Cape Town

Cape Town

Staying at The President Hotel

Located in Bantry Bay, one of Cape Town’s most exclusive and wind-sheltered neighbourhoods, the President Hotel enjoys a prime seafront location with sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean and Lion’s Head mountain.

We booked through Destination 2 https://www.destination2.co.uk/  at a cost of £170 a night for a sea view room.

This stylish 4-star hotel combines modern comfort with relaxed coastal elegance. The rooms are spacious, well-equipped, and many come with private balconies offering panoramic sea or mountain views—the perfect spot to enjoy a morning coffee or evening sunset.

The pool area is a standout feature. Surrounded by loungers and palm trees, the sparkling infinity pool looks out over the ocean and makes for an ideal afternoon retreat. Whether you’re in for a refreshing swim or simply relaxing with a cocktail poolside, it’s a serene oasis in the heart of the city.

 

And then there’s breakfast—an experience in itself. Served in The Islands Restaurant, the morning spread is nothing short of spectacular, with an abundance of choice: fresh pastries, hot breakfast classics, a healthy selection of fruits and yoghurts, and even made-to-order options. It’s the kind of breakfast that justifies a second (or third) helping.

A fun bonus? British Airways cabin crew are often spotted staying at the hotel, which feels like a reassuring stamp of approval from seasoned global travellers who know a good hotel when they see one.

Whether you’re winding down after a day of sightseeing or fuelling up for the next adventure, the President Hotel offers a perfect blend of style, comfort, and top-notch hospitality in one of Cape Town’s best-loved locations.

Short Cruise around Cape Town

Before we got swept up in mountain cable cars, curious penguins, and impromptu Jeep transfers near lions (yes, really), we kicked things off with something a little gentler: a 90-minute cruise from the V&A Waterfront.

We booked this through Viator https://www.viator.com at a cost of £17 each which was exceptionally good value.

 

 

The cruise itself was smooth sailing, with just enough gentle bobbing to remind you you’re at sea, but not enough to spill your drink (which, if you’re wondering, is the perfect cruise-to-wine-glass ratio). A salty breeze, glorious sunshine, and that unbeatable sense of “this is the life” made for a brilliant start to the trip.

Then came the dolphins.

Out of nowhere, a small pod of them appeared, playfully dancing in the boat’s wake like they’d rehearsed it. Of course, the moment we reached for our cameras, they vanished—leaving behind nothing but ripples and a boat full of people pretending they definitely did get a photo, honest. (They were probably snickering behind the waves.)

Still, even without the photographic evidence, it was a magical moment—and one of those little surprises that make travel so memorable.

By the time we cruised back into the harbour, with Table Mountain still standing proudly in the morning light, we all agreed: this wasn’t just a scenic boat ride—it was the perfect way to ease into our Cape Town adventure.

V&A Waterfront: Dining, Seals & a Whole Lot of Charm

Whether it’s your first day in Cape Town or your last, a visit to the V&A Waterfront is simply a must. Set against the backdrop of Table Mountain and overlooking the harbour, this vibrant, world-class destination is more than just a shopping district—it’s a lively, sensory-rich experience where history, culture, and entertainment come together seamlessly.

The Victoria & Alfred Waterfront is one of the most visited destinations on the African continent, and it’s easy to see why. The area is home to over 80 restaurants, cafés, and bars, offering everything from fresh-off-the-boat seafood to gourmet fine dining and global cuisine. Whether you’re craving sushi, steak, a Cape Malay curry, or just a good cup of coffee and a view, you’ll find it here—with many establishments boasting outdoor seating and spectacular waterside views.

As you stroll along the harbour’s edge, don’t be surprised to spot a local celebrity or two—and by that, we mean Cape fur seals. These playful marine mammals often haul themselves out of the water to bask in the sun along the quayside or on specially designed seal platforms. They’re a delightful and unexpected part of the Waterfront experience, always ready to pose for a few photos (though at a respectful distance, of course).

