100 Ways to Enjoy Winter in Cape Town

Cape Town Tourism
July 15, 2024
Arts & Culture, Eat & Drink, Nature Activities, Shopping
23 min Read

Winter in Cape Town is a treat, allowing you to enjoy exciting activities during the chilly weather.

Here are 100 things to do in Cape Town this winter:

For the Nature Warrior

Whale Watching

Between June and November, thousands of whales migrate from Antarctica to our coasts. From Cape Point to Boyes Drive to Gordon’s Bay and Rooi Els, catch a glimpse of these beautiful ancient creatures visiting just off our shores over the next few months.

Click here to find out all you need to know about whale watching in Cape Town.

Locations: Various
Price: Free

Learn to Kitesurf

Kitesurfing is a popular winter activity. It won’t be the best season to learn epic tricks, but the extreme conditions pose different challenges for a beginner. Don’t forget to fuel up with warm tea or coffee and a snack before hitting the grey outdoors.

Locations: Blouberg, Falsebay
Price: Various

Meet the Big 5 at Aquila Private Game Reserve

From May to July, Aquila usually runs a winter promotion, so keep an eye on their social media pages for their latest deals! Experience unforgettable wildlife, luxurious African hospitality, service excellence, and world-class facilities at an affordable price.

Location: R46 Ceres Road, Touws River
Price: Various
Website: www.aquilasafari.com

Visit Cape Point

Cape Point forms the southern section of the Good Hope Nature Reserve. Characterised by ancient rocks, towering cliffs, spectacular biodiversity and frothing ocean, this rugged stretch of land perfectly captures the Cape’s raw natural beauty. While visiting, access the historical lighthouse and ride aboard the funicular called the Flying Dutchman.

Location: Cape Point, Table Mountain National Park
Price: Entry ticket (with SA ID) from R100 for adults and R50 for children.
Funicular ticket (one way) from R95 for adults and R52 for children and pensioners.
Website: www.capepoint.co.za

Go for a Trail Run

From the fairly flat Pipe Track to traversing the Helderberg’s incredible terrain, gear up and hit your favourite spot for a winter trail running session.

For more info, check out the best trails in Cape Town.

CityRock Indoor Climbing

Fun awaits at CityRock. The Cape Town branch boasts high wall climbing, 180 top rope anchors, 16 automatic belay walls, bouldering, a yoga studio, a cardio and strength training area, and a dedicated beginners’ climbing area.

Website:www.cityrock.co.za

Explore Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens

Whether you’re meandering along the Boomslang above or wandering through the gardens below, Kirstenbosch is teeming with unique flora and fauna this time of year. See Southern Double Collared Sunbirds feeding on stunning Strelitzias and yellow Kranz Aloes glowing on a sunny winter’s afternoon.

Location: Rhodes Drive, Newlands
Price: South African Residents & SADC Nationals 18 years and older (with ID): R100
Children from 6 to 17 years: R40. Under 6: Free
Standard Adult: R230
Website: www.sanbi.org/gardens/kirstenbosch

Full Moon Kayaking

Calm quiet winter evenings are perfect kayaking conditions.

Once a month, you can join Kayak Cape Town for a paddle out into the False Bay waters. Watch in awe as a full moon rises over the Hottentots Holland Mountain.

Location: Wharf Street, Simons Town
Price: R450 pp
Website: www.kayakcapetown.co.za

Cast your Sights on a Winter Fishing Expedition

From May to September, Hooked on Africa tackles the great outdoors with an alluring Winter fishing charter special. Choose between a 3-hour Reef Fishing Adventure or a Half Day Small Game fishing charter (drinks and snacks included). Price on request.

Location: Harbour Road, Hout Bay
Website: www.hookedonafrica.co.za

Learn to Surf

Head down to your local beach break for an epic surf lesson with a surf school. Now is the time to put on a warm wetsuit and grab your surfboard for a few cooking Cape winter waves.

Swing Through Treetops

Celebrating 14 years of adventure, Acrobranch offers unique treetop experiences for the whole family in Hout Bay and Stellenbosch. Each park offers different obstacle courses, ranging from tree-top high ropes and tricky crossings (with ladders, tunnels, walkways, and bridges) to ziplines.

Location: 1 Hout Bay Main Road, Constantia Nek, Stellenbosch: Klein Joostenberg Farm Muldersvlei Rd
Price: From R150
Website: www.acrobranch.co.za

Go for a Bike Ride Across the Ocean

Here’s an exciting way to explore the ocean around Simon’s Town-hop on the world’s most advanced water bike. These premium watercrafts are non-motorised and eco-friendly. The bikes are easy to use, simple to steer and balancing is not needed.

