Cape Town 6-day Itinerary
South Africa
Where to go and what to see in Cape Town to get the most from your trip – a 6-day itinerary from destination expert and travel writer Richard Holmes.
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Overview >Bucket list experience:
Abseil down Table Mountain
Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa
Last updated: 10 November, 2022
Thrill-seekers will love this unforgettable abseil – 360 feet (110m) off the summit of the world-famous Table Mountain. Behind you – heart-stopping views over the city and Atlantic coastline laid out below you.
Tours start at the top, so you take the cable car to the summit – or hike up. After your abseil, you’ll take scenic hike back to the summit on a lesser-known trail.
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Price from: £23
Minimum age: 10
Age suitable: 13+
When: All year around
Duration: 1 hour
Getting there & doing it
The abseil site is a short walk from the Upper Cableway station, making it an ideal combination with a cableway ride up Table Mountain.
Park near (or taxi to) the lower station on Tafelberg Road and ride to the summit where the Abseil crew will show you the ropes. Cableway tickets are not included in abseiling price. Remember, sturdy shoes are essential.
When to do it
Tours runs daily, year-round, but it is strictly weather-dependent. It will not operate during winter cold fronts or when strong summer winds are blowing. If this is a must-do, book it early in your trip to allow for weather delays.
Our writer’s picks of the best places to stay near this experience, closest first
Kensington Place
Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa[3 miles]
Stylish boutique gem at the base of Table Mountain; Cape Town’s coolest bolthole.
Official star rating:
Belmond Mount Nelson Hotel
Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa[3.5 miles]
The ‘Nellie’ is the grande dame of Cape Town hotels and a much-loved local landmark, offering upscale dining and a plant-based spa.
Official star rating:
Cape Cadogan Boutique Hotel
Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa[3.7 miles]
Central, romantic and boho-cool guesthouse, inspired by the decadence of Oscar Wilde.
Official star rating:
Vineyard Hotel
Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa[4 miles]
A great value boutique hotel set amid expansive gardens in one of the city’s leafy suburbs, in the shadow of Table Mountain.
Official star rating:
Destination guides including or relevant to this experience
Cape Town
Western Cape, South Africa
Vibrant, multicultural city with dramatic scenery, adrenaline adventure galore, Africa’s best art’s scene and golden beaches and outstanding gastronomy.
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Overview >Our writer’s recommendations of other bucket list experiences our writer says you must do in this destination, closest first
Hike up Table Mountain
Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa[0.9 miles]
Lace up your boots and tackle one of the myriad hiking trails going up to the summit of the iconic Table Mountain, a challenging but rewarding 2- to 3-hour scenic hike.
Best for ages: 13+ | Free | 2-3 hours
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Table Mountain
Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa[1.4 miles]
The iconic flat-topped mountain – sometimes covered with ‘tablecloths’ of clouds – that towers over the beautiful coastal city of Cape Town. Cable car or hike to the top; cable car or abseil down.
Best for ages: 10+ | £18
Kirstenbosch National Botanical Gardens
Cape Town, Western Province, South Africa[3 miles]
South Africa’s premier botanical garden is a treasure trove of flora from the Cape Floral Kingdom.
Best for ages: 13+ | £10
Hike up the Lion’s Head
Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa[3.7 miles]
A stunning 5.5km (3.4m) hike up the iconic Lion’s Head, for spectacular views of the Cape’s dramatic Atlantic coastline.
Best for ages: 13+ | Free | 2-4 hours
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Overview >Other worthwhile experiences near this experience if you have time or interest..
Experience
South African Museum
Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa[3.9 miles]
Stop by the South African Museum to see the famous Linton Panel, one of the world’s foremost examples of rock art, extracted from a shelter in the Drakensberg Mountains. Open daily.
Best for ages: 13+ | £2
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Experience
Neighbourhood Goods Market
Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa[5.2 miles]
This Cape Town institution, set up in an Old Biscuit Factory in 2006, features food stalls from around the world, plus local artisans selling designer clothing, accessories and quality handicrafts. Live music adds to the atmospheric buzz and energy.
Best for ages: 8+ | Free
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Experience
Two Oceans Aquarium
Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa[6.1 miles]
In the V&A Waterfront, this world-class aquarium offers three large tanks for pelagic fish alongside dozens of smaller exhibits. The hands-on ‘Touch Pool’ is always a hit with kids.
Best for ages: 4+ | £10
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Experience
Walk or cycle the Sea Point Promenade
Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa[6.4 miles]
Join locals on ‘The Prom’ for a leisurely 5km seaside ramble, cycle or skate as you enjoy the city’s best sunset views. There are pavement cafes if you need a break, and play parks for kids.
Best for ages: 6+ | Free | 1-2 hours
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