The V&A Waterfront isn’t just about eating (though let’s be honest—you will eat again). You can splurge on crafts you didn’t know you needed at the Watershed, spin slowly over the city on the Cape Wheel while questioning your life choices, and stare at fish with a mix of awe and mild hunger at the Two Oceans Aquarium. Hop on a boat tour to Robben Island or just wave at seals pretending to be chill influencers. There’s street music that’ll make you dance , local art to pretend you understand, and shopping so good it’ll make your bank app sweat. And if all else fails—grab a coffee and watch tourists battle pigeons for their lunch.

It’s not just a stop—it’s a destination in its own right, and one that will leave you wanting to return before you’ve even left.

Half Day City Tour with Tabletop Mountain

Our second day began with a half-day city tour, offering a fantastic introduction to Cape Town’s rich history, iconic landmarks, and stunning scenery. It’s the perfect way to get a feel for the city’s character—diverse, dynamic, and undeniably beautiful.

We booked this through Viator https://www.viator.comat a cost of £52 each 

Castle of Good Hope

One of the standout stops was the Castle of Good Hope, the oldest surviving colonial building in South Africa. This 17th-century pentagonal fortress is steeped in history, with exhibits on early Cape life, military history, and colonial architecture. It’s a must-visit for anyone with a curiosity about the city’s past.

Houses of Parliament

But the true centrepiece of the day was undoubtedly Table Mountain, one of the New7Wonders of Nature and Cape Town’s most famous natural landmark.

To reach the summit, we boarded the Table Mountain Aerial Cableway—a marvel in itself. The large cable car has a revolving floor, which means everyone gets 360-degree views of the city, mountain cliffs, and coastline during the ascent. No need to elbow your way to a window; just relax and let the floor do the turning.

At the top, the views are absolutely breathtaking, with multiple viewing platforms offering different perspectives of the city below, the Atlantic Ocean, Lion’s Head, Signal Hill, and even Robben Island in the distance. The summit is surprisingly expansive, with well-maintained paths, quiet corners, and plenty of photo opportunities. There’s also a café and gift shop, should you fancy a snack with a view or a souvenir to take home.

Even if you’re not typically one for mountaintop adventures, the ease of access and the sheer beauty of the surroundings make this experience unforgettable.

Beyond Table Mountain and the Castle of Good Hope, Cape Town offers an array of sights that can be explored during or outside the formal city tour:

• Bo-Kaap

Entrance to Company Gardens

This tour struck the perfect balance between history, natural beauty, and cultural charm—leaving us with a newfound appreciation for just how much Cape Town has to offer in every direction.

Game Drives, Jeep Drama & Dozing Lions at Aquila

Just when we thought Cape Town had given us everything—mountains, penguins, ocean views, and breakfast buffets to write home about—we added one more unforgettable experience to the list: a safari day trip to Aquila Private Game Reserve.

We booked through Viator https://www.viator.com at a cost of £120 each.

Located about two hours from Cape Town, Aquila offers a chance to see the Big Five without venturing too far into the wild. We even saw a 4 day old Giraffe and a 3 month old Rhino (so cute). It’s a perfect add-on if you’re itching for a taste of safari life, and trust us—this taste came with a twist.

The reserve is stunning, with wide open plains, dramatic mountain backdrops, and all the iconic animals you’d hope for. Things were going smoothly as we rumbled through the bush in our open-air 4×4 safari vehicle, cameras at the ready, eyes peeled for anything that moved (or didn’t—rocks can be deceiving).

 

Then, in true safari style, we had a bit of a technical hiccup: our Jeep broke down.

Now, ordinarily, this might raise a few eyebrows—but we were assured this was all part of the adventure. Our guides sprang into action with impressive calm and efficiency. A rescue Jeep was sent in no time, and we were swiftly transferred to safety… just a short distance from lions.

Fortunately, these majestic cats were clearly in post-meal bliss mode, lounging under the trees like they’d just finished Christmas lunch. Full bellies, sleepy eyes, not a care in the world. If anything, we were more likely to be ignored than noticed. Still, there’s nothing quite like hopping between safari vehicles with lions nearby to make you feel very, very alive.

Once safely aboard our new ride, the tour continued through the reserve, and we spotted zebras, rhinos, giraffes, and more. Every turn delivered another photo opportunity—or at least another excuse to whisper “wow” for the hundredth time.