Location: Simon’s Town Pier
Price: From R650pp
Website: www.capetownwaterbikes.activitar.com

Stargazing in the Cedarberg

High in the Cederberg Mountains on Dwarsrivier farm lies the Cederberg Astronomical Observatory. After a short slide show, gaze through a telescope and see a variety of planets, comets, nebulae, and more. The two-hour show starts at 8pm every Saturday, except the Saturday closest to the full moon.

Website: www.cederbergobs.org.za

Paragliding

Take to the skies with a tandem paragliding experience. Relax as your pilot navigates your glider effortlessly over the exquisite Table Mountain National Park. Enjoy a bird’s eye view of the gorgeous scenery and vast cityscape below. This activity is weather-dependent.

Location: Signal Hill, Cape Town
Price: From R1000
Websites: www.flycapetown.co.za / www.paraglide.co.za / www.parapax.co.za

Go Chasing Waterfalls

Hit a hiking trail near you for a brisk morning walk, taking in the lush landscape while searching for a fresh winter waterfall. Check out our list of 5 Table Mountain Hikes to Try

Abseil Down Table Mountain

Hang off the side of one of the 7 Natural Wonders of the world, descending a total distance of 112m. Enjoy incredible views of the Atlantic Seaboard while leaning over the edge of our world-renowned mountain. This thrilling adventure is safe with professional guides to show you the ropes. This activity is weather-dependent and excludes a Table Mountain Aerial Cableway ticket.

Location: Table Mountain
Price: From R940pp
Website: www.capetownabseil.co.za/

Shake off the Winter Blues with a Canopy Tour

Described by Lonely Planet as “vertigo-tinged fun” from “an exciting aerial perspective,” take a guided tour through a previously inaccessible part of a World Heritage Site. Surrounded by breathtaking Cape fynbos, panoramas and mountainscapes, get your blood pumping with this adrenaline-packed aerial adventure.

Location: Hottentots Holland Nature Reserve
Price: From R1095
Website: www.canopytour.co.za

Coasteering

Pioneered in Wales and Scotland, Gravity is proud to be the first to offer this activity in South Africa. Like Canyoning or Kloofing, Coasteering occurs along a protected coastline rather than on a river course. Equipped with a wetsuit, PFD, helmet, and a guide, you explore the inter-tidal zone by snorkelling, swimming, and rock jumping.

Location: Simon’s Town
Price: From R550
Website: www.absoluteadventures.activitar.com

Suit Up for Wreck and Reef Diving

The Cape waters are littered with thousands of shipwrecks. From recent and ancient to on the shore and in deep water. Explore several wrecks ranging from 12m to 40m with Pisces Divers. This PADI Five Star Instructor Development dive centre offers a full range of PADI dive training and daily dive excursions.

Location: 1 Main Rd, Simon’s Town
Price: From R2700
Website: www.piscesdivers.co.za

be.UP Park

Fun for the young and old alike, this indoor playground boasts a Trampoline Zone, an exclusive ALTIGAME®, Climbing Walls, and a Kids’ Maze. Visitors here can enjoy hours of fun with the option to host kids’ parties, corporate events and school groups. Once you have worked up an appetite, head to the Halal-friendly café for a bite to eat.

Website: www.beuppark.co.za

Do it Standing Up with SUP Cape Town

Stand up paddle boarding (SUP) is the act of propelling yourself on a floating platform with the help of a paddle or pole. This ancient art form dates back 3,000 years to Caballitos de Totora, a watercraft made from reeds and propelled by a bamboo paddle. Today you can experience a modern iteration of this activity at the V&A Waterfront, exploring its 3 km-long looped canals.

Location: Battery Park, Alfred Road, Victoria & Alfred Waterfront
Price: From R280pp for 60 minutes
Website: www.supcapetown.co.za

Saddle Up

Horse Riding Cape Town is an equestrian travel and adventure company specialising in horse trails in and around the Western Cape. Trot across white sandy beaches or gallop with the wind gusting through your hair. Trails range from an hour to multi-day trails and cater for single riders and group excursions.

Price: From R550pp
Website: www.horseridingcapetown.com

Tunnel Tour

Go in search of Cape Town’s 17th century buried secrets on this subterranean tour with Good Hope Adventures. Sweetwater drinking streams from Table Mountain, once a source of great sustenance to the city, can still be seen running through this dark underground labyrinth. Get to know your city from a different perspective led by highly experienced registered tour guides. Note: This tour is by appointment only.

