South Africa is a diverse and culturally rich country located at the southern tip of the African continent. It is known for its unique blend of modern and traditional cultures, stunning natural beauty, and rich history.
South Africa is home to a wide range of wildlife, including the iconic Big Five (lion, elephant, leopard, buffalo, and rhinoceros), as well as breathtaking landscapes. South Africa is a land of many contrasts, where vibrant cities, scenic landscapes, and a rich cultural heritage blend to create a truly unforgettable destination.
In South Africa we are planning a little road trip through the country. We start in Cape Town. After a few days we go to Stellenbosch and then drive north-east along the Garden Route. Since we have experienced a lot here, this article can become a little longer.
Here you can find roughly our destinations:
Capetown, Buitengracht Street, Cape Town Ward 115, Kapstadt, Westkap, 8001, Südafrika
Stellenbosch, Stellenbosch Local Municipality, Cape Winelands District Municipality, Westkap, Südafrika
Hermanus, Overstrand Local Municipality, Overberg District Municipality, Westkap, 7200, Südafrika
Indalu Game Reserve, N2 turn off Herbertsdale / Cooper / Buisplaas, GPS: S34 10 788 E 021 48 310, Mossel Bay, 6500, Südafrika
Wilderness, George Local Municipality, Garden Route District Municipality, Westkap, 6560, Südafrika
Ronnies Sex Shop, R62, Swellendam Ward 2, Swellendam Local Municipality, Overberg District Municipality, Westkap, Südafrika
Cape Town
We started our tour in Cape Town. Cape Town is a beautiful coastal city located in the Western Cape province of South Africa. It is known for its stunning natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture.
Cape Town is surrounded by stunning landscapes, including Table Mountain, the iconic flat-topped peak that overlooks the city, and the rugged coastline. The city is also known for its rich cultural heritage, with a mix of African, Dutch, and British influences evident in its architecture, cuisine, and traditions.
Cape Town is a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from all over the world with its stunning natural beauty, vibrant cultural scene, and world-class attractions. With its unique mix of natural beauty, rich history, and modern energy, Cape Town is a must-visit destination in South Africa.
Accommodation
The first days we stayed in our own apartment at Marina Residential in the V&A Waterfront district.
We can highly recommend this location.
https://www.booking.com/hotel/za/005-marina-apartment.de.html
Safety
Cape Town is relatively safe during the day. However, you should only be in busy places before dark.
Below you will find places, beaches, hills, markets we visited during our stay in Cape Town. We spent a total of 8 days (6 at start, 2 at end) in Cape Town.
Sea Point Promenade, Sea Point, Kapstadt, Westkap, 8005, Südafrika
Oranjezicht City Farm Weekend Market, Beach Road, Foreshore, Cape Town Ward 115, Kapstadt, Westkap, 8005, Südafrika
DHLStadion, Fritz Sonnenberg Road, Cape Town Ward 115, Kapstadt, Westkap, 8005, Südafrika
Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa (MOCAA), East Quay Road, Foreshore, Cape Town Ward 115, Kapstadt, Westkap, 8001, Südafrika
Table Mountain, Cape Town Ward 54, Kapstadt, Westkap, 8040, Südafrika
Chapmans Peak Drive, Chapman’s Peak, Kapstadt, Westkap, 7985, Südafrika
Bay Harbour Market, Hout Bay, Kapstadt, Westkap, 7872, Südafrika
Llandudno Beach, Llandudno, Cape Town Ward 74, Kapstadt, Westkap, Südafrika
Fourth Beach, Clifton, Cape Town Ward 54, Kapstadt, Westkap, 8005, Südafrika
Neighbourgoods Market, Albert Road, Woodstock, Kapstadt, Westkap, 7915, Südafrika
Signal Hill, Kapstadt, Westkap, 8051, Südafrika
Bo-Kaap, Chiappini Lane, Bo-Kaap (Schotschekloof), Cape Town Ward 77, Kapstadt, Westkap, 8001, Südafrika
Camps Bay Beach, Camps Bay, Cape Town Ward 54, Kapstadt, Westkap, 8005, Südafrika
Lions Head, Kapstadt, Westkap, 8005, Südafrika
Kap der Guten Hoffnung, Cape of Good Hope Drive, Cape Town Ward 61, Kapstadt, Westkap, Südafrika
Boulders Beach, The Boulders, Cape Town Ward 61, Simon’s Town, Kapstadt, Westkap, Südafrika
Muizenberg Beach, Muizenberg, Kapstadt, Westkap, 7945, Südafrika
Long Street, Stadtzentrum, Kapstadt, Westkap, 8000, Südafrika
V&A Waterfront, East Pier Road, Foreshore, Cape Town Ward 115, Kapstadt, Westkap, 8001, Südafrika
V&A Waterfront
The Victoria & Alfred (V&A) Waterfront in Cape Town is a hub of activity and a major tourist destination. Located on the harbor in the heart of the city, the V&A offers a blend of shopping, dining, entertainment, and cultural attractions. We had also our accommodation in this district.