While we only visited for the day, we couldn’t help but notice how beautiful the accommodation at Aquila looked. Think stylish thatched lodges, warm natural décor, and—wait for it—a swim-up pool bar. Yes, really. We weren’t entirely sure if we were on safari or checking into a luxury island resort, but either way, it was calling our names.

Whether you go for a day or stay overnight, Aquila offers a brilliant mix of wild beauty and creature comforts—with just a dash of Jeep-related drama to keep things interesting.

Penguins, Peaks & Peninsula Magic

The final full day began with one of the true highlights of the entire trip: a visit to Boulders Bay. For anyone who’s seen the delightful Netflix documentary Penguin Town, you’ll know this spot isn’t just beautiful—it’s heartwarming, fascinating, and unforgettable.

We booked an Uber and arrange with the driver for a full day at a cost of £45.

This sheltered beach in Simon’s Town is home to a thriving colony of African penguins, a protected species that has made this area their permanent—and very popular—residence. The moment you arrive, you’ll understand why this place was on our bucket list. Seeing the stars of Penguin Town in real life, waddling between sun-warmed boulders or darting through the shallows, is pure joy.

There are wooden walkways for observing the penguins up close without disturbing their natural behaviour, and several secluded swimming beaches, where visitors can take a dip in the clear, calm waters. Yes—you can actually swim at Boulders Bay! And on some lucky days, you may find yourself sharing the water with a curious penguin or two. (They’re used to humans, but it’s best to keep a respectful distance—no selfies with flippers, please.)

Boulders Bay is also an important conservation site, managed by SANParks, with strict protections in place to keep the penguins safe. There are informative signs throughout the area, and one particularly charming (and important) detail: signs in the car park advising visitors to check under their cars. Why? Because the penguins, being inquisitive little creatures, sometimes take shelter in the shade under parked vehicles. It’s a small but telling example of how closely these birds live alongside humans—and how seriously their protection is taken.

This visit wasn’t just another photo opportunity—it was a heartfelt experience, full of character, charm, and conservation. If you’re already a fan of Penguin Town, it feels like stepping into the documentary itself.

After saying our goodbyes to the penguins at Boulders Bay, we hit the road for one of the most scenic drives : the legendary Chapman’s Peak Drive.

This route is what happens when a civil engineer falls in love with a mountain and decides to carve a road into its side just to show it off. With 114 curves hugging the rugged cliffs between Noordhoek and Hout Bay, it’s a drive where every turn offers a new gasp-worthy view of the Atlantic Ocean crashing against the rocks below.

There are plenty of viewpoints and lay-bys where you can hop out for a photo—or twenty. Just be warned: no matter how many pictures you take, none will quite capture how majestic it feels to be there in person. The wind in your hair, the smell of the sea, and that “how-is-this-even-real” kind of silence? That’s something a camera just can’t steal.

From there, the road led us to Camps Bay, Cape Town’s answer to the French Riviera—only with better views and friendlier penguins (well, nearby). This upscale beachfront suburb is famous for its palm-lined promenade, white sandy beach, and the always-impressive Twelve Apostles mountain range standing tall in the background like nature’s bodyguards.

Camps Bay has a lively atmosphere, perfect for a late lunch, early cocktail, or serious people-watching. The beachfront is dotted with stylish cafés, bars, and seafood restaurants, where you can sip something cold, nibble something delicious, and bask in the golden afternoon sun like a very content seal.

Whether you’re dipping your toes in the chilly Atlantic or lounging with a sundowner in hand, Camps Bay offers the perfect end to a day that’s already delivered penguins, mountain passes, and unforgettable views.

Summary of Our Cape Town Adventures

Cape Town feels like the perfect host—welcoming you with stunning ocean and mountain views, delicious food, and a variety of unforgettable experiences. The trip started at The President Hotel, where waking up to panoramic sea and mountain scenes quickly became the highlight of the morning coffee routine.

A gentle 90-minute cruise from the V&A Waterfront set the tone, with a surprise appearance from playful dolphins reminding us that nature loves to show off here. The Waterfront itself is a lively mix of great dining, charming local wildlife (seals included), and plenty of shopping and entertainment options to keep things interesting.

