The curious thing about a sequel is that it is never as good as the first, but fortunately the second half of this top ten list breaks that particular mold. Here is the final installment on things you should definitely do while in Cape Town. It is coming into summer so it’s the perfect time to get out and about.
6. Cape Point
Mistakenly thought of as the most southerly tip of the entire African continent and ancient point of no return for drunken sailors on their way to the exotic Orient. Ride the Flying Dutchman Funicalar (return tickets for children R20, adults R45) up to the viewing point underneath the lighthouse and witness the clash of two oceanic titans. Hike the Shipwreck Trail and get a glimpse of some of the twenty-six recorded wrecks around Cape Point. Whale watching, diving, kayaking, hiking and wildlife photography are some of the attractions found on this narrow finger of land. After wandering the point stop off at the Two Oceans Restaurant overlooking False Bay for a drink and a meal.
Visit the Cape Point website for more information.
7. Stellenbosch Wine Route
Free wine, well almost. Visiting Stellenbosch and Franschhoek is a must do trip into wine country and history. The oldest wine route in South Africa has over 148 wine producing members and is based around South Africa’s second oldest town, Stellenbosch. Planning is the key to getting the most out of your trip to the winelands as it covers a large area and you shouldn’t try to do too much. The official wine route page has helpfully divided the region into five sub-routes based on your starting location. This should help you make your way around after more than a few wine tastings. Independent transport is an option but not necessary as wine tour operators will take your around in their own vehicles so you don’t have to worry about drinking and driving. For a really extravagant experience follow the wine route via helicopter.
For more information on the Stellenbosch Wine Route and tour operators visit www.wineroute.co.za
8. Two Oceans Aquarium
A walk through the dark corridors of the Two Oceans Aquarium takes you deep under the sea and over shallow reefs coated in dappled blue light illuminating each new display. Don’t let its status as go-to destination for school trips dissuade you. The aquarium offers various immersive experiences, such as exposing you to the wealth of life from the vast oceans bracketing Africa with the Indian and Atlantic Ocean Galleries, walking through the Kelp Forest or tracing the path of a river from source to mouth. You can also witness Aquarium divers hand-feeding fish, rays, turtle and sharks in the I&J Predator Exhibit (where you can scuba dive with ragged tooth sharks) and Kelp Forest Exhibit. After you have walked up an appetite and all that water has made you thirsty head down the road to the V & A Waterfront and its multitudes of bars and restaurants.
For information on feeding times, opening times, prices and the various projects going on at the Aquarium, visit their homepage.
9. World of Birds
This Cape Town destination for multitudes of school children is in sad decline as it is no longer getting the support it once did. The World of Birds is home to an astounding variety of birds from eagles and owls to tortoises and foxes. Get up close and personal with the majority of wildlife as you walk along the paths that take you inside the animals’ cages. Keep an eye out as many of the inhabitants are good at hiding and you may find one sitting a few centimetres away without realizing it. A popular experience is the Monkey Jungle, which is full of little Squirrel Monkeys eager to climb all over you and grab any lose objects that they may find.
Open every day for only R70 (adults) or R40 (children).
For more information visit the World of Birds website.
10. Long Street on the weekend
If you are in Cape Town, then head down to Long Street in the centre of town. It is the main throughfare for trendsetters to strut their stuff on Friday and Saturday nights. With too many bars, restaurants and clubs to mention you will definitely find something to suit your tastes. Your best bet is to start at the top of Long Street on the corner of Buitensingel and Orange and work your way down, making sure to stop for dinner on the way.
Photos by: clarism_4, KimNowacki, Coda, Jorge Lascar