With its stunning views of Table Mountain, the harbor, and the ocean, the V&A is also a prime location for taking in the natural beauty of Cape Town. Whether you’re looking to indulge in some retail therapy, sample local cuisine, or simply soak up the atmosphere, the V&A Waterfront has something to offer for everyone.
Long Street
Long Street in Cape Town is one of the city’s most vibrant and eclectic areas, known for its diverse mix of culture, history, and entertainment. Running through the heart of the city, Long Street offers a unique experience for visitors.
With its rich cultural heritage and bohemian atmosphere, Long Street is a must-visit destination for those looking to experience the authentic side of Cape Town.
Whether you’re interested in delicious local cuisine, or taking in some live music, Long Street has something for everyone.
Muizenberg Beach
Muizenberg Beach is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, known for its beautiful colorful beach houses.
Located 25km away from Cape Town, Muizenberg Beach is a hub of activity during the summer months, with surfers, sunbathers, and people coming to enjoy the sun and sea. The beach is also famous for its colorful beach huts, which add a playful touch of whimsy to the coastline. The huts serve as changing rooms or as a place to store stuff e.g.: surfboards.
With its relaxed atmosphere, great waves, and numerous surf schools, Muizenberg Beach is a top destination for surfers of all levels, and is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the beach culture of Cape Town.
Boulders Beach
Boulders Beach in Cape Town is a unique and picturesque beach located near Simon’s Town. This sheltered beach is famous for its resident population of African penguins and its large granite boulders that rise from the water and. The penguins have made Boulders Beach their home and visitors can observe them waddling around the boulders and swimming in the crystal clear waters.
Boulders Beach is a protected area and provides an important habitat for these endangered birds. In addition to the penguins, visitors can also enjoy the stunning views, or relax on the sand.
Boulders Beach is a must-visit destination for nature lovers, bird-watchers, and anyone looking to experience the unique beauty of Cape Town’s coastline.
Cape of the good hope
The Cape of Good Hope, located in the southwestern tip of South Africa, is a dramatic and rugged promontory known for its rugged beauty and rich history.
This iconic landmark is a popular destination for tourists, who come to marvel at the dramatic cliffs, pristine beaches, and stunning views of the surrounding coastline. The Cape of Good Hope is also steeped in history, having served as a vital navigational aid for ships traveling between Europe and the East during the age of exploration.
Today, the Cape of Good Hope is part of the Table Mountain National Park and provides a unique and breathtaking landscape for visitors to explore. Whether you’re interested in admiring the views, taking a hike, or simply soaking up the atmosphere, the Cape of Good Hope is a must-visit destination in South Africa.
Tipp: There is a beach close to the Cape of Good Hope sign. At the way to the beach you walk over rocks und small bridges (where a baboon followed us). Then down in a bay lies the deserted beach.
Lions Head
Lion’s Head is a popular mountain peak located between Table Mountain and Signal Hill. With its distinctive shape and spectacular views of the city and the Atlantic Ocean, Lion’s Head is a popular destination for hikers and tourists. The mountain offers a relatively easy hike to the top, with well-marked trails and several lookout points along the way. At the summit, visitors are treated to 360-degree views of Cape Town, the harbor, and the surrounding coastline.
Lion’s Head is especially popular for its spectacular sunrise/sunsets, which draw crowds of visitors to the summit to watch the sun rise below the horizon. Therefore we started our climb up the mountain at 5 am in the morning. The view with the sun rise and the awakening city was amazing.
Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or simply looking for a unique perspective on Cape Town, Lion’s Head is a must-visit destination in the city.
Camps Bay Beach
Camps Bay Beach in Cape Town, is a popular and vibrant beach located in the upscale suburb of Camps Bay.
With its wide stretch of white sand, clear blue waters, Camps Bay Beach is a top destination for sunbathers, surfers, and beach-goers. The beach is also surrounded by a bustling promenade, dotted with restaurants, cafes, and bars, making it a popular spot for dining and socializing.
Bo-Kaap
Bo-Kaap is a historic neighborhood located on the slopes of Signal Hill. Known for its brightly colored houses, cobbled streets, and vibrant community, Bo-Kaap is a cultural hub and a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the history and culture of Cape Town.
With its vibrant energy, cultural richness, and stunning views of the city and the sea, Bo-Kaap is a truly unique and unforgettable experience in Cape Town.
