Choose from 68 Fun Things to Do in Western Cape
ShowingFilter 61-68 of 68 listings.
South African National Gallery
Hundreds of works that tell some of South Africa’s stories populate the lofty walls and airy exhibit spaces of single-story Cape Dutch-style South African National Gallery. The art here starts before you enter – intricately-carved scenes on the Burmese teak courtyard doors were crafted by an early 20th century artist and British colonial administrator. Inside, similarly carved panels by the same artist, line entryways that lead to thousands of paintings, photographs, unusual sculptures, architectural elements, dyed and woven fabrics and written and sketched paper works –collections that span colonial history through the present day.
In addition to African, South African and apartheid art, the museum also has a large collection of British, French, Dutch and Flemish pieces. Perhaps the gallery’s most famous modern piece is the three alien-esque seated Butcher Boys crafted of plaster and animal horns by South African artist Jane Alexander.
In addition to its permanent collections, the space regularly hosts popular temporary exhibits by emerging and eminent local artists. Still, it’s possible to take in everything in about two hours. Afterward, the National Gallery’s setting affords a continuation for your pensive mood – many opt for a post-visit stroll in the adjacent (and free) Company’s Gardens with views of Table Mountain, a rose pond, 8,000 species of plants, fish pond and aviary.
Practical Info
The South African National Gallery is located in the middle of Government Avenue in the City Center; it is behind the South African Museum & Planetarium and accessible via taxi or the
Annandale bus. The gallery is open daily from 10 a.m. til 5 p.m. except major holidays. Admission is R 30 for adults, R 15 for kids ages 6-18 and children under 5 are free. A family ticket, which includes admission for two adults and two children, can be purchased for the discounted rate of R 75.
Address: Government Avenue, Cape Town 8000, South Africa
Hours: Open daily from 10 a.m. til 5 p.m. except major holidays
Admission: Admission is R 30 for adults, R 15 for kids ages 6-18 and children under 5 are free
From $ 43
Plettenberg Bay
Whether it's an international polo match, taking a walk with wild cheetahs or heading out on a wild canyoning adventure, the coastal town of Plettenberg Bay"”named Beautiful Bay by early Portuguese explorers"”offers travelers ample opportunity to explore the outdoors. The surrounding mountains are home to plenty of hiking trails and scenic bike passes ideal for nature-lovers, while extreme sports like skydiving and climbing prove ideal for the thrill-seeking set.
Plettenberg's sunny shores, particularly along the Keurbooms Lagoon, offer options for travelers looking to swim, relax and take in the area's quiet shores. In July, these protected waters attract Southern Right Whales and lucky travelers can catch a glimpse of these beautiful beasts from the safety of shore.
Practical Info
Plettenberg Bay is located about 600 kilometers west of Cape Town and 200 kilometers from Port Elizabeth, along South Africa's famous Garden Route.
Address: Plettenberg Bay, South Africa
From $ 314
South African Jewish Museum
The South African Jewish Museum, opened in 2000 in Cape Town, features exhibits highlighting the Jewish history of South Africa – with its roots largely in Eastern Europe. Visitors can see part of Cape Town's Old Synagogue, built in 1863 and situated on the same grounds as the museum, as well as the richly decorated 1905 Great Synagogue while exploring the interactive displays.
In addition to the pieces of Judaica, the museum also plays a documentary about Nelson Mandela and includes a remarkable collection of Japanese netsuke art.
Practical Info
The South African Jewish Museum is located near the National Gallery and Company Gardens. The site is open Sunday through Thursday from 10am to 5pm and on Friday from 10am to 2pm. The museum is closed on Jewish holidays. Tickets cost SAR50 for adults, SAR30 for seniors and are free for children under 12. Photo ID is required to enter the museum.
Address: 88 Bouquet Street, Cape Town 8000, South Africa
Admission: SAR50
From $ 4
Springbok Experience Rugby Museum
The South African national rugby team's nickname is the Springboks, and the Springbok Experience Rugby Museum in Cape Town highlights the team's history.
Rugby is one of the most popular sports in South Africa, and the Springbok Museum gives visitors a peek into the sport's history. Displays are high-tech and engaging, featuring 91 media channels playing and even a section where visitors can check their own skills against those of the Springboks"”there are passing, kicking, and reaction-time skills tests.
In addition, there are exhibits dedicated to the years when the Springboks won the Rugby World Cup and the Tri-Nations Trophy, including a World Cup trophy replica.
Practical Info
The Springbok Rugby Museum is located on the Victoria & Albert Waterfont in Cape Town, and is open daily (except Christmas day) from 10am-6pm. Tickets cost SAR65 for adults, SAR40 for students, SAR30 for seniors, and children five and under are free.