Location: Castle of Good Hope, Darling St & Buitenkant St, Cape Town
Price: Upon request
Website: www.goodhopeadventures.com

Powerslide on a Beach

If you’re looking to scratch that need for speed itch, then book a wind-powered beach buggy lesson. First, you’ll be introduced to the basics, before strapping for some stomach-churning power sliding fun.

Location: 15 Granger Bay Blvd, Green Point
Price: Upon request
Website: goodhopeadventures.com

Explore the Largest Contemporary African Art Museum in the World

Zeitz Mocaa, known as the largest contemporary African art museum in the world, is perfect to discover in winter. Wander on your own or get one of the curators to give you a private tour. The attraction is open from Tuesdays to Sundays, from 10am to 6pm.

Location: V&A Waterfront Silo District, S Arm Rd, Waterfront
Price: From R250
Website: zeitzmocaa.museum/

Reconnect with Yourself on a Cape Camino

A Camino is a sacred walking route hosted by local communities.

Every country has its own culture, history, and natural environment, thus making each Camino special. Cape Camino showcases South African diversity over 650kms of (mostly) off-road path.

Location: 38 River Street, Hopefield
Price: Upon request
Website: www.capecamino.co.za

Climb the 7th Natural Wonder of the World

Over 500 million years old and towering 1,086 meters over Cape Town, our beloved Table Mountain is the ideal playground for nature lovers and adventure seekers during these winter months. This majestic marvel is a firm fan favourite during the winter months, especially for local hikers, as there are fewer crowds and cooler skies.

Urban Adventurer

Wine tasting in a Barn

Farm Sanctuary aims to awaken connection between farm animals and visitors and inspire a positive change in the way society views and treats farmed animals. This unique attraction also allows you the opportunity to sleep in a bar with rescued farmed animals, wine tasting in a barn, and a plant-based café.

Website: www.farmsanctuarysa.org/

Sunset From the Mountain Top

Every year, hundreds of thousands of visitors from all over the world ascend Table Mountain using the Aerial Cableway. Make your next trip a memorable one with a spectacular winter sunset. Buy an afternoon ticket, valid from 1pm onwards, and take the last trip down while the sun descends over the Mother City. Please be mindful of Table Mountain Aerial Cableway’s annual maintenance.

Location: 5821 Tafelberg Rd, Table Mountain Nature Reserve
Price: R150 –R490 pp
Website: tablemountain.net

Get Pumped Up for Some Mud, Sweat and Gears

From trail riding to fat biking to four-cross (and everything in between), hit your favourite mountain bike course, spot, or trail in and around the city. Discover the lower slopes of Table Mountain or the single track on Contermanskloof Farm. Or for a real challenge, mission to rider’s paradise out at Dirtopia, Stellenbosch.

For more info, check out our list of Epic Mountain Biking Areas Around Cape Town.

Plan a Cosy Picnic

Having a winter picnic can be a ton of fun for both family and friends.First, fill your favourite flask with a hot beverage of your choice, followed by a selection of soups, sandwiches, salads, and delicious snacks. Next, pick your perfect picnic spot in or around the Mother City and enjoy the warm conversation with a few hearty laughs.

Alternatively, head for one of these Top Pre-Packed Picnic Spots in Cape Town

Stay and Save at Southern Sun Hotels

Take advantage of Southern Sun hotel special rates over the coming winter months.

Website: www.southernsun.com

Sense Stranger Things

Wander ‘round one of Cape Town’s most spine-tingling locations, Fort Wynyard. Hear about spooky occurrences while walking through this 222-year-old historic site. You will be led through secret passages, bunkers, an underground abandoned museum, and even eerie interrogation chambers. This tour is not for the faint-hearted.

Location: 15 Granger Bay Blvd, Green Point
Price: Upon request
Website: www.goodhopeadventures.com

Appreciate Eclectic Tunes at a Jazz Lounge Near You

Get on down to one of the Cape’s finest jazz hotspots. Laidback winter evenings are filled with soulful rhythms and groovy tunes. Listen to up-and-coming musos honing their chops or join veteran bands blending smooth sounds at a venue near you.

Find more jazz venues here.

Keep Your Kids Entertained at the V&A Waterfront

Packed with plenty of fun activities, take your little urban adventures to the V&A Waterfront and uncover precious gemstones at the Scratch Patch, cruise aboard a pirate boat, or discover fishes at the Two Oceans Aquarium. Come rain or shine, the V&A Waterfront has plenty of entertainment for everyone.

Website: www.waterfront.co.za

First Thursdays

On the first Thursday of every month, the arts and culture scene in Cape Town is recognised through this cool nightly activity. Dozens of galleries and cultural events display the wealth of talent that lies within Mother City. The event is free, with no structured tour, and no schedule to follow. You are free to enjoy everything at your own leisure.

