2-Day Cape Town Adventure: Outdoor Activities & Nightlife with Friends

Cape Town, South Africa

2 days

Table Mountain and the Twelve Apostles Mountain Range
The penguins at Boulder's beach
Table Mountain
Cape Town
Cape Point, Cape Peninsula

About Cape Town, South Africa

Experience the vibrant culture and breathtaking beauty of Cape Town, South Africa. Nestled between the majestic Table Mountain and the sparkling waters of the Atlantic, Cape Town offers a unique blend of natural wonder and urban sophistication. Explore the historic Robben Island, the colorful Bo-Kaap neighborhood, and the bustling V&A Waterfront. Indulge in world-class wines in the nearby Winelands, or take a scenic drive along the Cape Peninsula to the Cape of Good Hope. Encounter penguins at Boulders Beach, or go whale watching in Hermanus. With its diverse wildlife, rich history, and warm, welcoming people, Cape Town is a destination that captivates the heart and soul. Whether you're an adventurer, a foodie, a history buff, or a nature lover, Cape Town has something for everyone.

2-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Hiking Table Mountain and Exploring the Waterfront

Morning

Start your day with a hike up the iconic Table Mountain. This natural wonder offers breathtaking views of the city and the ocean. It's a moderately challenging hike, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.

Lunch

Enjoy a picnic lunch at the top of Table Mountain. Pack a basket with local delicacies from a nearby market. The panoramic views will make this a lunch to remember.

Afternoon

After descending from Table Mountain, head to the V&A Waterfront. This bustling area offers a variety of shops, entertainment, and beautiful views of the harbor.

Dinner

Dine at a trendy restaurant in the city center. Cape Town is known for its culinary scene, so you're sure to find a place that serves local and international cuisine.

Evening

Experience Cape Town's vibrant nightlife in the Long Street area. This street is lined with pubs, clubs, and bars, perfect for a night out with friends.

Morning

Spend the morning exploring the Cape Point Nature Reserve. This area is home to diverse flora and fauna, and you might even spot some wildlife.

Lunch

Have lunch at a seaside restaurant in Simon's Town. Enjoy fresh seafood while taking in the views of the ocean.

Afternoon

Visit Boulders Beach in the afternoon. This beach is famous for its colony of African Penguins. You can swim, sunbathe, or just enjoy watching the penguins.

Dinner

For dinner, head back to the city center and try a different restaurant. Perhaps sample some traditional South African dishes.

Evening

End your trip with a visit to a rooftop bar. Enjoy a cocktail while taking in the stunning views of Cape Town at night.

Attractions in Itinerary (6)

Table Mountain

1
Table Mountain

Iconic flat-topped mountain with cable cars and hiking trails offering stunning views.

Attractions
Landmarks
Tours
V&A Waterfront

2
V&A Waterfront

A bustling shopping and entertainment district with a stunning view of Table Mountain and the ocean.

Attractions
Entertainment
Shopping
Food and Drink
Long Street

3
Long Street

Known as the cultural hub of Cape Town, Long Street is filled with antique shops, book stores, restaurants, bars and boutique hotels. The Victorian-era buildings lining the street add to its charm.

Attractions
Entertainment
Shopping
Food and Drink
Neighborhoods
Cape Point Nature Reserve

4
Cape Point Nature Reserve

A nature reserve within the Table Mountain National Park featuring a lighthouse, hiking trails, and stunning views.

Attractions
Parks
Landmarks
Simon's Town

5
Simon's Town

Simon's Town is a suburb of Cape Town and is known for its harbour, navy base, and its population of African penguins. The town is rich in history, culture and marine life.

Attractions
Beaches
Landmarks
Tours
Food and Drink
Boulders Beach

6
Boulders Beach

Famous for its colony of African penguins, Boulders Beach offers pristine sandy beaches and clear waters in a sheltered cove.

Beaches
Attractions

Local Food and Drinks (12)

Biltong

Biltong

Biltong is a form of dried, cured meat that originated in South Africa. It is a popular snack in Cape Town and is often made from beef or game, such as springbok.

Boerewors

Boerewors

Boerewors is a type of sausage popular in South African cuisine. It is traditionally grilled on a barbecue and is a staple at social gatherings and family dinners in Cape Town.

Bunny Chow

Bunny Chow

Despite its name, Bunny Chow does not contain any rabbit. It is a South African fast food dish consisting of a hollowed-out loaf of bread filled with curry, originating from the Durban Indian community.

