the Cape of Good Hope sign. You can expect a queue for the photo of the sign when you arrive there. Please note that you will need to reserve 400 ZAR ( ~ 22 USD) for the entry ticket which can only be paid by card for the entry of the Reserve park.

Boulders Beach Penguin Colony & Simon’s Town – Boulders Beach Penguin Colony is probably the only place on earth, where you can get super close to wild South African penguins. If I am only staying a weekend in Cape Town, I would just go there. The entry price of 190 ZAR (~ 10.5 USD) is unbelievably cheap compared to the uniqueness and value of this attraction. I dedicated my whole day 6 and early morning of day 7 for the Boulders beach only.

The local tour would usually include other 5 – 10-minute icons such as Muizenberg Beach, Camps Bay Beach, or Clifton. Most of those beaches are nice with colored houses there for one or two photos. Some tours may also include some city center attractions like Bo-kaap which you can visit by yourself via walking.

Day 6: Full day for the South African Penguin Colony (Boulders Beach)

This is the best day of the whole budget travel in Cape Town’s 9-day itinerary. On this day, you will have unlimited time to photos with the cute penguins. Also, you can enjoy cooking at your apartment or having seafood at some of the restaurants near Boulders Beach or Simon’s Town.

If you are looking for cooking, you may want to purchase the ingredients at the Woolworths or Pick n’ Pay near Hout Bay the day before. You know cooking red steak on trip is a great adventure experience.

Or else you would have to visit the local convenience or grocery shop nearby which has only limited options.

For a complete guide to getting the most from Boulders Beach, you may refer to our post dedicated to the cute penguins .

Day 7: Table Mountain Hiking

If you love your penguin experience on day 6, I strongly suggest you visit them again in the morning. After going back to the Cape Town city center and settling down, you can visit another most represented icon–Table Mountain.

You can either hike your way up to the top of Table Mountain or take the cable car. For a cable car, it would cost around 220 ZAR (~ 12 USD) for one way and 340 (~ 19 USD) both ways, depending on the timeslot. Please note that the cable card could be suspended due to strong wind. So please check beforehand.

The recommended way is via hiking especially since we are looking to maximize the experience and minimize the expense. There are multiple hiking routes available. I have searched multiple blogs online and found the blog post from Stingynomads with the best guides on the major trails. Suggest you take a look before hiking.

I picked the Platteklip Gorge route to the top which is around 2 hours on the way. The path is actually quite well-established. However, you need to be aware of the slippery rocks, and weather forecasts and bring at least 1 liter of water. You can refill your water at the top of Table Mountain or go to the restaurants there.

The view is astounding for the trail where you can see the city and the landscape on the way up. Furthermore, the route is extremely convenient for first-time tourists like me. I just searched for “Platteklip George Starting Point” on Google Maps and then plotted it to the upper cable car station of Table Mountain. I also took Uber from the city center to the starting point and Uber my way back after hiking back.

What to expect on Table Mountain Summit

Once you reach the summit of Table Mountain, take in the panoramic views of Cape Town, the Atlantic Ocean, and the surrounding landscapes. There is a restaurant, café, and souvenir shop near the upper cable car station. Find a suitable spot to rest and drink from the restaurant there while basking in the beauty of your surroundings.

Remember to bring a coat or sweater for the Table Mountain trip, as the weather and temperature change quite fast there. One moment you have all the visibility and sunshine, another meeting the summit would be covered by the cloak (frog) you would feel cold.

After spending some time there for chilling and photos, you can descend from the summit via the same trail or with the cable car. I did the same trail due to the long queue for the cable car. However, I would have taken the cable car as descending through the slippery rocks was harder than I thought.

Getting back to the city center for dinner, we complete all the major attractions of our budget travel in Cape Town.

Day 8: Museums visit and chilling at V&A

As we approach the final part of the Cape Town trip, you would like to have a relatively relaxing day. In that, I recommend you to check out the museums in the City center or other icons that you have yet to visit.

For the museums, I would recommend you to go to the District Six Museum and Castle of Good Hope. Both of them are good choices for budget travel in Cape Town.

District Six Museum

The District Six Museum focuses on the history and legacy of the forced removal and displacement of residents during the apartheid era. It is a very good short journey for the daily life of South Africans in recent history. The District Six Museum is around 5-minute walk from the city town hall and the ticket is only for 60 ZAR (~3 USD) for international adults.

The Castle of Good Hope

The Castle of Good Hope is another historic landmark (which contains several museums inside and no additional ticket required) most underrated. Built between 1666 and 1679 by the Dutch East India Company, it used to serve as a military base and replenishment station throughout the centuries. Now it is a live museum with the most exhibition content in Cape Town from clothing, weapons, craftsmen, and other artifacts.

It could take you hours to browse through the whole infrastructure. On top of that, its pentagonal fortress structure is great for photos. Most importantly, the ticket is only 50 ZAR per person (less than 3 USD) and it even offers scheduled free guided tours.

Other than museums, if you have yet to visit the colorful houses at Bo-Kaap earlier, you could also take advantage of the free day to go. Bo-Kapp also known as Cape Malay Quarter has a long history of Malay culture during the salve period. Nowadays, it is famous for IGable photos because of its various paintings and colors of houses in the areas. You may want to visit the area in the morning which should be safer.

If you would like to grab a drink and chill out, you should go for the V&A Waterfront again. You can either explore the remaining parts of V&A. There is a Time Out Market . In the market, you can buy a drink or coffee and enjoy the live band music on the second floor.

After that, you can have a final dinner at V&A for your Cape Town journey.

Alternatively, for day 8 you can also visit some of the local wineries like Constantia in Cape Town, and leave the rest of the Museums for day 9 morning. Again for a winery tour, there are a lot of available options online with pick-up. Our budget travel plan for Cape Town would not shoot up a lot given the tours are not very expensive.

Day 9: Souvenir at Greenmarket Square & departure

On your final day in Cape Town, you can visit Greenmarket Square for souvenir shopping before your departure. Depending on your flight schedule, you can take a leisurely final walk in the city center. Or even a final rush to the V&A waterfront or other unvisited museums.

Transportation, Safety, and Others in Cape Town:

As we completed our 9-day Cape Town trip planning, you should know that budget travel in Cape Town is possible and fun. Before you depart, just some final points for your wonderful journey.

First, for transportation as mentioned you could solely use Uber. On top of that, you may also try out the MyCiti bus service locally. You will need to buy a Master debit card at main stations like Adderley Street Station.

Second, for safety, you may want to avoid walking at night in areas without security coverage. Given the high crime rate locally, the government has security companies to cover popular points like Long Street even at night. Beware of pocket-picking and local scams. There are a lot of homeless people due to the Covid. It is unfortunate but we shall also be aware of our valuables and personal safety.

In general, wealthier areas such as Simon’s Time and V&A waterfront are a lot safer than the city centers like Long Street, especially at night. Apart from popular tourist areas, you should refrain from dangerous areas like Nyanga. In general, you would not be even close to those areas based on our itinerary but you should be aware in case you choose to drive.

Check out our Cape Town safety guide before you start traveling.

Lastly, most of the museums, attractions, and even the MyConnect Transport card accept card payment only. So 90% of the time in your journey you can settle your transaction with a card. I suppose a cash of 500 ZAR should be more than enough.

You may also check out here for alternative recommendations for Cape Town icons .

Do you find the 9-day itinerary for budget travel in Cape Town useful?

If so, please leave a comment about any inquiry and your trip experience below.

It just took less than 1,000 USD per person !

I wish you had a wonderful trip in Cape Town!

You may also like

A budget travel blogger passionate about exploring different destinations worldwide, while balancing a regular 9-to-5 job.

[…] Beach Penguin is a must-add item to your Cape Town itinerary. This is probably the only (or one of the very few places) in the world where you can be on the […]

[…] Disclaimer ahead! It would not be magnificent as the ones in Kenya. However It’s a great valued elementary safari choice and fits perfectly into Cape Town itinerary in a week. […]

[…] worries, I have been there and know exactly what you are worrying about. I spent 9 days backpacking in Cape Town, experienced all the attractions, and returned in one […]

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Budget Travel With Gabby

Travel tips, budget travel guides, volunteering stories, more!

3 Days In Cape Town: Itinerary For The Budget Traveler

A travel itinerary for 3 days in Cape Town, South Africa. Perfect for budget travelers!

Cape Town, South Africa is a colorful, diverse, and energetic city. 

There are lots of different areas of the city offering fun activities and beautiful sights. 

You can relax on the beach or surf in the waves. You can hike mountains, see penguins, learn history and culture, and eat and drink all you want. 

Cape Town is modern, yet authentic. The locals are insanely friendly and helpful, and there are lots of incredible hostels for budget travelers. 

I spent 1 week in Cape Town and still couldn’t cover everything because there is SO MUCH to do. 

But most travelers don’t have the luxury of staying in one place for over a week. 

Especially in South Africa, which is such a large country filled with beauty, you’re going to want to explore as much as you can in the time you have. 

3 days in Cape Town is a good amount of time in the city. You can hit all the best Cape Town attractions without feeling too rushed. 

So to help budget travelers plan their stay, here is my ideal 3 days in Cape Town itinerary!

For more recommendations, check out my Ultimate Cape Town Budget Travel Guide.

3 Days In Cape Town Travel Itinerary

When you arrive in Cape Town, you’ll have to sort out a few things before you start exploring. 

Here are my quick recommendations for transport and accommodation:

Transport in Cape Town

Renting a car is the best way to explore Cape Town . Some of the best attractions lie far outside the city center, so it’s more convenient to have a car. 

There is plenty of street parking in Cape Town. 

You can rent a car from the airport, or browse online to set something up for when you arrive. 

Accommodation in Cape Town

As my blog is geared towards budget travelers, I’ll only recommend one type of accommodation in Cape Town: hostels!

I personally stayed at the Cat and Moose Backpackers Lodge and I loved my stay here. But they are no longer listed on Hostelworld, unfortunately!

I loved this hostel because I met a few really nice people here, some of whom were locals.

But there are so many more highly-rated and cheap hostels in Cape Town. 

Browse through, read the reviews, and find a place in your budget range!

Browse Hostelworld for more affordable Cape Town hostels!

3 Days in Cape Town Itinerary: Day 1

For Day 1, I recommend exploring the city center. 

If you’re staying in Cat and Moose Backpackers, or any other centrally-located hostel, you can walk to most of your destinations today!

Save some gas money, get some exercise, and get ready to explore central Cape Town on foot. 

Morning: Table Mountain

Table Mountain is, without a doubt, one of the best things to see in Cape Town. Even if you only have 3 days in Cape Town, this massive mountain needs a place in your itinerary.

The entire Table Mountain national park is full of greenery and wildlife. And the views from the top of the mountain are absolutely amazing. 

If you’re feeling fit and love hiking, I recommend hiking Platteklip Gorge .

This is the most direct route, and though it is steep, it can be done in 1-2 hours . 

You’ll have to drive or take an Uber from your hostel to the Cable Car station at the base of Table Mountain.

Then follow signs to Platteklip Gorge from there and start hiking!

Say the hike up takes 2 hours, and you want 1 hour at the top, then 1 hour to descend. So the entire Table Mountain experience should take around 4 hours if you’re hiking .

If you’re not into hiking, you can take the Cable Car . This is a much easier and quicker way to reach the top of Table Mountain.

Check out this website for the prices and hours of the Cable Car.

Afternoon: Bo-Kaap & Charley’s Bakery

After returning home from Table Mountain, it’s time to continue exploring Cape Town. 

Walk over to Bo-Kaap, the Instagram-famous neighborhood of brightly colored buildings. 

Formerly known as the Malay Quarter , the area used to be a segregated section of the city. Check out the Bo-Kaap Museum to learn more about the area’s history.

Charly’s Bakery

After soaking in the rainbow hues in Bo-Kaap, head to Charly’s Bakery . 

A local friend introduced me to this place, and I’m so happy he did. 

A 20-minute walk east from Bo-Kaap lies this tiny bakery filled with the most beautiful and delicious treats you could ever imagine.

I spent my birthday in Cape Town, and after hiking Table Mountain we came to Charly’s Bakery to indulge in fudge brownies, cakes, cookies, and cupcakes. 

It was such a sugar overload, but it was worth it. 

Evening: V&A Waterfront 

The Victoria and Albert Waterfront is one of the busiest areas of Cape Town. All the tourists congregate here to eat, drink, and shop. 

It’s a very commercialized area, but it’s nice to walk along the waterfront, window-shopping and people-watching. 

The best part of the V&A Waterfront is the Victoria and Albert Food Market . 

This indoor market hall is packed with food stalls selling every delicious thing imaginable.

From full meals to light snacks to desserts, this is a great place to come for a late lunch or early dinner. A full meal costs around 100 Rand (7 USD) . So eating out at the market is cheaper than a restaurant.

The food market is open from 10am to 6pm . 

3 Days in Cape Town Itinerary: Day 2

On your second day in Cape Town, head down to the Cape Peninsula . You’ll need your car today, or you can take public transport or a guided tour. 

Today is going to be filled with beautiful coastal views, so bring a fully charged camera.

Morning: Muizenberg Beach

If you only have 3 days in Cape Town, you probably won’t have time to visit every single one of the city’s stunning beaches. 

But Muizenberg Beach is a must!

A 30-minute drive south of the city center brings you to Muizenberg, a quiet beach town. 

The little town has some nice trendy cafes for grabbing a coffee and some breakfast. 

There are also a few surf shops for booking surf lessons or renting surf gear. 

Muizenberg Beach has a long strip of white sand that stretches on for 20km. This is a great spot for surfing, swimming, and just enjoying the laid-back beach vibes. 

Here you can also find the famous row of colorful beach houses that is often shown in photos (like the featured image for this article!)

Afternoon: Boulder’s Beach Penguin Colony and Cape of Good Hope

Boulder’s beach penguin colony.

From Muizenberg Beach, it is a 25 minute drive along the coast to reach Boulder’s Beach in Simon’s Town. 

If you’re an animal lover, Boulder’s Beach might just be the highlight of your 3 days in Cape Town itinerary. 

This beach is famous for its Penguin colony! It costs 152 Rand (10 USD) to enter. 

Once you enter the Penguin Colony, you’ll walk along a small wooden boardwalk which will bring you up close to the little beach where the penguins hang out. 

You can’t leave the boardwalk of course, as you have to let the penguins be. 

But it is fascinating to watch the penguins splash in the waves and sunbathe on the sand. This was one of my favorite Cape Town attractions!

Cape of Good Hope

Boulder’s Beach is on the east side of the Cape Peninsula. So after leaving the penguins behind, you’ll continue driving down the peninsula for 30 minutes until you reach the Cape of Good Hope. 

This rocky headland is the tip of the Cape Peninsula. The area consists of biking and hiking trails, picnic areas, scenic views, and an abundance of nature. 

It costs 303 Rand (20 USD) to enter. 

If you don’t have a rental car, there are also lots of affordable guided tours that combine the Cape Peninsula with Boulder’s Beach. 

Most tours cost between 30 and 60 USD and include your transport to and from the city center. Most tours will also include your entrance tickets in the price. 

Book your guided tour to Boulder’s Beach & Cape of Good Hope here!

Evening: Chapman’s Peak Drive

After exploring the Cape Peninsula, take the scenic route back to the Cape Town city center. 

Drive up the western side of the peninsula, passing through the small beach towns of Scarborough and Kommetjie . 

You’ll eventually reach Chapman’s Peak Drive. This coastal road has a toll of 50 Rand (3 USD) , but the fee is worth it. 

The views of the ocean-side mountains and cliffs are breathtaking. 

3 Days in Cape Town Itinerary: Day 3

On your third day in Cape Town, you’ll be finishing up with more of the best attractions near the city center. 

You can also choose to further explore the nearby beaches, or take a day trip to the nearby wine region. 

Either way, be sure to make the most of Cape Town on your last day!

Morning: Lions Head at Sunrise

Even if you already hiked Table Mountain on the first day of your Cape Town itinerary, I still recommend doing this hike as well. 

Hiking Lions Head at sunrise was one of my favorite memories from my whole 2 months in South Africa. 

It’s an easy hike and takes about 1 hour if you’re reasonably fit. The last part of the hike is very steep and requires a bit of climbing, but it’s doable for most people. 

Leave your hostel 1 hour before sunrise, drive to the Lions Head carpark, and follow the easy trail that winds around the mountain. 

The sunrise views over Cape Town are unforgettable. At the top of Lions Head, you also get a magnificent view of Table Mountain. 

If you love nature, hiking, and great views, you should 100% include the Table Mountain AND Lions Head hikes into your 3 days in Cape Town. And both hikes are FREE!

Afternoon: Explore the Beaches or Wine Tasting Tour

Your entire Lions Head adventure should only take about 2-3 hours. So you have the entire rest of the day for fun activities!

Wine Tasting

If you are interested in a wine-tasting tour in South Africa, Cape Town is one of the best places to do this.

The famous Stellenbosch wine region is only 1 hour away from the city center. 

Click here for more info about Stellenbosch wineries and a map of the area.

Full of rolling green hills, charming farms, and rustic wineries, Stellenbosch is a lovely day trip from Cape Town. 

If you’re driving yourself, just pop into any winery you see and ask for a tasting. You’ll taste around 5 wines and pay between 30 and 60 Rand (less than 5 USD) .

A guided tour of the wine region is another great option.

It’s more expensive than exploring Stellenbosch on your own, but if you want to drink lots of wine, book a tour so you don’t have to drive afterward. A tour is also a fun option if you’re a solo traveler looking to meet some people!

Cape Town Beaches

If wine tasting isn’t up your alley, you could also spend the afternoon exploring more of Cape Town’s local beaches. 

Camps Bay Beach and the Clifton Beaches are only a 10-minute drive away from the city center. 

They are both beautiful, so having a nice picnic on the beach is another fun way to spend your last afternoon in Cape Town.

Beaches are also free, so if you’re tight on money this is more affordable than wine tasting.

Evening: Kloof Street or Long Street 

For the last night of your 3-day Cape Town itinerary, head to the liveliest and most fun streets in town. 

Long Street and Kloof Street are right next to each other. Both streets have lots of great bars, pubs, restaurants, and cafes. 

Have fun eating, drinking, chatting, and enjoying the local nightlife. 

Just remember to be smart while exploring Cape Town at night . Don’t walk around alone at night, keep your car doors locked, and don’t bring too many valuables out with you. 

Cape Town is relatively safe and I didn’t have any problems here. But muggings and theft are still common and lots of travelers have some bad experiences. 

So just be smart and stick with a good group of people and you should be fine!

Thanks for reading this 3 Days In Cape Town Itinerary!

Here are a couple more important travel tips for South Africa :

☼ Use Skyscanner to find an affordable flight to South Africa! Check out How To Find The Cheapest Flights Abroad for more tips on finding cheap flights.

☼ Get Travel Insurance! From going on safaris, to hiking in dangerous spots, to exploring rural areas, it is important to have medical and emergency coverage. I found an affordable travel health insurance plan on Squaremouth Insurance and they fully reimbursed me for an accident I had in South Africa. Read more about it here!

☼ As an American citizen, I did not need a visa to visit South Africa for 2 months. But if you’re from any other nationality, I’m not sure what the visa requirements are. Check iVisa.com to verify visa requirements before your trip!

To read about more of my adventures in South Africa, check out these articles:

How To Visit The Drakensberg Mountains On A Budget

Jeffrey’s Bay Photo Diary

Learning Permaculture in the South African Forest

Volunteering In The Wild Coast, South Africa

How To Do An African Safari On A Budget

Volunteering On A Chicken Farm Outside East London, South Africa

This post may contain affiliate links. Read more about this in my About Me page!

Share this:

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Discover more from budget travel with gabby.

Subscribe now to keep reading and get access to the full archive.

Type your email…

Continue reading

Travel Experiences | Accommodations | Travel Information

27 BEST THINGS TO DO IN CAPE TOWN ON A BUDGET

There is a seemingly endless list of fun things to do and tourist attractions to explore in Cape Town and the surrounding areas, and the list continues getting longer. The most frequently asked question by visitors is whether it is possible to have fun and visit Cape Town’s popular tourist attractions on a tight budget.

We’ve put together a list of 27 inexpensive activities to do in and around Cape Town to help make your trip as enjoyable and memorable as you can.

To save more money on your Cape Town trip, we recommend getting a  City Pass Card  for generous discounts or free entry to Cape Town’s top attractions –  Over 70 popular Cape Town attractions, tour activities, and restaurants!

