The best 14 day South Africa itinerary

South Africa is a place that lingers with you long after you’ve left. When I planned my two-week trip, I aimed for a mix of vibrant cities and breathtaking landscapes. Here’s what, I think, makes the ultimate South Africa itinerary for 14 days.

Is 14 days enough for South Africa?

While you could easily spend months exploring every corner, I find that two weeks is plenty to experience South Africa’s highlights without feeling rushed. The key is finding a balance between packed days and time to recharge. 

If you do have the option, I would consider adding an extra day or two just to be able to go at a slower pace or more time for spontaneous discoveries (or even a well-earned nap). 

The best time to visit South Africa is during its spring (September to November) or fall (March to May). During these seasons, you’ll enjoy comfortable temperatures and fewer tourists. 

If you're feeling overwhelmed by all the nitty-gritty details of trip planning, our tailor-made service can help by taking care of the planning and booking. Our trips are planned by local travel experts and are customizable to your every preference. 

Day 1: Arrive in Johannesburg

Plan to land at O.R. Tambo International Airport around mid-morning, ideally between 10 and 11 AM, to maximize your first day in South Africa. Arriving at this time allows you to get through car rental and start your journey while daylight is still on your side—especially helpful since your first drive is a long one.

One quick note: flights arriving in Johannesburg and departing from Cape Town might cost you about $120 extra per person compared to a round-trip into Johannesburg. 

But honestly, that slight increase opens up so much more flexibility and helps you avoid doubling back, which makes it worth every dollar in my opinion.

Renting a car

The best way to get around. South Africa, is renting a car. Book your rental car ahead of time, and when choosing a vehicle, go for one with solid ground clearance. You’ll thank yourself later when you hit those rugged rural roads.

• A U.S. driver's license is valid in South Africa for up to 90 days.
• South Africans drive on the left side of the road, so take a moment to adjust.
• Picking up your rental car directly from the airport is the most efficient way to start your journey to Graskop.
• Major rental companies like Avis, Budget, and Hertz are available at the airport.
• Consider taking out full insurance coverage, including tire and windscreen protection.
• Keep headlights on during daytime driving—you'll find many locals doing the same for safety.

Drive straight to Graskop

Travel time: Johannesburg to Graskop (4.5 hours)

With your car sorted, hit the road toward Graskop. The route takes you from Gauteng’s urban sprawl, easing you through Mpumalanga’s sweeping highlands, and ends with the jaw-dropping escarpment views. You’ll start on the N4 highway before merging onto the R539, where the scenery becomes even more spectacular.

Where to stay in Graskop

For your first night, Graskop is an excellent choice over Johannesburg to really kick off your trip. It’s a cozy little town and an ideal launchpad for exploring the Panorama Route. Here are some of the best spots based on what kind of experience you’re looking for:

• Town Center: Stay here if you want easy access to restaurants, shops, and other amenities. Everything is within walking distance, and Graskop’s famous pancake houses are just around the corner.
• Northern Graskop: If you’re after a quieter vibe, this area is more residential with spacious properties and gardens—a good choice for families or anyone looking to unwind. It’s only a short 5–10 minute drive to town.
• Canyon Edge: For those who love dramatic views, properties here along the eastern edge offer jaw-dropping canyon vistas. A bit pricier, but imagine waking up to that sunrise. If this sounds like your thing, book ahead, especially in peak months (July-August).
• Forest Area: On the western outskirts of town, these accommodations are surrounded by pine forests. This area is perfect if you’re a nature lover—hiking trails are right outside your door, letting you immerse yourself in South Africa’s stunning landscape from the get-go.

Day 2: Drive the Panorama Route

Today, you’ll dive into one of South Africa's most awe-inspiring drives: the Panorama Route.

Known for its breathtaking landscapes carved by nature over millions of years, this route features dramatic landscapes carved over millions of years. Start your day early to capture that perfect morning light over the escarpment. A good strategy is to drive to the furthest point (Three Rondavels) first and then work your way back to Graskop, giving yourself plenty of time at each stop.