Bobotie

Bobotie

Bobotie is a South African dish consisting of spiced minced meat baked with an egg-based topping. It is of Cape Malay origin and is a well-loved traditional meal in Cape Town.

Malva Pudding

Malva Pudding

Malva Pudding is a sweet and sticky baked dessert of Cape Dutch origin. It contains apricot jam and has a spongy caramelized texture. A cream sauce is often poured over it while it is hot, and it is usually served with custard or ice cream.

Koeksisters

Koeksisters are a traditional South African dessert. They are twisted or braided doughnuts, deep-fried and then soaked in a sweet syrup. They are a popular treat in Cape Town.

Potjiekos

Potjiekos

Potjiekos is a traditional Afrikaner stew, made with meat and vegetables and cooked over coals in a round, cast iron, three-legged pot. The dish has been a part of South African culture for centuries and is a favorite in Cape Town.

Rooibos Tea

Rooibos Tea

Rooibos Tea is a herbal tea that is a favorite in Cape Town. It is made from the leaves of the Rooibos bush, native to South Africa. It is enjoyed hot or cold and is often served with a slice of lemon and honey.

Melktert

Melktert

Melktert is a South African dessert consisting of a sweet pastry crust containing a creamy filling made from milk, flour, sugar and eggs. It is a traditional Afrikaner dessert, commonly found in Cape Town.

Umngqusho

Umngqusho

Umngqusho is a traditional South African dish made from samp (crushed maize) and beans. It is a staple food in many households in Cape Town.

Chakalaka

Chakalaka

Chakalaka is a South African vegetable relish, usually spicy, that is traditionally served with bread, pap, samp, stews or curries. It is a popular side dish in Cape Town.

Amarula

Amarula

Amarula is a cream liqueur from South Africa. It is made with sugar, cream and the fruit of the African Marula tree. It is a popular drink in Cape Town and is often served over ice.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Cape Town, South Africa is during its summer months, from November to February. During this time, the weather is warm, sunny, and perfect for beach activities and exploring the city's outdoor attractions. However, if you're interested in whale watching, the ideal time is between July and November. For wine enthusiasts, the best time to visit the wineries is from late January to April. Please note that December to January is the peak tourist season, so it might be a bit crowded.

National holidays

Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.

DateDayHoliday Name

January 1

Mon

New Year's Day

March 21

Thu

Human Rights Day

March 29

Fri

Good Friday

April 1

Mon

Family Day

April 27

Sat

Freedom Day

May 1

Wed

Workers' Day

June 16

Sun

Youth Day

June 17

Mon

Day off for Youth Day

August 9

Fri

National Women's Day

September 24

Tue

Heritage Day

December 16

Mon

Day of Reconciliation

December 25

Wed

Christmas Day

December 26

Thu

Day of Goodwill

Please note that during national and public holidays, opening hours for establishments, museums, etc. may vary. Don't forget to check in advance!

How to get around

Renting a car is a popular option for getting around Cape Town. It gives you the freedom to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace. There are numerous car rental companies available at the airport and throughout the city.

Ridesharing services like Uber and Bolt are widely available in Cape Town. They are a convenient and often cheaper alternative to traditional taxis. You can book a ride using the respective apps on your smartphone.

Cape Town has a reliable and extensive public bus system known as MyCiti. The buses are modern and comfortable, and they cover most parts of the city and its suburbs. You will need a myconnect card to pay for your trips.

Minibus taxis are a common form of public transport in Cape Town. They operate on set routes and you can hail them from the roadside. They are a cheap and fast way to get around, but can be crowded during peak hours.

Cape Town is a bike-friendly city with dedicated cycling lanes in many areas. You can rent a bike from various outlets in the city and explore at your own pace. It's a great way to see the city and get some exercise at the same time.

Metrorail operates train services in Cape Town. The trains connect the city center with the suburbs and some outlying towns. They are a cheap way to travel, but can be crowded during peak hours and delays are not uncommon.

The City Sightseeing Bus is a hop-on, hop-off tour bus that covers most of Cape Town's major attractions. It's a convenient way to see the city, especially if you're short on time.

Traditional metered taxis are available in Cape Town, but they are not as common as in other cities. They can be hailed on the street or booked in advance. They are more expensive than minibus taxis or ridesharing services.

