Cape Town Attractions

Cape Town is considered to be one of the most beautiful cities in South Africa. But do not think that from entertainment here only walks through quiet streets surrounded by majestic and magnificent tropical nature: in the capital of South Africa there are many interesting things, which is worth a look even for an experienced traveler. The unique sights of Cape Town and its surroundings will allow you not only to have fun and relax, but also to spend time with benefit.

Natural attractions

Since South Africa is a country with a special, almost unique, climate and relief, connoisseurs of picturesque corners of the planet will certainly find what to look for in the capital of the country. Of the most noteworthy places that are shown in Cape Town during almost all excursions, we note the following:

1. The Cape of Good Hope , opened at the end of the XV century. It is located in the southern part of the city and is considered one of the most famous national parks in the world, since it shares two oceans. For tourists here are arranged several viewing platforms, from which a stunning view of the Atlantic and Indian oceans.
2. Table Mountain in Cape Town. It got its name because of the completely flat top. You can climb to the top in a funicular railway or on one of 300 footpaths. But this mountain near Cape Town is quite high, so be prepared for the trip to take at least 3 hours. From here you can ideally consider all the features of the relief and nature of the Cape Peninsula and the capital itself.
3. The beach is Bolders . If you dream of seeing something amazing, be sure to check it out here. Here lives a few thousand penguins, feeding on waste from the factory for the production of sardines and anchovies, which is located nearby.
4. Kirstenbosch Botanical Garden. It is located at the foot of Table Mountain and is famous for its collection of plants, including up to 9000 species, some of which grow only in this place.
5. Island of fur seals . Its official name is Dyer, and it is inhabited by about 70,000 individuals of these animals. In addition, seals feed on white sharks, so extreme lovers can even dip into the water in a special metal cage to watch these dangerous predators near.
6. National Park "Table Mountain" in Cape Town. It surrounds the summit, from which it received its name. This is the habitat of many species of flora and fauna that are endangered. Here grow plants of local origin, as well as imported from other countries. Of the animals here you will be fortunate enough to meet baboons, papal damans, a forest cat, a caracal and many others.
7. Private safari park Aquila. Here you can book a one-day excursion trip or a safari on a quadrocycle or on horseback. The bonus is that you will see traditional inhabitants of Africa: lions, elephants, zebras, giraffes, ostriches and many other animals.
8. Cango Wildlife Ranch, famous for breeding felids: cheetahs, tigers and lions, and crocodiles. You can see them on the ranch from special trails with ski lifts.
9. Rock Lion's Head . Its name was given to the peak because of its unusual shape. The rock is covered with a special kind of vegetation - finbosh - and is very popular with paragliding enthusiasts.
10. Cango Caves , which number about 20 million years. They are famous among travelers for their length - about 4 km - and incredible narrowness of passages.

Museums

From the beauty of nature, too, you can get tired, so to change the situation, you can spend time learning more about the history and traditions of the country. If you do not know what to see in Cape Town, pay attention to such cultural institutions:

1. The Castle of Good Hope . It is the oldest building in South Africa, in which there is now a military headquarters in one half, and the other half is occupied by the National Museum of Military History.
2. The Museum of Diamonds , in which you can not only get acquainted with the excellent specimens of these nature creations, but also learn more about the extraction and processing of this precious mineral.
3. Lighthouse in Green Point. He attracts attention with his unusual coloration in the form of two red and two white stripes, located at an angle of 45 degrees. Depending on the weather, his keepers include a permanent or flickering fire, indicating the way to the ships.
4. South African Museum . In it you will get acquainted with samples of traditional clothes of local residents, you will see fossil insects and fishes and ancient household items dating from the Stone Age.
5. Museum Bo Kaap, located in one of the oldest houses in Cape Town. Its exposition presents 19th century furniture, various household items, traditional clothes of Muslim settlers, who made a great contribution to the development of South Africa.
6. Museum of the Sixth District, whose exhibitions are devoted to the days of apartheid, when thousands of people of different nationalities were driven to the ghetto. Here you can see the map of the area where they were moved, photos of local houses and streets.
7. The Nelson Mandela Museum , which contains all the subjects and historical documents relating to the life of this fighter against apartheid.

Other famous places in the capital of South Africa

If you are planning to stay in Cape Town , be sure to visit such places to get a maximum of pleasant experiences:

1. Old Port Waterfront in Cape Town. In this area you can do shopping and buy original gifts for yourself and loved ones, and then relax in a cozy cafe or restaurant. If the thirst for adventure in you has not died out, go on a trip on a yacht or helicopter or board the ship almost a hundred years ago.
2. Wine farms Franshhuk . A visit here is an excellent occasion not only to spend a whole day in the bosom of nature, but also to taste the delicious local wine, which has a special refined taste.
3. Market Green Point Stadium. Here on Sundays, you can most likely purchase the most original and authentical souvenirs in Cape Town.
4. Hout Bay area. This is a quiet place, somewhat reminiscent of a village with a very "motley" population. If you are tired of the bustle, be sure to stroll here.
5. The cable car of Table Mountain . Tourists who do not want or can not climb this peak on foot, such a transport is sure to like. After all, from the height you can see all the sights of Cape Town.
6. Aquarium of two oceans . This is the largest aquarium in the world, in which the waters of the Atlantic and Indian oceans are mixed. It has about 300 marine inhabitants, and if you have a diving experience, you can even dive into it and personally watch the underwater kingdom.
7. Mill Mostert - an original monument of architecture of the XVIII century.

Local hotels

Most hotels in Cape Town provide maximum comfort to their guests, being four- and five-star. Many of their rooms are equipped with two bedrooms, and some have access to the terrace. The rooms have a shower, all necessary hygiene items and free wireless internet. In the restaurants of hotels you will be treated with local delicacies and traditional dishes of European cuisine. Most hotels can use the services of a spa or swim in the pool.