Things to Do in Cape Town, South Africa
Things to DoDestination Guide

Things to Do in Cape Town, South Africa

A premium guide to things to do in Cape Town, South Africa for Things To Do readers.

Things To Do Editorial

August 31, 2026 · 5 min read

Table Mountain and Its Cableway

Climbing Table Mountain is one of the most iconic experiences in Cape Town. The mountain offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding coastline. The most popular way to reach the summit is via the cableway, which takes you to the top in about 7 minutes. The cableway operates from 08:00 to 18:00 daily, with the last cable departing at 17:30. Prices for the cableway vary depending on the season and time of day, but as of 2026, a single ride costs around R120 for adults. If you prefer to hike, the mountain offers several trails with varying levels of difficulty.

Cape Town landmark
Cape Town landmark

Robben Island and Its Historical Significance

A visit to Robben Island is a poignant experience. This island was the site of the infamous prison where Nelson Mandela was held for 18 years. Tours to the island are available from Cape Town, and the journey itself is an educational experience. The tour includes a guided visit to the former prison. Bookings are essential, and tours operate daily, with the last departure at 11:00. Entrance fees are R330 per person, and the tour lasts approximately 3 hours.

Cape Town street
Cape Town street

Bruce Mines Nature Reserve and Hiking Trails

Bruce Mines Nature Reserve is a lesser-known gem, offering a peaceful escape from the city. The reserve features several hiking trails, including the popular 3.5km route to the historic mine site. The trail leads you through lush forests and along the coastline. The reserve is open daily from 08:00 to 16:00, with an entrance fee of R20 per person. Nearby accommodation options include the Table Mountain Lodge, which is a short drive away.

Chapman’s Peak Drive

Chapman’s Peak Drive is a scenic route that offers views of the Atlantic Ocean and the rugged coastline. The 12km drive takes about 30 minutes to complete, and it is recommended to drive slowly to enjoy the views. The drive is open daily, weather permitting. Due to the narrow and winding nature of the road, it is advisable to drive carefully. There are several viewpoints along the way, including the famous Cog Wheel Car Park, which provides a spectacular view of the Atlantic.

Cape Town food
Cape Town food

FAQs

How much does it cost to hike Table Mountain?

The cost of hiking Table Mountain varies depending on the route and the season. The cableway offers a one-way ride to the summit, but hikers can also choose to walk up. The cost of the cableway is R120 for adults, and the hike can take anywhere from 2 to 6 hours, depending on the route chosen.

Are there any guided tours to Robben Island?

Yes, guided tours to Robben Island are available. These tours provide a comprehensive history of the island and its role in South African history. Booking is essential, and tours operate daily, with the last departure at 11:00. The entrance fee is R330 per person.

What are the best hiking trails in Bruce Mines Nature Reserve?

Bruce Mines Nature Reserve offers several hiking trails, but the most popular is the 3.5km route to the historic mine site. This trail leads you through lush forests and along the coastline. The reserve is open daily from 08:00 to 16:00, with an entrance fee of R20 per person.

What is the best time to visit Chapman’s Peak Drive?

The best time to visit Chapman’s Peak Drive is during the early morning or late afternoon when the light is softer and the views are more dramatic. The drive is open daily, weather permitting, but it is advisable to check the weather forecast before setting out.

Planning Your Visit

For a comprehensive visit to Cape Town, consider the following: - Explore more destinations in Cape Town - Book tours that suit your interests - Find accommodations near your chosen attractions - Read more articles on Cape Town

Sources

For more information, visit the official Cape Town Tourism website or the South African Government Tourism site.

What flights LON to CPT actually cost

Prices below are live fares from Aviasales. We may earn a commission if you book through these links, at no extra cost to you.

The cheapest return found right now is €558 with Z0, departing 10 Oct 2026 (11h 30m each way). See current fares.

Cheapest dates to fly

DeparturePriceAirlineStops
10 Oct 2026€558Z0DirectCheck
3 Oct 2026€608Z0DirectCheck
3 Nov 2026€642Z0DirectCheck
7 Sept 2026€660Ryanair2 stopCheck
1 Dec 2026€684Z0DirectCheck

Live fares, checked 31 Aug 2026. Prices change daily.

Booking in Cape Town: where to look

We may earn a commission from the links below, at no extra cost to you. We only list services we would use ourselves.

  • Tiqets — Instant mobile tickets for museums and landmarks
  • Klook — Attraction tickets and passes, strong in Asia
  • KKday — Local experiences and day tours
  • Welcome Pickups — Fixed-price airport transfer, driver waits for you

By Adventure Travel Editorial | August 31, 2026 | 6-minute Read

Discover the best of adventure travel in Cape Town, South Africa, with a focus on the iconic Table Mountain, the historically significant Robben Island, the serene Bruce Mines Nature Reserve, and the Chapman’s Peak Drive. Each of these attractions offers a unique experience that captures the essence of Cape Town’s natural beauty and rich history.

Things To Do Editorial

50+ destinations reviewed

The Things To Do editorial team covers Things to Do with firsthand experience and honest recommendations.