Cape Town Travel Guide - Attractions

Table Mountain: is the flat-topped sandstone and granite backdrop to Cape Town, and is the city’s most recognisable landmark. Actually a part of the city, its 15,000 acres of wilderness can be explored on more than 350 paths that wind their way to the top.

Table Mountain is climbed by more people than any other mountain in the world; and it’s also accessible by cable car, which makes for a scenic and less arduous ascent. Cable cars depart from Tafelberg road every 15 minutes from 08:00-21:00, with some seasonal variability.

It became synonymous with repression of political dissidents during apartheid, as more than 3,000 freedom fighters who opposed the government’s institutionalised oppression, including Nelson Mandela, were imprisoned here for decades. Now a popular museum, curious visitors flock to the island for the tours guided by former prisoners. Tours last 3 hours, 30 minutes.

Bo-Kaap: is the old Malay quarter that was a segregated area for Malay Muslims under the Group Areas Act of 1950 – a part of the apartheid policy. It is still closely connected with the Muslim community today. Houses have been restored here.

Victoria & Alfred (V&A) Waterfront: although redeveloped with tourism in mind, this is still a working harbour – complemented by historical sites, dining, shopping and entertainment venues. The V&A Waterfront has quickly become one of Cape Town's most popular attractions.

It features buskers, live music and a number of special events and festivals throughout the summer. More than 70 eateries have opened in the complex, ranging from fast food outlets to upscale restaurants; and you’ll also find luxury accommodation and a good selection of cruises and charters that depart from here.

Kirstenbosch Botanical Garden: spreading along the eastern slope and edge of Table Mountain, these cultivated gardens blend with the adjacent nature preserve, linking the mountain with the city – and provide a lovely respite from the city bustle.

More than 8,000 species of native plant life are represented here, with a number of walking paths signposted that follows plant themes. Every Sunday from December through March concerts are held in the gardens at sunset.

And today is still the headquarters for the regional South African Defense Force. Interesting, informative tours are conducted at 11:00, 12:00 and 14:00, lasting for 30 minutes; or, alternatively, you can explore the castle on your own.