1. CAPE POINT VINEYARDS PICNIC

Even though its name is “Cape Point” is located in Noordhoek. Picnic set up at Cape Point Vineyards includes picnic blankets and prism-shaped pillows to be used during your stay – a perfect prop against which to recline and soak in the Noordhoek beach, mountains, and vineyard views. Sources such as Getaway Magazine ,  The Inside Guide ,  Cape Town Magazine , and  Eat Out , regularly refer to Cape Point Vineyards as one of the best Vineyard Picnic experiences in and around Cape Town.

Price: R590 for 2 people (R295 per person)

2. HOP-ON HOP-OFF FRANSCHHOEK WINE TRAM

The best and most cost-effective way to explore the Franschhoek Valley is by Franschhoek Wine Tram . You will ride a combination of hop-on hop-off Tram and bus, and visit up eight wine farms.

Price: R280 per person (Wine tasting: from R45 per session)

3. CAPE WHEEL

The Cape Wheel has a new location! Take in the breath-taking views of Granger Bay, Robben Island, Table Mountain, and Signal Hill from the new location on Breakwater Boulevard at the V&A Waterfront. The new location offers elevated views of Table Mountain, Signal Hill, The DHL stadium and so much more.

Adult from R175 | Child R95 (standard) FREE ride on your birthday month. Sky Dining (Cape Wheel provides basket and table placing – you bring your own food) Sky Dining Adult R320 | Sky Dining Child R150

Operating Hours: Monday to Thursday 11:00am to 21:00pm | Friday to Saturday 10:00am to 22:00pm | Sunday 10:00am to 21:00pm

4. TABLE MOUNTAIN AERIAL CABLEWAY

Table Mountain Aerial Cableway provides access to the top of Table Mountain for the finest view of the Mother City. The ride is a gentle one, the rotating state-of-the-art cable car takes approximately 5 minutes to reach the top, 3500ft above the city. Expect to spot a wide array of birdlife from eagles to sunbirds flying above great patches of fynbos, rock hyrax, lizards, and the odd porcupine.

R340 per adult for afternoon return

R170 per child for afternoon return

NB: The Cableway will be closed for annual maintenance as from 24 July 2023 until 6 August 2023.

5. ROLLERCADE AT BATTERY PARK

Rollercade is the 1st indoor  roller- skating amusement park in Cape Town. Providing a safe and friendly environment for the entire family to enjoy  roller- skating, a game of pool or just to sit back and enjoy the music. They also have dedicated party areas for company functions.

R80 bring your own skates. (No metal wheels allowed).

R150 2-hour session includes rental of skates and safety gear. R40 attendance fee for spectators. Come enjoy the entertainment and arcade.

6. BLUE TRAIN PARK IN MOULLE POINT

The Blue Train Park  in Moulle Point is the only beachfront miniature railway that has survived in South Africa. Besides the Mini Blue Train, the park also has a mini-skate park, a 30m zip-line, 2x8m long slide, cement push bike track, pedal push carts, an obstacle course, climbing rock, two jungle gyms, an astro turf soccer pitch, and put put field.

Price: R35 (includes one free train ride)

7. CITY WALKING TOURS

Learn about the history and other interesting facts about the colourful neighbourhood of Bo-Kaap and Cape Town city centre while you savour the beautiful sights and scenery with Free Walking Tours . You have an option for a historic city tour, an Apartheid to Freedom tour, or a Bo-Kaap tour.

Price: Free, but tips are encouraged

8. WALK AROUND GREEN POINT PARK

The beautiful Green Point Urban Park with stunning views of Signal Hill and Lion’s Head is family-friendly space is perfect for picnics, walks, and runs. With a host of facilities like a biodiversity showcase garden, an outdoor labyrinth or maze, an open field, an amphitheatre, an outdoor gym and a play park for children, this is a park worth exploring.

Price: Free

9. SWIM IN TIDAL POOL S

Tidal pools are rocky pools built along our coastline that provide a safe, family-friendly place to swim and play. These man-made pools along Cape Town’s coast are also the perfect picnics. Our favourite ones are Maiden Cove in Camps Bay and St. James in Muizenberg, and Dalebrook in Kalk Bay.

10. SEAL ISLAND TOUR – HOUT BAY

This is a 40-minute cruise from Hout Bay harbour to Duiker Island, the Seal Colony beneath the well-known Sentinel Mountain where you can view thousands of Cape Fur Seals in their natural environment.

Price: From R110 per person (Various operators)

11. TWO OCEANS AQUARIUM

Make lasting memories with truly unique experiences at the Two Oceans Aquarium . Step into their world with guided behind the scenes tours, meet the too-cute rockhoppers with a penguin experience, and explore the Aquarium from the other side of the glass with adventure diving experiences and PADI courses at their Dive School.

Price: R235 per adult and R110 – R175 per child (Day Pass)

12. THE CASTLE OF GOOD HOPE

The Castle of Good Hope is considered to be the best-preserved example of a 17th-century architectural structure in the world and has also acted as the local headquarters for the South African Army in the Western Cape. Today, it houses the Castle Military Museum and ceremonial facilities for the traditional Cape Regiments.

Price: R25 – R50

13. HINT HUNT EXPERIENCE

Create lasting memories through exciting adventures with strangers or friends. Solve problems and puzzles using clues before time runs out. As one of the first Live Escape Games to open globally in 2012, HintHunt is considered to be a pioneer and is largely responsible for kicking off the Escape Game craze which has since swept the world. Since being the first of its kind in Africa, HintHunt Africa has expanded by locally developing a range of live experiences.

Price: From R295 per person

14. LIVE MUSIC SHOWS AT THE MOJO MARKET

The Mojo Market  is a vibrant indoor 7-day-a-week food and lifestyle market with daily live music by local artists. It is an eclectic mix of retail stalls, 4 bars, food vendors offering international cuisines as well as a venue for sports watching.

FREE entrance

30 Regent Rd, Sea Point, Cape Town

Operating hours: Monday to Sunday 8am – 12pm

15. FIRST THURSDAYS

On the first Thursday of every month, arts and culture in Cape Town come alive, with dozens of art galleries and cultural events showcasing the wealth of local talent to ensure your First Thursday is catered to your own specific preferences. Website:  www.first-thursdays.co.za/

16. THE OLD BISCUIT MILL

The Old Biscuit Mill has it all, from goods markets, eateries, and fresh produce. Indulge in artisanal and gourmet foods at the Neighbourgoods Market, which takes place on Saturdays (09:00am – 17:00pm) and Sundays (10:00am – 16:00am) .

Price: Free entry

17. CYCLE THROUGH CAPE TOWN AND SEA POINT PROMENADE

Rent a bicycle from Up Cycles at the Sea Point Pavilion and explore Cape Town at your own pace. Pedal along the Promenade and make your way to the CBD or Camps Bay for a refreshing drink. You’ll get to have fun while exercising and take in Mother City’s beautiful attractions, including Green Point Park and The DHL stadium. You can return the bike to any Up Cycles stations located in Camps Bay, Sea Point, and V&A Waterfront.

Price: From R90 for 1 hour

18. ZEITZ MOCAA

Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa (Zeitz MOCAA) is a public, not-for-profit institution that exhibits, collects, preserves and researches contemporary art from Africa and its diaspora; conceives and hosts international exhibitions; develops supporting educational, discursive and enrichment programmes; encourages intercultural understanding; and strives for access for all.

Price: R230 per adult Children under 18 receive free entry Free entry for South African citizens every Wednesday from 10am to 13pm Operating Hours: Tuesday to Sunday: 10am to 18pm (with last entry at 17.30pm)

19. THE MIRAGE BOAT CRUISE

See the splendour of the Mother City laid out before you, in all her breathtaking, scenic glory.  The Mirage offers 1-hour daily trips out to Sea Point or Granger Bay, weather dependant. The Mirage offers a full-service cash or card bar as well as some light snacks to purchase onboard.

Price: Adult from R300 | Child from R200 (1 hour – daily and weather dependant)

20. SWIM WITH PENGUINS AT BOULDERS BEACH

Visit the African penguins at Boulders Beach to learn more about them or swim with them.

• South African Citizens and Residents (with ID): R44 per adult and R22 per child
• SADC Nationals (with passport): R88 per adult and R44 per child
• Standard Conservation Fee (International Visitors): R176 per adult and R88 per child

21. STAND UP PADDLE AT BATTERY PARK

No hazards and no waves, makes the canals an ideal place for your first time and will make you more comfortable and confident on the board. If you still don’t feel comfortable with Stand-Up-Paddling , you can opt for a kayaking session.

R250 for 1 Hour Session R200 for 30 mins Session

22. HIKE UP LION’S HEAD

This is one of the best and most moderate hikes in Cape Town. Lion’s Head is a mountain situated between Table Mountain and Signal Hill and peaks at 669 metres above sea level.

23. CHAPMANS PEAK DRIVE

Chapman’s Peak Drive  is considered one of the best coastal and scenic drives in the world. No Cape Town trip is ever complete without a drive or picnic here.

Price: R57 per car to drive across or FREE if you just want to go to the picnic spot.

24. CITY SIGHTSEEING HOP-ON HOP-OFF BUS

Explore most of the major tourist attractions at unbelievable value and convenience on the Hop-On Hop-Off bus, City Sightseeing .

• Valid for all 3 Hop-On Hop-Off loops
• Commentary is available in 15 languages
• Comfort and safety in the open-air/inside the bus
• 1 Full day on the bus (Hop-On Hop-Off experience)

NB: The red bus passes at Table Mountain Cableway , Kirstenbosch Botanical Garden , Groot Constantia wine farm , Hout Bay (Seal Island Tour), Camps Bay, Clifton, Sea Point, Green Point, V&A Waterfront , Two Oceans Aquarium , and Long Street.

Adult R259 | Child R150 | Infant Free

25. VISIT THE CAPE POINT NATURE RESERVE

Visit the Cape Point Nature Reserve to experience the rugged rocks and sheer cliffs towering more than 200 metres above the sea and cutting deep into the ocean from the lighthouse. This reserve falls within the southern section of Table Mountain National Park. You can expect to spot baboons, ostriches, bonteboks, elands, and so much more.

• R94 for adults and R47 for children (South Africans)
• R188 for adults and R94 for children (SADC Nationals)
• R376 for adults and R188 for children (Internationals)

26. V&A HARBOUR AND SEAL CRUISE

Life in and around the Victoria and Alfred basins is busy. On this trip, you will cruise in a red City Sightseeing open-boat and you will spot anything from resident seals to international ships visiting our shores. You will also learn more about Cape Town’s proud nautical history.

CRUISE HIGHLIGHTS:

• See the Cape Fur seals up close
• Close-up views of seals and ships
• Comfort and safety in the open-air
• Hear about Cape Town’s nautical history
• Listen to the legends and stories of the V&A

Price: R64 per adult and R35 per child

27. EXPLORE KIRSTENBOSCH NATIONAL BOTANICAL GARDEN

Spend a day out in nature with a self-guided tour around Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden . The Garden is acclaimed as one of the great botanic gardens of the world. Few gardens can match the sheer grandeur of the setting of Kirstenbosch, against the eastern slopes of Cape Town’s Table Mountain.

• R100 (Discounted fee for South African Residents and SADC Nationals 18 years and older with ID/proof of residency)
• R140 discounted fee for African residents outside SADC 18 years and older (with ID/proof of residency)
• R60 Students/learners of 18 years and older from a South African institute (with student card)
• R40 all children from 6 to 17 years
• Free all children under 6 years
• R220 standard adult (International visitors)

WHERE TO STAY

THE CAPITAL 15 ON ORANGE A spectacular urban oasis with distinctive design. The Capital 15 on Orange Hotel is set within Cape Town’s richly historical Company’s Garden and anchored by Table Mountain and Lion’s Head. The showstopper here is their underground Grotto Spa and Bar at Cape Town’s only Mangwanani Signature Spa. This is a Spa like no other, check out the video here . THE CAPITAL MIRAGE Stylish, spacious, and situated in the heart of Uber-trendy De Waterkant area with stunning views of Bo-Kaap and near the city bowl and V&A Waterfront, The Capital Mirage is the ideal for those who enjoy the Cape Town city lifestyle and nightlife. If the city skyline isn’t enough, don’t worry because you are only minutes away from Sea Point and Green Point. WINE AND SPA PACKAGE Indulge in a luxurious winter escape at  The Capital 15 on Orange  with our exclusive Wine and Spa package for 2. Package includes:

• Welcome platter
• Breakfast for 2 people
• Complimentary bottle of wine
• Accommodation in a luxury room
• 2 x 60-minute deep earth and warm lava stone full body massages

From R4 115 per night – all inclusive Terms and Conditions apply. Valid 1 st April – 31 st August 2023. Book 24 hours in advance. Subject to availability.

COMPETITION TIME [WIN WIN WIN] FLIP! What a Prize! WIN a HELICOPTER FLIP!!!

2-night stay at The Capital 15 on Orange and return flights from LIFT. All worth R30k! All you need to do is make a booking to stay at either of the Capital Hotels in Cape Town between May and the end of August 2023, and follow them on their social pages ( Instagram or Tik Tok ), and you will automatically be entered into a lucky draw to stand a chance to WIN this great prize. PRIZE INCLUDES:

• Return flights with LIFT (ex JHB or ex DBN only).
• 2-Night stay in an Executive Suite with a mountain view for two people sharing, including breakfast at The Capital 15 on Orange .
• Enjoy an arrival platter on your first day and a romantic turndown on your second night, with a complimentary bottle of wine.
• The Hopper Tour on NAC Helicopters Cape Town is approx. 12 mins long and weather dependant.
• This amazing prize is for 2 adults sharing and must be redeemed before the end of September 2023.

Remember to research and plan your itinerary in advance to take advantage of any discounts or deals that may be available. With careful planning and budget-conscious choices, you can have a memorable visit to Cape Town without breaking the bank.

This article may contain affiliate links. I may receive compensation if you make a booking through the links on this blog post but it won’t cost you anything extra.

BLOG POST UPDATES

I update my blog posts regularly to make sure that links are up to date and spelling is correct. Let me know if you notice anything that needs to be updated in this blog post.

For Western Cape travel inspiration and insider tips, follow me on Instagram  or  Twitter . Remember to subscribe to my blog to receive the best Western Cape insider tips and information, and discount information delivered directly to your mailbox. Copyright ©  Western Cape Experiences – No words or photographs on this site may be used without permission from  www.westerncapeexperiences.com

THE ROYAL LIVINGSTONE HOTEL – LUXURIOUS HOTEL IN LIVINGSTONE, ZAMBIA

MAZDA CX-60 (2023) MAZDA'S ALL-NEW FLAGSHIP SUV

You may also like.

SHELLEY POINT HOTEL AND SPA – HIDDEN PARADISE ON THE WEST COAST

25 BEST ROAD TRIP TIPS DURING THE FESTIVE SEASON

KRAALBAAI LUXURY HOUSEBOATS – LANGEBAAN LAGOON

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

CAPE TOWN FOR CAPETONIANS

A whopping list of things to do in Cape Town on a budget

From the shiny sports cars lining the Camp’s Bay strip to the mega-mansions of Bishopscourt, Cape Town is a playground for business tycoons and European millionaires. But you don’t have to have a big bank account to enjoy the city. There are many things to do in Cape Town on a budget; you’ve just got to be in the know.

Suppose you’re into sweating and moving beyond your couch or bed. In that case, the city is full of diverse landscapes and natural wonders that offer scenic strolls, a range of hiking trails ( Table Mountain National Park is at your doorstep), and parks to explore for free or for a small fee at most.

Move aside, Mr Rupert; we can schmooze with the best of them (no one has to know it’s on a budget). We’ve been spotted at a fabulous art museum (The Iziko South African National Gallery is free on Sundays). Or here we are at our local sidewalk wine bar, sipping on a glass of Chenin. No. Make it a glass of skin-fermented orange wine (so it’s like we know all about trendy wine stuff). Oh, hey there! Now we’re just smashing a burger at one of Cape Town’s casual but relaxed eateries because it’s buy one, get one free night. And we haven’t experienced Cape Town at its best until we’ve been to one of its vibey farmers markets to stock up on organic vegetables, but oops, the Nutella waffles with rainbow sprinkles smell so good, and they’re so much cheaper than that expensive bunch of sandy beetroots over there. Nom, nom, nom.

See, budget Cape Town can be cool too.

Here are 24 cool things to do in Cape Town on a budget:

1. Visit the Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden

Cost: R210 for adults, R30 for children 6 to 17 years, and free for children under 6 years. (Read more for specials.)

The Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Cape Town, and for good reason. The gardens offer a spectacular array of indigenous fynbos, plants and forests, and sweeping views of Table Mountain and the surrounding city. However, the garden entrance fee can be pricey, especially for families or large groups. Luckily, there are a few ways to visit Kirstenbosch on a budget. One option is to purchase a City Pass, which provides access to several different attractions, including the gardens.

Also read: Things to do at Kirstenbosch this summer

Another option is to take advantage of free days, which are offered on the first Tuesday of every month. Finally, visitors can also explore the many hiking trails in the nearby Table Mountain National Park. With some planning, it is possible to enjoy all that Kirstenbosch has to offer without breaking the bank.

2. Go seal spotting in Hout Bay

Hout Bay, just a short drive from Cape Town’s city centre, is home to a bustling harbour where you can embark on an exciting cruise to Duiker Island. The island is home to thousands of wild Cape Fur Seals, and you can view them up close in their natural habitat. The cruise also takes you past interesting rock formations and coastal scenery. This is a worthwhile activity for the whole family and a great way to spend a day in Cape Town on a budget.

3. Explore the Castle of Good Hope

Cost: R50 for adults, R25 SA Pensioners and R25 for children

The Castle of Good Hope is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Cape Town. Built in the 17th century by the Dutch East India Company, it is the oldest surviving colonial building in South Africa. The castle is home to a number of museums, including the William Fehr Collection of historical paintings and the Castle Military Museum. Visitors can also tour the grounds, including a garden, an aviary, and a battery. The Castle of Good Hope is an excellent pocket-friendly option on our list of things to do in Cape Town on a budget, with tickets only R50 per adult.

4. Visit Boulders Beach to see the penguins

Cost: R44 for adults and R22 for children

For those looking to explore Cape Town on a budget, a visit to Boulders Beach is a must. This stunning stretch of coastline is home to a colony of African penguins, and it’s one of the most popular tourist attractions in the Cape. While there is a small entrance fee, it’s well worth the price, as you can spend hours watching the penguins play and swim from the boardwalk viewing area at Foxy Beach. If you’re lucky, you might even spot a whale or two! Due to the large boulders protecting the cove from currents, wind and big waves, Boulders Beach is great for recreational use during the summer. Families can spend the whole day at this beach, and if the budget allows, grab a bite to eat at one of the nearby restaurants or cafés.

Also read: Boulders Beach named the 9th best beach in the world

5. V&A Harbour & Seal Cruise

Cost: R64 for adults and R35 for children 4-7 years old  and R18o for families (2 adults and 2 children)

The V&A Harbour & Seal Cruise is quite a novelty on our list of things to do in Cape Town on a budget. It’s not every day that you hop on a boat and take to the seas. But if you’re looking for something different, the cruise departs from the V&A Waterfront and takes you around the Victoria & Alfred basins. You’ll get up close to Cape fur seals and international ships and hear about Cape Town’s nautical history. The cruise is easy and comfortable, with regular departures and safety in the open air. So if you’re looking for an affordable way to see a different side of the city, put this one on your agenda.

6. Take a walking tour of Bo-Kaap

Cost: Typically around R60

If you’re looking for things to do in Cape Town on a budget, then spending an afternoon exploring the Bo-Kaap neighbourhood is a great option. This vibrant and colourful neighbourhood is full of fascinating history and architecture; the best way to see it all is on foot. Several walking tours are available, typically costing around R70 per person. This is an affordable way to explore the area and learn more about its rich culture and history.

7. Labia Theatre

Cost: R70 – Student/Fanatics/Seniors/Children R50

The Labia Theatre is an excellent option for those looking for budget-friendly things to do in Cape Town. The oldest independent movie theatre in South Africa, it shows a variety of independent and foreign art films and often hosts special screenings and film festivals. Tickets are a fraction of the price of mainstream movie tickets, and you can’t beat the old-world charm of the theatre, which initially served as an Italian Embassy ballroom.

8. Visit the District Six Museum

Cost: R50pp

The District Six Museum commemorates the forced removal of over 60,000 people from the District Six area during apartheid. Visitors can learn about the controversial history of this vibrant community through exhibits, films and interactive displays. Best of all, admission is free! So if you’re up for an educational and affordable activity, put the District Six Museum on your list of things to do in Cape Town on a budget.