Price: Free
Website: www.first-thursdays.co.za/cape-town

Hop on a City Sightseeing Tour Bus

Take a trip on one of Cape Town’s iconic red tour coaches.

With slashed prices and plenty of specials currently on offer, grab your City Sightseeing ticket today. If the weather gets chilly, you can opt for seating below the top deck.

Location: 81 Long Street, Cape Town
Price: From R279 for adults and R165 for children
Website: www.citysightseeing.co.za

Laugh Out Loud at a Comedy Show

Brrrighten up a dreary winter’s day with a hearty laugh. From rising stars to veteran comedians, grab some giggles with a side of having you in stitches at a local laughing spot near you.

Treat Yourself to a Spa Day

When winter brings cold, wet, and windy days, retreat to one of Cape Town’s luxurious spas for a bit of R&R. Treat yourself to a pampering session at one of the many spas the city has to offer.

Meet Colourful Amuki Characters

Learn about science, nutrition, and nature through an interactive edutainment experience at Wonderdal. Here, under the watchful gaze of friendly WonderPals, young adventurers can look forward to a fun day of discovery.

Location: Hazendal Wine Estate, Bottelary Road, Stellenbosch
Price: From R85
Website: www.wonderdal.co.za

Unwind on the Franschhoek Wine Tram

The double-decker wine trams give passengers a charming way to enjoy the Franschhoek countryside during the cooler months. Pick from an array of experiences, from Hop-on Hop-off adventures to Curated Wine Experiences designed for wine-lovers and foodies.

Location: Franschhoek Terminal: Corner of Main Road and, Cabriere St, Franschhoek
Drakenstein Terminal: Corner of R310 Main Road & R45 Groot Drakenstein
Price: From R300 for adults and R90 for children
Website: www.winetram.co.za

Travel Back in Time with a Visit to the Museum

Explore, experience, and examine our past with a trip to a museum.

Website: www.iziko.org.za/

Get Creative at Clay Café

Clay Cafe started at an old dairy farm and has since expanded into eight franchised stores around the country. There are three locations in Cape Town and surrounds: in the City Centre, Hout Bay, and Paarl. This ceramic hand-painting venue is perfect for all ages, merging art, food, and good company. Choose from 180+ items, select your colour palette, and get creative. Once you’re done, your masterpiece will be put under fire and yours to collect a few weeks later.

Locations: Hout Bay: Main Rd, Hout Bay, In the City: 199 Bree St Cape Town City, and Paarl: Groot Parys, Jan Van Riebeeck Dr

Price: From R120
Contact: Visit claycafe.co.za/

Bounce Here, There and Everywhere

Is your family driving you up the wall during the winter months?

Then drive them over to Rush Trampoline Park for pure wall-to-wall trampoline fun. Some main attractions are the two dodgeball courts, three basketball slam dunk lanes, two long trampoline lanes and loads more. This is a fantastic way to let your hair down (and keep it).

Location: Stadium on Main, Claremont
Price: From R160
Website: www.rushsa.co.za

Book a Hot Springs Getaway

The Western Cape is home to some amazing natural hot springs for a winter getaway so you can still enjoy the outdoors no matter the time of year. If cabin fever is getting you down in Cape Town’s colder months, this list is for you.

Nurture Your Creativity at Montebello Design Centre

Located in leafy Newlands, the Montebello Design Centre is one of Cape Town’s best-kept secrets. With twenty-five arts and craft studios, workshops, and a historic greenhouse nursery, nurture your creative imagination with an art class or an explosive ceramics session.

Location: 31 Newlands Avenue, Newlands
Website: montebello.co.za

Learn a Local Language Online

Since 2005, UBuntu Bridge has been building connections between people and cultures through language here in South Africa. Stay in, sign-up, and discover a fun way to learn isiXhosa together – Wamkelekile!

Price: From R1000
Website: www.learnxhosa.co.za

Get Your Eats, Beats and Arts and Craft Treats at Your Local Market

Stock up on the freshest ingredients, sample scrumptious artisanal goodies, or catch up with friends at your neighbourhood market. Experience the sights, sounds, and fragrant aromas at one of our city’s hotspots. Markets run throughout the week; however, weekends are especially popular. Check out some markets here.

Go on a Free Walking Tour of the Mother City

If you’re looking for some fun “infotainment”, then join Free Walking Tours in Cape Town. With more than 120,000 guests to date, they are one of the top free activities to do in the Mother City. Whether you’re looking for historical walking tours, inside tips on the latest attractions or simply wanting to meet new friendly faces in the CBD.

