Western Cape

The Western Cape Province is South Africa's tourist mecca. Perhaps one of the most famous South African tourist attractions is Table Mountain, situated in Cape Town (the capital city of the Western Cape). The Western Cape boasts some of the finest and most picturesque beaches, lush winelands, rugged mountains, peaceful nature reserves, exquisite restaurants, and a multitude of cultural treasures.

The Western Cape Province is situated at the southern tip of the African continent, where the icy Atlantic and warm Indian Oceans meet. The climate varies throughout the province, but in general the winters are cold and wet and the summers hot and sunny.

The Western Cape is divided into the following regions:

• West Coast
• Cape Town
• Cape Winelands
• Central Karoo
• Overberg
• Garden Route and Little Karoo

The West Coast

The West Coast stretches from Darling in the south to Vanrhynsdorp in the north. It is renowned for its hospitality and scenic beauty. It lends itself to laid back, relaxing road trips and is especially beautiful in spring when the wild flowers are in bloom.

Accommodation

Accommodation on the West Coast varies but is generally quaint and homely. Tourists visiting the area can choose from a selection of B&B's, guesthouses, self-catering cottages, luxury holiday houses, camping etc.

Some tourist attractions along the West Coast include:

The West Coast National Park

Courtesy of South African National Parks

• The West Coast National Park:
  The West Coast National Park is situated close to Langebaan and the secluded harbour of Saldanha Bay, and is home to 40% of the earth's remaining strandveld fynbos. In the summer, thousands of migrating birds visit this national park. It is also a great archaeological site.
  http://www.sawestcoast.com/park.html
• Wine Routes:
  The Olifants River and Swartland are the two official wine routes in the West Coast region. The town of Vredendal is home of the Namaqua Wines manufacturing facility, one of the largest in the South Hemisphere.



Rock Formation - Cederberg

Courtesy of South African Tourism

• The Cederberg:
  The Cederberg Mountain Range boasts some amazing and unusual rock formations, and is a favourite spot for hiking and rock climbing.
  http://www.cederberg.co.za/
• South African Delights:
  The West Coast has a multitude of small quaint towns (e.g. Lambert's Bay, Piketberg and Clanwilliam), which offer true South African Delights such as homemade bobotie, rusks, skuinskoek, pumpkin fritters and malva pudding. Due to its long coastline there are also many fine restaurants which serve some excellent fresh line fish and other delicacies such as crayfish and mussels.



Namaqualand

Courtesy of South African Tourism

• Namaqualand Flowers:
  The arid hotspot of the Namaqualand provides tourists with a magnificent display of colour and natural beauty in the form of wild flowers from late August to October. Namaqualand falls partly in the Northern Cape Province and partly in the Western Cape Province. Accommodation in the Western Cape Province for good flower viewing includes towns such as Vanrhynsdorp, Vredendal and Lutzville. Accommodation in the Northern Cape Province is available in towns such as Nieuwoudtville, Garies, Kamieskroon, Springbok and Nababeep.

Cape Town

Cape Town is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. Also known as the 'Mother City', it is the oldest city in South Africa dating back more than 300 years. It boasts an array of excellent tourist activities and attractions to ensure that there will never be a dull moment during your visit to this fascinating city. These activities include mountain biking, surfing, scuba diving, hiking, golf, shopping, night clubs, theatre, sea kayaking, paraglidingà to name but a few.

Cape Town can be divided into 4 geographical areas, namely, Cape Town Central, Cape Town North, Cape Town South, and Cape Town East. It offers some top class accommodation in luxury guesthouses, 5 star hotels and vacation houses, as well as affordable and comfortable B&B's, self-catering units and backpackers lodges.

Some tourist attractions in Cape Town include:

 

• The V&A Waterfront:
  The Victoria & Alfred Waterfront offers an array of fine restaurants, speciality shops, entertainment, craft, and a variety of ferry and boat trips. It is located at the Cape Town Harbour and is extremely popular amongst both locals and tourists.
  The Two Oceans Aquarium , showcasing over 3000 sea creatures, is also located at the V&A Waterfront.
  http://www.waterfront.co.za/



Summer Concert at Kirstenbosch

Courtesy of South African Tourism

• Kirstenbosch National Botanical Gardens:
  Kirstenbosch National Botanical Gardens can be found at the foot of Table Mountain. It contains a large diversity and wealth of indigenous flora and rare fynbos species. In summer months, when the evenings are long and warm, one can enjoy a musical concert and picnic in this picturesque setting.
  http://www.sanbi.org/frames/kirstfram.htm
• The Penguins at Boulders Beach:
  Boulders Penguin Colony offers one the opportunity to view African Penguins in their natural habitat - a delightful outing for both adults and children.