9. Watch a show at the Baxter Theatre

Cost: Shows range from R80 to R200

While this may be pushing the budget a wee bit, a night out at the theatre is a special occasion worth your hard-earned Rands. Most tickets go for between R100 and R150; not bad for an entertaining live performance! The Baxter Theatre offers various shows, from musicals and plays to stand-up comedy and dance performances. Theatre night should be reserved for a memorable evening with someone special, even though it still falls within our list of budget-friendly things to do in Cape Town.

10. Fish ‘n chips in Kalk Bay

Cost: From R40

Kalk Bay is a small fishing village on the False Bay coast, just south of Cape Town. The village is known for its fresh seafood, and fish ‘n chips is a popular dish among locals and visitors. Several restaurants in Kalk Bay offer this dish, and it is typically served with malt vinegar and French fries. In addition to being affordable, it is also a delicious way to experience the local cuisine.

Also read: 5 family fun activities to do under R100 in Cape Town

Free things to do in Cape Town on a Budget

11. take a walk or hike up table mountain.

There are plenty of things to do in Cape Town on a budget, and one of the best is hiking Table Mountain . Table Mountain is one of the most iconic landmarks in the city, and it offers stunning views of the surrounding area. Best of all, it’s completely free to hike up! There are several routes to the top, so you can choose one that suits your fitness level.

12. Spend a day at Camps Bay beach

Camps Bay is one of the most beautiful beaches in Cape Town, and it’s free to enjoy! Pack a picnic lunch and spend a day relaxing on the golden sands or swimming in the sparkling waters. The beach is close to many restaurants and bars. So you can enjoy a meal or a drink after a day of sun and sand. Camps Bay is also a great place to watch the sunset, as the colours reflect off the water. So if you’re looking for things to do in Cape Town on a budget, Camps Bay is the perfect place to start.

13. Take a walk or cycle along the Sea Point Promenade

Sea Point Promenade , or “The Prom,” as locals affectionately call it, is synonymous with Cape Town living. From Bantry Bay to Mouille Point, the promenade stretches along the seaside and serves as a hub of activity, especially in the mornings and early evenings. One of the most iconic things to do in Cape Town, especially if you’re on a budget, is to go for a stroll, run or cycle along the promenade as you take in the views of the coastline and the city. It is definitely a place where people gather and is a great spot to spend some time in the city with family, given the many attractions dotted along its route: putt-putt, children’s playgrounds, and an outdoor pool at the Sea Point Pavilion are but a few.

14. Visit Rhodes Memorial

Located just outside the city centre, Rhodes Memorial offers stunning views of the surrounding area. Best of all, it’s free to enter, making it an excellent option for those on a budget. The memorial is dedicated to Cecil Rhodes, a British businessman and politician who played a significant role in the development of South Africa. Rhodes was a controversial figure in his time, and his legacy is still debated by historians today. However, there can be no doubt that Rhodes had a profound impact on the country, and his memorial is an integral part of Cape Town’s history.

15. Take a stroll along Chapman’s Peak Drive

If you’re looking for things to do in Cape Town on a budget, take a stroll along Chapman’s Peak Drive. The scenic drive offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and the nearby mountains. And guess what? It’s completely free. Chapman’s Peak drive is located just outside Cape Town and easily accessible by car or bus. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can hike up to Chapman’s Peak.

16. V&A Waterfront Amphitheatre

The V&A Waterfront Amphitheatre is a great place to enjoy live music and entertainment in Cape Town. The Amphitheatre regularly hosts various events, from live music performances to movie nights. So whether you’re looking for something to do on a budget or want to enjoy some great entertainment, the V&A Waterfront Amphitheatre is worth a visit.

17. Wander around Victoria & Alfred Waterfront and enjoy its various shops and restaurants

Victoria & Alfred Waterfront is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Cape Town and is a great place to take a walk or relax and enjoy the atmosphere. It has stunning views of Table Mountain and the harbour and is home to various shops and restaurants, as well as several museums and historical sites. Best of all, it’s completely free to wander around.

18. Walk the Boomslang at Kirstenbosch

The Boomslang is a tree-top canopy walkway that offers stunning views of the gardens below. It’s the perfect activity for a sunny day, and it’s also free! So what are you waiting for? Head on over to Kirstenbosch and enjoy a leisurely walk through the treetops.

Wander around the Markets in Cape Town

Such as the Old Biscuit Mill or Neighbourgoods Market , and do some shopping on a budget.

19. Oranjezicht City Farmers Market

Oranjezicht City Farmers Market is the perfect place to find fresh produce, homemade goods, and unique gifts, all at reasonable prices. The market is open every Saturday from 8 am to 1 pm, making it the perfect way to start your weekend. Oranjezicht City Farmers Market is located in Oranjezicht, just a short walk from the CBD. With over 100 stalls to explore, Oranjezicht City Farmers Market has something for everyone. So whether you’re looking for fresh fruit and vegetables, artisanal bread and cheeses, or handmade jewellery and pottery, you can find it at Oranjezicht City Farmers Market.

20. Browse the works of local artists at Greenmarket Square

Greenmarket Square is a must-visit for anyone looking for things to do in Cape Town on a budget. This vibrant square is filled with local artisans selling everything from paintings to pottery. You can easily spend an hour or two browsing the stalls, and you might find that perfect souvenir to take home with you. Best of all, it’s free to browse, so you can save money for other activities.

21. Take a dip in Maiden’s Cove Tidal Pool

The beautiful tidal pool at Maiden’s Cove in Camps Bay is a great place for safe, fun swimming. Big round boulders surround the pool, shielding it from the ocean’s swells and providing the perfect spots for tanning. The nearby grassy area is ideal for picnics or taking in the picturesque surroundings.

Things to do in Cape Town on a budget for families 

22. pick strawberries at polkadraai farm.

Cost: Prices range between R50 and R220

Polkadraai Farm is a great place to take the family for a day out, and entrance is free. Not only can you pick your own strawberries, but there’s also a play area for the kids and a restaurant serving up fresh, home-cooked food. So if you’re looking for things to do in Cape Town on a budget, Polkadraai Farm is definitely worth a visit. Remember to bring your sunscreen and hats, as little shade can be found.

Check out our page on 5 fun fruit-picking farms in the Cape .

23. Visit Green Point Park

Green Point Park is located in the heart of Cape Town and is a great place for families to visit on a budget. The park has various things to do, including playgrounds, outdoor gyms and a walking trail. There is also a large grassy area perfect for picnicking or playing games. The best time to visit Green Point Park is in the spring or summer when the weather is mild, and the flowers are in bloom. However, the park is open year-round and is still enjoyable even in winter. So whether you’re looking for a cheap day out or want to enjoy some time in nature, be sure to add Green Point Park to your list of places to visit in Cape Town.

24. The Blue Train Park

Cost: General Park access is R35pp, and includes 1 free train ride.

The Blue Train Park, Mouille Point, is one of the best things to do in Cape Town on a budget for families. The park is situated on the edge of the Mouille Point promenade and offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. There is a playground for children, a picnic area and a kiosk. The park is also home to the popular Blue Train. Families can take a ride on the train or simply enjoy the view from the comfort of the park. Either way, Blue Train Park is an ideal place to spend a day on a budget in Cape Town.

60 things to do in Cape Town with kids in 2023

Picture: Murray Swart

Article written by capeetc

We love this place! Cape Town Etc features news, reviews, entertainment and lifestyle in the Mother City.

Follow @capetownetc on Twitter.

CapeTownETC

Subscribe to our Newsletter cheap cars for sale cheap cars for sale in western cape cheap cars for sale in cape town Joburg news News in Johannesburg Bikes for sale

• Work With Me

• Sierra Leone
• South Africa
• New Zealand
• Falkland Islands
• Netherlands
• Accommodation
• Electrical Gear
• Essential Gear
• Working Abroad
• Blogging Resources

Africa , Budget Travel Ideas , SOUTH AFRICA

18 incredible things to do in cape town on a budget.

Looking for a list of the best things to do in Cape Town?

Then you’ve come to the right place!

After a hiatus of 15 years (I first visited this city at the tender age of 19!), I can unequivocally say that this incredible South African city remains one of my favourite places in the world – not an accolade I throw around lightly I can tell you.

Arriving to blue skies, an epic view of Table Mountain from the airport and a week of exploration stretching ahead of me, the scene was right for me to fall in love with this place all over again.

With more things to do in this city than you can shake a stick at, here, fellow shoestring adventurers, are my 18 best things to do in Cape Town on a budget!

Related Posts

• Best Time to Visit Cape Town and Kruger
• Top 5 Cape Town Hostels
• 15 Incredible Things to Do in South Africa

This page contains affiliate links meaning Big World Small Pockets may receive a small commission on any purchases at no extra cost to you.

Bohemian Lofts Backpackers kindly sponsored my stay in Cape Town, but, as always, all views are my own.

Grab Your Copy of How to Travel Africa for Less

• Full Planning & Preparation Guides
• Detailed Destination Info
• Complete Packing & Gear Lists
• Top Money-Saving Tips & Hacks

Click Here to Check It Out!

#1 sail to robben island.

There’s no question that visiting Robben Island is one of the best things to do in Cape Town on a budget.

Costing just £20 for a 4 hour tour, which includes a boat ride over to the island, a bus tour around the place and a tour of the prison from a former inmate, this is a deeply profound opportunity to see where Mandela was held captive for a large part of his imprisonment.

Plus the boat ride is brilliant – you get an amazing view of Cape Town from the ocean on the way back and I saw dolphins, seals and whales… although wildlife is not guaranteed!

I advise booking your Robben Tour online in advance, so check out this fantastic Robben Island Ticket and Township tour , which is a great way to pack a lot into your first day in Cape Town.

#2 Stroll the V&A Waterfront

The fancy and most touristy part of Cape Town, there’s no doubt the V&A Waterfront is worth a stroll and a snap.

And after your ferry from Robben Island arrives back here, you then have the perfect excuse to explore it!

Free to wander, there’s some lovely historic parts to this coastal promenade, including the Clock Tower, a good food market and some top shopping care of The Watershed.

With street art, selfie spots, picturesque bridges and lazy seals too, there’s plenty of photo opps at the Waterfront making exploring here one of the best things to do in Cape Town on a budget.

And who could forget the great Zeitz MOCAA Museum situated here too – an epic piece of architecture that you can snap from the outside for free, or wander in for under $250 Rand.

The world’s largest museum dedicated to contemporary African art, get your skip the line tickets here .

#3 Walk from Muzienberg to Kalk Bay

If you’re looking for a chilled, seaside, free stroll in Cape Town, then look no further than the coastal path that runs from Muizenberg to St James and then onto Kalk Bay.

The perfect activity to enjoy if you’re looking to get out of the city centre and take in some stunning views and fresh sea air, you can easily reach Muzienberg care of an Uber ride or a local train journey from Cape Town to False Bay, which takes just under an hour.

Once you arrive, enjoy this coastal stroll, stopping to stare at the beautifully coloured Victorian bathing houses and the expert surfers en route.

Then head into one of the pretty seaside cafes to soak it all up over a drink.

Tigers Milk and Cape to Cuba cafes come highly recommended.

#4 Hang with the Penguins in Simon’s Town

Come on, who doesn’t love a penguin?

Everyone loves a bl**dy penguin… me included!

And on a great day trip from Cape Town you can see hundreds of the little critters at close proximity for under a tenner (152 Rand) – definitely one of the best things to do in Cape Town on a budget!

Head to Simon’s Town via the train or an Uber and hit up Boulders Beach to walk among these amazing birds via a beautifully constructed boardwalk.

Afterwards, don’t miss the opp to swim with them too – take the path ahead, instead of turning into the Visitor’s Centre, and you can get even more up close and personal with these cuties.

This top-rated tour includes a trip to see the Penguins at Boulder’s beach, along with lunch at Simon’s Town and wine tasting in Constantia Valley if you’re looking to make a day of it.

#5 Hit the Beach at Clifton

And while we’re on the subject of beach days, does it get better than Cape Town’s Clifton Beach?

No, it does not!

Of course it’s free, it’s a beach.

And course it’s beautiful, it’s Cape Town!

Head here on a day when the wind isn’t blowing to experience one of the best things to do in Cape Town on a budget… no question!

#6 Stroll the Sea Point Promenade

And just up from Clifton is the stunning spot of Sea Point and its perfect promenade.

Join the locals for an amble along this seafront boulevard, or rent a bike and enjoy the cycle.

Enroute, check out Mojo Market for a drink or lunch in a casual, pop-up kinda way.

Otherwise, the art deco pavilion here has a great seawater pool you can also enjoy with lockers (bring your own padlock) and lifeguards on duty.

#7 Visit the Cape of Good Hope

You can’t go to Cape Town and not go to the Cape of Good Hope right?

Situated a few hours’ drive from the city centre, the cheapest way to get here is to rent a car if you’re part of a group, or take a tour, like this one , if you’re travelling solo.

Combining this spot with Simon’s Town and Muizenberg or Kalk Bay, is also a great way to get your money’s worth.

Once you reach the dramatic “end of the world”, pay to enter and then enjoy a stroll to the lighthouse that marks the combining of the Indian and Atlantic Oceans.

The scenery is nothing short of spectacular, so definitely bring your camera to ensure you remember the experience of this great thing to do in Cape Town on a budget.

#8 Take a Wine Tour in Constantia

And after all that activity, you deserve some relax time and what better way to do so than with a drop or 2 or the local glass of wine?!

While you can day trip to Stellenbosch or Franschhoek to experience some wine tasting from Cape Town, if you’re in the city already it’s cheaper to just head to Constantia, the wine growing region that’s basically a part of Cape Town it’s so close.

Pick your vineyard and get sampling!

#9 Drive Chapman’s Peak

The amazing drive that marks the coastline between Hout Bay and Noordhoek, this toll road does involve a small payment, but it’s more than worth it as it’s one of the most spectacular stretches of coastline going in South Africa.

If, like me, you love a road trip, this one is ideal, with picnic spots and lookouts completing the picture.

Combine it with a trip to the Cape of Good Hope or Simon’s Town to make it as cost-effective as possible.

#10 Take a Free Walking Tour

No surprises here!

Yes for those of you who read this blog a lot, you’ll know that I love a free walking tour and was delighted to learn that Cape Town offers a couple of different options when it comes to strolling the city with a guide for only a tip at the end.

Leaving every day, normally from Long Street in the city’s CBD, a free walking tour is certainly a must when it comes to the best things to do in Cape Town on a budget.

And you’ve got a choice too – not just of companies, but also of different routes.

The Historic City Tour and the Bo Kaap Walk seem to be the most popular.

And while you’re in the CBD, checking out the Greenmarket Square Souvenir Market and the Parliament Building too, which are just a hop, skip and a jump away, are a must too.

#11 Get Your IG Snaps in Bo Kaap

Come on, if you’ve ever been on Instagram you’ll know about Bo Kaap!

Brightly coloured houses with open doors that waft out the smells of delicious Cape Malay food.

The allure of this area, just north of the city centre, is palpable and heading here, camera in hand, to get snaps of yourself posing on these iconic streets is free and a lot of fun!

Walking here from the city centre, or grabbing an Uber, are the easiest ways to arrive – just remember to watch out for the traffic amidst all that snapping!

#12 Enjoy the Café in Woodstock / Observatory

Cape Town has a really pulsing, vibrant feel to it and the hipster movement has officially landed!

As such, delicious cafes abound, which as you know if you read this blog a lot, I’m all for!

And the top areas for sniffing out the local gems in my opinion, are Woodstock and Observatory, the first of which has undergone more gentrification than the other.

Both however, still possess a gritty charm, an army of young trendies and more delicious caffeine (including vegan milk options – hoorah!) than you can shake a stick at!

#13 Retreat to the Company Gardens

It’s free, it’s beautiful, it’s by the city centre and it makes for the perfect escape for an hour.

There’s no doubt retreating to the wonderful Company Gardens is one of the best things to do in Cape Town on a budget.

And while you’re there, learn about the history of this place and why it’s so closely linked to the founding of Cape Town as the city we now know it to be.

#14 Hit the Botanic Gardens

Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens are on everyone’s hitlist in Cape Town and no zero surprise there, because they’re stunning!

Costing just 210 Rand to get in, you can spend a whole afternoon here (if you have the time) strolling and soaking up the picturesque environment.

Indeed the backdrop of Table Mountain makes this one of the most significant botanic gardens in the world, not to mention one of the oldest – they date back to 1903.

Not to be missed if you do visit here is the Tree Canopy Walkway, which is included in the entrance fee and is a lot of fun.

#15 Shop at the Neighbourgoods Market

I originally visited the Neighbourgoods Market in Joburg by complete chance and loved it.

I was therefore delighted to discover that the original sister market can actually be found in Cape Town.

Taking place every Saturday in the Old Biscuit Mill in Woodstock, this is a must for delicious food, cool coffee, great people-watching and an awesome vibe!

#16 Take the Pipe Track

One of the best walks in Cape Town, with some of the most stunning views of the 12 Apostles, Lion’s Head and the sweeping coastline here, the Pipe Trail is a must-do.

Simple as that!

At a distance of 6km, it will take you around 2 hours to stroll this route, which leads you along the western slopes of Table Mountain as part of a flat and level path that is easy and accessible.

Up there as one of the best free things to do in Cape Town as far as I’m concerned, you’ll finish at Camps Bay – the perfect spot to enjoy some great food and views!

#17 Watch Sunset from Signal Hill

And with gorgeous nature spots a go-go, you’ll be spoilt for choice in Cape Town.

That said, you cannot miss a sunset in this city from the top of Signal Hill.

There’s some sort of cannon firing display that goes on here at noon, but personally, I think it’s all about this spot at the end of the day, when the colours really show off the view at its best.

Get an Uber up here, especially at sunset (as I wouldn’t advise walking) and take a picnic and a friend with you.

#18 Hike Table Mountains or Lions Head

And finally, in at number 18 on my list of the best things to do in Cape Town on a budget, it has to be to hike one of this city’s amazing mountains.

Choose from Table Mountain or Lions Head, pick your route, take sunscreen, water, a hat and possibly a guide, and set out for an unbelievable experience.

You can go it alone, but this half day, small group hike follows the India Venster trail to the summit of Table Mountain and comes highly recommended.

Otherwise, you can always take the easy option and grab the cable car up to the top of this Cape Town giant instead.

Why not combine it with a hop on hop off city bus tour in Cape Town? Learn more here .

BONUS #19: Take a Safari Tour

Undoubtedly one of the best things to do in South Africa if you’re in Cape Town but still want to get some amazing wildlife encounters, then it pays to know you can easily pick up some fantastic tours that start from the city and will take you to some of the country’s best nature reserves and parks.

Addo Elephant Park, Karoo National Park and Tsitsikamma National Park are all good, nearby options, and many tours will also take you to Kruger via a domestic flight too.

Check out my pick of the bunch when it comes to safari tours from Cape Town here .

Just enter your details below and I'll email it you - simple!

Information will be sent to the email provided above

Cape Town Mini Travel Guide

How Long to Spend in Cape Town?

I mean, how long is a piece of string?!

Honestly, I’d suggest at least a week in Cape Town to ensure you have the chance to tick most of the major sights off your list.

Plus you might need a few days to rearrange activities due to the wind.

Given this, and the fact you’ll want to make some day trips, you honestly could spend at least 2 busy weeks in Cape Town and not see it all!

Best Hostel in Cape Town

Without a doubt, the best hostel award in Cape Town has to go to Bohemian Loft Backpackers .

Situated in the funky student area of Observatory, I loved the vintage shops, quirky cafes and charming bookstores of this suburb and the very local vibe.

Bohemian Loft is run by the wonderful Jenny and her team – who will go above and beyond to look after you.

Each room is personalised, comfy beyond measure and the place is spotlessly clean – from the streetside balconies to the guest kitchen and cosy communal areas, I loved this place.

5 Packing Essentials for Cape Town

#1 Cape Town Lonely Planet – A great travel aide to this city with tons of historical info, maps and top tips, the Cape Town Lonely Planet will help you get the best from your time here.

#2 Metal Water Bottle – Cape Town tap water is drinkable – hoorah! – so bring your metal water bottle that you can refill from the tap, helping the environment and your small pockets at the same time.

#3 Good Camera – Cape Town is one of those ultimate bucket list destinations and travelling here with a good camera will help you preserve the memories. I highly recommend the mirrorless Sony A6000 . Light, compact and robust, it’s been perfect for my African travel adventures.

#4 Sun Hat – Cape Town is hot and dry and often, windy as hell! When you’re walking the city, taking day trips or hiking some of the mountains, you’ll be exposed to the sun for long periods of time, so make sure you pack a sunhat for adequate protection is key. I love this one from Hello Sunshine .

