The Ultimate Guide to South Africa's Western Cape

One of my favorite things to do was sit at the Hout Bay Lookout for sunset and whale watching. My friends and I.would spend hours just sitting there and talking. There is a cave along the curve that covers and protects you from the wind. One of the days I was there I enjoyed a full moon in the back, the sunset in front of me, and whales below!

Hiking to the top of Table Mountain. Table Mountain is one of the New Seven Wonders of Nature, and you can tell by just looking at the flat top that it's pretty awesome, but immersing yourself in nature by hiking it? It's otherworldly! We chose one of the medium routes, which took us about three hours. It was a foggy day and the view was incredible.

Three-day garden route tour and safari: I got to know beautiful places like the Robberg Peninsula, Myoli Beach, and Knysna’s Heads. I also kayaked all the way to a waterfall and did a safari game drive where we were lucky enough to spot the Big Five.

Bungee jumping: For a more touristy experience, I bungee jumped off the Bloukrans Bridge—at 216 meters, this is one of the highest commercial bridge bungee jumps in the world. It was on my birthday and everyone was really friendly and excited for me. They have a DJ at the top of the bridge and there are people dancing and cheering you on before jumping.

Cape of Good Hope: The most southwestern point of the African continent. I didn't just pose for the picture, but also did the complete hike along the nature reserve.

South African penguins: There is a large colony of penguins at Boulder’s Beach. You can observe and even swim next to them without bothering them.

Surfers watching at Muizenberg Beach: The beach is a Blue Flag beach, meaning it is safe to swim and surf here, and it is warmer than on the other side of town like Camps Bay. I took a surf lesson and decided it wasn’t for me, so instead I enjoyed my afternoons just sitting at the beach, watching surfers catch along all the waves they could. Even if you go swimming, you can enter the ocean and walk about 30 meters and the water will still be below your knees.

Africa Café in Cape Town: Restaurant with traditional decoration and dishes

Upper Union: Tucked just off Kloof Street, it’s housed in a charming building featuring a light-filled courtyard and a conservatory, making it an inviting spot year-round. The restaurant describes itself as “expertly curated” and “for the creative and curious”—phrases that can sometimes feel overused, but in this case, they genuinely reflect the experience. The focus is on small plates, perfect for sharing, or you can opt for a thoughtfully composed set menu. The service stands out too—warm, welcoming, and clearly well-informed.

Chef’s Warehouse and Canteen: From Liam Tomlin, this is a globally inspired tapa concept executed with an exceptional flair. You can also order a lá carte.

ËLGR: If you are looking for relaxed fine dining in Cape Town, then ËLGR is for you. Located in the former home of Janse & Co.—where chef Jesper Nilsson once worked—he now brings his own interpretation of fine dining to the space. Think Nordic influences blended with local South African ingredients, all served in a stylish yet laid-back atmosphere.

Seebamboes: A unique experience by Chef Adél Hughes, who celebrates the connection between land and sea. There is no menu, but rather you book a surprise menu and wait for the magic!