Must visit stops

The Panorama Route is dotted with remarkable natural wonders along the Mpumalanga escarpment. Heading out at sunrise not only rewards you with pristine lighting but also lets you avoid the region’s typical afternoon thunderstorms.

Three Rondavels

These three iconic mountain peaks, shaped like traditional African huts, are a must-see in Blyde River Canyon. Arrive in the early morning for the best views, as the rising sun casts a warm glow over the rocks, giving them an almost surreal quality.

Plus, you’ll beat the tour buses. There's a small entrance fee—keep cash handy as the card machines can be unreliable.

Lowveld Viewpoint

From this vantage point, you’ll have sweeping views across the Lowveld region, where the landscape plunges dramatically toward Kruger National Park. Look for educational plaques explaining the geological formations.

Blyde River Canyon

This is the third-largest canyon in the world, and it’s every bit as impressive as you’d imagine. Blyde River stretches over 25 kilometers and plunges nearly 800 meters at its deepest points. The canyon is home to unique plant species like the rare “Blyde cycad,” a relic from prehistoric times, and the hardy Aloe arborescens, which thrive in the canyon’s specific microclimate.

God's Window

At God’s Window, you’re treated to a series of lookout points perched on the edge of the escarpment, each offering expansive views that, on a clear day, stretch all the way to Kruger National Park and Mozambique. This stop is one of the route’s most iconic, and for good reason.

Try to arrive as early as possible. Clouds tend to roll in after 10 AM, often obscuring the view, so an early visit is key.

The Pinnacle Rock

This towering quartzite column rises dramatically from the forest below. From the viewing platform, you’ll get a perfect angle to capture its rugged, weathered beauty.

Day 3: Travel from Graskop to Kruger (Hazyview)

Travel Time: 30 minutes via R535

The short 30-minute drive to Hazyview offers your first taste of the Lowveld region, with the landscape changing dramatically as you descend from the escarpment. You’ll want to leave early to maximize your time in Kruger. The Phabeni Gate, your entry to Kruger National Park, is only a 15-minute drive from Hazyview.

Where to stay in Hazyview

Hazyview is an ideal base for exploring Kruger National Park. Each area has its unique perks.

• Perry’s Bridge Area: This is our top pick, especially for families. It’s a convenient, secure spot with everything close by.
• Riverside Area: The Riverside area, set along the Sabie River, is known for its tranquil surroundings and stunning views. Accommodations here often feature larger gardens and scenic river vistas.
• Town Center: If you like having conveniences at your fingertips, Hazyview’s town center offers supermarkets, restaurants, and other essentials within walking distance.
• Western Outskirts: For a more rural vibe, head to the western outskirts, where you’ll be surrounded by banana plantations and macadamia farms. These properties offer a true countryside experience.

Self-drive in Kruger

With only a 30-minute drive from Graskop to Hazyview, you have ample time for an afternoon game drive in Kruger. Enter through Phabeni Gate and explore the southern section of the park. Here’s how to make your self-drive as smooth as possible:

• Book your permits online to avoid waiting at the gate – you’ll want every minute in the park.
• Download the official Kruger Park app for real-time sightings, maps, and insider tips that make navigating easier.
• Top off your fuel tank before entering the park. It’s a big area, and petrol stations are sparse inside.
• Pack snacks and water – Kruger’s shops are often spread out, so it’s best to have refreshments on hand.

Day 4: Safari in Kruger National Park

Kruger National Park is one of Africa's premier safari destinations, known for its wildlife, including the Big Five: lions, elephants, leopards, rhinos, and buffalos. Stretching across nearly 20,000 square kilometers, Kruger offers visitors a truly immersive experience in South Africa’s wild landscapes. You could easily spend an entire week here.

How to book a Safari

While just about every accommodation in Hazyview can arrange safaris, it’s worth doing a bit of homework to secure the best experience. For the best chances of seeing wildlife, consider booking a full-day safari rather than a half-day. Morning safaris tend to be the most rewarding in terms of animal sightings, so aim for an early start.