Cape Town's city center is compact and walkable, making it easy to explore on foot. Many of the city's major attractions, like the V&A Waterfront, Long Street, and the Company's Garden, are within walking distance of each other.

While we strive for accuracy in our "How to get around" section, the information may not always be up-to-date or 100% accurate; we highly recommend cross-checking with local resources before your travel.

Important information

CurrencyR ZAR

Time zoneUTC+2

Driving sideLeft

Emergency phoneAmbulance: 10177; Fire: 10177; Police: 10111

Drinking waterYes

Power sockets

Power socket type CPower socket type MPower socket type N

Voltage230 V

Things to know about Cape Town, South Africa as a first time visitor

1

Cape Town is located in the Southern Hemisphere, so its seasons are opposite to those in the Northern Hemisphere. Summer is from December to February, and winter is from June to August.

2

The official language is English, but you'll also hear Afrikaans and Xhosa spoken.

3

The currency used is the South African Rand (ZAR). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's also good to have some cash on hand for smaller vendors.

4

Tipping is customary in Cape Town. It's usual to tip 10-15% in restaurants. For taxi drivers, rounding up to the nearest 10 Rand is common.

5

Cape Town is generally safe for tourists, but like any major city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings, especially at night.

6

Public transportation is available but can be unreliable. Renting a car or using ride-hailing services like Uber are popular options.

7

Cape Town is in the South Africa Standard Time zone, which is 2 hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT+2).

8

South Africa uses Type M plug sockets. The standard voltage is 230 V, and the standard frequency is 50 Hz.

9

Tap water in Cape Town is safe to drink, but due to periodic water shortages, it's recommended to use water sparingly.

10

Cape Town is known for its strong winds, especially in summer. Be prepared for sudden changes in weather.

11

Sunscreen is a must, as the sun can be very strong, especially during the summer months.

12

Cape Town has a diverse food scene, with a mix of African, European, and Asian influences. Try local dishes like bobotie and bunny chow.

13

Cape Town is a wine lover's paradise, with numerous vineyards and wine tasting tours available in the surrounding areas.

14

Cape Town has a vibrant nightlife, with a range of bars, clubs, and live music venues to choose from.

15

Shopping in Cape Town offers a mix of high-end boutiques, local artisan markets, and shopping malls.

16

Cape Town is a great city for outdoor activities, with opportunities for hiking, surfing, and wildlife spotting.

17

South Africa has a high rate of HIV/AIDS. It's important to take precautions if engaging in activities that could expose you to the virus.

18

Cape Town can get quite chilly in the winter (June to August), with temperatures ranging from 45°F to 63°F (7°C to 17°C).

19

In summer (December to February), temperatures can range from 60°F to 80°F (15°C to 27°C).

20

Healthcare in Cape Town is of a high standard, but it's recommended to have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical expenses.

Basic Afrikaans to know as a first time visitor

English phrase

Native phrase

Pronunciation

When to use it

Hello

Hallo

Hah-low

Greeting someone

Goodbye

Totsiens

Tot-see-ens

Leaving or saying goodbye

Please

Asseblief

Ass-eh-bleef

Making a request

Thank you

Dankie

Dahn-kee

Expressing gratitude

Yes

Ja

Yah

Agreeing or affirming

No

Nee

Nay

Disagreeing or denying

Excuse me

Ekskuus

Eks-koos

Getting attention or apologizing

I'm sorry

Ek is jammer

Eck iss yah-mer

Apologizing

Do you speak English?

Praat jy Engels?

Praat yay Eng-els?

Asking if someone speaks English

I don't understand

Ek verstaan nie

Eck fer-stahn nee

Not understanding something

Where is the bathroom?

Waar is die badkamer?

Vahr iss dee bad-kah-mer?

Looking for the bathroom

How much does this cost?

Hoeveel kos dit?

Who-veal koss dit?

Asking for the price

I need a doctor

Ek het 'n dokter nodig

Eck het 'n dok-ter no-dick

In case of emergency

Can you help me?

Kan jy my help?

Kan yay may help?

Asking for help

Can I use my credit card?

Kan ek my kredietkaart gebruik?

Kan eck may kree-deet-kahrt ge-brake?

