Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors to Cape Town

A vibrant city nestled between Table Mountain and the Atlantic Ocean, Cape Town offers an unforgettable experience for first-time visitors to South Africa. From its rich cultural heritage to its stunning natural landscapes, there’s something here to delight everyone.

As your centrally-located base in Cape Town, Ocean View House is excited to share some essential travel tips to help you make the most of your first Mother City adventure.

1. Explore the Outdoors

Cape Town is renowned for its plethora of outdoor activities. Start your day with a hike up Lion’s Head, a short distance from Ocean View House for panoramic views of Camps Bay, the Twelve Apostles, and the vast Atlantic Ocean. Within a short drive you can also try paragliding, inner-city SUP boarding along the canals, stroll the gardens of Kirstenbosch Gardens or hop on a catamaran for a cruise around the coast.

Cape Town also boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Clifton Beach (a little insider tip: this beach is very wind protected!) and Camps Bay Beach are just minutes away from Ocean View House. These beaches offer soft white sand and clear blue waters, perfect for sunbathing, swimming, or enjoying a sunset picnic. Visit Boulders Beach in Simonstown to see the African penguin colony or head to Muizenberg for a surf lesson in true local fashion.

2. Embrace Four Seasons in a Day

Cape Town is known for its temperate Mediterranean climate with hot, sunny summers and mild, wet winters. Locals will warn you however, to pack for multiple seasons no matter what time of year you visit. While you might be enjoying the sunshine on Camps Bay beach, head over the mountain into the winelands and you might be surprised to find windy, cloudy weather perfect to enjoy a glass of South Africa’s finest red!

It’s a good idea to always take an extra jersey or jacket along with you and dress in layers so you can peel off or add another depending on where your travels take you. That way, Cape Town’s notoriously temperamental weather won’t catch you off guard.

3. Discover World-Class Local Cuisine

Cape Town’s culinary scene is a delight for keen foodies from all over the globe to discover. From high-end restaurants to quaint cafes and street food stalls, there’s so much to explore. Don’t miss trying traditional dishes like Bobotie and Cape Malay Curry. For fresh seafood, head to the V&A Waterfront where you can savour the catch of the day while enjoying the lively atmosphere.

Serious fine-dining fundies will be interested to know that in 2024 Cape Town’s culinary accolades grew with La Colombe being awarded the 49th in The World’s Best Restaurants. Together with FYN Restaurant, who ranked 60th, this means South Africa is home to 2 of the world’s top restaurants!

4. Get to know Tipping in South Africa

South Africa has a tipping culture and depending on where you’re visiting from around the globe, this might come as something new. The general rule is to start at 10% of the total bill. Most people working in the service industry rely on tips to make a living wage, so often tips are higher than 10% – especially if you’ve received good service.

Car guards are another uniquely South African thing to get used to. Some are self-appointed and some work at the open parking lots of shopping centres as mandated guards, and have a uniform and code of conduct. The general rule is a R5 to R20 tip depending on the length of stay and whether the guard has been attentive.

5. Visit Historical Sites

With a colonial history dating back to 1652, Cape Town has a rich history to discover during your stay. Some of its iconic landmarks include the Castle of Good Hope, Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned and the District Six Museum. Sites like these offer a deeper understanding of the city’s complex history and its journey towards freedom and equality.

Historic wine farms like Groot Constantia dating back to 1699 offer a glimpse into the Cape’s Dutch settler past and more than 300 years of wine making. Similarly, Franschhoek, which was settled by French Huguenots (or Protestants) fleeing persecution in France, is one of the Cape’s most beautiful areas overflowing with wine and rich history.

6. Take a Scenic Drive

The roads around Cape Town offer some of the most scenic drives in the world. Chapman’s Peak Drive is a must-see, winding its way along the coast with dramatic ocean views and towering cliffs. Head to see the penguins in Betty’s Bay for a spellbinding drive along Clarens Drive. For a day trip, drive to the Cape of Good Hope to experience the rugged beauty of the peninsula and visit the famous lighthouse.

7. Stay Safe and Informed

While Cape Town is a friendly and welcoming city, it’s important to stay aware of your surroundings. Keep your belongings secure and out of sight, avoid walking alone at night, and use reliable transportation options. The staff at Ocean View House are always available to provide advice and assistance to ensure you have a safe and enjoyable stay.

8. Plan Ahead

Cape Town is one of the most popular tourist cities in the world and offers an abundance of activities. Especially if you plan on visiting in the summer months (read peak season) it’s worth planning as many as you can ahead of time to help you make the most of your trip. Whether it’s a tour of the Winelands, a visit to Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, or a day spent exploring Table Mountain, having a rough itinerary can ensure you don’t miss out on any of the highlights.

Cape Town’s Big 6 – Cape Point, Groot Constantia, Kirstenbosch, Robben Island Museum, Table Mountain Cableway, and V&A Waterfront are the iconic destinations that form the core of an experience of the Mother City. They are, however, very busy and booked in advance in the height of summer (November to January) – so book ahead.

9. Pack Smart

When packing for your Cape Town adventure, bring light layers to adapt to the city’s unpredictable weather, including a windbreaker or light jacket for cooler evenings. Comfortable hiking gear, including sturdy shoes and moisture-wicking clothing, is essential for exploring the scenic trails.

Don’t forget your beachwear, such as swimsuits and flip-flops, for relaxing on the pristine beaches. Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat will protect you from the intense sun, while a small daypack, water bottle, and portable charger are perfect for day trips and hikes.

Additionally, pack a compact rain jacket, a travel adapter for Type M plugs, and essential health items like a first aid kit and prescription medications.

10. Getting Around

Getting around Cape Town as a tourist is both convenient and enjoyable, with various transportation options to suit different preferences. Hiring a private tour guide for the day is a great way to explore major attractions and neighbourhoods. For even more flexibility, consider renting a car and venture further afield to destinations like the Cape Winelands or the Cape of Good Hope.

Taxis and ride-hailing services such as Uber and Bolt are widely available for shorter trips or evenings out. Additionally, cycling is a great way to see the city’s picturesque areas, and guided bike tours offer a unique perspective on Cape Town’s scenic routes and cultural landmarks.

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Cape Town awaits with its mix of natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. At Ocean View House, we are here to help you create memories that will last a lifetime.

Get in touch to start planning your adventure in our incredible city!

Image credits:
NYTimes/DaveMayer
FYN Restaurant
La Colombe Restaurant
Nicsha Petroleum
Castle of Good Hope
District Six Museum
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