Table Mountain

Courtesy of South African Tourism

• Table Mountain:
  A must for every visitor to Cape Town is a trip up the world famous Table Mountain. There are hiking routes for the more energetic (http://www.tablemountainwalks.co.za); otherwise one can enjoy a relaxing and scenic trip up in one of the rotating gondolas. There are 2 gondolas which can each carry 65 people and provide one with 360° views. On the top of Table Mountain one can take a leisurely stroll along the 2km of pathways, or enjoy some refreshments at the restaurant.



Aerial of Robben Island and Table Mountain

Courtesy of South African Tourism

• Robben Island:
  A ferry trip and tour of Robben Island is guaranteed to be an unforgettable experience. Robben Island, whose old prison was home to former South African president Nelson Mandela and many other freedom fighters, is now a World Heritage Site. Tours of the Robben Island leave from the V&A Waterfront.

  
  

  

  Camps Bay Beach

  Courtesy of South African Tourism

• Beaches:
  Some of the more well known beaches in Cape Town include: Clifton, Camps Bay, Llundudno, Sandy Bay, Kalk Bay, Fish Hoek, Noordhoek, Kommetjie, and Blouberg.
• Ratanga Junction:
  Ratanga Junction Theme Park offers entertainment and fun for the whole family with more than 30 attractions including 23 rides including rides for kiddies, rides for the whole family, and some rides for those wanting to get their adrenalin pumping. They also offer a variety of entertainment, shows and places to eat and drink.
  http://www.ratanga.co.za
• Cape Point:
  

  

  Aerial View - Cape Point

  Courtesy of South African Tourism

  Cape Point is situated at the south-western tip of the Cape Peninsula. It is perceived as the meeting point of the Atlantic and the Indian Oceans, however, geographically; these oceans actually join at Cape Agulhas.
  The sea around Cape Point offers some unique wreck diving experiences due to the many shipwrecks which occurred in the past. For those preferring the dry land, visit the famous Two Oceans Restaurant for a delectable seafood meal or take an invigorating ride in the Flying Dutchman funicular to view the Cape Point Lighthouse.
  http://www.capepoint.co.za

Cape Winelands

The Cape Winelands is the largest wine producing region in the Western Cape. It includes areas such as Franschoek, Montagu, Paarl, Robertson, Stellenbosch and Wellington; which all offer a superb selection of wine to suit every palate.

The Cape Wineland region offers a kaleidoscope of scenic and rejuvenating experiences such as health spas, open-air theatres, art galleries, 4x4 trails, mountain biking, golfing, hiking, game viewing, craft exhibitions and horse-back safaris.

Staying in the area allows one plenty of opportunity to leisurely explore the beautiful scenery and invigorating atmosphere that Cape Winelands has to offer. Excellent accommodation is available in and around all the Cape Wineland towns, and ranges from quaint, homely B&B's and self-catering units to luxurious and extravagant guesthouses, hotels and wellness retreats.

 

Some tourist attractions in the Cape Winelands include:

• Wine Tastingà of course!:
  With over 150 different wine farms to choose from, there is certainly not a shortage of opportunities for wine lovers to explore and discover this magnificent part of the country. Many of the wine farms also offer superb cuisine.
• Fruit Picking Tours:
  A variety of fruit picking tours are available in the Cape Winelands region, including strawberry, cherry, grape and other berries.
• Chocolate Tasting:
  For those with a sweet tooth, why not treat yourself to some chocolate tasting at Huguenot Fine Chocolates in Franschoek, or Moniki Chocolates in Tulbagh.
• Cheese Tasting:
  Sample some unique goats cheese at Fairview Wine Farm , visit Kamilili Cheese Farm in Tulbagh, or enjoy lunch at La Fromagerie at la Grange where they offer over 40 specially selected South African farm house cheeses.
• Butterfly World:
  Take a stroll through a magical habitat of Butterfly World. Located between Stellenbosch and Paarl, Butterfly World is the largest free flying butterfly park in Southern Africa.

Central Karoo

The name Karoo is derived from the Hottentot word for 'land of thirst'. It is a region that is rich in archaeological sites (especially in and around Beaufort West and Nelspoort), succulent plants, rock art and many quaint, homely towns. By night, the Karoo skies are an astronomers dream.

Beaufort West, Laingsburg and Prince Albert are some of the larger towns in the Central Karoo, all of which offer a variety of accommodation. An abundance of farm-style accommodation is also available in the Central Karoo.

Some tourist attractions in the Cape Karoo include:

• South African Delights:
  Visit one of the many charming small towns (e.g. Merweville, Murraysburg, and Nelspoort) in the Central Karoo and experience South African hospitality and local cuisine (e.g. 'skilpadjies', braaied lamb chops, 'afval' (tripe), pumpkin fritters, springbok pie, biltong and droewors) at its best.



