Conversations about spotting the Big 5 in South Africa have always been massive, but did you know that the oceans surrounding South Africa are home to a different kind of Big 5? South Africa’s Marine Big 5 consists of the whale, shark, seal, penguin and dolphin. These extraordinary animals have to be ticked-off your bucket list as you travel around the southern tip of Africa. 1. African Penguin / Marine Big 5 These cute creatures with black and white plumage were almost extinct at one point. But now you can spot them in the thousands at places like Boulder’s Beach in Simon’s Town, Dassen Island, Dyer Island, Bird Island, Robben Island and St Croix Island. 2. Cape Fur Seal / Marine Big 5 One of the biggest marine tourist attractions in Cape Town, the Cape Fur Seal will put on a show for you in places like Hout Bay and Kalk Bay harbour. You can even go snorkelling with these seals
When it comes to spotting birds of prey, you don’t have to go further than Cape Town. Birds of prey ranging from the Verreaux’s Eagle, the Jackal Buzzard, the Black Harrier, the African Goshawk, the Kite and the Rock Kestrel all inhabit Cape Town. All of these beautiful predatory birds can be found when taking your own safari drive around places like the Winelands and Cape Point. Verreaux’s (Black) Eagle / Cape Town Safari This black beauty can be found in the more mountainous regions of Cape Town with rocky cliffs. They breed between April and July and feed primarily on Rock Hyraxes. The scientific name for this raptor is ‘Aquila verrauxii’. With a wingspan of 2.3 metres, these birds of prey can be seen from below with a white Y underneath their wings. Jackal Buzzard / Cape Town Safari The Buteo rufofuscus has ominous dark red and brown eyes which can be seen if
The Cape Peninsula is a place that offers some superb year-round attractions, from its stupendous beaches and dramatic scenery to some of the best hiking in the world. Pack your bag for adventure because exploring this majestic region offers plenty of fun and excitement. Take a drive around Chapman’s Peak Chapman’s Peak is definitely one of the most scenic drives in the world. It’s an oceanic drive that links Hout Bay with Noordhoek and is sure to amaze you with its stunning views. The road is definitely an adventure as it was gently cut out of the cliff. The stretch is also a beautiful place to go on a long-distance cycle because of the sea breeze and the winding turns. The rugged beauty of Chapman’s Peak Drive has been attracting travellers for years; a breathtaking part of the Atlantic Seaboard that is also home to many hidden gems and scenic vistas that you will not
People from all over the world often flock to South Africa in order to see the “Big 5” in action, but little do they know that there is a “Small 5” waiting for them on their Cape Town Safari as well, which should be just as celebrated and perhaps even more since they are part of the ecosystem which keeps the Big 5 alive. It’s time to make an addition to your to-do list and find out what exactly constitutes the Small 5. Elephant Shrew – Cape Town Safari The Elephant Shrew or the Elephantulus Myurus, truly is a magnificent creature. it gets its name from from its long snout which resembles an elephant’s trunk and can reach a size of 25cm and weigh 60 grams. They feed on nuts, fruit, seeds and insects and are the food of larger snakes. You can be sure that if you spot one of these little ones, you game
With our special list of lesser known activities and things to do in Cape Town, you’ll be able to live your only life to the fullest, by seizing the day with quite unusual things to do around Cape Town. This is not only for tourists but for those locals who have done all of the mainstream activities, looking for something new and exciting to do. You don’t have to fly overseas to be captured by creativity, adventure and excitement. The Mother City still offers it all. 1. Japanese “ChitChat” evenings / Cape Town The Japanese word for “ChitChat” is PechaKucha. This is a platform similar to that of ‘Ted Talks’ where people have 20 slides to share with an audience where they talk about and exchange ideas, what keeps this fun and entertaining is the fact that each speaker only gets about 20 seconds for each slide. This is an idea that was developed in
If you think you’ve turned every stone in Cape Town, you’re in for a surprise. With locals and tourists hogging the main beaches around Cape Town, you’re probably wondering where you could have your own private beach? You’ve come to the right place. We’re here to tell you exactly where you can find these hidden gems in and around the Cape. 1. Diaz Beach – Cape Point Nature Reserve The Cape Point Nature Reserve is a beautiful part of the Table Mountain National Park, and is the place where you will find Diaz beach. It can be accessed by taking a hike from the parking bay of Cape Point Nature Reserve, and requires a steep walk down a wooden staircase to the beach. It is a pleasant gem which can be enjoyed by you and your family as well. 2. Water’s Edge Simon’s Town / Cape Town Beaches This beach is so secret that we