#5 Amazon Audible – Travel to Cape Town from just about anywhere takes a long time – no matter whether it’s a plane, bus or boat. Having something to listen to while you enjoy the journey, therefore, is a must! I love Amazon Audible , which is the best audiobook service around in my opinion.

Travel Insurance for South Africa

Alternatively, if you’re a long-term traveller, digital nomad or frequent remote worker seeking travel health cover, check out Safetywing’s Nomad Insurance policies.

SAVE THIS ARTICLE TO PINTEREST!

So there you have it, my mammoth list of the best 18 things to do in Cape Town on a budget.

You really can’t go wrong with this city shoestring travellers, so get it on your list asap!

Goodness only knows why it took me 15 years to visit again, but I’ll be back a lot sooner next time!

Creator of Big World Small Pockets, Stephanie Parker is a travel addict! Originally from Jersey in the Channel Islands, Stephanie adventures the world collecting tips, advice and stories, to share with a smile

4 thoughts on “ 18 Incredible Things To Do in Cape Town on a Budget ”

Great post for things to do in Cape Town thanks for the great tips!!!

Thank you guys for taking the time to read and comment! Any plans to head to Cape Town soon?

Oh! I love love love penguins! Anywhere I can see them in the wild is on my bucket list.

Totally agree! They are so cute 🙂

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

20 Things to Do in Cape Town for Under R200

Last Updated on August 29, 2024 by Hannah Stephenson

If you’re looking for some wallet-friendly activities in Cape Town, then don’t worry because there is a TON to do here for under R200. I mean, I’ve got 20 activities in this article alone! 

I have already written articles on free things to do in Cape Town and things to do for under R100 , so this blog post focuses solely on activities priced between R100 – R200. 

I’ve lived in Cape Town for 3 years now, so rest assured, I know all the best things to do on a budget. So whether you’re looking to check out the local wildlife, make your own chocolate, or just grab drinks, I’ve got you covered.

And for those not familiar with the South African Rand, here’s a quick conversion. At the time of writing, R200 is roughly £8.50, $11 USD, or €10 EUR. Exchange rates do fluctuate, so use this as general guidance only.

• Klein Roosboom 

1. Boulders Beach

Boulders Beach is famously home to a colony of African penguins! Since it’s a protected area, there is an entry fee, which is R45 for locals or R190 for foreigners. 

I really think that Boulders Beach is a must-visit while in Cape Town, so the fact that entry costs less than R200 is a real bonus. The beach itself is absolutely beautiful, and there are always hundreds of penguins here. It’s so cute! 

Boulders Beach is about a 50-minute drive south of Cape Town. However, I highly recommend adding an extra 50 minutes to your journey and taking the scenic route. If you drive out of the city via Camps Bay, you can head to Boulders via Chapman’s Peak Scenic Drive , which is one of the most beautiful roads I’ve ever seen.

I’ve included a map of the suggested route below!

2. Wine Tasting

Hands down one of my favourite things about South Africa is the fact that it’s so affordable to go wine tasting here. In fact, it would be hard to find a tasting over R200 – that would be seriously fancy! 

If I listed every single wine farm that offers a tasting for under R200, we’d be here all day. However, there are some real standouts, so I’ll share a few of my favourites that I definitely think you should check out. 

Beau Constantia

Beau Constantia is one of Cape Town’s best known wine farms, mostly because it’s so dang beautiful! Visiting Beau is always a treat, and I love their experimental wines. You can expect to pay between R110 – R150 for a tasting here. 

Groot Constantia

Groot Constantia stakes a claim at being the oldest wine farm in South Africa. It doesn’t have Beau Constantia’s epic views, but I think the wine here is actually the best in the Constantia Valley! Plus, a tasting costs just R130 for 5 wines, and you get to take your glass home with you afterwards. 

De Grendel 

De Grendel is on the Durbanville wine route, and it’s a beautiful estate with epic views of Table Mountain. It was also the first wine farm I ever visited! You can do the 6-wine premium tasting for R130, or the flagship for R150.  

Klein Roosboom 

Klein Roosboom is a gorgeous Durbanville winery with an old world-y feel that I just adore. The white wine tasting costs R90 or the red costs R95, and both include four wines to try. Or, you can get the best of both worlds and try two whites, a rosé, and two reds for R120. 

3. Spend the Day at Oudekraal Beach 

Oudekraal is a nature reserve about 10 minutes south of Camps Bay, in the Bakoven area. I love spending a beach day here because you get beautiful views of the Twelve Apostles and Lion’s Head, and there’s a braai area, so you can play all day! 

Another reason I like visiting Oudekraal is that it’s great for swimming. The beach area is protected by rocks so you don’t get big waves here like you do at the Clifton beaches, and it tends to be quieter, too. 

Entry to Oudekraal costs R160 for foreigners, or R45 for locals. It’s open from 7 am until 6 pm in the summer, although during winter it only opens on weekends. I recommend packing a cooler full of goodies and getting here early to make the most of the day in this beautiful (and severely underrated) area. 

4. Do a Seal Cruise to Duiker Island

Duiker Island, aka Seal Island, is just off the coast of Hout Bay, and hundreds of seals can be found atop this giant rock at any one time. 

Best of all, you can cruise around seal island for just R110 on this boat trip . It lasts for about 40 minutes and you absolutely will see seals. I went snorkelling here and I lost count of how many I saw – and that was on a supposedly “quiet” day! 

Plus, Hout Bay is stunning, so taking in views of the surrounding mountains and coastline isn’t too shabby of an experience, and there’s live commentary on board to boot. 

Click here to book your seal cruise, with free cancellation

5. Enjoy a Meal at the Waterfront 

The buzzing V&A Waterfront area is home to a ton of affordable restaurants . It’s easy to find a meal for under R200 around here, as long as you know where to go!

Personally, I’m very partial to the Life Grand Cafe , as it has lovely harbour views, reasonably priced wine, and delicious food. Most menu items are under R200 here, from poke bowls to huge plates of pasta and their gourmet sandwiches and wraps. Yum! 

However, other affordable options include: 

• Primi , where you can easily get a main for under R100
• Mozambik , where curries cost R135 – R160
• Tasha’s 
• Tiger’s Milk

6. Sip a Sunset Cocktail at the 12 Apostles 

The 12 Apostles Hotel and Spa is about 10 minutes south of Camps Bay – near Oudekraal, actually! 

Their 3rd floor Leopard Bar is my favourite place in the city for a sundowner, because sunsets here are truly epic. The sky flashes such vivid colours and the views of the ocean, Lion’s Head, and the rugged coastline are just gorgeous. 

Plus, I’ve never needed to book to get a spot out on the balcony, as this is a bit of a hidden gem that’s a little out of the way. Cocktails here cost between R115 and R190, so grab one and make it last as the sun sinks dramatically over the ocean. 

7. Visit the Aquarium After 3 pm 

The Two Oceans Aquarium does a fantastic job of showcasing southern African marine life, and they actually do a lot of conservation work. However, what a lot of people don’t know is that you can get in for cheap after 3 pm each day! 

Yup, a ticket usually costs R250 per adult, but if you go after 3 pm, you can get in for just R190. This is really worth doing, as you only need 1-2 hours here. It stays open until 6, so the after-3 entry still gives you plenty of time to explore. 

8. Go Beer Tasting on Long Street 

I wouldn’t usually recommend spending much time at all on Long Street, but BeerHouse is worth braving this dodgy street in the CBD for. 

It’s housed in a bright yellow building that looks like it belongs in New Orleans, and it’s one of the best places to go beer tasting in Cape Town . And best of all, you can get their Beer O’Clock tasting tray for R180. 

As you can guess from the name, the tray is shaped like a clock and there’s a 100ml taster for each hour. So if you’re really into your beer, I highly recommend this! 

9. Eat Fish and Chips in Hout Bay 

Hout Bay is a gorgeous area, and it’s also home to the best fish and chips in Cape Town! 

Yup, Fish on the Rocks is right next to the ocean, and it’s easily identifiable by its bright yellow exterior. I highly recommend getting their hake and chips for R105, and then enjoying them outside as you gaze out at the beautiful bay. 

Honestly, for R105, you really can’t go wrong. I was also absolutely delighted that my fish and chips came in proper newspaper wrappings, old school style! 

10. Have Brunch (or Dinner) at the Oranjezicht Market

The Oranjezicht Market is Cape Town’s best known farmer’s market – and with good reason! Lots of local restaurants showcase their food here, and you can find everything from Ethiopian curries to German flammkuchen . Yum! 

The market is open every weekend until 2 pm, so it’s perfect for brunch. However, during the summer months, it also opens from 5 pm until 9 pm on Wednesday nights, so you could come for dinner. 

Either way, a meal here is unlikely to set you back more than R200… but is very likely to be delicious! 

11. Galileo Open Air Cinema 

Does life get more dreamy than watching a movie outdoors on a summer night?

I don’t think so! And tickets for the Galileo Open Air Cinema are super reasonable at R145 per person. Throughout the summer, they regularly host movies at Kirstenbosch Gardens, Century City, and even some of the wine estates in Franschhoek and Stellenbosch. 

This would be such a cute date idea , so keep an eye on the schedule to find out what’s on!

12. Grab Coffee and a Sweet Treat at Jason’s Bakery

Every Capetonian knows about Jason’s Bakery. It’s got the best baked goods in town, and their iced coffee slush is to die for. 

Situated along Main Road in Green Point, Jason’s bake everything fresh on the day, and man do they do a good job of it. From pastries the size of my head to pies and their amazing sourdough bread, you are truly spoiled for choice here. 

Best of all, it’s pretty easy to find a coffee and pastry combo for under R200. You really can’t go wrong here! 

13. Rent a Bike at UpCycles

UpCycles is a bike rental company with stations at the Waterfront, Sea Point, and Camps Bay. You can pick up and drop off bicycles at different stations, so this is a super convenient way to explore Cape Town by bike! 

Best of all, bike rental costs R200 for 3 hours, which would be plenty of time to cycle along the coastline from the Waterfront to Camps Bay. In fact, you could get there and back in that time. 

I’ve included a map below to show you the route I’m talking about!

14. Enjoy Dinner and a Movie at the Labia 

The Labia is Cape Town’s oldest movie theatre, and it’s beloved for its vintage charm. Plus, they offer some great deals that allow you to see a movie and grab dinner at a local restaurant for R200 or less per couple!

For example, on Mondays you can get two burgers at the Wolf House restaurant and two Labia tickets for R200. Or, on Thursdays, you get two pastas at The Sanctuary instead.

You can check the full list of specials here , but basically, you order your dinner special at the restaurant, pay, and then hand in the receipt to get your movie tickets at the Labia later on. Check here to see what’s on!

15. The Sky Hi Ride

The Sky Hi Ride is a drop ride perched on the 28th floor of the Hotel Sky in the CBD. I think it’s safe to say that it combines a birds-eye view of Cape Town with a serious adrenaline rush! And at R200 per ticket, why not go for a ride?

Personally, I’ve always been a little too scared to do this, but I will one day! It’s open from 12 pm – 8 pm from Tuesday to Saturday, and you can get your tickets via Webtickets . 

16. Make Your Own Chocolate Bar 

This bean to bar workshop is a must for chocoholics! If you fancy learning about African chocolate, trying different types, and making your own personalised bar, then don’t miss this class! 

It takes place in the foodie hub of Maker’s Landing, and at R190, I think it’s well worth checking out. It would be a great indoor activity for a rainy day . 

Book your spot here!

17. Signal Hill Sunset Bus Tour 

Watching the sunset from Signal Hill is a really famous thing to do in Cape Town, but if you don’t have a rental car , Ubering there can be a bit of a nightmare, as it gets so busy!

So instead, I highly recommend booking this sunset bus tour . This way, you get to cruise around the city in an open tour bus before enjoying a breathtaking sunset from Signal Hill. 

Best of all, you’re welcome to bring a picnic on this tour for the full Signal Hill experience! And since your transportation is all sorted with this tour, why not sneak a cheeky bottle of wine into your picnic basket…?

Grab your spot on the sunset tour here!

18. Do a Distillery Tour 

If you’re more into rum than wine, don’t miss this epic distillery tour . Innocent Spirits was founded by a best friend duo who have won several awards for their rum making, and this tour offers a fascinating glimpse into rum production. 

Oh, yeah, and you get to taste 4 different local craft rums, as well as two gins for “dessert”! How cool is that?

I must say, given that you get a distillery tour and 6-spirit tasting, this tour is extremely well-priced at R130. Plus, the owner and host, Andrew is so friendly and will truly show you the meaning of South African hospitality. 

You’ll be smiling from ear to ear by the end of the tour – and not just because of the alcohol! 

Grab your distillery tour spot here, with free cancellation!

19. Take Advantage of a Happy Hour Deal

Happy hour deals abound in Cape Town, and most of them will let you score two drinks for under R200. So why not take advantage?

There are tons of places boasting a fantastic happy hour, but I’ve rounded up some of the very best deals below:

• 2-4-1 on beers or cocktails at 14 Stories
• R30 mimosas at Arnold’s
• R20 glass of wine at Van Hunks or two Tafel lagers for R45 
• 2-4-1 cocktails at Fable 
• Discounted classic cocktails at Cafe Caprice 

20. Take an Audio Tour of Muizenberg

Hippy Muizenberg is Cape Town’s surfing hotspot, but it’s also a quirky village with an interesting history. So, if you’d like to know more about it, you can purchase this audio tour and let the app take you on a guided walk around Muizenberg. 

This audio tour costs R99 and is perfect for anyone who wants to dive deeper into Cape Town’s history. There aren’t really many tours of Muizenberg available, so this is the perfect way to discover more about life behind the Lentil Curtain. 

You can grab your audio tour here!

Thanks so much for reading this blog post! As you can see, there’s a ton to do for under R200 in Cape Town. And if you’re on the hunt for more budget friendly activities, I have plenty of other content that will help you out:

• Things to Do for Under R100 in Cape Town 
• 10 Day BUDGET Cape Town Itinerary
• he Best Wildlife Encounters in Cape Town for EVERY Season and Budget

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

How To Visit Cape Town on a Budget

Last year I moved to the city of Cape Town. The story goes that I met a South African boy, fell in love, packed my bags and moved to the other side of the world. Compared to Australia, Cape Town on a budget is an easy thing to do. With a favourable exchange rate, South Africa is a great destination for budget travellers. Moreover, Cape Town has all the appeal of the world’s greatest cities but better yet, it is a really affordable holiday choice.

How to Enjoy Cape Town on a Budget

Enjoy free walking tours.

Travel does not always mean you have to find the most exciting thing to do during every minute of your journey. In order to get the feel of the city and your surroundings, start your trip with a free walking tour. Cape Town is known for many beautiful landmarks and things to see, but the average tourist may not be able to properly locate or appreciate the stories behind what they are seeing. Walking tours and sightseeing tours are free: try this company for a great in-depth free walking tour of Cape Town .

Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens

Although not completely free, the R70 (around $5) admission fee for the Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens is a great bargain. You can stroll the grounds yourself, but if you want a guided tour, they have that as well. Each guided tour is free and happen at 10am, 11am, and 2pm, daily, with the exception of Saturdays which only has a 10am tour. When visiting Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, consider bringing along a picnic as they allow you to eat on the beautifully landscaped grounds. 

Want to See the Museums?

Cape Town houses a wealth of opportunities to enjoy history in museum form. Museums such as the South African Museum, Bo-Kaap Museum, and National Gallery offer free entry on certain commemorative days during the year. If you’re looking to splurge, the Zeitz Mocaa Museum is one of my favourite places to spend a Saturday afternoon.

Attractions in Cape Town on a Budget

The avid tourist understands the need to pay for certain attractions, but they also know that cities often combine attractions to alleviate the strain of spending money at each individual attraction while driving tourism. Cape Town has one such affordable option. The Cape Town City Pass is available for tourists and gives them access to over 70 attractions throughout the city. City Passes are available for 2, 3, or 5 day options. For between $75 and $110 you can get your own City Pass and enjoy attractions throughout the city without shelling out money for each individual one. For a 5 day pass, you will see virtually every attraction available for this budget price. 

Visit Table Mountain

Mountain hikes are a great way to enjoy nature while getting an exceptional view of the city. In Cape Town, Table Mountain will be your mountain climbing destination. It is free to hike to the top of the mountain and enjoy taking pictures of the landscape, but if mountain climbing is not on your to do list during your trip, the Table Mountain Cable Car will be your friend. Keep in mind, there is a small fee for riding the aerial cableway. For about $20, half price for the kids, you can get a round trip ticket. Be sure to get up early for the cableway, as it fills up fast and keep in mind, it will not run if the wind is too high. To save a little more money on your cable car trip, take the trip after 6 for half priced, sunset special. 

Eating on a Budget

Rest assured, you will get hungry traveling through Cape Town and there are many fantastic restaurants to choose from. Many of these restaurants feature high priced items, but for those on a budget, Cape Town has a variety of different dining options as well. As always, the most budget friendly options are buying supermarket items and cooking them at the place you are staying. If you have no access to a kitchen during your stay, try heading down to the coast as many of the local stalls and food vendors offer a range of viable and cheap foods. 

My favourite budget eateries in Cape Town include:

Lekker Vegan – A vegan junk food eatery on Kloof Street.

Fat Cactus – A great place for groups, serving typical Mexican street food.

Kauai – A healthy food chain with great protein smoothies.

NY Slice – As you can guess, cheap pizza with New York City portion sizes.

Wine Tastings

Just 15 minutes outside of Cape Town is one of my favourite weekend destinations; Constantia. Wine tastings are a great way to engulf yourself in the local culture while keeping your budget in mind. General wine tastings do come with a fee, but for just an average of $5, you can taste wines from some of the best wineries in the area. 

Cape Town is a beautiful city that offers a lot of fun and exciting activities for any budget. Take the time to do your research before visiting the city and take advantage of discounts offered during specific times of the year for the best budget friendly trip. Happy budget travelling!

Plan your visit to Cape Town

The best hikes at sunset in Cape Town

The Best Beaches in Cape Town

Checking in to the Silo Hotel

Brooke Saward founded World of Wanderlust as a place to share inspiration from her travels and to inspire others to see our world. She now divides her time between adventures abroad and adventures in the kitchen, with a particular weakness for French pastries.

Find me on: Twitter | Instagram | Facebook

Los Angeles

Plan a trip

First trip solo

Packing guide

20 Best Places for Solo Female Travel

Travel after a break up

20 Places in your 20’s

WAYS TO TRAVEL

Solo travel

Adventure travel

Luxury travel

Learn a language

Become a blogger

• Featured Bloggers
• Featured Foreign Travellers
• Featured Travelling Pinoys
• Location Independent Jobs
• On The Road
• Travel Gears and Products
• Travel Tips and Hacks
• Budget Travel Series
• Caribbean and Central America
• Middle East
• South America
• South East Asia
• USA and Canada
• City’s Best
• Australia and the Pacific
• Central America
• North America
• Privacy Policy

5 Best Car Rental Companies In The World

Planning The Perfect Trip: Tips for Creating a Great Travel Itinerary

SafetyWing Review: Affordable Travel Insurance For Filipino Travelers

10 Best Travel Shoes for Women

Where to Stay in Coron (2021 • COOLEST Areas!)

Where to Stay in Palawan (2021 • COOLEST Areas!)

Where to Stay in Tagaytay (2021 • COOLEST Areas!)

Where to Stay in Siquijor (2020 • COOLEST Areas!)

Best Airbnbs in Manila

Best Airbnbs in Cebu

Where to Stay in Camiguin (2020 • COOLEST Areas!)

Best Airbnbs in La Union

How To Apply Schengen Visa For Finland

How To Get A Russian Visa For US Citizens

How To Apply For A Vietnamese Visa As A US Citizen?

How To Apply Chinese Visa For US Citizen Guide

• Destinations

Backpacking Cape Town: The Ultimate Budget Travel Guide

Backpacking Cape Town is one of the best decisions I have made in my entire life. And this is not an exaggeration.

Cape Town is absolutely stunning and a world-class cosmopolitan city. It is a city that will surprise you everywhere you go. And for a good reason.

From amazing landscapes, beaches, stunning coastlines, the endless list of things to do, adventures, world-class restaurants, and wines – the list is simply endless when it comes to Cape Town.

And one of the things I love about this city is the fact that you can travel here on a budget. You just need to know where to go! And this is why I wrote this ultimate budget travel guide for Cape Town to help you out.

VISA POLICY OF SOUTH AFRICA

For Filipino travelers, you can check the visa application guide here . For other nationalities, please check the visa policy of South Africa here .

CURRENCY OF SOUTH AFRICA

South Africa uses Rand. See below conversion rate as of January 2019.