Website: www.freewalkingtourscapetown.co.za

Paint and Sip Your Next Magnum Opus

Uncork your creativity as a professional artist takes you through a step-by-step process of creating your masterpiece. Paint & Sip events are designed for all artistic levels, offering both online classes from the comfort of your own home (Paint & Sip Kit are delivered to your door), or attend a live event once a month at different venues across Cape Town. And the best part… it’s all for a good cause!

Website: www.call2care.org.za/paint-and-sip

Escape a Room in 60 Minutes

Locked away in a themed room, teams must solve all the clues and puzzles around them before the 60-minute timer hits 0! Do you have what it takes to escape?

Location: JH02 The Watershed, 17 Dock Road, V&A Waterfront
Price: From R395pp
Website: www.hinthunt.co.za

Mid-Week Magic at Club Mykonos Langebaan

Sometimes all we need is a mini winter vacay. Relax in Greek-inspired kalivas overlooking the Langebaan lagoon. Eat your meals at any of the many restaurants on-site or cook in fully equipped self-catering bungalows. And for entertainment, Mykonos offers plenty of activities for all ages.

Location: Mykonos Access Road, Langebaan
Website: www.clubmykonos.co.za

Hideout with Books

Say goodbye to the biting cold outside and hello to a cosy corner with a good book in your local library or bookstore. For a real treat escape to the National Library of South Africa also known as “Centre for the Book”, situated on the periphery of the beautiful Company’s Gardens in Cape Town.

Delve into Simon’s Town’s Best-Kept Secrets

Discover a path to a tucked away waterfall, the grave of a famous dog, the Marine Big Five, and stories of ghosts at Simon’s Town. Don’t miss out on seasonal deals for accommodation and restaurants in the area.

Location: Simon’s Town
Website: www.simonstown.com

Prove Your Mental Prowess at a Local Pub Quiz

Are you the guru of great facts, the king or queen of comprehension, how about the general of all knowledge? Then put your mastery of mental agility to the test in current affairs, sports, history, and any other odd categories at your local watering hole. Team up with friends or opt to go solo.

Enjoy Family-Friendly Experiences at Imhoff Farm

Open daily, Imhoff Farm in Kommetjie has loads of thrilling activities to keep you busy, including a free-range farm and coffee shop, the Blue Water Café, the Higgledy Piggeldy petting zoo, and the Imhoff Equestrian Centre that offers outrides on Noordhoek Beach. There are also spaces to host kiddies’ parties.

Location: Kommetjie Rd, Kommetjie
Website: www.imhofffarm.co.za

Listen to VoiceMaps of the Cape

No awkward groups or rigid schedules, download the Voicemap app and go on a guided voice tour when you want and however you want it. It’s easy to use, tours work offline and play automatically using GPS. Walk, cycle, drive (or any other way you travel) through Cape Town, and who knows, you might discover a few new surprises along the way.

Website: www.voicemap.me

Tour the Heart of Cape Town Museum

The world’s first human heart transplant, led by Professor Christiaan Neethling Barnard, was done on December 3, 1967, in the Charles Saint Theatre of Groote Schuur Hospital. Today, this momentous event is honoured by the Heart of Cape Town Museum offering guided tours and a re-creation of that scene using lifelike static tableaux.

Location: Main Road, Observatory
Price: R100 for SA adults, R50 for students, and R200 for international guests
Website: www.gsh.co.za/heart-of-cape-town

Explore 8000 Animals at the Two Oceans Aquarium

Meet the rays, musselcrackers and sea turtles. Or catch a glimpse of misunderstood predators, or waddle with the penguins at the Two Oceans Aquarium.

Location: Dock Road, V&A Waterfront
Price: From R115, free for children under 3
Website: www.aquarium.co.za

Hangout at the Mill

Find one-of-a-kind fashions, eclectic artworks, and award-winning eateries at The Old Biscuit Mill. Meet innovative designers, dynamic photographers and foodie connoisseurs hosting various workshops in this vibrant space. Then head back on the weekend for the ever-popular Neighbourgoods Market, bustling with even more events, festivals and functions.

Location: 373-375 Albert Road, Woodstock
Website: www.theoldbiscuitmill.co.za

Go Glamping

Immerse yourself in nature without sacrificing too many of our modern creature comforts with a glamping experience. From a canvas tent on a platform to a tree house with a fully equipped kitchen, living room, and bathroom, stay comfortably warm and dry under the stars this winter season.