Formerly known as the Cape of Storms, Cape Town’s first settlers came in 1652 with the arrival of Jan Van Riebeeck and other employees from the Dutch East India Company in order to establish a halfway station for ships travelling to and fro from the Dutch East Indies to Cape Town. The influence of the Dutch is certainly evident in the culture and the architecture of the Cape. Cape Town is definitely a place for discovery and history, so if you’re keen on being enriched by the Cape and what its history has to offer then this is the article for you! 1. Castle of Good Hope The Castle of Good Hope is by far the oldest structure in the whole country and is a perfect example of a ‘bastion fort’. Built between 1666 and 1679 by the Dutch East India Company, The Castle of Good Hope is an amazing piece of architecture filled
If you thought you were stuck in the city with nowhere to hike, look again. The Cape has much to offer with regards to beaten tracks and the wild. Below we’ll be talking about the 9 best hiking trails around Cape Town. So, before you put your boots on, read what we’ve got to say about the trails in and around the beautiful Mother City. 1. Lion’s Head If you’re ready to spend a few hours hiking clockwise around and up a mountain to the top with different views on each side, then Lion’s head is for you. This moderate trail has a total distance of 5km and can be hiked within 3 hours max. Hikers have gone up Lion’s head at midnight with a full moon, in the morning, and just before sunset in order to watch the sun go down from the top. The summit offers breathtaking views of Robben Island and
The hive of activity in recent years along the Garden Route has become pretty well known. As people begin to speak about the extraordinary things to do from kayak and lilo tours to black horse trails, the activities just become more and more. While there’s definitely no shortage of things to do in these wonderful places, the Garden Route will also offer you many awe-inspiring places to go to in order to just sit back, relax and take in each and every sunset with a few deep breaths as an activity. Tsitsikamma Canopy Tours / Garden Route Swing through the forest beneath a lush canopy of trees with the Tsitsikamma zipline while experiencing the secrets of this indigenous jungle. Zipline past giant Yellow Wood trees, Hard Pear trees and other interesting flora. Remember to keep your eyes peeled for the Knysna Loerie and the Narina Trogon as you traverse through the Tsitsikamma air. Kayak and Lilo Tours
Table Mountain is the symbol of Cape Town in the world. This mountain, named because of its flat top, protects the City Bowl and offers a fantastic view of it. When clouds cover the top, Capetonians use to say that the table is set, as it look like a table cloth. It is a Natural World Heritage Site but also one of the New 7 Wonder of Nature selected in 2011. To honour this wonder, the city of Cape Town decided to place yellow frames at 7 different locations to look at Table Mountain from every angle. Giant Yellow Frames This project took shape in partnership with the Cape Town’s World Design Capital 2014 programme. The purpose of the operation is to help tourists to take the best of this monument, but also to remind to the local people the beauty of their Mother City. It is the South African designer Porky Hefer who thought
1- Old Biscuit Mill, Woodstock The vibrant Neighbourhood Market at Old Biscuit Mill is loved by tourists and locals alike, this is one of our favourite food markets for people watching and photography. It’s located in the heart of Woodstock.. The market is open every Saturday from 9:00am to 14:00pm. A post shared by The Old Biscuit Mill (@oldbiscuitmill) on Sep 16, 2016 at 4:54am PDT A post shared by The Old Biscuit Mill (@oldbiscuitmill) on Jan 13, 2017 at 11:02pm PST 2- Blue Bird Garage Market, Muizenberg Situated in the sleepy seaside surfer suburb of Muizenberg is The Blue Bird Food & Goods Market. This market is more of a local and community market, great food and music to be enjoyed. Market is every Friday 4 -10pm rain or sunshine in the heart of Muizenberg! 39 Albertyn Road, Muizenberg A post shared by Blue Bird Garage Market (@bluebirdgaragemarket) on Jun 7, 2016 at 1:14am
Each year, South Africa hosts hundreds of Southern Right Whales from July to November. These impressive creatures, playful, like to surprise us every time. The best spot to see them is Hermanus, in Western Cape, only 2 hours away from Cape Town on the beautiful coastal road. If you get a chance to do a Whale Route Tour this winter, see the behaviours of whales to look for in the Indian Ocean. Breaching It is one of the most spectacular behaviours to watch and involves a whale leaping clear of the wather and then landing again with an anormous splash. Scientists think that this behaviour could either be a form of courtship display, a means of communication or for the shear exuberance of the act. Spyhopping Southern Right Whales occasionally raise their heads vertically above the surface so that their eyes clear the water, sometimes rotating slowly as they do so. It has been suggested