Asking to pay with credit card

I would like to order

Ek wil graag bestel

Eck vil graag bestel

Ordering food or drinks

Water, please

Water, asseblief

Vah-ter, ass-eh-bleef

Asking for water

Cheers

Gesondheid

Ge-sund-hate

Making a toast

Good morning

Goeie môre

Goo-ya more-ah

Morning greeting

Good night

Goeie nag

Goo-ya nag

Saying goodnight

Packing List

  • Clothing

  • Lightweight clothing for warm weather

  • A light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings

  • Comfortable walking shoes

  • Swimwear

  • Sunglasses

  • Hat for sun protection

  • Toiletries

  • Travel-sized shampoo and conditioner

  • Travel-sized body wash or soap

  • Toothbrush and toothpaste

  • Deodorant

  • Razor and shaving cream

  • Sunscreen

  • Insect repellent

  • Prescription medications

  • First aid kit

  • Travel documents and essentials

  • Passport

  • Driver's license or other ID

  • Credit and debit cards

  • Cash in local currency

  • Travel insurance documents

  • Hotel and transportation reservation confirmations

  • Emergency contact information

  • Electronics and gadgets

  • Smartphone

  • Charger for smartphone

  • International power adapter

  • Camera

  • Charger for camera

  • Headphones

  • Miscellaneous items

  • Travel pillow

  • Earplugs

  • Snacks

  • Water bottle

  • Books or e-books for leisure reading

  • Travel guidebook for Cape Town

  • Map of Cape Town

Weather Conditions

Cape Town, South Africa, is known for its Mediterranean climate, which means it has warm, dry summers and mild, moist winters. If you're planning to visit during the summer months, which are from November to February, expect temperatures to range from 63°F to 80°F (17°C to 27°C). It's the perfect weather for beach activities and exploring the city's outdoor attractions. However, it's also the peak tourist season, so be prepared for crowds. Don't forget to pack your sunscreen, hats, and light clothing to protect yourself from the sun. The autumn months, March to May, are also a great time to visit. The temperatures during this period range from 59°F to 75°F (15°C to 24°C). The city is less crowded, and the weather is still warm enough for outdoor activities. Winter, from June to August, is the wettest season in Cape Town. Temperatures can drop to around 46°F (8°C) and go up to 63°F (17°C). If you're planning to visit during this time, pack warm clothing and waterproof gear. Despite the rain, this is a great time to visit if you enjoy indoor activities and want to avoid crowds. Spring, from September to October, sees temperatures ranging from 55°F to 70°F (13°C to 21°C). This is a beautiful time to visit as the city is in bloom. Regardless of when you visit, remember that Cape Town's weather can be unpredictable. It's always a good idea to check the forecast before your trip and pack a variety of clothing options. Also, keep in mind that the sun in South Africa is particularly strong, so always wear sun protection, even on cloudy days.

MonthHi / Lo (°C)Weather Overview

January

27° / 15°

January is one of the hottest months in Cape Town, with plenty of sunshine and warm temperatures. It's a great time for beach activities and exploring the city.

February

28° / 15°

February continues the summer trend with hot, sunny days. It's a perfect time for outdoor activities and wine tours.

March

26° / 14°

March sees the start of autumn, with slightly cooler temperatures. It's a good time for hiking and exploring nature.

April

24° / 12°

April is a mild month with less rainfall, making it ideal for outdoor exploration and sightseeing.

May

21° / 9°

May brings the start of winter with cooler temperatures and more rainfall. It's a good time to visit museums and indoor attractions.

June

19° / 7°

June is one of the coolest months in Cape Town, with frequent rain. Indoor activities and whale watching are popular during this time.

July

19° / 7°

July is the coldest month, with high chances of rain. It's a good time for indoor activities and enjoying the local cuisine.

August

20° / 8°

August sees the end of winter with slightly warmer temperatures. It's a good time for whale watching and spring flower viewing.

September

21° / 9°

September marks the start of spring with warmer temperatures and less rain. It's a great time for hiking and wildlife spotting.

October

23° / 11°

October offers mild temperatures and less rainfall. It's a good time for outdoor activities and exploring the city.

November

25° / 13°

November sees the start of summer with warm temperatures and little rain. It's a great time for beach activities and wine tours.

December

26° / 14°

December is a hot, sunny month, perfect for enjoying the beaches and outdoor activities. It's also a busy tourist season, so expect crowds.

Did you know?

Did you know that Cape Town is home to the largest museum of contemporary African art in the world, the Zeitz MOCAA?

1 of 10

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