Tobogganing

Hurtle down a half-pipe, through 17 corners, S-bends and even a tunnel in a wheeled bobsled at Cool Runnings, Africa’s first downhill tobogganing track. Blitz through this 1.25km track with family and friends.

Location: Carl Cronje Dr, Tygervalley
Price: From R85
Website: www.coolrunnings.capetown

Play at Bugz Family Playpark

Grab a bag with an extra set of clothes and take your kiddies to Bugz Family Playpark. The indoor and outdoor play areas are specifically designed for building little muscles, problem-solving and enticing wild imaginations while having tons of fun!

Location: 56 Tarentaal Street, Joostenbergvlakte, Kraaifontein
Price: R170
Website: www.bugzplaypark.co.za

Use a 3,000-Year-Old Practice to Improve Your Health this Winter

Enhance your wellbeing with a steam session at the Turkish Baths in Long Street, the perfect way to relax and stay nice and toasty on a cold winter’s day.

Location: Long Street, Cape Town
Price: From R87 per hour

Spark Your Curiosity at the Cape Town Science Centre

With more than 250 interactive science exhibits and mind-boggling puzzles, the Cape Town Science Centre is a world of discovery under one roof. Engage with hands-on displays, science shows, holiday programmes and science camps.

Location: 370B Main Road, Observatory
Price: From R80
Website: www.ctsc.org.za

Experience Century Karting

Feel the adrenaline rush of racing high-tech karts around a racetrack, jostling for pole position in this fun family activity. The tracks are well maintained, with experienced marshals watching over the driver’s safety.

Location: Mezzanine Level, Canal Walk Parking
Price: From R195pp
Website: www.karting.co.za

Hit the Battlefield

Whether participating in an ultimate laser tag event or using it as a corporate team building, enjoy the “action without the pain” at Battlefield Live SA.

Website: www.battlefieldlive.co.za

Go Completely Off the Beaten Track with Jeep Tours Cape Town

Book your seat for the ultimate 4×4 Jeep driving experience. Spend the day zipping along powdery white sand, before sandboarding epic Atlantis Dunes with your very own instructor (picnic box with refreshments included).

Website: www.jeeptours.capetown

Learn to SBK

Still, have those dancing shoes? Then why not learn Salsa, Bachata, and Kizomba! SACATO will guide you through fun classes, even if you’re a beginner. New event details are posted on their socials

Price: From R50
Website: www.salsacapetown.co.za

Experience Snow in Little Switzerland

Just 150km from Cape Town lies the enchanting Ceres Valley. April – September is their much-anticipated snowfall season. Although it’s difficult to predict exactly when to put on your scarf, boots, and beanies to catch this spectacular rare event, keep an eye on Ceres Tourism’s Facebook page for regular snowfall updates.

Website: www.ceres.org.za

Dance the Night Away

Cape Town is brimming with the hottest spots, low-key lounges, and trendiest clubs to dance the night away. Dress up or down, meet up with your besties and buds for a memorable night out. From your favourite R&B jams, breaking it down with fellow hip-hop fans to sultry sounds at a classy cocktail lounge, there’s something for everyone. You bring the heat, and the Mother City will ensure superior beats at a vibrant venue this coming winter.

Witness the Art of Diamond Cutting

Book a Sparkling Tour at The Diamond Works Institute. See first-hand how skillful experts carefully craft beautiful works of mineral art, view a replica of the iconic Cullinan diamond, and browse their extensive range of premium loose diamonds, tanzanite, gold, and platinum jewellery.

Location: 10 Christiaan Barnard Street, Cape Town
Website: thediamondworks.co.za

Fearless Foodie

Go Fynbos Tasting

The Cape Town Fynbos Experience is a masterclass in the unique culinary flavours of the Fynbos biome. Go on a guided tasting, savour a light tapas-style lunch and a scenic walk on a Fynbos farm. Experience 11 of South Africa’s gourmet flavours, tasting edible naturals, botanical tea infusions, and traditional cordials. Become an instant Fynbos expert and learn how to pair its flavours with everyday meals.

Location: South African Fynbos Farm, Wellington
Price: R1495pp (minimum 6 guests, maximum 17)
Website: www.southafricanfynbos.com

Burger Bucket List

We’ve rounded up some of the best burgers you need to try in Cape Town. From towering Gibson’s burgers to the classics at Royale Eatery in town, add this mouth-watering burger bucket list to your winter menu.

Feast on Surf or Turf

Bertha’s has been serving up sensational fresh meals since 1993. The restaurant is located at the Simon’s Town Quay, offering spectacular views of False Bay and the naval base

Location: 1 Wharf Road, Simon’s Town
Website: www.berthas.co.za

Learn How to Forage

Join Veld & Sea for their winter foraging experiences throughout winter.