Here’s what to look for:

• Small group sizes (ideally 6-8 people per vehicle)
• Qualified field guides (look for FGASA certification)
• Early morning departures (5:30-6:00 AM is prime time)
• Refreshment stops included along the way
• Recent positive reviews on trusted platforms

When to visit Kruger

For the best wildlife viewing, the dry winter months (May to September) are ideal. During this time, vegetation is sparse, and animals gather around water sources, making them easier to spot. Temperatures are also milder, with cooler mornings and warm afternoons, perfect for early-morning safaris. See our full guide.

Day 5: From Hazyview to Drakensberg

Travel time: 7-8 hours (excluding stops)

Today’s journey takes you from the lowveld to the impressive peaks of the Drakensberg mountains. It’s a long drive, about 7-8 hours, but will take you through a cross-section of South Africa’s landscapes—from bushveld plains to highland vistas.

Plan to hit the road by 6 AM to arrive well before dark. The mountain roads can be a bit tricky after sunset, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the area. The drive takes you through Mpumalanga, Free State, and into KwaZulu-Natal, offering an authentic glimpse of rural South Africa.

Be sure to pack snacks and water, as facilities can be few and far between. Some stops to consider:

• Nelspruit – Stock up on supplies and enjoy breakfast at Halls Farm Stall.
• Clarence – A charming artists' town perfect for a lunch break and some gallery browsing.
• Harrismith – The last major town before you hit the mountains; a good spot to refuel.

Where to stay in Drakensberg

The Drakensberg region has a range of accommodations. Each area has a different vantage point and access to this UNESCO World Heritage site.

• Northern Berg: Known for the dramatic Amphitheatre, this is the go-to spot for serious hikers and photographers. We enjoyed the Amphitheatre Backpackers Lodge for budget-friendly lodging with unbeatable mountain views, ideal for hiking trips.
• Central Berg: Set in Champagne Valley, this area has a good mix of activities, facilities, and views. Ideal for families and those visiting the Drakensberg for the first time.
• Cathedral Peak Area: More remote, this region boasts spectacular hiking trails and some of the most stunning scenery. Perfect for adventure-seekers and those wanting to avoid crowds.
• Monks Cowl Region: Quieter, with excellent day hikes and beautiful vistas. Rock climbers and nature enthusiasts will feel at home here.

Day 6: Explore Drakensberg

The Drakensberg, meaning "Dragon Mountains" in Afrikaans, is home to some of Africa's most dramatic mountain scenery. You’ll want to spend your first day acclimating to the altitude and setting your sights on Sentinel Peak.

Book a (hiking) tour to The Sentinel Peak

The Sentinel Peak hike, located in uKhahlamba-Drakensberg Park, is a must-do. This bucket-list trail offers a blend of challenge and reward with some of the most stunning views in the Drakensberg. Starting from the Sentinel car park, the trail gradually climbs through basalt cliffs and alpine grasslands.

• Duration: 4-6 hours round trip
• Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
• Highlights: Chain ladders, Mont-Aux-Sources summit, and a jaw-dropping view of Tugela Falls
• Best time to start: 7 AM to dodge afternoon storms

Near the summit, you’ll face the hike’s most thrilling feature: two 50-meter chain ladders that lead up the final stretch. If that sounds daunting, don’t worry—there’s an alternative gully route for those who’d rather skip the ladders.

At the top, you’re rewarded with sweeping views of the Amphitheatre’s rugged cliff face and the surrounding peaks, with Tugela Falls cascading 948 meters in five stunning drops. The morning light makes this spot particularly beautiful, and if you’re lucky, you might spot a rare bearded vulture soaring overhead.

Editor's tip: This trip can be arranged at most accommodations but book ahead. You can also use our travel service.

Day 7: Explore Drakensberg

Spend your second day in the Drakensberg exploring the beautiful Royal Natal National Park, renowned for its accessible yet dramatic mountain scenery. Covering 8,094 hectares, the park offers a range of gentle walks and moderate hikes, many featuring breathtaking views of the iconic Amphitheatre cliff face.

Arrive early (the park opens at 6 AM) to maximize your day. Entrance fees are R60 for adults and R30 for children (as of 2024—check for current rates).

