Cape Town’s Big Six (And Our Five Wild Alternatives!)
Cape Town is a city of extraordinary contrasts: where ocean meets mountains, vibrant culture blends with deep history, and urban sophistication coexists with untamed wilderness. It’s no wonder visitors flock to see the city’s famed Big Six attractions. But for those who love wildlife and outdoor adventures, Cape Town has even more to offer.
In this guide, we’ll explore the traditional Big Six and highlight five unforgettable ‘wild’ experiences that showcase the city’s natural side.
The Big Six Attractions
1. V&A Waterfront
The bustling Victoria & Alfred Waterfront is Cape Town’s heartbeat, offering a mix of shopping, dining, and cultural attractions. Stroll along the harbour, explore the Two Oceans Aquarium, or hop on a ferry to Robben Island.
2. Robben Island
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Robben Island is a powerful symbol of South Africa’s struggle for freedom. Tours of the former prison, where Nelson Mandela spent 18 years, offer a poignant reminder of the country’s history.
3. Table Mountain
One of the New Seven Wonders of Nature, Table Mountain is an iconic part of Cape Town’s skyline. Take the cable car to the summit for panoramic views of the city and beyond, or hike one of the many trails to experience its biodiversity up close. Look out for dassies (Rock Hyrax – looks like a guinea pig or earless rabbit).
4. Cape Point
Part of the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve, Cape Point is a dramatic landscape of rugged cliffs and windswept beaches. Keep an eye out for wildlife like baboons, ostriches, and antelope as you explore. To reach the lighthouse view point you can save your legs and take the Flying Dutchman Funincular – it costs about £5 for a return journey (depending on the exchange rate).
5. Groot Constantia
South Africa’s oldest wine estate, Groot Constantia, offers world-class wines and stunning views of the Constantia Valley. Enjoy a spot of wine tasting or soak up the ambience at one of the estate’s excellent restaurants. If you don’t want to follow the crowd there are many beautiful wine estates to explore all around Cape Town. My personal favourite is Vergelegen in Somerset West – book a picnic in the camphor forest and relax… (usually available in the warmer months October – February).
6. Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden
Nestled against the eastern slopes of Table Mountain, Kirstenbosch is one of the world’s greatest botanical gardens. Explore its indigenous flora, wander the Tree Canopy Walkway, nicknamed the Boomslang, and enjoy concerts during summer evenings.
Our Five Favourite ‘Wild’ Attractions in and around Cape Town
1. Whale Watching
From June to November, Cape Town’s coastline becomes a hotspot for whale watching, with southern right whales migrating here to calve in the shallow waters of Walkers Bay. You can watch for whales all along the coast but optimum sightings are from Hermanus, just a one hour scenic drive east of the city. You have two routes to get there so it makes a good circular journey – follow the N2 inland up over Sir Lowry’s Pass in one direction, and the spectacular R44 coast road via Betty’s Bay & Gordon’s Bay in the other.
2. Visit the Penguins at Boulders Beach
Meet Cape Town’s cutest residents at Boulders Beach, home to a colony of Endangered African penguins. Follow the boardwalks for great views, or head to the sandy beach to swim alongside these playful creatures. Beware – the water is cold!
3. Walk the Wild Beaches
Cape Town’s coastline offers countless unspoiled beaches, perfect for walking. From spectacular Llandudno, punctuated by giant granite boulders, to Cape Town’s best-known beach at Camp’s Bay , you are spoiled for choice.
4. Trek at Lion’s Head
For spectacular sunrise or sunset views, trek up Lion’s Head, a peak adjacent to Table Mountain. The trail winds through fynbos vegetation and offers stunning vistas of the city, Table Bay, and the Twelve Apostles mountain range.
5. Kayak with Seals and Dolphins
For an unforgettable marine adventure, join a kayaking tour along Cape Town’s coastline. Paddle alongside playful Cape fur seals and pods of dolphins, while enjoying spectacular views of the ocean and mountains. These tours often depart from Simon’s Town or Hout Bay. Some operators also offer snorkelling tours but since the rabies outbreak in the Cape fur seal colony many of these have been suspended so it would be wise to check before making plans.
Cape Town: Where the Wild Meets the Wonderful
Whether you’re captivated by the cultural landmarks of the Big Six or drawn to Cape Town’s wild side, a stay in this iconic city offers a special experience.
Discover more about planning a holiday to South Africa here.
