Written by Daryll Williams

In case it wasn't already obvious, Cape Town is a city made for nature-lovers and thrill-seeking folk alike. However, its surrounds are often packed with underappreciated yet equally awesome experiences. Here are some of our favourites:

1. Stroll through Kirstenbosch Gardens

Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens is living proof that Cape Town is an urban paradise. Founded over a century ago, Kirstenbosch is a veritable green oasis filled with pretty flowers, modern sculptures, and scenic vistas in front of looming mountains. Just 13 km from the city centre, this UNESCO World Heritage site feels like a whole other world. Picnicking is also allowed, and other visitor facilities include wheelchair-friendly restaurants and shops. Trust us—you don’t want to miss a visit to this lush city escape.

2. Hike Cape Point and Cape of Good Hope

The Cape of Good Hope is a rugged corner of the coastline with howling winds and the occasional opportunity to spot whales in the Cape Peninsula. From the car park at Cape Point, a short walk takes you around to the new lighthouse where you can get an appreciation of the dramatic rugged coastline in this part of the world while keeping an eye out for aquatic life. There are regular tours from Cape Town, so you’ll get your chance to experience unique South African fauna and flora.

3. See the penguins at Boulders Beach

The big attraction at Boulders Beach is the area's African Penguins. Sadly now listed as endangered, the penguins are under the protection of the Table Mountain Marine Protected Area initiative. Boardwalks have been built to keep the penguins safe, which also provides easy access to get up close to these cute little creatures. Allow a couple of hours to stroll around getting some shots.

4. Surf at Muizenberg

Muizenberg has the waves in which many budding surfers come to cut their fins. The shallow waters also provide the ideal environment to learn how to surf. With great fish and chip joints and a thriving local community, Muizenburg is a great day out with a noticeably different feel to Cape Town.

5. Visit Robben Island

While the Cape Town of today is a colourful, wonderful place to visit as a traveller, the city has also been the epicentre of many of South Africa’s most tragic and significant events. One of the most important things to do in Cape Town is to take the ferry out to Robben Island for a tour of the prison where Nelson Mandela (along with fellow anti-apartheid fighters) was imprisoned for 18 years. The tour takes in key sites on the island whilst providing insight into the oppression of the apartheid regime and the ultimate triumph against it. It is symbolised by the indomitable Nelson Mandela straight from the people who experienced it most harshly.

6. Experience Kalk Bay

Describing Kalk Bay adequately is a tricky task—mostly because it simply defies definition. On one hand, it's a sleepy little fishing village; colourful trawlers splashed with rust bob in the harbour, and gnarled fisherfolk mend nets or doze in the sun after an early start gathering the day’s catch. On the other, it’s one of Cape Town’s trendiest seaside villages. The main street is lined with buzzing cafes, quaint antique shops and cool boutiques spilling over with people from all walks of life, from bohemian artists to young families, modern hipsters to old hippies rocking multicoloured hair.

7. Delve into Silvermine’s treasures

Located at the top of Ou Kaapse Weg, Silvermine Reserve offers visitors an intimate hiking experience. There are various trails to be found at Silvermine, the most popular being the Elephant’s Eye hike, which is carefully marked out and leads you to an amazing spot that overlooks the suburbs of Cape Town. If hiking is not really your thing then a day at the Silvermine Reservoir is right up your alley. The cold, fresh black water provides relief from the South African sun. Barbeque facilities are available on non-windy days.

Experience Cape Town’s unique blend of off-the-grid activities

The real question here is what can't you do in Cape Town’s surrounds. This is a place brimming with adventure, culture, and culinary arts. Ready to book your next trip? Get in touch.