Camps Bay, The Waterfront, Chapman’s Peak Drive, Cape Point, The Cable Car that's what Cape Town is all about. Isn't it? Well, yes, but, if you want to go off with the locals, off the beaten track and see fun things most other people don't, then, this is the perfect page for you to read!
1. Picnic on Table Mountain
Instead of taking the cable car up the mountain, why not pack a picnic and climb one of the many fascinating hiking trails up the mountain. There are plenty of trails that cater for every persons skills and fitness levels. Platteklip Gorge is a nice comfortable trail to start with, while Devils Peak is a bit more adventurous! A little bit of sweat is certainly worth the great views and feel good factor when you reach the summit! For maps on Table Mountain check out www.tablemountain.net. Remember, always climb the mountain with at least 2 people and always tell someone where you are going in case you run into hiking trouble.
2. Kayak Capes Town's Coast
Super Cool fun! You don't need to have any previous kayaking expereince to do this and it is the perfect way to see Table Mountain from a different perspective. There are lots of companies that offer these safaris, so prices can be competitive. The best one to do is the 2 hour sunset kayak. It offers superb views and wow photos if it is a nice day. Of course this adventure is weather dependent. If you go in a group this can be an extremely fun event!
3. Jazz festival at Kirstenbosch
Summer and the glorious sun brings lots of open air concerts to Kirstenbosch Gardens and this is the perfect way to relax and enjoy an evening in their beautiful grounds. Pack a picnic (or pamper yourself and have one made up for you) and enjoy the sunsetting in fantastic surrounds. There are often very good local and international Jazz bands that perform here! It is certainly a pleasant way to while away a lazy summer evening!
4. Planetarium
If the weather is bad or you just want another unusual activity, visit the Planetarium in Queen Victoria Street. The show is mind blowing and will certinly put your life into perspective! If you aren't familiar with the Southern Hemisphere and its amazing stars, then this is the perfect place for you to take a quick crash course and impress your friends with your knowledge!
5. Bored of Hollywood?
Treat yourself to some real movie magic at an art house viewing at the Labia Theatre in Orange Street. There are some really talented South African directors with cool movie ideas. Lots of the movies are emotive and inspirational and certainly thought provoking!
6. Bike the Cape Peninsula
Feeling energetic? This is the perfect thing to do. The route from Llundudno to Camps Bay is really scenic (and mostly flat, phew!) Downhill Adventures is a good company to contact for this. www.downhilladventures.com. If you are feeling even more enrgectic, go along the Chapmans Peak - the route of the Argus Cycle Race. It is breathtaking.
7. Harley Davidson Glory
This is always an all time favourite! Hire your Harley from the Harley Davidson Bike store in Cape Town and either go it alone or ride pillion! This is a true treat. With so many fantastic coastal routes to explore, or winelands to roar around, it will be hard not to feel like a celebrity!
Happy travels!