Cape Town: Southern Africa is one of Africa's most popular destinations for a reason

"The most beautiful cape on this globe," are the words Sir Francis Drake used to describe this part of the world. And he was not wrong! Cape Town in the extreme south of the African continent is greatly admired and appreciated, not only for its natural beauty, but also for its rich heritage and cultural diversity.

The fact that Cape Town is considered one of the best culinary destinations in the world makes it a shade more attractive. A mountain range rises along the beautiful beaches, offering beautiful views of the African south. A city with a rich history that has endured both colonialism and apartheid throughout history, it became more dynamic after 1994. With the new attractions that have joined the famous Table Mountain cable car, they form one of the centers of modern urban Africa.

When to Cape Town?

The best time to visit Cape Town is from March to May and between September and November. This time boasts enviable weather, less tourist crowds and more affordable prices. When planning your trip, it's important to keep in mind that the seasons here are reversed: summer in South Africa is during winter in Europe and vice versa.

What should I see in Cape Town?

Table Mountain is the biggest attraction, but far from the only one. You can climb the famous mountain yourself or take the cable car to the very top. The hiking trails Kasteelpoort and Skeleton Gorge climb from Camps Bay or of the Kirstenbosch National Botanic Garden, but the most popular is the Platteklip Gorge trail, which winds along the front.

It doesn't matter, you won't be disappointed either way. The views are simply spectacular, especially in clear sunny weather. The nomadic Khoe-San people once lived on the slope of this 1085 m high hill and called the place itself Hoerikwaggo. "mountain in the sea".

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There is also something special about the aforementioned Kirstenbosch Botanical Garden, which stretches over approximately 1,300 hectares and winds its way from Table Mountain through the leafy southern suburbs of Cape Town. Winding through the treetops, the Tree Canopy Walkway (also known as the Tree Snake) is perfect for bird watching and photography.

If you haven't had enough of wandering, then climb the Lion's Head, which offers a panoramic view of the bay. The sunsets here are phenomenal and popular with locals and visitors alike. Don't miss it when visiting Cape Town sandy beaches Boulders on the Cape Peninsula with rocky outcrops and wild waves. It may not be the right address for lounging or swimming, but it's perfect for walking, with colonies of wild African penguins keeping you company. But if you are looking for beaches for water sports and lounging, choose from the beaches in False Bay, but if you are a nudist, maybe Sandy Bay is the right address.

There is also no shortage of activities for culture and art lovers. Consider visiting Zeitz Museum of Contemporary African Art, which houses the largest collection of contemporary African art on the continent. The building itself is a real feast for the eyes, as the London architect Thomas Heatherwick transformed an abandoned grain silo into 80 galleries for these needs.

Now for the food! For the best taste of the city, visit the Bo-Kaapa. This is located in the historic center of the city, on the slopes of Signal Hill. The area is home to Kapa Malay culture and cuisine, developed by descendants of slaves and Islamic dissidents who arrived from Dutch colonies in Southeast Asia. Learn how to make a mild curry and sambal with tomatoes and onions and rolled samoose in the Bo-Kaap kitchen on a cooking “safari”.

On the way back, don't forget to stop for a good drop of Ruj wine. One of the first things the Dutch East India Company did after landing in Table Bay was to start wine production, realizing that the Cape's Mediterranean climate was perfect for growing vines. For a reason, the wine here is truly something special. And when you feel like leaving town for a few hours, visit Robben Island. This is where Nelson Mandela served most of his 27-year sentence, along with hundreds of other political prisoners. Now the island is on the UNESCO World Heritage List.

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How to explore Cape Town?

There are many private bus companies and suburban bus services in the city, as well as a city sightseeing bus. You can also experience the stunning beauty of Cape Town with the southern line of the railway, as the city trains are extremely affordable and convenient for exploring the city and its surroundings.

How much is a plane ticket to Cape Town?

You can fly from Venice to Cape Town (and back) from 557 euros. You can search for flight tickets according to your vacation date HERE.

Covid-19 restrictions in South Africa

There are no special restrictions, only upon arrival you will be tested for symptoms of the new coronavirus, and you will also have to provide the address where you will live. Check all current information about Covid-19 restrictions HERE.

Accommodation in Cape Town

Pepperclub Hotel

The Pepperclub Hotel in the center of Cape Town offers guests an outdoor swimming pool, a wellness center with a gym and a private cinema. All rooms are spacious, equipped with double beds, an armchair and a wall-mounted 42-inch plasma TV. Guests of the Pepperclub Hotel have exclusive access to the clubs at Camps Bay Beach, a 10-minute drive away.

Photo: Booking.com

BOOK ACCOMMODATION: Pepperclub Hotel

ONOMO Hotel Cape Town

Centrally located in the historic Greenmarket Square, the hotel offers stylish rooms with flat-screen satellite TV and free Wi-Fi. It boasts a heated rooftop pool with panoramic views of Table Mountain. ONOMO Restaurant serves a daily English buffet breakfast, as well as South African cuisine and a large selection of local and international wines.