1 USD – 12.6-13 ZAR 1 Euro – around 15 ZAR 1 Php – .25 ZAR

HOW TO GET AROUND CAPE TOWN

Cape Town is a compact city and you can easily reach most places within 30 minutes. Traffic is also mostly concentrated in the Central Business District and during rush hours. Otherwise, it is easy to get to just anywhere in the city. Below are the most convenient ways to travel around Cape Town.

MyCiti is a bus rapid transit in Cape Town. It is a modern, safe and very convenient way to get around Cape Town. Connecting the entire city of Cape Town with only a few exceptions to some suburb areas, MyCiti is a cheap alternative for rental car or Uber.

As a visitor who hates taking a bus and who had been to a fair number of Western countries, I can personally vouch that MyCiti is a world-class transportation system. Each trip cost me between ZAR6-10 (US$.50-.80).

Uber is another way of traveling in Cape Town. It is cheap and efficient. On average, I was paying between ZAR25-40 (US$2-3.5) for short rides and paid up to ZAR120 ($10) for long rides (e.g. Blouberg to CBD which is over 8km in distance)

Rental Cars

Rental cars are surprisingly cheap in Cape Town. So if driving your own car is more convenient for you, you can rent sedans for US$20-50/ day, SUVs from US$70 onwards and luxury cars like BMW series and Audi from US$80 onwards.

THINGS TO DO IN CAPE TOWN

You won’t run out of things to do in Cape Town. And the best things about these places are most of them are free! Probably, the most expensive activity in Cape Town is the safari. Although, I did this for free because of my colleague (who is a popular vlogger in Cape Town) tagged me along on one of his free trips. But otherwise, most of the fun things to do in Cape Town are free. To check out these popular places in Cape Town, click on the links of the cool activities in Cape Town I have personally done.

• 10 Cool Things To Do In Cape Town
• The Most Scenic Drives In Cape Town
• The Best Beaches In Cape Town
• Wild Flower Reserves Near Cape Town
• Cape Town Itinerary For 1 Day – A Self Guided Tour
• African Best Sunset Spots

WHERE TO EAT AND DRINK IN CAPE TOWN

Cape Town is well-known for world-class restaurants, wine, and coffee. The good thing about Cape Town is that you don’t need a big budget in order to enjoy eating and drinking in this city. So here are the list of best restaurants, coffee shops and wine farms that suit your budget.

Affordable Restaurants In Cape Town

1. Simply Asia serves Thai and Japanese food mostly. This chain is scattered across South Africa and serves one of the most authentic Thai food I have tried outside of Thailand. From between ZAR30-100 (US$2.4-$8), you will have an amazing Asian meal to enjoy in one of the cheap restaurants in Cape Town.

2. Ocean Basket is a seafood restaurant chain in South Africa. Between ZAR60-150 (US$5-$12), you’ll get to enjoy tasty seafood meals. The restaurant chain is also known for its delicious calamari.

3. Narona is casual restaurant known for good but affordable food. They both serve vegetarian and meat lovers meals. For ZAR40-80 (US$3-$6.5), you get to enjoy tasty pizzas and breakfast meals accompanied by good music and the locals of Cape Town. They only have 2 branches located in Gardens and Observatory.

4. Nandos is probably the most popular South Africa’s export. Known for their peri-peri chicken, this fast-food chain has branches in around 30 countries. I don’t personally like fast-food but their grilled chicken is one of the best I have ever tried. If you ever find yourself in Nando’s, try their chicken in lemon and herb and you will know what I’m talking about. Meal prices are from ZAR40-130 (US$3-$10) depending on your appetite.

Best Coffee Shops In Cape Town

1. Truth Coffee Shop is considered as one of the world’s best coffee shops by Telegraph . Known for its artisan and quirky shop, this cafe is well-known for the hand-roasted coffee that they supply coffee beans to the majority of the top hotels in South Africa. For ZAR15-30 (US$1.2-$2.5), you get to enjoy one of the world’s best coffees .

Truth is located at 36 Buitenkant St, Cape Town City Centre and open between 7am-6pm during weekdays, 8am-6pm on Saturday and 8am-2pm on Sunday.

2. Bean There is among the first specialty coffee roasters in South Africa. Known for being the first to roast fair trade coffee in the country, this coffee shop is also known for great customer service and excellent selections of coffee.

Their coffee and drinks start at ZAR15 (US$1.2). This roastery is located at 58 Wale Street, Cape Town and opens between 7am-4pm during weekdays only.

3. Origin Coffee Roasting is known as the artisan coffee shop in South Africa and as the pioneer of gourmet coffee in Cape Town. It is popular among digital nomads as the coffee shop interior design is conducive for networking and socializing.

Open on Weekdays between 7am-5pm and Weekends at 9am-2pm. This coffee shop is located at 28 Hudson St, De Waterkant, Cape Town.

Wine Tasting in Cape Town

South Africa is also known for its world-class wine without the hefty price tag. There are lots of wine tours from Cape Town that goes to Cape Winelands (Stellenbosch, Paarl, Somerset, Franschhoek , and other wine districts) for a reasonable price but since they are between 1 hour to 2 hours from Cape Town, I will focus on the vineyards in Constantia which is closer to the city center.

From CBD, you can either take Uber or the tourist red bus that does the Constantia Wine Valley tour. It is not recommended to bring your own car if you’re planning to get drunk. Although they only serve 4-5 glasses for the wine tasting, you’ll be surprised how big those glasses are. So save yourself from worrying about how you can drive back (and trying to find parking as well) to your hotel in the city!

Also, it is not required to buy bottles of wine in the vineyards but somehow it is expected for guests to buy a bottle or two, as the sales from the wine help offset the cost of the cheap wine tasting.

Beau Constantia

is a boutique vineyard in Constantia. Another suburb in Cape Town that’s famous for its wine and about 20 minutes away from CBD. Located in the Constantia Nek, it is overlooking the beautiful vineyard and False Bay.

Their wine tasting starts at ZAR45(US$3.7) with 4 glasses of different wines produced locally and which you can match with tapas and other meals in their highly rated restaurant.

They accept walk-in although calling for reservation might be needed for busy days. Address: 1043 Constantia Main Rd, Glen Alpine, Constantia. Operation hours: 11 am to 6 pm from Tuesday to Sunday. Telephone numbers: +27 21 794 8632  ext.2   | Cell: +27 (0)82 459 0966.

Eagles’ Nest

Eagles’ Nest is another boutique vineyard located in Constantia Nek pass. It is also nestled at the foot of Table Mountain. Wine tasting in Eagle’s Nest is ZAR60 (US$5) per person for 5 glasses of different wines.

They are open for Wine Tasting and Sales from Mondays – Sundays from 10h00 – 16h30. For reservation, you can call +27 21 794 4095 and for the coordinates of the farm, click here .

Groot Constantia

Groot Constantia is the oldest wine estate in Constantia. Nestled in Constantia Valley, this heritage site is known for its great wine, amazing view and food. For ZAR95 per person, one can enjoy wine tasting, a tour in the winery and their museum.

Located at Groot Constantia Road, Constantia, Cape Town, they are open daily from 10am to 5pm. You can call +27 21 794-5128 for inquiries and reservation.

For more wine farm list, check this guide of Constantia wine farms .

WHERE TO STAY IN CAPE TOWN

There are several affordable accommodations in Cape Town. It is just up to you which area of Cape Town you want to stay. If you want to stay close to the main action, then I’d recommend staying on there areas: Sea Point , Green Point , Camps Bay and CBD . These areas are the more affluent side and the generally safe areas so expect to pay a little more.

If you want to stay away from the chaos and near the beach areas, then I’d recommend staying in Blouberg beach . I personally stayed in Blouberg and enjoyed it. It’s a bit far from the center (about 15-20 minutes drive) but I got everything I needed there.

Urban Hive Backpackers is a hostel at the center of Cape Town’s CBD. It is inside a heritage building with Victorian-style along the famed Long Street known for a variety of dining and bars options. They offer dorms (starts at US$17) and private rooms (starts at US$38) which makes it affordable accommodation in Cape Town. To check their latest rates, click here .

Green Elephant Backpackers is a good hostel located at the Observatory – a well-known area for students and near CBD. The place has a pool, wifi and barbecue facilities. They also both offer dorms that start at US$19 and private rooms for US$40+. To check their latest rates, click here .

Once in Cape Town features a bar and a garden. This highly rated hostel is located at the center of the Gardens – another affluent area in CBD. If you want to be in a nice location, then this hostel is for you. They also offer dorms starting at US$28 and privates rooms at US$100+. To check their latest rates, click here.

If a hostel is not for you and you want self-catering budget accommodations, then you can check Airbnb . I stayed in Airbnb for the 4 months I was in Cape Town and enjoyed the amenities of a real apartment. To get a discount of US$22, you can sign up using my referral link . This is no extra cost to you and both of us will get travel credit.

Have you been to Cape Town? Tell us your budget travel tips for Cape Town in the comments below!

Disclaimer: *The Travelling Pinoys contains affiliate links all throughout the site. If you choose to purchase a product or book services through our affiliate links, this earns us a commission at no extra cost to you.*

If you like what you read, please share! And also follow us through our  Facebook,  Twitter ,  Instagram  and  Pinterest  accounts for updates. Keep on travelling, y’all!

RELATED ARTICLES MORE FROM AUTHOR

10 Best Things To Do in Franschhoek, South Africa

6 Best Beaches In Seychelles

7 Most Scenic And Best Road Trips In The World

13 comments.

What a great thorough guide to Cape Town. We too found that Cape Town was so much more stunning than we expected. We also found that the HopOnHopOff bus in Cape Town was good value and got you out of just the downtown core. Overall Cape Town was relatively cheap travelling on the Canadian dollar. We missed seeing the wineries in Constantia – but you can even get there on the HopOnHopOff bus! Thanks for sharing these great tips!

Yep! The HopOnHopOff bus is the red tourist bus 🙂 . And yes, I have yet to find another metropolitan city that as stunning as Cape Town where ever you go.

I would love to spend some time here – it is the total experience of outdoors, dining and wine experiences and cheap prices that would make this an ideal place to explore. Great tips and guide to the area.

Thanks and yes you’ll enjoy it for sure! I don’t know anyone who have been to Cape Town and not love it. 🙂

Cape Town seems like a bright and sunny place with lots of good food. How would you rate it for vegetarians? Is it easy to find vegetarian or vegan food?

Hi Anu, yes. I am not a vegetarian or vegan, but I ate a lot of vegetarian food there. Soo many options on food!

Excellent guide on South Africa, you have covered all details from visa to visits very well. I am keen to visit the Truth Coffee shop after reading your mention here. The accommodation scene too seems pretty good.

Excellent guide on Cape Town and thank you for the tips. This will come in helpful when I eventually get down there. I think going up Table Mountain and doing the hikes around here would be the most interesting thing for me. The landscape looks amazing

The wine tasting looks fabulous! It sounds like you had an extraordinary time in Capetown, and from what I’ve read/seen here I can see why! I would just love to visit here! It looks like such a beautiful adventure 🙂

This is a really great and thorough backpacking guide – As a fellow budget backpacker I really appreciate the tips you’ve given here. South Africa is still on my list to backpack through but having just had my first foray in Africa I can see a backpacking trip to South Africa getting closer. It’s good to know that it can be done on a budget and glad you mentioned some hostels there 😀

Backpacking in Capetown sure sounds like a great idea! I would love to go wine tasting so thanks for the recommendations on where to go. Also, it’s good to know about a cheaper alternative to Uber, to get around. MyCiti sounds like a good plan for exploring the place.

Awesome write up. Super detailed, and I loved how you did the conversion to dollars, so we could get a quick handle on the prices. And while we’ve been to Cape Town already your blog really made us want to come back…partly cause we realize how much we missed. Hahaaahh

Really amazing! The scenery is stunning. We would definitely hike/climb those mountains. Is there a rock climbing scene there?

LEAVE A REPLY Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Popular Posts

How To Create Fake Return Ticket Without Editing Skills

11 Fun And Free Things To Do In Rome, Italy

8 Legit Online Jobs Using Mobile Phones Without Investment

20 Free Things To Do In Budapest, Hungary

Where to stay.

Type in the name of the city in the search bar to help you find accommodation from our selection that suits your needs and budget.

DON'T KNOW WHERE TO GO?

Type in the name of the country in the search bar to help you find our travel guides of the best destinations across the globe.

• Work With Us

Cookie policy

Wanderlust Movement | A South Africa Travel Blog

The Perfect Cape Town Itinerary for One Incredible Week

October 24, 2019 by Lauren Melnick

Last Updated on October 10, 2023 by Lauren Melnick

Let’s be real.

Cape Town is an easy place to fall madly in love with.

The crowning jewel of South Africa, it’s always topping those “ most beautiful cities in the world ” lists. After all, it comes with swoon-worthy hikes , a delectable food scene, penguins and gorgeous beaches with boulders that look like they belong in Seychelles.

But what really sets the Mother City apart from other cities in the world is its dynamic layers.

Lurking beneath Table Mountain’s shadow is the colourful neighbourhood of the Bo-Kaap, the District 6 Museum and benches saying “whites only”. All remnants of South Africa’s tumultuous history.

It’s this duality that makes Cape Town one of the most fascinating places to visit in South Africa , and it’s what is going to keep you coming back again and again.

If you’re on the hunt for the perfect Cape Town itinerary , then I’m happy to report that much of the legwork is done.

After living in Cape Town for 4 years, countless hours of detailed research and copious amounts of coffee consumed, I’ve created a thoroughly fantastic agenda that highlights all the best things Cape Town has to offer.

Here’s my 7-day Cape Town itinerary!

Table of Contents

How to Get to Cape Town

Gorgeous george, the silo hotel, how to get around cape town, is cape town safe, the best time to visit cape town, buy travel insurance, go on a walking tour of the bo kaap, visit the district six museum, grab lunch and a coffee at truth, hike to kloof corner for sunset, grab a drink at the secret gin bar, have brunch at the old biscuit mill, sign up for a woodstock street art tour, watch the sunset on top of table mountain, explore cape town’s nightlife, option 1: go to robben island, option 2: take a morning kayak tour around table bay, explore the v&a waterfront, book for sundowners at silo rooftop bar, drive to cape point, swim with penguins at boulders beach, see the colourful muizenberg beach houses, hike lion’s head for sunrise, have breakfast at gigi rooftop, go to kirstenbosch botanical gardens, have dinner at rock thai sushi in newlands, take the franschhoek wine tram, have brunch at harvey’s or the hemelhuijs, spend the day at clifton 2nd beach, get pizzas delivered to your beach towel, drive to chapman’s peak for sunset, book a table at the blue room.

Whether you want to splurge on direct flights or go on an off-the-beaten-path adventure, there are a few ways to get to Cape Town.

The fastest option is to book direct flights to Cape Town International Airport (CPT). More and more destinations are offering non-stop flights to the Mother City, making it super easy to avoid that painful Johannesburg layover.

For the best prices on cheap flights to Cape Town, I recommend using Skyscanner .

If you can’t avoid the pit stop at OR Tambo, or you’re a local flying to Cape Town, sign up for Mango, Kuala and Fly Safair’s newsletters. It’s the best way to stay on top of all three domestic carriers airfare deals.

Want to cut down on your CO2 emissions or save money? Grab a long-distance bus to Cape Town or use the train.

Where to Stay in Cape Town

One thing that Cape Town doesn’t lack is options. In fact, it can feel a bit overwhelming when you’re planning your Cape Town itinerary, and you need to decide where to stay in the Mother City .

Your first mission (should you choose to accept it) is to decide on which Cape Town neighbourhood is the perfect fit for your wallet and itinerary. Once you’ve got that figured out, you can move onto finding a place to say.

Here are three of my favourite hotels in Cape Town that won’t (and will) break the bank!

Ballin’ on a budget? Book a room at Never@Home Backpackers in Green Point. The hostel is smack-dab in the middle of Green Point, and only a steps away from a MiCity bus stop.

It’s the perfect place to base yourself (especially if you’re a solo traveller) to explore Cape Town’s attractions.

Gorgeous George is one of the newest boutique hotels in Cape Town, and I am obsessed. It’s conveniently located in the city centre and is a visual feast!

Picture modern industrial rooms with quirky Victorian-era elements and an incredible rooftop restaurant and bar. It is a mid-range hotel, but 100% worth the price if you’re looking for affordable luxury.

Want to spoil yourself and make your bank balance cry? Welcome to The Silo Hotel .

It’s the creme-de-la-creme of Cape Town’s luxury accommodation scene. It’s the ultimate 5-star hotel experience complete with sweeping views of the city and an Instagrammable rooftop pool.

Not vibing with any of these options? I’ve written a detailed guide on all the best hotels for every kind of budget!

Read More:  The Best Hotels in Cape Town: Where to Stay for Every Budget

Cape Town Travel Tips

Uber: Uber is an easy, fast and reliable way to get around the city. With most of the city’s top attractions only 10-15 minutes from each other, it’s also a super affordable option. While there are metered taxis in Cape Town, I wouldn’t recommend them. With Uber, you have a track record of who you’re getting into the car with if anything happens.

MyCiti Bus: If you’re staying in the city centre or surrounding suburbs, you can use the MyCiti Bus . It’s a cheap option, but it’s not reliable (strikes are common), and it takes a while to get around.

Car Rental: You only need to rent a car if you want to go on day trips from Cape Town to Muizenburg, Chapman’s Peak, the Cape Penisula or the Cape Winelands.

Train: There are trains that run from the city centre to Muizenberg, Simon’s Town and Kalk Bay .  The trains cost less than R15.00, and Getaway Magazine has some great safety tips for using trains in Cape Town .

South Africa does have a high crime rate, but it mostly affects locals more than travellers. While exploring Cape Town, you do need to take extra safety to precautions to avoid looking like a soft target for pickpocketing and muggings.

Here’s how you can avoid most problems:

• Use an anti-theft backpack • Don’t flashing your valuables in public • Don’t walk around in deserted areas especially in the evening • Always ask your Uber driver who he or she is picking up before getting in the car • Don’t carry a lot of money on you • Leave your passport at your hotel in the safe • Don’t hike alone (especially on less popular trails)

With zero tornados, tropical storms or monsoons, the best time to go to Cape Town is whenever. There is always an endless list of things to do, and the weather (for the most part) won’t ruin any of your plans.

Summer: December to February is the most expensive time to visit Cape Town . Flight prices go crazy, and the best hotels book up fast. You’ll be hard-pressed even to find an Airbnb. On the plus side, your social calendar will look better. Attend the famous Kirstenbosch Summer Concerts , go to trance parties, spend lazy days on the beach and soak up the phenomenal summer sunsets!

Autumn: Not a fan of crowds? Travel to Cape Town between March and May. As the winds pick up and the temperatures cool, the weather is ideal for conquering multi-day hikes in Table Mountain National Park . Your wallet will also like you better. Flight prices go back to normal, and hotels start to lower their rates.

Winter: June to August is cold, windy, and wet, but it’s the best time to go to Cape Town for bargain hunters . To make up for the lull in travellers, you’ll find incredible accommodation specials and mostly locals at the top attractions. It’s also the best time of year to chase the Milky Way , spot whales and get day drunk at the wine farms.

Spring: Visit Cape Town between September and November and get a taste of the city’s summer events. You can go frolic in the fields of blossoming lavender and canola and plan a road trip up to West Coast National Park to see the wildflowers. Prices do slowly start to increase, but you can still snag a deal before the summer madness begins.

Read More:  10 of the Best Things to do in Cape Town in Winter

Travelling anywhere is a bit of a wildcard. As much as you might plan everything down to the last detail, shit can still hit the proverbial fan.

The airline could lose your bag, your bag could get stolen along with your passport (it’s happened to me TWICE) or a monkey could steal your camera.

Anything is possible.

World Nomads has a comprehensive travel insurance that’s made for any adventure. Whether you want to go shark cage diving, jump out of a plane or rock climb up Table Mountain, they’ll cover all your crazy shenanigans.

And you’ll have peace of mind IF anything happens to your luggage, passport or camera gear.

World Nomads provides travel insurance for travelers in over 100 countries. As an affiliate, we receive a fee when you get a quote from World Nomads using this link. We do not represent World Nomads. This is information only and not a recommendation to buy travel insurance.

7-Day Cape Town Itinerary

Day 1: Bo-Kaap, District 6 Museum & Kloof Corner

Get up early, grab that complimentary breakfast from your hotel and head to the Bo-Kaap. It’s Cape Town’s colourful Malay Quarter and one of the most Instagrammable locations in the Mother City .

You want to get here early in the morning for two reasons:

1.) The light is perfect for taking photos, and you’ll avoid the harsh afternoon sun and shadows

2.) Quieter streets mean you won’t have to struggle to get a picture in front of the famous powder blue convertible!