If you come to Cape Town, discover the Garden Route during several days is a must. Its panoramic landscapes are breathtaking and you can do many activities such as discover National Parks, sunbathing on the beach, encouter animals,… However, you can also choose to try more unusual experiences. Discover our 5 original activities on the Garden Route to live a very memorable trip. Elephant Bush Walk At the Buffelsdrift Game Lodge, live the extraordinary adventure to walk with the biggest animal on earth: elephant! In addition to the walk, you will be able to touch them and feed them. A stroll “trunk in hand” is an unforgettable experience. Moreover, the healers will teach you the background of the elephants that you are going to meet and help you to understand their behavior. Animal lovers will fall in love and the others you will succomb to the charm of these smart creatures for sure! Waterfall Zipline
At the Atlantic Ocean’s edge, Cape Town offers many activities during the day and at night. However, don’t misse this magical moment between the two, when the sun set on the sea and the sky become successively orange pink and purple before give way to darkness. Discover 5 spots where you can live a magnificent sunset in Cape Town. Sunset #1: Signal Hill It is probably the most well-known place to see the sunset, and it is worth it! To find the place, you have to drive until the end of the Signal Hill Road to reach a car park. There, just in front of you, stand Lion’s Head and Table Mountain surrounding the City Bowl. On the left, you can see the Atlantic Ocean and Sea Point. It is on this side the the sun set. It progressively disapear in the sea provoking the modification of the color of the sky becoming orange, pink
South Africa is well-known for its amazing safaris. You can choose to spend 4 days in the Kruger National Park or in a Private Game Reserve close to Cape Town. Whatever your choice, you will live an incredible encounter with the wildlife like the famous Big 5 (lion, leopard, rhino, buffalo and elephant)! Discover, in picture, 10 of the most fascinating animals you can meet during a surprising Safari in South Africa. #1: Lion The meeting with the king of the savannah is always awaited with great interest during a Safari! Sometimes, you can see just one of them free-roaming and looking for its next prey. Another time, we can come accross an entire family relaxing in the shade under a tree for instance. #2: Leopard It is always difficult to see leopards during a Safari. To have the opportunity to encounter some of them, prefer Games Viewing at sunrise or sunset. Indeed, it is
Cape Town, its City Centre, malls, mountains and of course, its beaches! With the Atlantic Ocean as far as the eye can see, and even whales on the horizon during the winter, they are idyllic areas to have a rest. Don’t wait any longer and discover 5 places to go to the beach in Cape Town. Beach #1: Camps Bay Only 10 minutes away from the City Centre of Cape Town, Camps Bay is probably the most famous beach of Cape Town. Located at the foot of the Twelve Apotles Mountain Range, is is an inspiring place truly between sea and mountains. The area is lively all the day with numerous restaurants and bars along the palm-tree promenade, which probbly explain that it is a very touristic beach, especially for couples. However, local people also like to come to Camps Bay to play volley ball or simply relax after work. Indeed, it is a splendid
If you plan to travel to Cape Town for your next holidays, don’t forget to go to the magnificent Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden. It is the perfect place for a picnic with friend or family, go hiking, see the whole diversity of the South African vegetation and, of course, have a rest in the sun. A relaxing place Only 20-minute driving away from Cape Town, the Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden is located at the foot of the Table Mountain Range, just next to the Table Mountain National Park. However, the park is a part of the Cape Floristic Region, also named Cape Floral Kingdom, itself listed as UNESCO World Heritage. In the Kirstenbosch Botanical Garden, you can discover the typical vegetation of Cape Town called Fynbos. You can also observe flowers from all the country like the famous South African national flower: the King Protea. Its names means “who can change his form freely”, what
Have you ever dreamed to see whales? So, South Africa is the ideal country! From July to November, you can see these wonderful animals by dozens along the coast. Thanks to this tour, come to discover the Whale Route from Cape Town to Hermanus. Gaze at the wealth of the Overberg region, between botanical gardens, nature reserve, winelands and ocean, of course. STEP #1 | Gordons Bay, Pringle Bay & Bettys Bay and the Harold Porter National Botanical Garden Gordons Bay It is during the 1930’s that three investors: Harold Porter, Arthur Youldon and Jack Clarence bought lands on the False Bay west coast. They decide to call the area “Hangklip Beach Estates” that they divide into three distinct small towns: Bettys Bay, Gordons Bay and Rooiels, selling plots, here and there, to interested people. After a fire in 1940, Harold Porter decided to buy large parts of Bettys Bay to create a garden and