A half-day city tour combined history and spectacular sights, with the rotating cable car ride up Table Mountain offering breathtaking views that are hard to beat. The safari at Aquila brought some unexpected excitement when our jeep broke down near some very relaxed lions—proof that even adventure has its moments of “hold on a second.”

Boulders Bay delighted with its colony of African penguins, waddling around as if they own the place (which, in a way, they do). Finishing with the scenic Chapman’s Peak Drive and the stylish vibe of Camps Bay was the perfect way to soak in Cape Town’s natural beauty and vibrant atmosphere.

All in all, Cape Town delivers a well-rounded mix of awe-inspiring sights, wildlife encounters, and laid-back coastal charm—making it a destination that’s hard to forget.

Travel Tips for Cape Town

Currency & Payments

• Currency: South African Rand (ZAR or R)

• Credit/debit cards are widely accepted in urban areas

• Keep small amounts of cash for tips, markets, and rural areas

• Use ATMs located in secure places such as banks or malls

• Tipping: 10–15% is customary in restaurants and for services

Communication

• Country Dial Code: +27

• Emergency Numbers:

  • General Emergency (from mobile): 112

  • Police: 10111

  • Ambulance/Fire: 10177

• SIM cards available at the airport and retailers (MTN, Vodacom, Telkom, Cell C)

• Passport required to register SIMs (RICA compliance)

• Wi-Fi is common in hotels, cafés, and restaurants

• Consider a local data plan for convenience

Safety & Security

• Stay in tourist-friendly areas like the V&A Waterfront, Camps Bay, and Constantia

• Avoid walking alone after dark in quiet or poorly lit areas

• Use Uber or Bolt instead of hailing taxis on the street

• Avoid displaying valuables such as phones, jewelry, and cameras

• Use hotel safes for passports and spare cash

• Hike in groups, during daylight, and on marked trails (e.g., Table Mountain, Lion’s Head)

• Refer to https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/south-africa for updates

Health & Vaccinations

• No required vaccinations for travelers from the UK

• Recommended vaccinations: Hepatitis A, Tetanus, Typhoid

• Yellow Fever certificate required if arriving from risk countries

• High-quality private healthcare available (travel insurance strongly recommended)

• Tap water is generally safe, but bottled water is commonly used by visitors

Climate & Clothing

• Best time to visit:

  • December to February for summer and beaches

  • March to May for hiking and mild weather

• Dress in layers to handle changing weather

• Bring sun protection: sunscreen, sunglasses, hat

• Wear comfortable walking or hiking shoes

Cultural Tips

• English is widely spoken

• Greetings and polite behaviour are appreciated

• Plug types: M (South African), C (European)

• Voltage: 230V, 50Hz – bring a universal adapter

• Top Things to Do in Cape Town

1. Table Mountain
Take the Aerial Cableway to the summit for panoramic views, or hike if you’re feeling adventurous.

2. V&A Waterfront Cruise
Sail into the bay for a fresh perspective on the city and views of Table Mountain. Dolphin sightings are a bonus.

3. Bo-Kaap

Is known for its colourful houses and cobbled streets.

4. Aquila Private Game Reserve
A full or half-day safari within reach of Cape Town. Spot the Big Five and enjoy luxury facilities.

5. V&A Waterfront
Cape Town’s top shopping and dining district. Includes attractions like the Two Oceans Aquarium and Zeitz MOCAA.

6. Chapman’s Peak Drive
One of the most scenic coastal drives in the world, offering dramatic views and great photo stops.

7. Camps Bay
Trendy beachfront suburb known for its restaurants, white sand, and the backdrop of the Twelve Apostles.

8. City Highlights Tour
Includes Bo-Kaap, the Castle of Good Hope, Company’s Garden, Long Street, and Greenmarket Square.

Weather

Temp – Celsius Rain – mm	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
High Temp	28	28	27	25	22	19	19	19	20	24	25	27
Low Temp	17	17	15	12	10	8	7	7	9	11	14	16
Rainfall	12	8	17	45	85	80	85	70	45	30	17	11
Number of days	2	2	3	6	9	10	10	10	7	5	3	2