If you want to know more about the history of the Bo-Kaap, sign up for a walking tour . You’ll learn all about how the residents are descendants of slaves brought to South Africa in the 16th-century.

And you’ll get to try all the delicious traditional Cape Malay food!

Next up, catch an Uber to the District Six Museum . If you want to learn more about the Apartheid regime and the painful effect it had on Cape Town’s black and coloured communities, a visit here is essential.

In 1966, District Six became a “whites-only” zone, and 60,000 non-whites were forcibly removed from their homes and relocated to the Cape Flatts.

For more insight, you can book in advance for a guided tour through the museum with an ex-resident.

Entrance: R45.00 per person for a self-guided visit or R60.00 with an ex-resident guide

Want to sip on some of the best coffee in Cape Town and the world? Walk across the street to Truth Coffee .

It’s a steampunk heaven that serves up an award-winning cup of brew.

But besides its unforgettable coffee, the menu here is delicious. There are options for hungry vegans,  pastry lovers and everything in between. There’s even a decadent tea menu if you’re more into leaves than beans.

If you’re more of a tea drinker, Cape Town has a decadent afternoon tea scene .

Read More:  The Coolest & Best Coffee Shops in Cape Town

If Lion’s Head looks a bit too daunting for you, ease into Cape Town’s hikes with Kloof Corner. It’s a 20-minute hike up the slopes of Table Mountain that will give you sweeping views over the city centre and Camps Bay.

A fair bit of warning though, the last part is thigh burner . On the plus side, your glutes will never look better.

Read More: 12+ Best Hiking Trails in Cape Town With Jaw-Dropping Views

End off your first day in Cape Town with a drink at the Secret Gin Bar . Tucked away behind Honest Chocolate ( chocolate addicts might never leave ), it’s where you’ll find some of the best G&T’s in the city.

For dinner, I recommend Lefty’s . It’s a hole-in-the-wall dive bar on Harrington Street that serves up some tasty dishes for meat-eaters and vegans alike.

When I ate meat, their fried chicken waffles and ribs were incredible gastronomic experiences!

Day 2: Old Biscuit Mill, Woodstock Street Art & Table Mountain

Suffer from indecision when it comes to deciding what to eat?

The Old Biscuit Mill’s Neighbourhood Goods Market in Woodstock will cure your ailment.

Held every Saturday, vendors from all over the city come here to cook up a storm. You can dine on some of the best avo toast you’ll have in your life, stock up on delicious vegan chocolates and eat your weight in traditional South African cuisine .

There’s also an endless array of bao buns, sushi, G&Ts (naturally), smoothies and gourmet burgers.

Tip: Download Snapscan on your phone. All the vendors accept it as a payment method, and you won’t have to carry cash!

Work off all those calories with a Woodstock Street Art Tour . Awe-inspiring artworks from top international and local artworks decorate the streets of the neighbourhood.

While it’s one of the best places to visit in Cape Town , it’s not an activity you want to do alone.

If you’re not from Woodstock, it’s not safe to walk around solo . Please sign up for a guided street art tour to avoid getting mugged.

You’ll also get to interact with the local community, see the best pieces and learn about the artworks.

One cannot come to Cape Town and not go to the top of Table Mountain at least once. It’s iconic, and the views make the steep price of the cable car worth it.

If you’re a little extra like me, pack some champagne flutes in your backpack and a bottle of bubbly to pop as the sun goes down!

Buying your flights to Cape Town between November and February? If you’re a local, you’re in luck! There’s a half-price sunset special from 6 pm.

Entrance: A cable car return ticket for the afternoon is R300.00 ($20.00 USD) or R200.00 ($13 USD) if you hike up or down.

Read More:  10 Magnificent Sunset Spots in Cape Town You Need on Your Bucket List

Cape Town’s nightlife is legendary.

Start the evening with a visit to Orphanage Cocktail Emporium on Bree Street. Drinks are on the pricier side but are worth it if you’re not into drinking an average Old Fashioned.

From there, walk two blocks down to Long Street . Here, you’ll find an entire street full of bars, nightclubs and late-night snacks.

• For delicious G&Ts, visit the Secret Gin Bar hidden behind Honest Chocolate. • For a more laidback vibe with live music , go to the Waiting Room • For hard techno beats, Modular is the place to be

Day 3: Robben Island, V&A Waterfront, & Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa

I’m one of those South African’s that hasn’t been to Robben Island – yet.

I also feel that the price of the tour doesn’t make it accessible to all South Africans. Much like District 6 doesn’t have an entrance for ex-residents, I think it should be free or have a much bigger discount for locals.

With the Robben Island Tour taking 3.5 hours, you’ll want to book the 9:00 AM time slot. The ferries depart from the V&A Waterfront, and the route includes a graveyard of people who died from leprosy, the Maximum Security Prison and ends with Nelson Mandela’s cell .

Price: R380.00 for South Africans | R550.00 for Non-South Africans

For those that aren’t interested in visiting Robben Island (or maybe you’ve been before), it’s time to see some dolphins people!

Atlantic Outlook offers guided kayak tours that will take you from the V&A Waterfront around Table Bay. You’ll paddle past Table Mountain , Lion’s Head and the suburbs of the Atlantic Seaboard .

The morning tours are one of the best times to spot dolphins, seals, whales and sunfish!

With your feet firmly back on land, it’s time to explore the V&A Waterfront.  If you’re feeling a little bit peckish, go to the Food Market.

Vendors are cooking up poke bowls, pastries, Italian treats, woodfired pizza and authentic Indian curry.

When you’ve had your fill you wander around the shops, see Cape Town from above with the Cape Wheel , visit the and 2 Oceans Aquarium .

But the Waterfront’s crown gem is the Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa .  Nine floors house the largest African contemporary art collection in the world.

Entrance to Zeitz Museum: R200.00 ($13 USD) per person

On top of the Zeitz, Art Museum is The Silo – one of the top luxury boutique hotels in Cape Town . If you can’t afford the steep rates, the rooftop bar is the next best thing.

The only catch? You need to book in advance.

That tiny bit of admin for your Cape Town itinerary is worth the view you’ll have over the city!

Day 4: Cape Point, Boulders Beach & Muizenberg

For beautiful light and zero crowds, set your alarms for 6:00 AM to get to Cape Point around 8:00 AM. It’s a 1h 30min drive that along a beautiful part of South Africa’s coastline.

Take the Flying Duchman Funicular up to the Lighthouse, explore some of the best hiking trails in Cape Town and their shipwrecks and visit the Cape of Good Hope.

I recommend spending at least 2-3 hours here!

Entrance: R76.00 (for South Africans) | SADC Nationals: R152.00 | Internationals: R303.00 ($20.00 USD)

Read More:  The Ultimate Cape of Good Hope Hiking Guide

Next on your Cape Town itinerary is the famous Boulders Beach in Simons Town ! Home to a massive colony of African Jackass Penguins (an endangered and endemic species) and you can catch some waves with them!

There’s a small private beach in the reserve, and the penguins are often swimming in the winter or lounging on the beach. As long as you don’t touch or bother them, you can get some really adorable photos.

Entrance: R39.00 for South Africans | SADC Nationals: R76.00 | Internationals: R152.00 ($10.00 USD)

Read More:  How to Swim With Penguins at Boulders Beach in Cape Town

End of your East Coast tour with a trip to Muizenberg Beach . It’s one of the best places to learn how to surf in Cape Town, and there are colourful beach houses that attract sun-worshippers from near and far.

Too many people at the beach? Drive further down to St James Beach . It’s a quieter stretch of sand that also has the signature rainbow-coloured beach houses.

For those visiting in the winter months, if it’s too cold skip the beach for a drive along Boyes Drive. Between July and October, it’s one of the best vantage spots to see migrating whales and their newborn calves!

If you don’t want to head back to Cape Town’s CBD yet, drive to Cape 2 Cuba in Kalk Bay . It’s a delicious Cuban-themed South American restaurant complete with a beach bar and some of the best cocktails on the East Coast.

BONUS: Love sunrises? Come to St. James Beach for the start of the day before Cape Point.  You won’t regret it!

Read More: 10+ Affordable Restaurants in Cape Town with a View

Day 5: Lions Head, Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens & Maiden’s Cove

Watching the sunrise from on top of Lion’s Head is magical! If you’re lucky, you might even get some low cloud across the city that creates an ethereal atmosphere.

I also love that hiking Lion’s Head is free . It costs absolutely nothing to summit one of the best views in Cape Town.

If you’d like to add some adventure to your morning hike, you can also book a paragliding flight from the mountain!

Read More:  Lion’s Head Hike in Cape Town: Full Hiking Guide

Gigi Rooftop at Gorgeous George oozes sophistication and takes it to the next level with its rooftop pool .

Yup, you read that right.

While you munch on your classic eggs benedict or pile of Belgium waffles, you can go for a dip. It’s one of the most Insta-worthy spots in Cape Town , and its menu will keep you coming back for more.

Make a reservation! Walk-ins are only allowed for drinks and not meals at Gigi.

Visiting Cape Town between December and February? Book tickets to one of the iconic Kirstenbosch Summer Concerts . Set inside the botanical gardens, it’s one of the best things to do in Cape Town in the summer.

Not visiting the city in summer? Kirstenbosch is still worth the visit! The gardens are beautiful all year round, and you can tackle one of the many hiking trails or pose for a photo on the Boomslang Walkway.

Entrance: R100.00 for South Africans R210.00 for Internationals

Read More:  6+ Waterfalls In Cape Town (And Nearby) That Are Worth The Hype

One is spoiled for choice when it comes to food in Cape Town. The choice can be paralysing, so I’m here to make things a bit easier.

If Phad Thai , Dim Sum, and Penang Curry are some of your favourite things, come with an appetite to Rock Thai Sushi . The menu is incredible, and you might have a hard time making a choice.

I may, or may not have ordered three meals are once here.

Read More:  14 Delicious Vegan Restaurants In Cape Town You Need to Try

Day 6: Day Trip From Cape Town to the Cape Winelands

Wanna get day drunk? Book your spot on the Franschhoek Wine Tram , and no one has to stay sober.

Eight lines will take you on a boozy tour through the Cape Winelands .

If you’re not familiar with your South African wines, go with the purple or orange line. Both will take you to some of the top wine estates, including Babylonstoren and Boschendal .

Cost: R240.00 ($16 USD) per person + wine tasting fees at the estates

Read More:  15+ Irresistible Day Trips from Cape Town

Day 7: Clifton 2nd Beach, Camp’s Bay & Chapman’s Peak

Harvey’s is famous for their Sunday brunches. Serving a hot fire buffet, you can nibble on anything from scrambled eggs to sushi. Of course, it wouldn’t be a brunch in the Mother City without a glass of bubbles.

If you’re not in town over a Sunday, go to Hemelhuijs in the City Bowl. The menu is full of traditional South African food like mielie pap porridge with karoo honey.

After a busy week of sightseeing, it’s time to wind your Cape Town itinerary down with a beach day. Your first stop is the picturesque Clifton 2nd Beach.

It’s one of the most beautiful beaches in Cape Town!

When the hunger pains start, it’s time to move beaches. Head back down the road to Camps Bay Beach. It’s a stunning stretch of sand and is within walking distance of eateries.

But don’t go inside for lunch.

You can get a pizza from Col’Cacchio’s delivered straight to your beach towel!

Read More:  15+ Best Beaches in South Africa You Need to See Before You Die

For an unforgettable sunset in Cape Town , you can either stay at Camps Bay or drive down Victoria Road towards Chapman’s Peak. It’s an iconic stretch of road that hugs the Cape Peninsula.

If you’re driving from Hout Bay, you’ll need to pay a toll fee to reach the lookout. If you want to save money, come in from Noordhoek, and you won’t pay a dime.

Toll: R47.00 ($3.00 USD)

Before your trip to Cape Town ends,  you should get a taste of the city’s jazz and blues scene at The Blue Room. While the food is good, it’s the vibe here that makes it perfect.

Order one of the set menus (vegan is available if you pre-book) or nibble on plates from the starter and mains menu.

Bookings are essential as seating is limited.

Need more ideas on what to do in Cape Town? I’ve got a super-detailed list of all the best free, cheap, secret, and adventurous things to do in the city!

Read More:  45 Awesome Things to Do in Cape Town: A (Hella Long) Local’s Guide

Sound like a Cape Town itinerary you’d love? Got any suggestions that you think I left out? Hit ya gurl up in the comments!

Psst…Want more travel inspiration for your Cape Town itinerary? Check out my other posts:

• 45 Awesome Things to Do in Cape Town: A (Hella Long) Local’s Guide
• 18 Most Instagrammable Places in Cape Town
• 14 Delicious Vegan Restaurants In Cape Town You Need to Try
• 12+ Best Hiking Trails in Cape With Jaw-Dropping Views
• The Coolest & Best Coffee Shops in Cape Town
• The Best Hotels in Cape Town: Where to Stay for Every Budget

Did you find this post useful? Save it for later on Pinterest!

About Lauren Melnick

Lauren Melnick is the founder of Wanderlust Movement, Wander to Here and is a South Africa travel blogger. She's been travelling the world as a full-time freelance writer since 2016 and has visited over 40 countries.

When she isn't typing up a storm, you can find her conquering overnight hikes around the Western Cape, rock climbing, and hosting sold out group travel trips around South Africa, Namibia and Morocco.

Reader Interactions

June 26, 2022 at 10:30 pm

Loved this, thank you! Planning on going to November and this was so helpful. Photos are great too.

August 21, 2022 at 1:56 pm

Hope you have a great trip in Cape Town 🙂

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Getty Images

A coming-together of cultures, cuisines and landscapes, there's nowhere quite like Cape Town, a singularly beautiful city crowned by the magnificent Table Mountain National Park.

Best Time to Visit

Best things to do, attractions, must-see attractions.

Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden

Location and unique flora combine to make these 5.28-sq-km botanical gardens among the most beautiful in the world. Gate 1, the main entrance at the…

Table Mountain

Around 600 million years old, and a canvas painted with the rich diversity of the Cape floral kingdom, Table Mountain is truly iconic. You can admire the…

District Six Museum

It's impossible not to be emotionally moved by this museum, which celebrates the once lively multiracial area that was destroyed during apartheid in the…

Groot Constantia

Simon van der Stel’s manor house, a superb example of Cape Dutch architecture, is maintained as a museum at Groot Constantia. Set in beautiful grounds,…

Although it was established in 1702 and has some of South Africa's oldest pinotage and shiraz vineyards, as well as a handsome Cape Dutch homestead,…

Bloubergstrand

The beaches beside this pleasant coastal suburb are where the British won their 1806 battle for the Cape. The panoramic view they provide of Table…

Sea Point Promenade

Sea Point to Hout Bay

Strolling along Sea Point’s wide, paved and grassy promenade is a pleasure shared by Capetonians from all walks of life. Once a white-only area, it’s now…

Buitenverwachting

Buitenverwachting means ‘beyond expectation’, which is certainly the feeling one gets on visiting this Cape Dutch estate. It's a lovely estate to visit…

Planning Tools

Expert guidance to help you plan your trip.

Things to Know

It won't take you long to get your head around Cape Town but these hints, tips and tricks will make your trip as straightforward as possible.

Best Neighborhoods

Get to know Cape Town's unique mix of cultures and beautiful landscapes through its neighborhoods. These are 7 of our favorites to help you decide.

Cape Town is hard to leave, but take a day trip outside the city, and you'll be glad you did.

Money and Costs

Cape Town is home to some of the most spectacular attractions in the world and we want you to see them all without breaking the bank.

Transportation

Travel safely around Cape Town with this guide to the city’s transportation options.

Free Things to Do

With mountaintop hiking trails and gorgeous sandy beaches, some of the best experiences in Cape Town are completely free.

Traveling with Kids

The best places for family fun in the South African capital.

Plan with a local

Experience the real South Africa

Let a local expert craft your dream trip.

Latest stories from Cape Town

Destination Practicalities

Dec 6, 2023 • 5 min read

May 11, 2023 • 7 min read

May 3, 2023 • 9 min read

Apr 30, 2023 • 5 min read

Apr 27, 2023 • 5 min read

Apr 26, 2023 • 6 min read

Apr 25, 2023 • 5 min read

Apr 22, 2023 • 5 min read

Apr 21, 2023 • 5 min read

Jul 14, 2022 • 7 min read

in partnership with getyourguide

Book popular activities in Cape Town

Cape town and beyond.

Experience Cape Town’s blend of nature and urban sophistication on a budget – beaches, Table Mountain, and more await.

Best Time to Visit Cape Town

… Read more

Featured Articles

Best of canada, best of england, best of new zealand.

• Meet the Team
• Our Manifesto
• Work with Us
• Budget Travel
• Personal Development
• Work & Travel
• United Kingdom
• More of Europe
• Philippines
• More of Southeast Asia
• More of South America
• More of Central America
• South Korea
• More of Asia
• More of North America
• New Zealand
• Pacific Islands
• More of Oceania
• South Africa
• More of Africa
• More of the Middle East
• Travel Essentials
• Travel Gear

Home » Africa » South Africa » Cape Town

Backpacking Cape Town Travel Guide 2024

Backpacking Cape Town— The Mother City —is a truly remarkable experience. Southern Africa’s most visited and awe-inspiring city is the crown jewel for many travelers. A blend between high-income and low, this coastal metropolis and capital of the Western Cape is one of the most multicultural cities on the planet.

Set against the dramatic mountainous backdrop of Table Mountain with Devil’s Peak and Lion’s Head on either side; Cape Town is famous for its landmarks and nature. Noted also for its harbour, Cape Point, and its setting in the Cape Floristic Region, the Mother City is sure to captivate worldly trekkers.

Luckily, Cape Town on a budget is feasible with South Africa’s affordability and a myriad of free natural attractions. This Cape Town travel guide has everything a traveler needs to make their way around the city while on an allowance.

Whether you have a gusto for coasts and  diving , mountains and hiking, or cities and dining; Cape Town for backpackers is surely the place to be!

With a Cape Town City Pass , you can experience the best of Cape Town at the CHEAPEST prices. Discounts, attractions, tickets, and even public transport are all standards in any good city pass – be sure invest now and save them $$$ when you arrive!

How much does Backpacking Cape Town Cost?

Backpacker accommodation in cape town, top things to do in cape town, backpacking cape town 3-day itinerary, backpacking cape town travel tips and city guide.

• Buy Us a Coffee!

If you are a broke backpacker in the literal sense, or just a fan of budget travel and you’re planning your South Africa backpacking trip , you came to the right place!

Fortunately, for the majority — regrettably for South Africans trying to make a living — most currencies stand strong in comparison to the South African Rand (R). Simply put, your money will go a long way while backpacking Cape Town.

The Broke Backpacker is supported by you . Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free content 🙂 Learn more .

In general, Cape Town can be cheap for accommodation, food, and transportation. Therefore, a Cape Town daily budget of $50 will buy you quite a nice day. However, you can get by on far less if you do not wish to indulge in restaurant meals and sip on South Africa’s incredible wines. (It is probably best you make room for the finer things in life within your Cape Town budget. If not here, then where?)

Average Costs of a Trip to Cape Town

The following is a breakdown of items to consider for your Cape Town budget:

Hostel – Dorm Bed:  $15-25

Airbnb:  $12-30

Uber – Airport to Waterfront:  under $20

Beer – Bar:  $2

Wine Bottle – Supermarket:  $3

Breakfast:  $3-6

Lunch:  $4-9

Dinner:  $7-12

Hiking –  Table Mountain, Lion’s Head:  Free

Cape Town Budget Backpacking Tips

Backpacking Cape Town on a budget is certainly easier than other top destination cities. Be that as it may, sometimes we could use city-specific advice to be sure we are on the right track—the economy track, that is! The following are a few tips to note before you head to Cape Town.

Taxify : This is a transportation network company similar to Uber, however, it is only available in limited cities around the world. Taxify has become huge in Cape Town, and Capetonians believe this app to be cheaper than Uber.  At the end of a trip, there is an option to pay cash (unlike other ride-share apps), which is beneficial for splitting costs with your friends.

Free Walking Tours : A great way to discover Cape Town is with free walking tours . Obviously, there are not any fees, but the guides do operate on a tip basis—use your own discretion for tipping amounts. Guides are knowledgeable and there are several different walking tours to discover the city in many ways.

Explore and Hike around Cape Town: Hike Lion’s Head and Table Mountain for free. (Table Mountain Cableway offers free return rides down the mountain on your birthday.) Aside from these two, there are a lot more trails that are more remote and worth checking out BUT it is highly recommended to go with a local guide . There have been a number of hikers attacked in recent years and being away from the popular areas is riskier.