South Africa is worldwide known for the variety of animals that can be found on its soil, especially the Big 5: lion, leopard, elephant, rhino and buffalo. Sometimes, you can even have the opportunity to see the Big 7 (+ whale and shark). Whether if you are a tourist or a local person, it is always impressive and thrilling to see them free-roaming in their natural environment. Without further delay, discover 5 parks to live an unforgettable Safari in South Africa. From Cape Town Inverdoorn Game Reserve Located in the semi-arid region of the Klein Karoo, in the Western Cape, the Inverdoorn Game Reserve is a 10,000ha-area hosting about 1,200 animals, rescued for the most part of them. Only about 2h30 driving from Cape Town, you can choose to spend 1 or 2 days in this remarkable reserve. During Games Viewing in an open 4×4, you will probably have the opportunity to see the Big
South Africa becomes more and more famous around the world for its delicious wines and Going on a Wine Tasting Tour is a must. Numerous festivals in the country reward the best ones and many passionate wine-growers work every day to produce fine wines. The region around Cape Town is well-known for its Winelands which produce the major proportion of wines in the country. Let’s discover 4 Winelands must-sees around Cape Town. Constantia: the oldest vineyards This current luxurious suburb of Cape Town hosted the first vineyards in the region. It is Simon Van Der Stel, from the Dutch East India Company, who established the first wine estate there. He named it “Groot Constantia” that can be translated by “Great Constantia”, in homage to his wife Constance. During the 17th Century, the district was well-known for its dessert white wines that could be found on European tables like in France. Constantia still produces the best
South Africa is well-known for Game Viewing and especially Safaris in the Kruger National Park (Take a look at our exclusive 4 Day Kruger Safari), which are ones of the best in the world to see the Big 5 (lion, leopard, elephant, rhino and buffalo). However, coming to Cape Town, you can see other animals just as remarkable on earth or in the ocean. Discover 5 places where you can see animals in Cape Town and around. Whales at Hermanus Whales are one of the most impressive animals you can find in the world. You can only find them in specific areas, mostly close to the poles. Nevertheless, if you come in South Africa between July and September, you have every chance to see some Southern Right Whales in Hermanus, one of the best spots in the world, during a wonderful tour on the Whale Route. Indeed, they leave the Antarctic Ocean once a year
Cape Point, is the tip of the Cape Peninsula. It is a must-see in South Africa! With many beaches, dozens of different views, a fascinating maritime history, among the most diverse fauna and flora in the world, this emblematic place in South Africa is full of activities. Before spending your holidays there, discover this magical place in the footsteps of greatest explorers, in a combination of History and Legends. Cape Point is located 60 km from Cape Town, inside the Table Mountain National Park, part of the Cape Floral Region. Covering an area of 46 000 km², it is the smallest of the six identified floral kingdoms in the world, but also the richest of them. For instance, we can find the most important density of plant species in the world. Moreover, the Table Mountain totalise about 2,200 different species, that is as much as the United Kingdom. This area is also a World Heritage
We can only agree with the famous British newspaper, The Telegraph, when it announced earlier in 2016 that Cape Town is the best city in the world. So, if you are not convinced yet and still hesitate to come to The Mother City for your next holidays, take a look at this 10 pictures from the Best of Cape Town. 1. The Twelve Apostles Mountain Range Overlooking the beach of Camps Bay, the Twelve Apostles Mountain Range is one of the symbols of Cape Town. Actually, it counts 18 peaks and each having a name. 2. Hout Bay The harbour of Hout Bay is well-known by the local people. It is a charming place surrounded by mountains by the beautiful place of Llandudno next to it. There, you can have the best Fish and Chips you have ever eaten or simply have an ice cream taking in the wonderful view. If you are in Cape
A Winelands tour is one of the main attractions in Cape Town! With mountains at the background, the vineyards of the region count among the most beautiful in the world and have nothing to be ashamed of in comparison to the French or Californian ones. Whatever the season, it is always a pleasure to taste the South African wines to appreciate their wealth and diversity. Before the tasting, let’s take a moment to go back to the origins of the Winelands in Cape Town. A Dutch and French legacy It is in 1652 that Jan Van Riebeek, member of the Dutch East India Company arrived in the city now known as Cape Town. His purpose was to forify a sort of way-station for the boats sailing from the Dutch Republic to Batavia (Jakarta today). This area was also used as a supply base for the ships, so the Company needed to cultivate cereals, vegetables and