Address: Portswood Rd, Cape Town, South Africa
Admission: Adults: SAR65; Students: SAR40
From $ 6
Two Oceans Aquarium
Cape Town’s Two Oceans Aquarium celebrates the unique collection of marine life that lives off South Africa's coasts, where the Atlantic and Indian oceans meet. Travelers can get a glimpse of life below the surface of the ocean surrounding southern Africa, including microscopic creatures, magnificent fish, penguins, turtles, sharks, stingrays, rare seahorses, and colorful clownfish.
The Basics
This kid-friendly attraction is an ideal destination for families, offering a number of opportunities to explore, experience, and engage with the underwater world. The popular attraction is part of the Cape Town City Pass, including 45 other popular attractions like the District Six Museum, Table Mountain Aerial Cableway, and the Wheel of Excellence, and it’s also a stop on the hop-on hop-off bus. Animal lovers can combine their visit to the aquarium with a stop at the World of Birds Wildlife Sanctuary and Monkey Park in Hout.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The aquarium is a must-see for families and animal lovers.
- Choose between a standard entrance ticket and a multi-attraction ticket that includes access to other Cape Town attractions.
- All exhibits are wheelchair accessible, and wheelchairs are available free of charge.
How to Get to Two Oceans Aquarium
The Two Oceans Aquarium is situated along the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront. The easiest way to reach the aquarium is by taking MyCiTi Bus 104 to the stop just outside the aquarium.
When to Get There
The Two Oceans Aquarium is open 365 days a year and makes an ideal rainy day activity. To make the most of your time in the aquarium, plan your visit around the animal feeding times in the Penguin, Predator, and I&J Ocean Exhibits.
Conservation at Two Oceans Aquarium
In addition to inspiring environmental stewardship through its exhibits, Two Oceans Aquarium participates in conservation and research programs around the globe, including tagging and releasing of ragged-tooth sharks, freeing seals caught in fishing lines, rescuing beached sunfish, and rehabilitating injured sea turtles so they can be returned to the wild.
Address: Dock Rd, V&A Waterfront, Cape Town, Western Cape 8002, South Africa
Hours: Open daily from 9:30am - 6pm
Admission: Varies
From $ 3
Twelve Apostles
Just beyond the peaks of Table Mountain and Lion’s Head, lies the Twelve Apostles, a range of rocky cliffs that line the coast of the Cape Peninsula. Travelers can enjoy the views during a scenic drive from Cape Town, or while relaxing on the sandy shores of Camps Bay. Grab lunch along the bustling promenade and then head to the trails, since a climb to the top of the Twelve Apostles offers an unmatched view of Clifton and the bay. Afterwards, relax with a sundowner at the Leopard Lounge, known for extensive collection of South African wines and its famous Twelve Apostles cocktail.
Practical Info
The hikes at Twelve Apostles are relatively easy going. It’s best to park near the corner of Kloof Nek and Tafelberg Roads and head up the trails from there.
Address: Table Mountain National Park, Cape Town, South Africa
From $ 53
Sir Lowry's Pass
This mountain pass in Helderberg was named after Sir Galbraith Lowry Cole, who was governor of the Cape in 1828. Today's four-lane highway is a far cry from the original pass, when travelers would have had a far more challenging time negotiating this formidable mountain range. Now Sir Lowry’s Pass allows easy passage across this daunting natural barrier with the chance to enjoy some spectacular views along the way.
The striking beauty of the area, which is often mysteriously shrouded in mist and rain, more than makes up for the traffic that inevitably builds up through Somerset West and around Gordons Bay. The summit provides one of the most dramatic backdrops in the Western Cape, and on a clear day it’s even possible to see the range from the southern suburbs of Cape Town some 37 miles (60 km) away.
Practical Info
Sir Lowry's Pass can be reached by following the N2 highway from Cape Town. The car park on the approach to the top of the pass on the western side is a good spot for stopping and exploring the area.
Address: Sir Lowry's Pass, Helderberg 7135, South Africa
From $ 85
Tsitsikamma National Park
Tsitsikamma National Park is named after the San word for clear water. The rushing river that winds through this scenic destination is as crystal clear as they come and attracts visitors from across the globe in search of untouched South African beauty.
Travelers to the park can find accommodation, food and adventure tours in Storms River and Nature’s Valley, where thick forests and lush foliage are home to various wildlife and rare birds. The popular Otter Trail, Suspension Bridge and Lookout Trail, as well as the Strandloper Cave and Waterfall Trail all off visitors the perfect place to get out of the car, stretch their legs and get back to nature.
Practical Info
The park spans 50 miles of coastline between Nature’s Valley and Storms River Mouth. It is in close proximity to Bloukrans Bridge, which is home to the world’s tallest bungee jump.
Address: Garden Route, South Africa
From $ 314