Stroll the Sea Point Promenade and wander around the V & A Waterfront . Watch the sunset at Signal Hill or check out the many beaches within the city. Enjoy the murals and graffiti located throughout Woodstock neighborhood. Catch the incredible view from Chapman’s Peak or take scenic walks through the local parks and forests.

Markets: Cape Town always has plenty of markets to amble, especially food markets. Not only is entrance free, but there is often live music by local musicians and food is sold at excellent prices. The Old Biscuit Mill , Bay Harbour Market , and Mojo Market are all worth checking out.

Drink Hacks:  Try  happy hour for up to 50% off drinks or buy-one-get-one-free specials at local bars. Generally, you can drink at an extra low price if you start early. Most happy hour specials run between 4pm-7pm. Many wine estates offer great prices on wine tastings, and some liquor stores offer free tastings! Wine Concepts offers daily, in-store tastings for free—for those bargain drinkers out there!

Pack a travel water bottle : save money (and the planet) every day! Stop buying bottled water!

Why You Should Travel to Cape Town with a Water Bottle

Plastic washes up on even the most pristine beaches… so do your part and keep the Big Blue beautiful

You aren’t going to save the world overnight, but you might as well be part of the solution and not the problem. When you travel to some of the world’s most remote places, you come to realise the full extent of the plastic problem. And I hope you become more inspired to continue being a responsible traveller .

Plus, now you won’t be buying overpriced bottles of water from the supermarkets either! Travel with a filtered water bottle instead and never waste a cent nor a turtle’s life again.

Drink water from ANYWHERE. The Grayl Geopress is the worlds leading filtered water bottle protecting you from all manner of waterborne nasties.

Single-use plastic bottles are a MASSIVE threat to marine life. Be a part of the solution and travel with a filter water bottle. Save money and the environment!

We’ve tested the Geopress  rigorously  from the icy heights of Pakistan to the tropical jungles of Bali, and can confirm: it’s the best water bottle you’ll ever buy!

Cape Town has a huge variety of neighborhoods, and each one offers many qualities that make it uniquely distinct from one ‘hood’ to another.

Hostels or ‘ backpackers ‘—in the Mother City can be found in nearly every single neighborhood and there are also a wide variety of guesthouses in Cape Town that are a great alternative if you want your own private space.

The following are a select few districts in Cape Town to be discovered that you could rest your head for the night.

Green Point: Home to the 2010 FIFA World Cup Stadium, this is a popular location for sporting events and concerts. A trendy residential area that is within walking distance to the Waterfront and the Sea Point Promenade.

Central Business District (CBD): What was once the place to be for business travelers has since become popular for people in search of shopping, coffee, bars, or a bite to eat. Located within the city center is hip Bree Street and the famous Long Street.

Woodstock: An artsy, up-and-coming area similar to Brooklyn, NY. Definitely famous for its street art and the Old Biscuit Mill.

Observatory: ‘Obs’ is a fusion of art, urban-life, and rich culture. Offering a cool nightlife, coffee shops, and second-hand stores, Observatory is also within close proximity to just about everything. A great place to call home for a few nights.

The Best Places to Stay in Cape Town

For more inspiration, check out our Cape Town Neighborhood Guide !

Gardens is an inner-city suburb of Cape Town right next to the CBD. Laid-back but with plenty to see and do, Gardens is close to major attractions and nightlife while still providing a more local experience.

The CBD is Cape Town’s busiest and most vibrant area. With lots to see and do by day and by night, it’s also the best Cape Town neighbourhood for nightlife.

The sandy beach, plentiful restaurants, street entertainers, and fun activities make this one of the best Cape Town neighbourhoods for families.

For more great places to stay in Cape Town, check out our full list of backpacker hostels in Cape Town .

Want to save money on accommodation?

We got you. For reals.

A new country, a new contract, a new piece of plastic – booooring. Instead, buy an eSIM!

An eSIM works just like an app: you buy it, you download it, and BOOM! You’re connected the minute you land. It’s that easy.

Is your phone eSIM ready? Read about how e-Sims work or click below to see one of the top eSIM providers on the market and  ditch the plastic .

1. Hike to the top of Table Mountain

If you only have a few days in your Cape Town itinerary, make sure you include a hike to the top of Table Mountain . This flat-topped mountain, a prominent landmark, offers stunning views of Cape Town. Appreciate the many life forms that surround you during your hike. At an elevation of 1,067 m (3,501ft), the cableway is a relaxing means of getting yourself back down Table Mountain.

2. Take a tour of Robben Island

Take a tour around the political prison on Robben Island . Former inmates are used as guides to tell the true story about victims of political oppression. Robben Island’s most notable prisoner, Nelson Mandela, went on to become South Africa’s first black president and the leader of their civil rights movement. Tours depart from the V & A Waterfront, and ferry tickets should be purchased ahead of time.

3. Watch the sunrise or sunset on Lion’s Head

Hike above the city skyline to the top of Lion’s Head . Impressive views of the sea, city, and Table Mountain are had here, so do not forget your camera! It is truly special to make your way above the clouds, and this is a remarkable spot for a sunrise or sunset.

4. Grab some food at Victoria & Alfred Waterfront

Cape Town’s busy retail, dining, and entertainment district is the V & A Waterfront . Definitely a tourist spot, but it is still nice to have a walk around the waterfront or enjoy a cocktail or ice cream on the water.

I wandered down one afternoon and was surprised to stumble upon several fantastic markets, that offered food and local art.

5. Go to Chapman’s Peak

Often overlooked by backpackers is the magical Chapman’s Peak. Cruise down Chapman’s Peak Drive, between Noordhoek and Hout Bay, for one of the most scenic marine drives in the world. Be sure to catch a sunset here—breathtaking.

6. Hang out on the Beach

There are no shortage of beaches to bask in the sun while visiting Cape Town. Clifton Beach , Camps Bay Beach , and Fish Hoek Beach are just a few names worth remembering to feed your seaside appetite.

The best rolling waves in the world and the spot to learn how to surf is at Muizenberg . Stare at mountains in amazement while riding waves, and snap a few shots of the colorful huts on the boardwalk.

7. Stroll along Sea Point Promenade

Sea Point Promenade offers a seaside pathway from Mouille Point to Bantry Bay. A lovely spot for a stroll, run, or bike ride.

8. Watch another sunset on Signal Hill

Another ideal spot for a pretty sunset is Signal Hill . You can catch an Uber, and your driver will likely hangout while you take a few photos, or you could stay for a nice picnic. Have you noticed that Cape Town has no shortage of places to watch a picture-perfect sunset? Did you also know that you can totally jump of the side of this mountain and paraglide down to the city?!

9. Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden

These botanical gardens are dubbed “The most beautiful garden in Africa.” An escape from the city, Kirstenbosch National Botanical Gardens exhibits plants native to the Cape Region on the outside, and the large conservatory houses plants from regions including savanna and fynbos.

10. Dive with Great Whites

Cape Town is one of the best and most affordable places to go diving with Great White sharks! East of Cape Town and closer to the Agulhas Current is an absolute feeding frenzy and sharks love to frequent these waters. For those who want to see sharks from a slightly more secure position can also go on an  ocean safari.

11. Chill with penguins in Simon’s Town

A small, quiet village with magnificent views and history. A few kilometers south of Simon’s Town is Boulders Beach . Here you will find a colony of African penguins, and the option to swim with these cool creatures is given. Did you know Africa was home to penguins?

12. Snap some photos in Bo-Kaap

Walking distance from Cape Town’s city center is the colorful neighborhood of Bo-Kaap . A vibrant and bright neighborhood you need to see, even if only for a quick stroll and Instagram shot. It’s one of the best places to visit in Cape Town and should be on your bucket list of things to do!

Need help deciding between Johannesburg or Cape Town ? Check out our helpful guide.

Admittedly, 3 days in the Mother City is not nearly enough time if you yearn to see and do it all . Hey—that just comes to show that Cape Town is bustling with all of the things that make a city great!

Obviously, if you are limited on time, you should try to adjust this itinerary to match your personal desires. What one backpacker in Cape Town deems important may completely differ to another.

I have done my best to break down 3 days in Cape Town, to maximize the amount of sights you can see in this huge city.

Day 1 in Cape Town

Start your day off right with a breakfast on the water, and continue with a walk down the Sea Point Promenade . Make your way over to the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront for the possibility of live music or specialty markets.

The V & A Waterfont offers ferry services to Robben Island . Take a guided tour of Robben Island to see where Nelson Mandela and many others were imprisoned under the apartheid regime.

Head towards the city center and have a look at the FIFA World Cup Stadium on your route. Support the local craftsman by picking up a few authentic South African items at Greenmarket Square . Grab lunch at one of the local restaurants or cafes in the area.

After some replenishment, you are ready for your hike up Lion’s Head to watch an unbelievable sunset. Stand above the city, and the clouds, and appreciate Cape Town in all its glory.

Day 1 in Cape Town is the perfect evening to take pleasure in dinner from a restaurant of your choice and savor local South African wine.

Day 2 in Cape Town

Rise and shine for day 2 in Cape Town. This should be an early start—here is to hoping that you did not indulge in too  much wine on night-one! Be sure to have a full breakfast, pack snacks, load your bag with water, and head to Table Mountain,  a must-do when backpacking Cape Town.

Allot several hours if you plan to hike to the top of Table Mountain. When you reach the summit you will want to explore, take photos, stare in awe of the city and sea below you, and have a break! There are lots of other adventurous activities to do around Table Mountain as well, like abseiling, rock climbing, and mountain biking.

The table top has abundant plant and wildlife. Keep your eyes peeled for a cute local creature called a dassie. Use the cableway for 360 degree views on your way down the mountain.

Next up is the Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden , which is absolutely magical, and a lovely spot for a lunch picnic.

Make your way to  Bo-Kaap  where the brightly colored orange, red, green, blue, and yellow homes are all sure to add brightness to your already magnificent day. Pose for an Instagram worthy photo (everyone is doing it), but do not feel shy about this—locals welcome you to photograph their homes.

Ride up to Signal Hill for another supreme sunset over Cape Town.

Drinks on Long Street may be in order for your second night in the city. If Long Street does not suit your tastes, then check out another of Cape Town’s many fun night spots.

Day 3 in Cape Town

Muizenberg is about 30 minutes drive from the city center, but well worth the early morning start. Here you should take a surf lesson and really enjoy the beach-bum lifestyle, even if only for one day. The neighborhood offers a lot to do, but be sure to visit the cute and colorful beach stands. You can check here for a list of local surf schools and lessons, both in and outside of Muizenberg.

Drive south towards Simon’s Town and have a bite to eat in this quaint village. Continue on towards Boulder’s Beach where you are sure to encounter African penguins. Hang among the penguins but do not get too close because they will nip you! Be on the lookout for baboons while you are cruising around town.

For Day 3 in Cape Town, I suggest taking a coastal drive to Chapman’s Peak to watch the sunset. Mountains meet the sea and the colors are likely to be extraordinary. This was one of my personal favorites for scenic views.

You will likely want to indulge in a delicious dinner from a Cape Town restaurant, and begin making phone calls to delay that flight home. I assure you will not want to leave.

Cape Town Off the Beaten Track

If you have more time to spare while backpacking Cape Town, then the following are a few recommendations. These are not unusual activities, they simply may take you a little longer to get to because they are literally—off the beaten track.

Woodstock – This is just a suburb of Cape Town, but is often overlooked by backpackers and that needs to change! Woodstock is an edgy, evolving area that is loaded with hip eateries, cafes, and galleries. A weekly market— Old Biscuit Mill —is the most popular attraction here. Local street art is worth the visit, alone, but there are also quirky shops, vintage stores, gin bars, and much more.

Cape Point – Cape Point is a nature reserve within the Table Mountain National Park on the Cape Peninsula . A Natural World Heritage Site, Cape Point is rich in flora and fauna. The vivid blue coastline, rugged cliffside, and mountains in the distance make for a dramatic landscape. Climb up the lighthouse for some of the best views. Visit the most south-western point on the African Continent, Cape of Good Hope , and get your standard photo in front of the sign.

Stellenbosch – A 45 minute ride outside of Cape Town is the world-renowned wine region known as Stellenbosch . There are hundreds of vineyards in the area, and you simply cannot go wrong with any of them. The region is gorgeous, and an entire day can easily be spent tasting wines and food-pairing. All of this, at a fraction of the price for what it would cost in the most popular wine regions of the world.

Best Walks in Cape Town

Cape Town has a strong outdoor culture, and the city is loaded with walking and hiking trails. Terrain and difficulty levels widely vary, but here are a few popular choices:

Table Mountain –  Find a network of trails of different difficulties and lengths. Platteklip Gorge is the most commonly walked track that takes you to the summit of Table Mountain.

Lion’s Head –   The trail follows a fairly easy track to a section below the summit. Here is where you will need to utilize ladders and chains to make your way to the top.

Newlands Forest – A variety of trails offering dense forest views. There are walks available to match all different fitness levels.

Cape Point – The Lighthouse Keeper’s Trail is a short trail running below the old lighthouse to the new lighthouse. This takes you along the cliff and gives you an interesting angle on the old lighthouse.

Below are some travel tips for Cape Town, including the best time to visit Cape Town, how to travel around Cape Town, a guide on the food and nightlife, and more!

Best Time of Year to Visit Cape Town

Backpacking Cape Town can be done during any season, quite comfortably, with its warm Mediterranean climate. Temperature extremes are not common. Winter (June to August) is mild and moderately wet, and summer (December to February) is warm and dry.

As is true with most places, a Cape Town summer is the busiest time of year. If you are after sunshine, beach, and outdoor activities then I do recommend visiting Cape Town during the summer months.

However, if you are not picky about weather and water temperature, then the shoulder season is your best bet. March to May and September to November offer fewer crowds, lower prices, and reasonable weather.

Wonder how to spend a weekend in Cape Town? Head over to our  insider’s Weekend in Cape Town guide!

Getting in-and-out of Cape Town

Chances are that you will be arriving in Cape Town by airplane, due to its location as the southern most city in South Africa. Cape Town International Airport is the primary airport serving the city, and it is about 20 km from Cape Town’s city center.

There are a number of ways to get to-and-from the airport such as: Uber, taxi, hired car, shuttle, bus, or car rental.

How to get around Cape Town

MyCiTi buses run between 5am and 10pm, with the most frequent services operating between 8am and 5pm. Routes cover a good portion of Cape Town, as well as, airport services.

A ‘myconnect’ card is used for fares, and can be purchased at MyCiTi kiosks and participating retailers. One-way ticket purchases are possible. Fares depend on the time of day, but always remain inexpensive.

Driving is easy in Cape Town, as they have a great road system. An attendant at a gas station will always  fill-up your tank, wash your windows, and check fluid levels, so keep cash on you for tipping. Car-hire companies are easy to find and popular choices are Avis and Hertz.

Cape Metro Rail trains are a cheap way to get around, if you need to go a bit further to places like Simon’s Town. Stick to riding during the day for safety and expect delays.

Taxis , Uber , and Taxify are all popular means of transportation in Cape Town.

Long Distance Trains from Cape Town

Shosholoza Meyl is a division of the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA) that offers long distance services. From Capetown, you can utilize train services to East London, Queenstown, and Johannesburg.

Premier Classe trains link Cape Town and Johannesburg at a level above Shosholoza Meyl for a higher price.

The Blue Train and Rovos Rail travel between Pretoria and Cape Town, but these are luxury trains.

Safety in Cape Town

In regards to safety, Cape Town does not have a good reputation. Caution levels should remain high during your visit, but do not work yourself into a frenzy. A few things to be aware of:

Muggings are a common occurrence throughout the Mother City. Ask any Capetonian about being mugged and they will likely have a story relating to themselves, friends, or family. Likely, this is related to post-apartheid income disparity and the nation’s struggle with poverty. The price of your precious iPhone could feed many families, so try not to flaunt it.

While you should always remain vigilant, it would be helpful not to flash your goods. Keep your phone away and secure, and do not pull it out on the streets. Wearing jewelry is not recommended, and women should not carry a purse unless it goes across the body.

It is really well worth buying travel insurance for your trip! World Nomads  is our favourite insurance provider but check out our epic roundup post on  backpacker insurance too!

Never carry anything worth fighting over. If someone tries to rob you, give-in. Always make copies of important documents, and do not wander around with your passport.

If you are the type that enjoys a stroll around a new area, like me, make those daytime walks in Cape Town. Try not to wander by yourself in the evenings, and always take a cab or Uber at night. This is strongly encouraged even if you are only going a short distance.

If self-driving, always keep windows rolled up at stops, doors locked, and keep valuables in the trunk (boot). Beggars like to target stopped cars at traffic lights (robots-yes, this is what Capetonians call them). Car guards are common all over South Africa, usually wearing a bright vest, and it is worth the small tip to have them around. Generally, they will even help guide you in-and-out of a parking space.

Pick yourself up a  backpacker security belt  to keep your cash safe on the road, and check out our Cape Town safety guide  for tips and tricks to stay safe whilst backpacking Cape Town.

This post has plenty of ideas on ingenious ways to   hide your money when traveling.

Travel Insurance for Cape Town

Traveling without insurance would be risky so do consider getting good backpacker insurance sorted before you head off on an adventure.

I have been using World Nomads for some time now and made a few claims over the years. They’re easy to use, professional and relatively affordable. They may also let you buy or extend a policy once you’ve started your trip and are already abroad which is super handy.

If there’s one insurance company I trust, it’s World Nomads.

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Cape Town Accommodation Travel Hacks

Accommodation is probably the one thing that could make a dent in your wallet while backpacking Cape Town. As always, if you are on a tight budget then utilize the  Couchsurfing community .

Airbnb s are honestly cheaper than a lot of hostel dorm rooms, and should not be swept under the rug—like backpackers tend to do.

One piece of advice I can give for traveling Cape Town on a budget is to network ! Facebook, alone, has countless African backpacking groups. I say to join one of those groups and post your journey to Cape Town, ahead of time. There are tons of solo travelers that scan African pages daily, looking for a partner in crime. Or in this case, a partner in sharing an Airbnb.

No matter where you are traveling in the world, hostels are the best way to save money on accommodation while meeting other like-minded awesome travelers. Book your cheap Cape Town hostel here !

Worth noting: It is possible to negotiate prices with hostels and Airbnbs during a Cape Town winter, as owners are struggling a bit more to fill rooms.

Eating and Drinking in Cape Town

South Africans do not have an indigenous cuisine, per se, but that does not mean the country cannot appreciate food. In fact, there are extraordinary restaurants and amazing local meats and produce to be enjoyed while backpacking South Africa. Possibly, the best place to dine in all of Africa is Cape Town.

Seafood comes fresh—straight from the sea. Fish ( kingklip is popular), lobster, oysters, and mussels will all be easy to come by.  When you see ‘line fish’ on a menu, that simply means the catch of the day.

Meat is extremely common to find in Cape Town, and South Africans love their braais (barbecues), arguably even more than the Australians. Biltong is a great snack of—essentially—beef jerky. The Cape Malay dish you will often find on menus is bobotie —spiced, minced lamb or beef on rice with an egg-based topping. Boerewors is a South African sausage that you will often come across.

Fruit and vegetables are locally grown and generally of high standards.

Cape Town is loaded with restaurants from fine dining, to cafes, and everything in-between. Nearly every cuisine from around the world can be found here. One fact stands true, eating out is reasonably priced in the Mother City, in comparison to most of the world’s top cities, and quality of food is not jeopardized.

Fruit juice comes unsweetened, in nearly every selection of fruit, and is simply delightful with your breakfast.

Beer remains hugely popular to drink despite the many wine regions near Cape Town. Castle, Black Label, and Savanna Cider can be widely found, but microbreweries are up-and-coming as well.

Wine in Cape Town

The Mediterranean climate and fertile soil make the Cape Winelands one of the best regions to produce wine in the world—the 9th largest producer, in fact. With so many choices it could make your head spin, I have broken down some wine varietals to indulge-in while sipping in Cape Town:

Sauvignon Blanc: A great value and thirst quencher for when the South African weather gets a little warmer.

Chenin Blanc : If you enjoy a Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Gris, Chenin Blanc comes highly recommended. This wine is quite dry with a tad of sweetness in the South African Region.

Pinotage: A downright delicious and fruity red that is available in all price points.

Shiraz/Syrah: Grapes of this variety are grown throughout South Africa giving you a wide range of styles to choose.

Nightlife in Cape Town

The Tavern of the Seas has long held its reputation as an awesome place for bars and refreshments. No matter the season, you are sure to find endless pubs and bars to drink with friends, party, or club.