Roushanna Gray and the team start with an educational walk and talk in and around the cultivated wild herb gardens, farm, and fynbos mountainside in search of wild flavour. Warm up at the Glasshouse with warming fynbos chai tea and wild greens soup.

Location: Good Hope Gardens Nursery, Plateau Rd (M65), Cape Point
Price: From R575
Website: www.veldandsea.com

Have a Cosy Breakfast at Jonkershuis

Overlooking the expansive Constantia vineyards, Jonkershuis in Groot Constantia is an excellent choice for a winter breakfast. They serve everything from scones and jam to classics like French toast and eggs and bacon. For the hungry, the brekkie burger is a winner—it is topped with bbq, egg, bacon, pickle, fries, and hollandaise. Of course, we recommend you go wine tasting at Groot Constantia afterward.

Location: Groot Constantia, Groot Constantia Road, Constantia
Price: From R74
Website: www.jonkershuisconstantia.co.za

Devour the Best Fish ‘n Chips

Travellers visiting the Mother City should indulge in fish and chips. Ask the locals about their top spots, and if you still can’t decide, check out this list for a few of our favourite spots.

Throw a Tiffin

Invite your friends and family for a delightful winter high tea party.

Treat yourself to a selection of sweet or savoury dishes, all beautifully displayed on three-tier stands. Pair your meals with an assortment of fragrant teas and fine coffees. Host your next light supper at one of these elegant establishments in the city.

Price: From R250

Hang Out with the Butcher, the Baker, and the T-Shirt Maker

Every Thursday and Friday, catch warm vibes at the Bluebird Garage Food and Goods Market. Located in a beautiful postal plane hangar, grab homemade grub from a variety of food stalls or buy fresh fruit and veggies to create your own home-cooked meals.

Location: 39 Albertyn Road, Muizenberg
Website: www.bluebirdgarage.co.za

Drink Over 190 Locally Crafted Gins… in a Vintage Car Showroom

Home to a collection of gorgeous classic cars, Classic Cats is based at Vredenheim Wine Estate. Gin and classic car enthusiasts can sample over 190 locally made craft gin creations while admiring stunning vintage automobiles.

Location: Vredenheim Wine Estate, Stellenbosch
Website: www.classic-cats.co.za

Eat with Purpose at Schoon Kloof Street Café

Drawing inspiration from the seasons, Schoon promises to bake, cook, create, and serve their way into your heart with only the very best local ingredients. There are locations at Sea Point, Stellenbosch, Paarl, and Somerset West.

Website: www.schoon.co.za

Learn How to Cook Traditional Cape Malay Cuisine from Scratch

Book a cooking class with Bo-Kaap Cooking Tour. This is a fully immersive social and cultural experience that combines a walking tour with a hands-on cooking workshop and 2-course lunch. Learn about the food, culture, and traditions of the Cape Malays of Bo-Kaap. Discover how to mix masala and make roti, samoosa, dhaltjies and chicken curry from scratch.

Location: 46 Rose Street, Bo-Kaap
Price: On request
Website: www.bokaapcookingtour.co.za

Wine Time at Groot Constantia

Choose one of three carefully curated experiences at Groot Constantia, South Africa’s oldest wine-producing farm. Book an intimate wine tasting or wine-and-chocolate pairing session. Or start with a guided tour of the Manor House Museum and Cloete Cellar before pampering your palate with an exquisite vintage.

Location: Groot Constantia Road, Constantia
Website: www.grootconstantia.co.za

Indulge in a Darling Brew Tasteroom Experience

Enjoy the Darling Brew range, from traditional lagers, oat ales and pale ales to IPAs, wheat beers and their exotic dark. Located in Darling, you can pair your beer with their sumptuous burgers.

Location: 48 Caledon St, Darling
Website: darlingbrew.co.za/

Satiate Your Senses at Bistro Sixteen82 and Tryn

Designed to warm you up from the inside out, sample the hearty and homely lunch special, either in 2, 3 or 4 courses. Or tuck into tapas for two, consisting of five pre-selected dishes. While at Tryn, try their 3-course journey consisting of an amuse bouche to start, before selecting your own 3 courses from their a la carte menu. And of course, something sweet to end the occasion.

Location: Steenberg Estate, Steenberg Road, Constantia Valley
Website: www.steenbergfarm.com

Brandy and Chocolate Tasting at Van Ryn

Designed for discerning connoisseurs and first-time explorers, take one of two Van Ryn’s brandy and chocolate tasting tours. The first option is their award-winning 12, 15 and 20-year-old brandies with three delicious Von Geusau Chocolates. Or indulge in the Decadent Delight Tasting, also using their signature vintages but this time paired with three decadent delights created by Roses Handmade.

