Accommodation, tours and safaris in Africa

Cape Town

Few places in the world possess the beauty and style of the historic and culturally vibrant Cape Town, the so-called "Mother City" and the oldest metropolis in South Africa with a cultural heritage spanning more than 300 years. It also has some of the top attractions in South Africa, all of which should be on your itinerary.
Apart from the unmissable charms of Table Mountain, the vibrant and cosmopolitan city of Cape Town offers a host of sights and activities, including wonderful Victorian and Art Deco architecture, fascinating museums, great shopping, superb restaurants, live music, theatres and night-clubs.
Look out for the beautiful Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens on the eastern side of the mountain, devoted almost exclusively to indigenous plants and amongst the most beautiful gardens in the world. The Sunday afternoon music concerts held here have become a Cape Town institution and are well worth a visit.

Major Attractions

Table Mountain - Perhaps the most remarkable attraction to be seen here, flanked as it is by the landmarks of Devils Peak, Lions Head and Signal Hill. There are few better ways to start your visit to Cape Town than with a trip in the revolving cable car up to the 1,086-metre summit of Table Mountain. The breathtaking views from here are a superb way to get your bearings.

Victoria & A Waterfront - Situated in the heart of Cape Town's working harbour, the V&A Waterfront has become South Africa's most visited destination. Set against a backdrop of magnificent sea and mountain views, exciting shopping and entertainment venues rub shoulders with imaginative office locations, world-class hotels and luxury apartments set around the marina.

Robben Island - Take a ferry from the V & A Waterfront to Robben Island, a former prison (now a national monument) where even a casual visit becomes an emotional journey echoing with the tribulations of stalwarts of the struggle against Apartheid. Once you arrive on the island, where many of South Africa's freedom fighters, including Nelson Mandela, were incarcerated, a former prisoner will guide you around pointing out everything of significance, including Mandela's cell.

Cape Flats Townships - For a deeper insight and understanding of South Africa's past, present and future take our guided "Walk to Freedom" tour which, in addition to a visit to Robben Island, includes the Cape Flats townships and Cape Town's rejuvenated Malay quarter, with its well-preserved mainly Victorian houses.

Atlantic Seaboard - The Atlantic Seaboard offers beautiful sandy beaches, restaurants, bars and plenty of hotels and guesthouses to choose from, most with great views. This is where young and old alike come to play and relax. If you are feeling energetic you can try kayaking, surfing or hiking, to name nut a few of the activities on offer. For something really different you could even climb one of the mountains then launch yourself off with just a paraglider between you and a hard landing. At certain times of year look out, too, for the Southern Right and humpback whales, which are often spotted frolicking in the waves.

Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve - Take a day trip from Cape Town to visit this spectacular nature reserve, where you can enjoy stunning scenery, fantastic walks and deserted beaches. As part of this trip, stop off at Boulders Beach and meet the colony of 3,000 African penguins.

Western Cape Winelands - Just an hour's drive inland from Cape Town will take you to the beautiful rolling green countryside countryside of the Western Cape Winelands where, among the many attractions on offer, there are plenty of opportunities to visit charming vineyards for cellar tours and wine tasting.

Visit Cape Town as part of an extensive itinerary around South Africa or simply go for a long-weekend escape. Whichever option you choose, the area has plenty to delight everyone. There's so much to see and do here, we recommend stays of at least three nights to allow you to really explore this area.