Visit Royal Natal National Park

On your second day, head to Royal Natal National Park. This top nature reserve in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, brings you right into the heart of uKhahlamba Drakensberg Park, where rugged mountains and cascading waterfalls set the scene. You’ll find plenty of trails to explore.

For a quick adventure, opt for the shorter trails—about an hour’s walk. If you’re up for more, there are half-day and full-day hikes that take you deeper into the wild.

Tugela Gorge Trail

The Tugela Gorge Trail, a 14km round trip, is the park’s standout hike. It brings you to the Tugela Waterfall. With a combined total drop of 3110 feet (948 meters), this is the second-highest waterfall in the world.

Editor's tip: If you book a guided tour on the first day, you'll probably visit the Tugela Waterfall as well.

A relaxing alternative

If yesterday’s Sentinel Peak hike left you a bit sore, Royal Natal has several laid-back options to help you enjoy the scenery at a gentler pace. Head to Mahai Rest Camp for a peaceful riverside setting where you can unwind with a book against a mountain backdrop. For easy exploration, check out these viewpoints:

• Cascades Viewpoint: Just a 5-minute stroll from the parking lot, with sweeping mountain views.
• Lookout Rock: A 10-minute walk brings you to a perfect Amphitheatre photo spot.
• Otto’s Walk: A flat, 1km interpretive trail with signs highlighting local flora and geology.

Day 8: Travel from Drakensberg to George

Travel time: Allow at least 5-6 hours for the entire journey

The journey from Drakensberg to the Garden Route is a dramatic transition from mountains to coastline, taking you from the heights of the Berg to the shores of the Indian Ocean. This travel day requires some coordination but offers glimpses of South Africa's landscapes along the way.

1. Drive to Durban King Shaka International Airport (3 hours from Northern Berg)
2. Take a 1.5-hour flight to George Airport
3. Pick up your rental car and drive to Wilderness (30 minutes)

When booking flights, try to secure a left-side window seat for the best views of the Drakensberg and coastline during your flight. Most car rental companies offer online check-in - use this to save time at George Airport.

Where to stay in Wilderness

Wilderness has a mix of beach, lagoon, and forest surroundings, and it’s really a perfect base for all kinds of travelers. Here’s a breakdown of the main areas:

• Wilderness Beach: With accommodations right on the sand, you’ll have direct access to the 18-kilometer stretch of sandy beach.
• Wilderness Village: The heart of the town, with plenty of dining and shopping options just steps away.
• Island Lake: Quiet lakeside accommodations perfect for birdwatching and a sense of seclusion.
• Heights Area: For sweeping views over both the beach and lagoon, the Heights offers elevated stays with a serene atmosphere, best for those who value privacy and panoramas.

Day 9: Travel from Wilderness to Barrydale (Route 62)

Travel time: 3 hours without stops (but we recommend stops)

Route 62, often called South Africa's answer to America's Route 66, veers off the busier N2 and leads you into the heart of the Klein Karoo. This scenic route is known for its dramatic landscape changes, historic wine farms, and quirky small towns.

Route 62 towns typically feature a gas station, roadside restaurant, and very little else—this is a great way to get an authentic South African rural experience.

Barrydale is your destination today, a town that’s small but brimming with character. Instead of rushing to Montagu, consider spending the night here.

Stop #1: Oudtshoorn

About an hour and a half from Wilderness, Oudtshoorn is a must-see. Known as the "Ostrich Capital of the World," this town gives you a glimpse into South Africa's ostrich feather boom of the early 1900s. Grand mansions, or “feather palaces,” were built by the wealthy barons who made fortunes from ostrich feathers.

While you’re here, take a tour of the Cango Caves. These are no ordinary caves—they’re the largest show caves on the continent and are worth taking a guided tour of.

Stop #2: Ladismith

From Oudtshoorn, head an hour deeper into the Klein Karoo, and you’ll find Ladismith, a town that sits snugly under the striking twin peaks of Towerkop Mountain.

Ladismith is all about its locally produced wines and brandies, so if you’re a fan of tasting sessions, this is a stop you’ll enjoy. Even better, Ladismith is known for its cheese—there’s something charming about sampling dairy products in a town where the traditions are still alive and well.