Signal Hill
Signal Hill is a prominent hill located between Table Mountain and Lion’s Head. Known for its stunning views of the city and the Atlantic Ocean, Signal Hill is a popular destination for tourists.
In addition to its scenic views, Signal Hill is also a popular spot for hiking and picnicking, with several well-marked trails and lookout points offering panoramic views of the city and the surrounding coastline. So we enjoyed a good bottle of wine and watched the paragliders flying.
Whether you’re interested in admiring the views, taking a hike, or simply soaking up the atmosphere, Signal Hill is a must-visit destination in Cape Town.
Neighbourgoods Market in the Albert Road
Neighbourgoods Market in the Albert Road is a popular indoor market that showcases local food, art, and fashion. It is a vibrant hub of cultural and creative activity, attracting locals and visitors alike with its eclectic mix of goods, live music, and friendly atmosphere.
The market features a range of vendors selling fresh produce, artisanal goods, and unique finds, making it the perfect place to sample the flavors of Cape Town. The market also features a range of restaurants and cafes offering a variety of cuisines, as well as a large open space for people to relax, socialize, and enjoy live entertainment.
Clifton and Fourth Beach
Fourth Beach in Cape Town is a stunning and secluded beach located in the historic suburb of Clifton. Known for its crystal clear waters and pristine white sand, Fourth Beach is a popular destination for sunbathers, surfers, and beach-goers.
The beach is surrounded by towering cliffs and lush vegetation, giving it a serene and tropical atmosphere. Despite its idyllic setting, Fourth Beach is relatively quiet and peaceful, with a relaxed vibe that attracts locals and visitors alike.
Llandudno Beach
Llandudno Beach in Cape Town, South Africa is a small, secluded beach located in a picturesque bay between Hout Bay and Camps Bay. Known for its stunning scenery and unspoiled beauty, Llandudno Beach is a popular destination for sunbathers, surfers, and beach-goers seeking a more peaceful experience.
The beach is surrounded by towering cliffs, lush vegetation, and crystal clear waters, creating a serene and tropical atmosphere. Despite its remote location, Llandudno Beach is relatively easy to access, with a scenic drive and a small parking area providing convenient access to the beach.
Bay Harbour Market
The Bay Harbour Market is a bustling indoor market located in the neighborhood of Hout Bay. Known for its eclectic mix of vendors, live entertainment, and delicious food, the Bay Harbour Market is a popular destination for visitors. The market features a wide range of stalls selling handcrafted goods, artisanal products, and unique finds, making it the perfect place to sample the flavors of Cape Town.
Chapmans Peak Drive
Chapman’s Peak Drive is a scenic coastal road that winds along the cliffs of the Atlantic Ocean. Known for its breathtaking views and dramatic scenery, Chapman’s Peak Drive is a popular destination for tourists. The drive takes visitors along a 9-kilometer stretch of road, offering panoramic views of the ocean, the nearby mountains, and the lush vegetation that covers the cliffs. The road is also famous for its numerous lookouts and picnic areas, making it a popular spot for sightseeing and relaxation.
Table Mountain
Table Mountain is a iconic landmark located in Cape Town. It is a flat-topped mountain that offers breathtaking views of the city and the surrounding coastline. The mountain is over 1,000 meters tall and is considered one of the New Seven Wonders of Nature.
With its unique ecosystem and diverse wildlife, it is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. Whether you are looking for a challenging hike or simply want to take in the views from the top. If you don’t want to hike you can use the cable car. Nevertheless Table Mountain is a must-visit destination in Cape Town.
Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa (MOCAA)
The Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa (MOCAA) is a cutting-edge art museum. It is dedicated to showcasing the best of contemporary art from Africa and its diaspora. The museum is housed in the historic Grain Silo building, which has been repurposed and transformed into a state-of-the-art museum space.
MOCAA boasts a collection of over 100 galleries and over 9,000 works of art, making it the largest museum of contemporary African art in the world.
Cape Town Stadium
The Cape Town Stadium is a multi-purpose stadium located in the Green Point neighborhood of Cape Town, South Africa. Built specifically for the 2010 FIFA World Cup, it has since become a prominent landmark and a popular tourist destination in the city. With a seating capacity of over 55,000, the stadium is home to several sports teams and hosts a variety of events, including concerts, cultural festivals, and sporting events.
Fortunately, we were able to watch a game of a local soccer club at the station. Unfortunately, there were very few spectators, but we were allowed into the VIP area ourselves.
Oranjezicht City Farm Weekend Market
The Oranjezicht City Farm Weekend Market is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. Held every Saturday and Sunday, it is one of the city’s largest and most vibrant farmers’ markets, showcasing the best of South Africa’s local produce and artisanal goods.