The 4x4 Trail at Karoo National Park near Beaufort West

Courtesy of South African Tourism

• Karoo National Park:
  The Karoo National Park covers some 75 000ha and lies just outside Beaufort West. Some activities you can enjoy during your visit to this park include game viewing, bird watching, nature trails, 4x4 routes, and the 400m Karoo Fossil Braille Trail.
• Matjiesfontein:
  Matjiesfontein is a privately owned village that is well known for its splendid historical buildings. Enjoy a tour on an old London bus, take a trip aboard a steam train, browse around one of the two museums or enjoy a light meal at the coffee shop.

Overberg

The Overberg region begins as one passes 'over the mountains' via Sir Lowry's pass. It is an area that encompasses pristine beaches, picturesque seaside towns, vineyards, fynbos, rugged mountain ranges and beautiful nature reserves.

Enjoy a romantic breakaway, a fun-filled family holiday or a social adventure with a group of friends by staying overnight in one of the many accommodation establishments that the Overberg has to offer.

Some tourist attractions in the Overberg region include:

• Whale Watching:
  The coastal town of Hermanus is well known for it South Right Whale sighting opportunities between July and November. Hermanus also holds an annual Whale Festival in spring, the only Enviro-Arts festival in South Africa.
• Cape Agulhus:
  Visit the only lighthouse museum in South Africa which is situated at the 'foot of Africa' where the cold Benguela current of the Atlantic Ocean and the strong Agulhas current of the Indian Ocean meet. (Cape Agulhas and not Cape Point is the southernmost tip of Africa). The actual southernmost tip of Africa is located 1 km west of the lighthouse and is marked by a simple cairn (pile of stones).
• Shark Cage Diving:
  For those looking for some extreme adventure you have the opportunity to view the infamous Great White Shark up close and personal on a guided shark cage diving tour just off the coast of Gansbaai in 'Shark Alley' - the channel which separates Geyser and Dyer islands.



Caledon

Courtesy of South African Tourism

• Natural Hot Springs:
  Visit the Overberg town of Caledon and enjoy the rejuvenating natural hot springs which have provided much relief and healing to travellers over the past three centuries.
  
  
  
• Nature Reserves:
  Some of the nature reserves which the Overberg has to offer include:
  
  

  

  Sand Dunes - De Hoop Nature Reserve

  Courtesy of South African Tourism

  - De Hoop Nature and Marine Reserve (between Arniston and Witsand)
  - De Mond Nature Reserve (between Arniston and Struisbaai)
  - Agulhas National Park (situated at the southern-most tip of Africa)
  - Heuningberg Nature Reserve (in Bredasdorp)
  - Geelkop Private Nature Reserve (in Elim)

  
  

Garden Route and Little Karoo

The Garden Route and Klein Karoo region stretches along the coast from Witsand to Plettenberg Bay, and extends inwards to include towns such as Oudtshoorn, Uniondale and Ladismith.

 

The Garden Route, which extends into the Eastern Cape, is one of the most popular tourist destinations in South Africa amongst both local and international holidaymakers. It is a scenic wonderland of forests, pristine beaches, mountains, lakes, exquisite golf courses and delightful towns.

The Little Karoo (or Klein Karoo) is the most diverse of the Western Cape's regions with its soaring mountains and sheer gorges; sheep, ostrich, fruit and wine farming; nature reserves and fynbos.

 

Some tourist attractions along the Garden Route and in Little Karoo include:

Cango Caves

Courtesy of South African Tourism

• Cango Caves:
  The Cango Caves, situated 30kms from Oudtshoorn, offer tourists the opportunity to take either a Standard (easy) or Adventure guided tour through spectacular halls to view some magnificent, towering limestone formations.
  http://www.cangocaves.co.za
  
  
  
• Outeniqua Choo-Tjoe Steam Train:
  

  

  Outeniqua Choo-Tjoe

  Courtesy of South African Tourism

  Experience a stretch of the Garden Route from the comfort of the Outeniqua Choo-Tjoe Steam Train. This is a round trip from Knysna to George and back, and provides one with breath-taking views of the Indian Ocean. It meanders through 6 tunnels, over 4 passes, past waterfalls and allows one the opportunity to soak up the natural beauty of the surrounding countryside including fynbos, birds and animals.
• Oudtshoorn's Ostriches
  

  

  Oudtshoorn

  Courtesy of South African Tourism

  Be sure not to miss out on a visit to Oudtshoorn, the ostrich capital of the world. Feed, sit on, or even try riding an ostrich! Oudtshoorn offers a variety of accommodation to suit everyone's needs and pocket.
• Klein Karoo Wine Route
  The Klein Karoo Wine Route is the easternmost wine producing region in South Africa, and is one of the most diverse of the country's wine regions. For more information please visit: http://www.kleinkaroowines.co.za/
  ò Klein Karoo Kunstefees
  Every year Oudtshoorn hosts the Klein Karoo Kunstefees, an Afrikaans music and arts festival. For more information about this annual festival please visit: http://www.kknk.co.za