Cape Town’s hottest nightlife scene is loudly present on Long Street . Long Street’s name could easily be derived from the road’s endless stretch of bars, restaurants, and clubs. The street never sleeps, and you will find countless choices for music, dancing, or your social needs—any night of the week.

Party safe in Cape Town and always be aware of your surroundings. I do not recommend this city to be the one for ‘experimenting’ or getting out-of-control. Walk in numbers and always take a cab if you are not popping-in just next door. There is plenty of fun to be had, but you still want to wake up in possession of your wallet!

Fancy heading to a South Africa festival ? Cape Town is home to a fair few, just take your pick!

Books to Read on Cape Town

Cape Town to Kruger: Backpacker Adventures in South Africa and Swaziland – A fascinating tour with vivid descriptions of Cape Town to Kruger Park.

A History of South Africa – A guide to South Africa’s turbulent past. This book also debunks common myths about South Africa.

The Cape Town Book: A Guide to the City’s History, People and Places – An information-rich book that presents a fresh picture of the Mother City.

Long Walk to Freedom  – An autobiography by the South African president, Nelson Mandela. A compelling read about his life and hardships during 27 years of imprisonment. This should be on everyone’s Cape Town reading list.

Lonely Planet Cape Town & the Garden Route (Travel  Guide)  – A detailed guide to Cape Town and its surroundings.

Volunteering in Cape Town

Long term travel is awesome. Giving back is awesome too!

Worldpackers

For backpackers looking to travel long-term on a budget in  Cape Town  whilst making a real impact on local communities look no further than  Worldpackers . World Packers is an excellent platform  connecting travelers with meaningful volunteer positions throughout the world .

In exchange for a few hours of work each day, your room and board are covered.

Backpackers can spend long periods of time volunteering in an awesome place without spending any money. Meaningful life and travel experiences are rooted in stepping out of your comfort zone and into the world of a purposeful project.

Worldpackers opens the doors for work opportunities in hostels, homestays, NGOs, and eco-projects around the world. We’ve tried and approved them ourselves – check out our Worldpackers in-depth review here.

If you’re ready to create a life-changing travel experience and give back to the community, join the Worldpacker community now. As a Broke Backpacker reader, you’ll get a special discount of $10. Just use the discount code BROKEBACKPACKER and your membership is discounted from $49 a year to only $39.

Worldpackers: connecting travellers with  meaningful travel experiences.

Alternatively, Workaway is another excellent common platform used by travellers searching for volunteering opportunities. Workaway is pretty massive, with over 40,000 hosts registered (that’s 40,000 opportunities) and over 350,000 reviews on the site. With a database base that big, odds are you’ll be able to find something that strikes your fancy. You can  read our review of Workaway  for more info on using this terrific platform.

Volunteer programs run through reputable work exchange programs like Worldpackers and platforms like Workaway are usually very well-managed. However, whenever you are volunteering do stay vigilant, especially when working with animals or children.

Global Work and Travel

Last, but not certainly not least, Global Work and Travel is another viable option for finding volunteer opportunities in Cape Town. What sets Global Work and Travel apart from other volunteering platforms is the amount of assistance they give, from a 24/7 global help-line, help with VISA processing to airport transfers and continued support once you are in Cape Town.

They offer a Cape Town Community Center Project for volunteers wanting to stay anywhere from 2 to 12 weeks. You’ll be providing educational and developmental opportunities for children; an incredibly enriching and vital part of outreach work in the local area. As with all volunteer abroad programs, there’s a cost, but you’ll be able to pay it off in interest-free instalments. Don’t forget to bring your camera and make sure you are between the ages of 18-85 to qualify!

Make Money Online Whilst Backpacking Cape Town

Traveling in Cape Town long-term? Keen to make some cash when you are not exploring the city?

Teaching English online is a great way to earn a consistent income—from anywhere in the world with a good internet connection. Depending on your qualifications (or your motivation to obtain qualifications like a TEFL certificate) you can teach English remotely from your laptop, save some cash for your next adventure, and make a positive impact on the world by improving another person’s language skills! It’s a win-win! Check out this detailed article for everything you need to know to start teaching English online .

In addition to giving you the qualifications to teach English online, TEFL courses open up a huge range of opportunities and you can find teaching work all over the world. To find out more about TEFL courses and how you can teach English around the world, read my in-depth report on teaching English abroad .

Broke Backpacker readers get a 50% discount on TEFL courses with MyTEFL (simply enter the code PACK50), to find out more, please read my in-depth report on teaching English abroad.

Whether you are keen to teach English online or looking to take your teaching game a step further by finding a job teaching English in a foreign country, getting your TEFL certificate is absolutely a step in the right direction.

Being a Responsible Backpacker in Cape Town

Reduce your plastic footprint:  Perhaps the best thing you can do for our planet is to make sure you do NOT add to the plastic problem all over the world. Don’t buy one-use water bottles, the plastic ends up in landfill or in the ocean. Instead, pack a  tough travel water bottle .

Go and watch A Plastic Ocean on Netflix – it’ll change how you view the plastic problem in the world; you need to understand what we are up against. If you think it doesn’t matter, get off my fucking site.

Don’t pick up single use plastic bags, you’re a backpacker – take your daypack if you need to go to the shop or run errands.

Bear in mind, that many animal products in countries you travel through will not be ethically farmed and won’t be of the highest quality. I’m a carnivore but when I’m on the road, I only eat chicken. Mass-farming of cows etc leads to the rainforest being cut down – which is obviously a huge problem.

Need more guidance? – Check out our post on  how to be a responsible backpacker.

Backpacking in Cape Town will bring you ample opportunities to participate in debauchery, and it is very important to have fun, let loose, and get a bit wild at times. Most backpacking trips I have been on across the world have included at least a few mornings where I wake up knowing I went too far.

There are some things that will put you in the category of a straight up jackass if you do them. Being super loud and obnoxious in a tiny hostel at 3 AM is a classic rookie backpacker mistake. Everyone in the hostel will hate you when you wake them up. Show your fellow travelers (and locals) respect whilst backpacking in Cape Town and anywhere else for that matter!

• BEST Guesthouses in Bloemfontein
• Is South Africa Safe to Travel?
• The ULTIMATE Guide to Backpacking South Africa
• 27 Items You Need on Your South Africa Packing List

Buy Us a Coffee !

A couple of you lovely readers suggested we set up a tip jar for direct support as an alternative to booking through our links. So we created one!

You can now buy The Broke Backpacker a coffee . If you like and use our content to plan your trips, it’s a much appreciated way to show appreciation 🙂

Alexandria Zboyovski

Share or save this post

I have a small car rental company, servicing Swellendam, George airport and Cape Town airport. How can I advertise with you and at what cost

Please contact me at [email protected] !

I never would have given a thought of traveling to Africa but after reading this article it is now on my list. I also love the pictures.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Notify me of followup comments via e-mail.

Winter is here! Check out the winter wonderlands at these 5 amazing winter destinations in Montana

• Travel Destinations
• Africa & Middle East
• South Africa

Cape Town’s Table Mountain Cable Car Adventure

Published: September 9, 2024

by Jacinda Munos

Have you ever wondered what it's like to ride the Table Mountain Cable Car in Cape Town? This thrilling adventure offers breathtaking views of the city, ocean, and surrounding landscapes. As you ascend, the panoramic vistas unfold, revealing the beauty of Cape Town from a unique perspective. The rotating cable car ensures everyone gets a 360-degree view, making each moment unforgettable. Whether you're a nature lover, photography enthusiast, or just looking for an exciting experience, the Table Mountain Cable Car promises an adventure you won't forget. Ready to learn more about this incredible journey? Let's dive into the details!

Cape Town's Table Mountain Cable Car Adventure

Cape Town's Table Mountain offers breathtaking views and an unforgettable experience. The cable car ride is a must-do for any visitor. Let's explore some of the best spots to visit during your adventure.

The Cable Car Ride

The journey begins with a thrilling cable car ride. This rotating car provides 360-degree views of the city, ocean, and mountain.

Lower Cable Station : Start your adventure here. The station has a café and a shop for souvenirs. It's the perfect place to grab a snack before heading up.

Rotating Cable Car : Enjoy the ride in a car that rotates, giving everyone a chance to see all the views. It's a short but memorable trip to the top.

Top of Table Mountain

Once you reach the top, there's so much to see and do. The views are spectacular, and there are several paths to explore.

Maclear's Beacon : This is the highest point on Table Mountain. It's a bit of a hike, but the views are worth it. You can see all of Cape Town from here.

Dassie Walk : A short, easy path that offers great views. It's named after the dassies (rock hyraxes) that you might spot along the way.

Flora and Fauna

Table Mountain is home to unique plants and animals. Exploring the flora and fauna is a highlight of the visit.

Fynbos : This unique vegetation is found only in the Cape region. Look for colorful flowers and interesting plants as you walk around.

Wildlife : Keep an eye out for dassies, lizards, and various bird species. The mountain is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts.

Scenic Viewpoints

There are several viewpoints on Table Mountain that offer stunning panoramas. These spots are perfect for photos and taking in the scenery.

Platteklip Gorge : This viewpoint offers a great perspective of the city below. It's a popular spot for hikers and photographers.

Twelve Apostles : From here, you can see the famous Twelve Apostles mountain range. It's a breathtaking sight, especially at sunset.

Activities and Amenities

Table Mountain offers more than just views. There are various activities and amenities to enjoy during your visit.

Table Mountain Café : Enjoy a meal or a drink with a view. The café offers a range of options, from snacks to full meals.

Gift Shop : Pick up a souvenir to remember your trip. The shop has a variety of items, from clothing to local crafts.

Abseiling : For the adventurous, try abseiling down the side of the mountain. It's an adrenaline-pumping experience with incredible views.

Sunset and Night Views

The mountain takes on a different beauty as the sun sets and the city lights up. Staying until evening offers a unique perspective.

Sunset Views : Watching the sunset from Table Mountain is a magical experience. The sky turns vibrant colors, and the city lights start to twinkle.

Night Cable Car Ride : Some evenings, the cable car operates after dark. The city lights from above are a sight to behold.

Why You Shouldn't Miss Table Mountain Cable Car

Cape Town's Table Mountain Cable Car offers an unforgettable experience. The breathtaking views from the top are worth every second of the ride. Whether you're a nature lover, a photography enthusiast, or just looking for a unique adventure, this is a must-do.

The cable car ride itself is smooth and provides a 360-degree view of the city, ocean, and mountains. Once at the summit, you can explore various hiking trails , enjoy a meal at the mountaintop café , or simply take in the stunning scenery.

Don't forget to bring a jacket, as it can get chilly at the top. Also, try to go early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds.

Visiting Table Mountain via the cable car is an experience you won't forget. It's a highlight of any trip to Cape Town.

• Privacy Overview
• Strictly Necessary Cookies

This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.

Strictly Necessary Cookie should be enabled at all times so that we can save your preferences for cookie settings.

If you disable this cookie, we will not be able to save your preferences. This means that every time you visit this website you will need to enable or disable cookies again.

Home » Lifestyle » Health

By Chulumanco Mahamba

Digital Night Supervisor

4 minute read

Cape Town man tests positive for mpox, health department urges caution

A 38-year-old man in cape town has tested positive for mpox. authorities are monitoring the situation and conducting contact tracing..

Picture: iStock

The Department of Health is calling on South Africans to be vigilant as the country records one more laboratory-confirmed mpox case.

The department said the patient is a 38-year-old man who went to a private medical practice in Cape Town to seek medical attention on 4 September.

This comes after he experienced typical mpox lesions on the face, trunk, thorax, and genitals, a headache, light sensitivity, a sore throat, and muscle pain.

Mpox patient didn’t travel internationally nor had contacts with confirmed case

The man was not admitted to the hospital but urged to isolate at home while waiting for his test results.

“The results came back positive on Friday, 6 September. According to an investigation report, the patient has no recent international travel history nor contact with a suspected or confirmed mpox case,” the department said in a statement on Monday.

Gauteng Health apologises for Tom London Helen Joseph treatment

ALSO READ: Health department calls for calm as Mpox declared public health emergency

As a result, the Western Cape outbreak response team has been activated, and contact tracing and monitoring activities are ongoing.

The new confirmed case brings the total number of positive cases recorded in the country since the outbreak in May this year to 25 cases, including three deaths.

Twelve of these cases were reported in Gauteng, 11 reported in KwaZulu-Natal, and now two in the Western Cape.

Patient isolating at home

The department said the patient is at home isolating and he is in stable condition.

The health department added, “We urge all the identified and suspected contacts to cooperate with health officials during contact tracing for screening and possible diagnosis to prevent further transmission of this preventable and treatable disease.”

ALSO READ: WHO declares mpox a global health emergency

“The healthcare workers understand the importance of confidentiality in managing reported and suspected cases of notifiable medical conditions.”

This comes as mpox was declared a public health emergency of continental security on 13 August by Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) and a public health emergency of international concern on 14 August 2024 by the World Health Organisation (WHO).

On Friday, the Africa CDC and WHO launched a joint continental response plan for Africa to support countries’ efforts to curb the spread of the virus and save and protect lives.

Joint continental response plan

The Mpox Strategic Preparedness and Response Plan includes measures to strengthen surveillance, laboratory detection, case management, infection prevention and control (IPC), vaccination, risk communication and community engagement (RCCE), and research and innovation.

“This is an important milestone for a coordinated action between our agencies to support countries by reinforcing expertise and mobilising resources and capacities to swiftly and effectively halt the spread of mpox,” said Dr Matshidiso Moeti, WHO Regional Director for Africa.

ALSO READ: Grade 1 pupil in Hammanskraal cleared of Mpox

“By coming together, we can achieve more, and our collective strength will carry us further, ensuring that communities and individuals are protected from the threat of this virus.”

Risk of wider transmission low

Meanwhile, the health department said the risk of wider transmission remains low in the country, but anyone can contract mpox regardless of age, gender, sexual orientation, and race.

The common symptoms include a rash that may last for two to four weeks, fever, headache, muscle aches, back pain, low energy, and swollen glands (lymph nodes).

The painful rash looks like blisters or sores and can affect the face, palms of the hands, soles of the feet, and the groin.

Read more on these topics

For more news your way.

Download our app and read this and other great stories on the move. Available for Android and iOS.

EDITOR'S CHOICE

Download The Citizen App for IOS and Android

Click here to get The Citizen news and updates on Whatsapp.

Newsletters

Do not miss a single story. Get all the latest news in your inbox.

RELATED ARTICLES

Tom London complaint: ‘Helen Joseph Hospital needs a permanent CEO,’ says DA

Gauteng Health launches probe after broadcaster Tom London slams ‘Helen Joseph Circus Hospital’ [VIDEO]

A do-or-die treat awaits with the Springboks

• Travel Updates

‘Vegas, Cape Town not out of reach’: Jetstar CEO’s huge plans

As more Aussies rely on cheap fares for travel during these tough economic times, Jetstar boss Stephanie Tully reveals big plans for the budget airline.

‘Don’t blame me’: Stoush over high airfares

Woman stopped at border over single item

Torture threats after man’s illegal photo

Australians wanting cheaper overseas travel could have the option to fly as far as the United States and Africa with Aussie budget airline Jetstar as soon as next year.

Jetstar chief executive Stephanie Tully has spoken exclusively to news.com.au about her plans to extend the airline’s reach.

Jetstar grew its international network by 34 per cent in the last financial year, and Ms Tully says “another big year of growth” is expected in 2024-25.

A major revamp of the Boeing 787 international fleet, which kicks off next year, is going to help make it happen.

“Places like Vegas and Cape Town are not out of reach,” Ms Tully said, quickly adding this was not confirmation these exact routes were locked in.

India and Sri Lanka have also been mentioned previously.

Announcements on new international routes will be made “really soon,” she said.

The Boeing 787s currently fly to destinations like Bali, Honolulu, Tokyo, Osaka, Seoul, Ho Chi Minh City and Bangkok.

It only takes about a month to reconfigure each aircraft during scheduled maintenance. There will be more business class seats (44 instead of 21), the addition of in-flight Wi-Fi for the first time, and perhaps most significantly, lie-flat crew rest areas.

“That means crew can operate longer distances,” the airline chief explained.

There is also the new Airbus A321neo XLR (xtra long range) and more Airbus A321neo LR (long range) aircraft on the way, which will open up new international destinations a bit closer to home.

“The new narrowbodies – what we call the NEOs or XRLs – coming soon, they can go to other places in Southeast Asia,” she said.

“We launched [Sydney]-Rarotonga and Melbourne-Fiji in the last year where you can actually take the smaller aircraft further, which opens up more point to point destinations, which means there will be new places to go in that sort of six to eight hours flying range as well.”

Aussies’ obsession with Bali and Japan

Bali in Indonesia and Japan are Jetstar’s two biggest international markets.

“They are massive for us and there’s no sign of that interest waning at all,” Ms Tully said.

“If we could fly more to Bali, we would.” The airline is restricted by traffic rights.

As for Japan, Ms Tully is keen to expand the destinations Jetstar can fly direct to.

“I’d love to be able to fly directly into Sapporo rather than go via Narita,” she said.

Sapporo, the capital of Hokkaido, is known for its skiing, a big drawcard for Aussies.

Ms Tully said the airline is expecting a “really busy” period of Aussies flying to Japan between December and March for winter.

She also flagged South Korea as a market with potential for growth, and said Rarotonga in the Cook Islands was “doing incredibly well” after Jetstar launched direct flights there just last year, proving there is demand for new Pacific destinations.

“Fiji has always done well but Rarotonga is a bit of a new destination for people to try,” Ms Tully said.

“It feels like you’re stepping back in time … which is really beautiful.”

Vanuatu and other new routes

Jetstar will launch a Sydney-Vanuatu route in December, following Air Vanuatu’s collapse in May.

But Ms Tully said Jetstar and Qantas had already been looking at flying to the destination before the Vanuatu government-owned airline was placed into voluntary liquidation.

Ms Tully, who is excited to visit the nation for the first time, said they predict strong demand like they have seen with Rarotonga.

Other new routes which have been confirmed include Brisbane-Bangkok, Cairns-Maroochydore and Auckland-Maroochydore launching in December, as well as Christchurch-Cairns in April next year.

Jetstar’s ‘best ever’ year

Jetstar has managed to stay standing for 20 years as other low-cost airlines in Australia have tried and failed.

Ms Tully says the key to success has been staying true to the original model: “We have to keep our business a really low cost business to enable low fares.”

Low fares have been particularly sought-after as Aussies tighten the purse strings amid increased cost of living.

“We had 12 million fares last year under $100, that’s a lot of customers flying for under $100,” she said.

“You can’t eat dinner out at a restaurant for under $100 really. It’s fantastic to have options for customers that they can still travel even if they’re feeling economic pressure.”

The Qantas Group posted an underlying profit before tax of $2.08 billion for 2023-24, down 16 per cent on the year prior.

Qantas’ international business copped a hit, generating $556 million in earnings down from $906 million, and Qantas’ domestic business generated $1.06 billion, down from $1.27 billion.

However, the Jetstar Group had its best ever year – generating $497 million in earnings, up 23 per cent from $404 million.

More Coverage

“We had our best ever financial result but also our best ever customer result and our best ever people engagement result, so we hit good results across the board,” Ms Tully said.

When it comes to improving the airline’s reputation, Ms Tully said it can be a long process as people who travel on low-cost leisure airlines tend to fly less often.

“There may have been times Jetstar has let people down and we’re always sorry for that and we have got better, so I think it’s going to take time to change the perception of those who haven’t flown us more recently,” she said.

Add your comment to this story

To join the conversation, please log in. Don't have an account? Register

Join the conversation, you are commenting as Logout

Two politicians have gone toe-to-toe over a call for the consumer watchdog to be given powers to break up airline giants.

A glamorous influencer travelling in Africa has revealed to her thousands on social media followers the single item that got her stopped at the border.

An innocuous mountainside hiding a dark secret sparked an intense stand-off, with one man threatened with prison and torture over a simple photo.

Find Cape Town to Vietnam flights from ZAR 15,316*

Book the best flight from cape town to vietnam.

Cape Town (CPT) to

*Fares displayed have been collected within the last 48hrs and may no longer be available at time of booking. Quoted fares includes taxes, fees, and surcharges.

Find a great way to fly from Cape Town to Vietnam

*Fares displayed have been collected within the last 48hrs and may no longer be available at the time of booking. Quoted fares include taxes, fees, and surcharges.

Explore Cape Town to Vietnam routes with Singapore Airlines

• Johannesburg - Vietnam

Explore Singapore Airlines's Top-Pick Destinations

• Denpasar Bali
• Hong Kong SAR
• Ho Chi Minh City
• Kuala Lumpur