Discovering Cape Town
Returning from a recent adventure to South Africa, I find myself still daydreaming about Cape Town’s unforgettable landscapes, rich history, and lively neighbourhoods. Each stop on our journey, from Table Mountain’s awe-inspiring heights to the colourful charm of Bo-Kaap and the vibrant GOLD Restaurant, left me with memories and practical tips that I’m eager to share with future travellers.
Cape Town’s Majestic Peak
We started our trip at Table Mountain, the iconic flat-topped giant that defines Cape Town’s skyline. The hike up Platteklip Gorge offered a moderate challenge with rewarding, panoramic views of the city, coastline, and the distant mountains. For those who prefer a less strenuous ascent, the cable car is an excellent option, and the rotating gondola ensures everyone gets a full 360° view.
Travel Tip: Arrive early in the morning to avoid the midday crowds and maximise your chances of clear skies. Weather can be unpredictable, and cloud cover (locally known as the “tablecloth”) can settle over the mountain quickly. Even if you’re taking the cable car, carry a light jacket as it gets windy at the top!
Stepping Back in Time
Next, we visited the Castle of Good Hope, a fortress dating back to the 17th century, which provided a glimpse into South Africa’s colonial past. Wandering through its stone corridors, I was transported to a different era, imagining life when the Castle served as a strategic point in maritime history. The museum’s exhibits detail early colonial life, and the dungeons are a sobering reminder of the site's darker past.
Travel Tip: Join one of the guided tours—they’re free and filled with fascinating historical details that are easy to miss on a self-guided walk. Timing your visit with the changing of the guards, if available, adds an extra layer to the experience.
A Burst of Colour and Culture
Bo-Kaap was one of the most delightful highlights of our trip. Known for its vibrant, colourful houses and cobbled streets, this neighbourhood tells the story of Cape Town’s Cape Malay community. We visited the Bo-Kaap Museum, which provided insight into the cultural traditions and history of the area. Wandering the streets, we were greeted by warm locals, the smell of spices in the air, and sounds of lively chatter.
Travel Tip: Bo-Kaap is a photographer’s dream! Mornings provide the best light for photos, and the neighbourhood is quiet, allowing for easy exploration. Don’t miss trying some local Cape Malay cuisine, like a spicy bobotie or samoosas from a neighbourhood restaurant.
An African Feast for the Senses
One of our most memorable evenings was spent at GOLD Restaurant, an immersive dining experience that celebrates African culture through food, music, and dance. Situated near Cape Town’s city centre, GOLD offers a unique 14-course menu that features dishes from across the African continent. Each course tells a story of its region, with delicious highlights like Cape Malay curry, Zimbabwean groundnut chicken, and Ethiopian lamb stew. The flavours showcase the diversity of Africa, and each dish is crafted to give guests a true taste of the continent’s culinary heritage.
What truly sets GOLD apart is its lively entertainment. Throughout the evening, we were treated to live drumming, traditional African dances, and storytelling performances, which created an energetic, cultural atmosphere. We even joined a pre-dinner djembe drumming session—a hands-on experience that immersed us in the rhythms of African music.
Travel Tip: Make sure to book early, as GOLD Restaurant is popular and fills up quickly. It’s an ideal spot for anyone looking to dive deep into African culture through a rich blend of food and performance.
A Hub of Entertainment and History
We rounded off our Cape Town experience at the V&A Waterfront, a lively mix of shopping, dining, and historical attractions. The waterfront has something for everyone—local artisan shops, outdoor markets, and live performances that bring the area to life.
Travel Tip: Plan to spend a full day here, especially if you want to enjoy a meal with a view of Table Mountain in the background. Keep an eye out for street performers, as they add a wonderful local flavour to the experience. If time allows, consider visiting the nearby Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa (MOCAA) for a deep dive into African art.
I hope these travel tips help you experience the city’s vibrant cultural mosaic and create your own memories in this incredible destination. Our team are here to help you if you do decide to travel to South Africa.
Travel experienced and written by Maite Newell, General Manager, National Travel