Every first Thursday of every month, the City Centre of Cape Town lives at the pace of art! Indeed, the aptly named “First Thursdays” is a monthly event, allowing tourists and local people to discover some of the numerous art galleries of Cape Town from 5pm to 9pm and for free! It is an unexpected and original way to discover the Mother City on foot and meet people through art. Streets overflows with people in a warm and friendly atmosphere. Some merchants are in the street to show you their handcrafted and typical South African products while artists perform dance or music in the street. Created in 2012, with only 6 art galleries, this phenomenon never stop attracting more and more people each month. Whether if you are an art lover or a novice just curious to discover the Cape Town creativity, you will not be disappointed. On the way into galleries, you can of
Whether during the summer or the winter, the Harold Porter National Botanical Garden, along the sea coast on the Whale Route, is a must-see. Located less than 2 hours from Cape Town, this place will carry you away between tranquility and peacefulness. At the foot of three majestic mountains, the stunning scenery seems unreal. The park will show you the diversity of the South African vegetation thanks to many paths, among flowers, rivers and waterfalls. If you are lucky enough, you can even find the gardeners take care of this beautiful area. Gardening lovers, it is a fantastic opportunity to take precious advices for your own garden! In addition, if you want the same plants at home, don’t miss a stop at the Plant Sales Area next to the entrance and the Book/Souvenir Shop to know more about the South African vegetation. For the more adventurous, you can choose to do several trails in the
It’s decided, you’re coming to South Africa and Cape Town for your next holidays! Excellent choice! In addition to meet interesting people, discover a new culture you might learn new words. To be well-prepared, here are 5 South African words to know before your holidays in Cape Town. 1. Ubuntu Steming from the Bantu philosophy, Ubuntu is a concept close to fraternity and humanity that can be summarised by the sentence “I am what I am because of who we all are”. This notion was a basic in the way of thinking of Nelson Mandela, Desmond Tutu and many others for the reconciliation after the Apartheid. “It speaks of the very essence of being human… you are generous, you are hospitable, you are friendly and caring and compassionate. You share what you have. It is to say, ‘My humanity is inextricably bound up in yours.’ We belong in a bundle of life.” Desmond Tutu 2.
Thrill seeker? The 216-meter height Bungee Jump at Tsitsikamma on the Bloukrans River Bridge is made for you! It’s YOUR moment! Here is an overlook of the feelings you can expect during your jump… It is the highest jump from a bridge in the world!! The experience starts on the road, when, coming from the east, you drive ON the bridge before jumping FROM it. After you’ve been equipped, you will join the Bloukrans River Bridge and its jumping area walking. The tension and adrenaline are rising and it is time to look at the impressive landscape. The river under your feet weaves between the luxuriant vegetation to join the Indian Ocean. Even if you don’t jump, you can go with your friends and have the opportunity to see this amazing view. Not recommended for those scared of heights, of course! The Bloukrans River Bridge is a part of the N2. This road goes along
When everyone in the Northern hemisphere is going to beaches filled with people, why not try a more original destination: Cape Town during the Winter! During this period, the city is yours and you can make the most of it avoiding the crowd of the high season. Moreover, the cost of life is cheaper, which allows you to enjoy even more Cape Town! Let’s discover 5 activities among so many others that you can do during the Winter in the Mother City… 1. Whale Watching It is now worldwide known that South Africa is on marvelous place to see whales, especially Southern Right Whales. From July to November, they live the cold waters of the Antarctic Ocean to our coasts to give birth to they calves. From the Sea Point Promenade or Camps Bay, you can see some whales at the horizon. However, if you want to be sure to see them, do not hesitate
Cape Town is a city where you can always find activities to do! Whether with family or friends, during the summer or the winter, there is something for everyone. If your are not afraid to wake up early in the morning and live an intensive day until sundown, let us show you our selection of 5 activities to do in one day in Cape Town! 1. NeighbourGoods Market Located in Woodstock and open every Saturday from 9h00 to 14h00, the NeighourGoods Market is the perfect place to start the day in a joyous and relaxed atmosphere. Surrounded by local people and curious tourists, discover specialities from all over the world: Asian ravioli, French crêpes, Wraps, Smoothies, Wines and of course South African Biltong. In the middle of a true melting pot, appreciate a good meal served with smile. Just next, don’t miss the opportunity to visit the Old Biscuit Mill where you can now find