Location: Van Ryn Road, Vlottenburg, Stellenbosch
Website: www.vanryns.co.za

Spend a Day Exploring the Constantia Wine Route

Home to some of the oldest and most prestigious farms in the country, take the time to tour the Constantia Valley. Each farm in the area has its unique charm, atmosphere, and of course world-class tasting wine. Explore here.

Get Together at a Premium Shisanyama

Promising to take you where no other tour operator has taken you before, book a premium shisanyama with an African Authentic Experience. Get to experience the local lifestyle while indulging in some authentic South African cuisine.

Location: Rands, Khayelitsha
Website: www.aaeauthenticafricanexperience.co.za

Sip Brandy and Eat Cake

Occupying over 22 hectares, the KWV cellar complex in Paarl is one of the largest in the world. Taste their pot still brandy and chocolate, sweet wine liqueur and cake, or pair wine with artisan pies.

Location: Kohler Street, Southern Paarl
Price: From R70
Website: www.kwv.co.za

Sample Award-Winning Olive Oil and Wine at Morgenster

You would be hard-pressed to find a better view than the one at Morgenster Wine and Olive Estate. The tasting room overlooks a still reed-lined dam, with the Helderberg mountain range looming in the background. They are award-winning producers of olives, olive oils and wine, and you can enjoy their outdoor seating while you taste their wares.

Location: Morgenster Wine & Olive Estate, Vergelegen Avenue, Somerset West
Website www.morgensterestate.co.za

Smash Plates at Mykonos Taverna

Enjoy an evening of Greek food, dance, and culture on the last Saturday of every month. Enjoy mezze, salads, and a main of your choice, followed by platters of Greek pastries and seasonal fruit to end off your meal. After the main course, the lights go down and the music goes up, with Greek dancers putting on a show and getting everybody ready to dance Zorba…while smashing some plates!

Location: 343 Main Road, Sea Point
Website: www.mykonostaverna.co.za

Dip, Decorate, and Wrap Bon Bons at Honest Chocolate

If you’ve ever wondered about the magic of chocolate making, then book an outing to the Honest Chocolate Factory. There, you’ll discover how cacao beans are farmed and processed, followed by a demonstration of how their delicious artisanal chocolate is made. Before leaving, you get to dip, decorate, and wrap your own set of four bonbons to take home.

Location: 7 Barron Street, Woodstock
Price: From R350pp
Website: www.honestchocolate.co.za

Have a Breakfast Making a Difference

Located in one of the toughest places in the world, Idlanathi Restaurant in Pollsmoor Prison offers a variety of delightful dishes. The food is both prepared and served by current prisoners as part of their rehabilitation programme.

Location: Tokai, Cape Town

Visit Makers Landing

Celebrate a farm-to-table and nose-to-tail approach with food producers and small businesses at Makers Landing. Here the absolute best South African food and flavours are celebrated. From aromatic curries and locally produced cheese to fresh koeksisters and freshly ground coffee. Makers Landing is a place for people to connect, learn and share their passion for food.

Location: The Cruise Terminal, V&A Waterfront
Website: www.makerslanding.co.za

Have a Food Jams Session

Imagine a party where cooking is only half the fun, this is Food Jams. They take well-loved recipes and give you all the tools, ingredients and guidance to create a memorable experience with friends, fun, and music! From private functions to community kitchen cookoffs (and everything in between), reveal your inner MasterChef at a Food Jams session for winter.

Location: Soute Studio – Salt Orchard Precinct, 45 Yew Street, Salt River
Website: www.foodjams.co.za

Wake Me Up Before You Cocoa

Wintertime calls for one of our favourite comforting beverages, hot chocolate!

Keep calm and cosy up with a cup of delicious hot cocoa from one of these fine Cape establishments

Grab a Hot Beverage

We love a good hot chocolate moment, but Cape Town is home to plenty of delicious, and unique, beverage options. Here are some to consider.

James Sedgwick Whisky Distillery

James Sedgwick Distillery, the only commercial whisky distillery in Africa, offers visitors a diverse range of whisky experiences, perfect to try this chilly weather. Choose from one of three tastings, where you can sample three to five whiskies. One of the pairings includes tapas-style food, while another features a taste of the Exclusive Master’s Collection.

Location: 79 Stokery Rd, Wellington
Contact: www.jamessedgwickdistillery.co.za