The market is located in the historic neighborhood of Oranjezicht and is set against the stunning backdrop of Table Mountain. With a focus on locally sourced, organic, and sustainable products, the market is a celebration of the region’s rich food culture and a unique opportunity to taste the flavors of Cape Town. Whether you’re a foodie, a shopper, or just looking for a fun weekend activity, the Oranjezicht City Farm Weekend Market is a must-visit in Cape Town.
Sea Point Promenade
The Sea Point Promenade is a scenic coastal walkway located in the Sea Point neighborhood. Stretching along the Atlantic Ocean, the promenade offers panoramic views of the sea, the nearby mountains, and the city skyline. It is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, who come to enjoy the fresh sea air, the lively atmosphere, and the many recreational activities on offer.
Stellenbosch
After a few days in Cape Town, we drove to Stellenbosch, the famous wine growing area.
Stellenbosch is a historic town located in the Western Cape province of South Africa. It is renowned for its stunning landscapes, world-class wine industry, and rich cultural heritage. With its rolling hills, vineyards, and charming Cape Dutch architecture, Stellenbosch is one of the country’s most picturesque destinations.
Overnight we stayed at Zorgvliet.
Babylonstoren
Of course, a wine tasting was also on the program. For this we were on the farm Babylonstoren.
Babylonstoren is a historic farm located in the Stellenbosch region of South Africa. It is known for its lush gardens and beautiful vineyards, as well as its unique architecture and rich history. Established in the 1700s, Babylonstoren has been carefully restored to preserve its original charm and character, while also incorporating modern amenities and sustainability practices.
Today, it is a popular destination for tourists, offering a glimpse into the region’s agricultural heritage and a chance to experience its natural beauty. With its rich history, stunning scenery, and abundant offerings, it is a true gem of the Cape Winelands.
Hermanus
A lot of miles later we made our way to Hermanus.
Hermanus is a picturesque coastal town located in the Western Cape province of South Africa. It is known for its breathtaking views of the ocean, its vibrant cultural scene, and its abundant wildlife. Hermanus is renowned as one of the best land-based whale watching destinations in the world, attracting visitors from all over to see the Southern Right Whales that migrate to the area each year. With its spectacular scenery, rich cultural heritage, and abundance of natural wonders, it is a true gem of the Western Cape.
We can especially highlight the few pubs there, where we had a great time.
Indalu Game Reserve
Indalu Game Reserve is a privately owned wildlife reserve located in the Western Cape province of South Africa. It is known for its diverse wildlife, stunning landscapes, and responsible eco-tourism practices. The reserve is home to a range of animals, including antelopes, zebras, giraffes, elephants, and a variety of bird species. Visitors to Indalu can go on guided game drives, bush walks, and horseback safaris, and also enjoy the comfortable accommodations offered on site.
We did a safari tour with a short walk next to elephants. It was an incredible moment with these beautiful animals.
A short drive on the Garden Route
The Garden Route is a scenic coastal drive in South Africa, stretching from Mossel Bay to the Storms River. It is known for its stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and charming coastal towns. The route winds along the rugged coast, passing through rolling hills, lush forests, and pristine beaches, offering visitors a chance to experience the natural beauty of South Africa. Along the way, visitors can explore charming towns, go on outdoor adventures, sample the local cuisine, and more.
Our plan was to drive the whole route to Port Elizabeth, but we changed our plans. So we had only one stop in Wilderness and after one night, we turned back again towards Cape Town.
Wilderness
Wilderness is a charming coastal town located in the Western Cape province of South Africa. It is known for its stunning scenery, diverse wildlife, and vibrant outdoor recreation scene. With its pristine beaches, lush forests, and rolling hills, Wilderness is a true paradise for nature lovers. The town is surrounded by several nature reserves and national parks, offering ample opportunities for outdoor adventures, from hiking and kayaking to whale watching and birding.
In Wilderness we ate in the Locals Diner. But the highlight was the sunset on the Wilderness Beach. I have not seen anything like this anywhere yet.
Wilderness Beach
On the way back, along Route 62
Ronnies Sex Shop
Ronnies Sex Shop is a landmark and popular tourist destination. It is known for its unique and quirky name, as well as its iconic sign which has become a staple of the local landscape.
Although its name might suggest otherwise, Ronnies Sex Shop is actually a popular restaurant and bar that offers a range of dining and entertainment options. Visitors can enjoy delicious food, refreshing drinks, live music, and a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Despite its playful name, Ronnies Sex Shop is a family-friendly establishment that has become a staple of the local community and a must-visit destination for tourists. With its iconic sign, delicious food, and lively atmosphere, it is a true South African landmark.
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