Capetown feels more like San Francisco than what probably comes to mind when many recall images of Africa. This modern, thriving city is home to splendor both natural and culturally. With recent, and turbulent past, the aftermath lingers, in the structures and the words of the city’s people. 

South Africa was my foray into African travel. While probably not a great proxy for what this continent boasts in terms of culture, cuisine or lifestyle, it is a special place, unique onto itself.  I have broken out my safari experience into a separate post, and kept this post to just my explorations in Capetown. Can’t wait to visit more of this culturally loaded continent!

EXPERIENCE

South Africa was an incredible trip. We spent much of our time in Capetown exploring each day with different drivers. This was a great way to get more in depth perspective of the country’s very recent political and racial history. Each day we seemed to have a driver from a different ethnicity and cultural background, each providing more perspective to the complex and layered social system that is modern Capetown. Places to check out right in the heart of Capetown include the fascinating District Six Museum and the Langa Township. The townships are fascinating glimpses into apartheid history and progress. We visited several, and were often glad to have a tour guide since these areas can be dangerous at times. We had the experience of meeting with a local medicine man healer in his trailer full of traditional remedies including bats, animal intestines, and various mystery potions. Also in the townships we visited many art centers and education facilities, all around a very eye opening and inspiring day. To contrast this, spend and evening on the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront.

Our first day was spent exploring Table Mountain, which towers over the city. This provides a breathtaking view of the city and the water after a drive, gondola ride and short hike. Capetown Stadium is also visible from here, which was built for the World Cup.

Another day we ventured to the Cape of Good Hope. This place is stunning! Along the drive to this unique terrain, we stopped at several beaches including Signal Hill and Hout Bay (a perfect spot for sunset). The Cape of Good Hope is right at the tip of the continent, here we experienced rough seas on a trip out to see the seals. Another fantastic stop built into this day was the Cape Ostrich Farm and the Kirstenbosch National Botanical Gardens. Both set in breathtaking landscapes. 

Another must visit stop is Boulder Beach to see the African Penguin Colony. This is a lovely spot for lunch as well. Here you can see wild penguins! This was a very special experience. They are easily accessible after a short hike, and simply adorable.

On another day we took to the stunning, up and coming Capetown Wine Country for tours and tastings. Paarl, Franschhoek and Stellenbosch were the vineyards we visited. This made for a beautiful day surrounded by South African farmlands, agriculture and animals. 

STAY

While in Capetown, I stayed in a wonderful hotel. They also happened to be hosting a number of teams in for the World Rugby Finals, this was a happy accident, my sister and I had no complaints. This hotel was fairly central, and because I was traveling with my family, we often took advantage of having a paid driver take us to our destinations right from the hotel.

EAT

The food of South Africa was not the highlight to be honest. I much preferred the exotic game dining to what we had in Capetown. Some exotic favorites however included fresh seafood, ostrich and oxtail. Beyond this I’d recommend sticking to a diet heavy in the delicious South African wines.