Sightseeing doesn’t have to be hard on the pocket, and sometimes the most immersive activities don’t cost a thing. Capetonians love the outdoors, and this explains why there is no shortage of adventures that are safe and tailor-made for all to enjoy.
Here are some free activities to try when you’re in Cape Town
Take A Hike
Cape Town hikes are spectacular any time of the year. People trek up incredible hiking attractions to savour unbelievable sunrise and sunset views. There are plenty of free hikes across the city, including Lion’s Head, Woodstock Caves, Cecilia Forest, and various Table Mountain trails. Hikes are suited to different fitness levels, from beginners to seasoned hikers.
Sunset Picnic at Signal Hill
Pack a picnic basket and head up Signal Hill to take in one of the most magical Cape sunsets. As it gets busy during the summer months, arrive a few hours early, find a spot and revel in the pretty scenery and energetic atmosphere.
Explore Parks
Green Point Park
This family-friendly attraction offers hours of fun for all ages. With an array of spots to choose from, including an eco-square, adventure play park, outdoor gym, outdoor labyrinth, as well as an amphitheatre, you’re bound to spend hours here.
Where: 1 Fritz Sonnenberg Rd, Green Point, Cape Town, 8051 | Visit: https://bit.ly/3GMXnx7
Company’s Garden
Undoubtedly one of Cape Town’s most famed attractions, the Company’s Garden makes for the perfect place to relax. The oldest garden in South Africa, located at 15 Queen Victoria Street, showcases some of the most stunning trees and plants, not to mention the cute squirrels that love to make an appearance. Pack a picnic, lay a blanket and soak in the grand views.
Where: 15 Queen Victoria St, Cape Town City Centre, Cape Town, 8001
Visit: thecompanysgarden.com/
Ratanga Park
Once known as Ratanga Junction, this park is ideal for those who want to walk, jog or relax in a peaceful setting. Not as crowded as other parks, this Century City attraction also showcases grand views of the canals and surrounding areas.
Where: 4 Conference Ln, Century City, Cape Town, 7441
Hit The Streets With A Free Walking Tour
Hear insightful stories of Cape Town’s history, its people, and architecture during a 90-minute walking tour. Choose between the Apartheid to Freedom, Bo-Kaap or Historic City tours, which introduce guests to the vibrant culture and history of some of the city’s most iconic spots.
Tours take place three times a day at 11am, 2pm and 4:20pm. The tour is free, but tips are welcome.
Where: Church Square, Cape Town | Visit: https://freewalkingtourscapetown.co.za/
Cool Off At Saunders’ Rock Tidal Pool
Not brave enough to swim in the ocean? Then try Saunders’ Rock Tidal Pool in Sea Point. This popular pool attracts local and international revellers in the summer months and is one of the best spots for sunsets. Once you’re done with a swimming session, grab a spot at the nearby rocks for a picnic.
Where: Sea Point, Cape Town | Visit: https://bit.ly/3ZnT2YI
Soak in the Sea Point Promenade
Take a stroll along the Sea Point Promenade. The Prom, as locals call it, starts at Mouille Point near the Waterfront and runs along the water’s edge through Sea Point.
Where: Sea Point Promenade, Cape Town
Get Active at Battery Park, V&A Waterfront
This 1.2-hectare park forms part of the V&A Waterfront’s Canal District. Key attractions include the skate and scooter park, a piazza, a basketball/mini soccer multi-court and the canal. Each area of the park contains public walking paths and benches.
Where: 19 Dock Rd, V&A Waterfront | Visit: https://waterfront.co.za/battery-park-waterfront/
Durbanville Rose Garden
Located at 33 Drakenstein Rd, the award-winning Durbanville Rose Garden allows visitors to fully immerse themselves in nature as they stroll through the gardens. People enjoy visiting during summer and spring for its spectacular bloom-with many capturing photos for special occasions. There are short walking trails and picnic spots available daily.
Where: 33 Drakenstein Rd, Durbanville Hills | Contact: 021 976 3414
Mojo Salsa Sundays Powered by Salsa Cape Town
If you want to learn salsa and get your hips swinging on the dance floor, head to Mojo Market for their free Salsa classes every Sunday. Everyone is welcome, whether you are single, a couple or in a group. After the complimentary beginner class, there is a salsa party featuring a hot line-up of DJs, five unique bars and 25 food stalls.
After the complimentary beginner class, there is a salsa party featuring a hot lineup of DJs, 5 unique bars and 25 food stalls.
Where: 30 Regent Road, Sea Point | Visit: https://mojomarket.co.za/
Visit Table Mountain during your Birthday Month
South African citizens can claim a free Cableway ticket to take the cable car up to Cape Town’s majestic Table Mountain. You can claim this ticket on any day during your birthday month and it’s also a great wheelchair-accessible activity.
Website: tablemountain.net
Sunset Yoga with Tanagh
What could be better than a healthy activity where you get to meet some awesome new people? All are welcome to Tanagh’s yoga classes no matter your yoga level. The classes are hosted by Neighbourgood at 5:30pm on Thursdays. Yoga mats are provided but since space is limited, it might be better to bring your own. Make sure you reserve your spot by visiting the link below.
Website: quicket.co.za/events
Check out the buskers at the V&A Waterfront
The V&A Waterfront is a lively place for a stroll, and you can stop and marvel at the amazing variety of local buskers and street performers as you make your way across the footpaths. There’s no shortage of sights and sounds to take in, you can also stop for a quick chess game at the large outdoor Pier Head Chess Board.
Visit Kite Beach in Tableview
Kite Beach is certainly a sight to see on a windy day when kite surfers gather en masse to ride the waves, creating a spectacular kaleidoscope of kites across the skyline. It can get quite windy so be sure to take appropriate attire, but it’s well worth braving the refreshing wind which will leave you flushed with excitement.
First Thursdays
On the first Thursday of every month, various art galleries and other cultural haunts in the city open their doors, free of charge, for pedestrians to wander in and around and take in the artworks on display. It’s a fantastic atmosphere which spreads across Long Street, Loop Street, and Bree Street, in the CBD where local artists can put their talent on display for anyone to see.
Website: first-thursdays.co.za
