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Discover Cape Town
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Welcome to Cape Town
Cape Town (affectionately known as the Mother City) is one of the most cosmopolitan and dynamic cities in South Africa and indeed in Africa itself. Rich with flora and fauna from mild temperatures and frequent, glorious weather; and the distinctive Table Mountain dominating the landscape, a visit to Cape Town is surely one you won’t forget. From the peak of Table Mountain to the waterfront shops of the V&A Market to deep-sea diving, there is so much variety to enjoy here. At the end of the day, the region’s delicious food and world-class wines are sure to delight your senses and all activities are accompanied by the well-known, warm hospitality of the locals.
V&A Waterfront
Table Mountain
Signal Hill
Castle of Good Hope
Zeitz Museum Of Contemporary Art Africa
District 6 Museum
Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens
Bo Kaap
Oranjezicht City Farm Market
The Top Attractions in Cape Town
1. V&A Waterfront
A top destination in Cape Town, V&A waterfront is a mix of residential and commercial space with great views of both the ocean and nearby mountains. Enjoy your morning coffee while strolling along the boutique shops and watching the local fisherman come in with the day’s catch. If you want a more in-depth perspective on the local marine life be sure to head into the nearby Cape Town Aquarium. Boat trips around the harbour and helicopter excursions are also on hand to offer you an even more unique and impressive perspective on this popular entertainment district.
2. Table Mountain
Table Mountain is perhaps Cape Town’s most popular and well-known attraction - for good reason. At over 3000 feet high, this distinctive, flat-topped mountain, gives Cape Town an impressive and distinct backdrop. A spectacular destination with an abundant amount of flora and fauna, Table Mountain is full of beauty throughout the year. One can choose to hike to the top of the mountain or take a leisurely trip up by cable car. Sensational views over Cape Town, a restaurant, shops and a multitude of hiking trails for every ability await you at the top.
3. Signal Hill
Situated near Table Mountain, Signal Hill offers excellent and unique views over the city and of Table Mountain (especially at sunset). Easily reached by vehicle and with no major hiking required, Signal Hill is a very popular attraction and makes an ideal picnic spot. Here you’ll also find the famous Noon Gun that is fired every day at twelve o'clock. Other popular activities here include paragliding and flying model aeroplanes.
4. Castle of Good Hope
A historical monument, this stunning 17th-century castle is the oldest colonial building in South Africa and the best example of a Dutch East India Company fort. The iconic landmark is central to Cape Town history and has served as the seat of government and military operations for two centuries. Attractions here include three museums, a magnificent garden and the ceremonial firing of a canon.
5. Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa
Newly opened, this museum is the first major institution dedicated exclusively to artists from Africa and is the largest museum of contemporary African art in the world. Here you can marvel at varied art forms in over 100 galleries, from modern art and impressive photography to unique fashion pieces and stellar audiovisual installations. One can wander the museum independently with an audio guide or participate in one of several different guided tours that are on hand as well.
6. District 6 Museum
Once a lively multicultural area, District 6 was destroyed in the 1960s during Apartheid, and the inhabitants were forcibly moved. This museum houses an impressive collection of historical materials and records of this dark part of Cape Town's past. The museum's goal, with the active involvement of the public, is the construction of housing and the organization of music, literature, and art into a community where there is respect for the dignity, identity and co-existence of different races. Do not miss this opportunity to get to know this important part of South African history.
7. Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens
Regarded as one of the world’s greatest botanical garden’s, as well as one of the largest, Kirstenbosch was founded for the preservation and presentation of the unique flora of South Africa. It is a popular spot for picnicking, hiking (all the way to Table Mountain if you choose), enjoying summer concerts and taking in the panoramic views offered from a tree canopy walkway.
8. Bo Kaap
Not far from the city centre lies one of the most photographed areas of Cape Town, Bo Kaap. It is the cultural centre of Malay culture as well as a former township. The original home to many slaves brought from Malaysia and Indonesia means a majority of the population here is Muslim and offers a different insight into Cape Town’s history. Known for its colourfully painted houses, as well as some of the oldest buildings in the country, such as the Bo Kaap Museum and the Auwal Mosque, this is a must-visit, culturally significant neighbourhood of Cape Town.
9. Oranjezicht City Farm Market
Held every weekend morning at Granger Bay, adjacent to the V&A Market; this community farmers market offers products from local, artisanal food producers. Here you can shop and sample local, organic food, in support of the nonprofit Oranjezicht City Farm. Be sure to buy your breakfast or brunch here and enjoy your meal at one of the communal tables that offer wonderful ocean views.
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