Stop #3 (final stop): Barrydale

Arriving in Barrydale feels like stepping into a different era, yet there's a surprising twist: the town has evolved from its farming roots into a creative hub. With its historic charm intact, Barrydale now attracts artists, artisans, and travelers who appreciate its unique energy. Nestled between Route 62 and the scenic Tradouw Pass, it’s a great base for exploring both the Klein Karoo and the Overberg regions.

Where to stay in Barrydale

Barrydale is small, but there are a few areas to consider when you are booking your accommodation:

• Town Center: Perfect for soaking up Barrydale's local culture. You'll be close to the traditional architecture and can walk to nearby restaurants.
• Blue Hills: Just outside town, with mountain views and a peaceful atmosphere. Ideal if you’re craving a bit of solitude.
• Tradouw Valley: A beautiful spot near the mountain pass, perfect for nature lovers and hikers.
• Route 62 Area: Convenient for those on shorter stays, as it gives you easy access to the main attractions.

Day 10: Travel from Barrydale to Franschhoek

Travel time: 3.5 hours via R62 and N1, not including stops.

The drive from Barrydale to Franschhoek takes you through dramatic mountain passes and South Africa’s renowned wine country, making this 3.5-hour journey on R62 and N1 a scenic adventure in itself. Make time for stops to take in the view, and get ready to unwind in Franschhoek’s world-class wine region.

Where to stay in Franschhoek

Whether you’re after a central spot to explore the village or a tranquil escape on a vineyard, Franschhoek has options to suit every kind of traveler.

• Village Center: Stay at the heart of Franschhoek, with Cape Dutch architecture around every corner and easy access to restaurants and boutiques. Ideal for foodies and wine lovers who want to walk everywhere.
• Wine Estates: Imagine waking up on a working wine farm. This is perfect if you’re after a full immersion in wine country, where tastings and vineyard views are just steps from your door.
• Mountain View: If you prefer a peaceful escape, choose a place along the valley’s edge. These properties offer unmatched mountain backdrops, ideal for relaxation.
• La Motte Area: Known for exclusivity, this area caters to those looking for a high-end experience and maximum privacy.

Things to do on your first day in Franschhoek

Once you’ve checked in, make the most of your first afternoon. Some options:

Mont Rochelle Nature Reserve hike

A fantastic way to start your time here is with a late-afternoon hike at Mont Rochelle Nature Reserve. The Cat’s Pass Loop (2-3 hours) is a great choice, especially in the cooler evening hours.

Huguenot Memorial visit

If you have time, consider a quick trip to the Huguenot Memorial and Museum (closes at 5 PM). It’s a chance to dive into the local history and understand the French roots that shaped Franschhoek’s wine culture.

Evening in the village

This is a great time to hit the village’s picturesque main street, where there are plenty of interesting art galleries, boutiques, and charming façades. Our favorite places to eat dinner are at Reuben’s or Le Petit Colombe. (Though advance booking is essential for both.)

Day 11: Wine Tram Experience

The Franschhoek Wine Tram, launched in 2012, is a hop-on-hop-off tour combining two of the valley's most charming features: exceptional wines and dramatic scenery.

The tram itself is a unique double-decker, open-air vehicle modeled after a 1923 double-decker tram. Parts of the journey use the historic rail line built in 1904.

How it works

Start your morning with a hearty breakfast (trust us!) and begin your Wine Tram journey at 10 AM starting at the central departure point in Franschhoek village. You’ll definitely want to book in advance.

There are eight color-coded routes to choose from, each offering a unique glimpse into the valley. Our favorites are:

• Blue Line: Known for historic estates.
• Red Line: Offers spectacular mountain views.
• Yellow Line: Features boutique wineries for a more intimate experience.

You’ll get a timetable that indicates tram arrival times at each estate, with around an hour allotted at each stop for tastings (not included in the tram ticket price of roughly R590). Make sure to keep an eye on the clock—miss your tram, and you’ll need to find your own way to the next stop!

