There are several ways to explore the Cape Town Big 6, all of which depend on how many days you are spending in Cape Town and how much time you have to spend at each destination.
There is no one way to explore all of the Cape Town Big 6, and much of what makes each of them so special is the variety of things to see and do at each. So if possible, take your time to explore each of the city’s most visited tourist attractions in as much depth as possible – as any local will tell you, you can spend a lifetime at each of the Cape Town Big 6 and still not tire of them.
Here is how you can spend 3 days in Cape Town with our 3-day itinerary:
Day 1
Start your day early with a trip to Robben Island. Ferries to the island depart from the Nelson Mandela Gateway in the heart of the V&A Waterfront. From the moment you arrive at the humble island, you’ll feel the impact of this World Heritage Site. A former inmate will guide you while on the island, and you’ll receive unparalleled insight into the significant role that each of the Robben Island’s inmates collectively played throughout.
Spend the rest of the day exploring the vibrant working harbour, dining at the famous waterside restaurants, and stocking up on curios and essentials from the wide selection of stores. Long established and proud of a rich heritage, the V&A Waterfront nestled between the Atlantic Ocean and Table Mountain, marches with time, embracing change that brings with it exciting new additions for you to discover.
Image by Martine Viljoen on Instagram
Image by Sarita Kerber on Instagram.
Day 2
Soar to the top of a new natural wonder of the world with the Table Mountain Cableway. Walk a marked trail, or simply marvel at the panoramic views of the city you’ve spent the day exploring.
Please note that the Table Mountain Cableway is closed for annual maintenance and will reopen on the 7th of August
The nearby Groot Constantia wine estate makes for the perfect stop for an early lunch. Tour the cellar, visit the museums and art gallery, and taste award winning wines. Enjoy the new Visitor Route Experience where one ticket gives you entrance to the Manor House museum, original Cloete Cellar, a cellar tour, wine tasting and Spiegelau Crystal wine glass. R95 per person or Visitors Route Experience Ticket + Chocolate & Wine Pairing: R140 per person.
Image by Instacptguy on Instagram
Day 3
Start your day early with a morning walk through the beautiful Kirstenbosch Botanical Garden, a botanical wonderland of indigenous flora. Walk among the treetops on the Boomslang Tree Canopy Walkway, take a gentle walk along the various trails, paths, and routes through the garden and enjoy a meal at one of various restaurants and cafés, including the new Moyo Restaurant Kirstenbosch.
Last, but not least is Cape Point. The Flying Dutchman funicular waits to whisk you up to panoramic views of African currents colliding, and numerous view sites serve as the perfect location to reflect on three idyllic days in Cape Town.
Image by eyeonthesky on Instagram
What are your favourite things to do in Cape Town?
Let us know on our Cape Town Big 6 Facebook or Twitter page. Better yet, snap an Instagram shot of your favourite outdoor moment and tag @CapeTownBig6 #CTBig6
One Destination, 6 Unbelievable Experiences
There is no one way to explore all of the Cape Town Big 6, and much of what makes each of them so special is the variety of things to see and do at each. So if possible, take your time to explore each of the city’s most visited tourist attractions in as much depth as possible – as any local will tell you, you can spend a lifetime at each of the Big 6 and still not tire of them. Find the 3 and 4 day itineraries and tips here.