Notable Stops

• Babylonstoren: An enchanting Cape Dutch farm with formal gardens, award-winning wines, and a striking greenhouse restaurant.
• La Motte: Specializing in Syrah, this estate offers historical tours, art exhibitions, and classical music events.
• Boschendal: One of South Africa’s oldest estates, known for sparkling wines and Friday night markets under sprawling oak trees.
• Grande Provence: Contemporary art meets historic wine-making here, with sculpture gardens, award-winning blends, and food pairings that make for a truly memorable visit.

Not into Wine? Try the food scene

If wine isn’t your thing, Franschhoek’s Main Road is brimming with some really great artisanal food spots. Many have tasting menus or even samples.

• Huguenot Fine Chocolates: Watch master chocolatiers create Belgian-style treats and try a tasting at 11 AM or 3 PM.
• The Cheese Shop at Allora: Sample aged Dutch and local goat’s cheese from nearby farms, a delight for cheese enthusiasts.
• Biltong Works: Explore traditional South African dried meats, with flavors like chili-garlic beef and droëwors (dried sausage).

Winding down

After a day of tastings and exploring, unwind with dinner at La Petite Ferme or Protégé. Both spots offer incredible valley views and a menu that will end your day on a high note.

Day 12: Travel from Franschhoek to Cape Town

Travel time: 2.5 hours without stops, recommended 6-7 hours with stops

The drive from Franschhoek to Cape Town isn’t just about getting from point A to point B; it’s one of South Africa's most visually striking routes, taking you from the vineyards of wine country to the dramatic coastline that defines the Cape.

As you leave the charming “French Corner,” the scenery opens up to showcase mountains meeting the ocean, passing through small seaside towns before reaching Cape Town itself.

Make sure to pass through these places on your way to Cape Town to make the most out of this route.

Gordon’s Bay

Your coastal route starts at Gordon's Bay, where False Bay’s rugged coastline unfolds. The road follows the cliffs, giving you plenty of viewpoints for taking photos and, if you’re visiting between June and December, for whale watching.

Chapman’s Peak Drive

Continue onto Chapman’s Peak Drive, a feat of engineering with its 114 curves carved into the cliffside. The drive offers some of the best coastal views in South Africa. During whale season, you may spot southern right whales, and dolphins can be seen year-round.

Hout Bay

Hout Bay makes a great lunch stop. This active fishing harbor has the Bay Harbour Market, where you’ll find local crafts and fresh seafood. On weekends, the market has live music, or you can choose a harbor-side restaurant for a seafood lunch with views of the bay.

Camps Bay

As you near Cape Town, pass through Camps Bay, a beach suburb with a long, white-sand beach lined by palm trees. Take a quick break here at one of the beachfront cafés, and if the timing’s right, you can catch the sunset over the nearby Twelve Apostles mountains.

Where to Stay in Cape Town

Cape Town has a variety of neighborhoods, each with a unique vibe. Here’s a quick guide to help you decide: 

• City Bowl: Close to museums, galleries, and historic sites, with great nightlife and restaurants. Ideal for first-time visitors who want easy access to major attractions.
• Camps Bay/Clifton: Upscale beach areas known for their Atlantic views and trendy restaurants. Great for beach lovers, but prices are higher here.
• V&A Waterfront: Safe and family-friendly, with luxury hotels, shopping, and easy access to main attractions. A good option for those looking for convenience.
• Green Point/Sea Point: Popular with locals, these neighborhoods offer good value and a lively seafront promenade for walking or cycling, plus easy access to top sites.

Day 13: Explore Cape Town

Cape Town, or the "Mother City," is South Africa's oldest city and consistently ranks among the world's most beautiful urban destinations.

Things to do on the first day

Begin your exploration with Cape Town's most iconic natural landmarks, combining the majesty of Table Mountain with the serenity of Kirstenbosch Gardens.

Table Mountain

Set your alarm early and start your day at Table Mountain. The cable car opens around 8:00 AM, and by arriving early, you'll avoid crowds and catch the mountain before its famous ‘tablecloth’ cloud settles in.

At the summit, you’ll find trails that lead you through patches of fynbos, a type of vegetation unique to this region. It’s worth booking your ticket online to skip the queues—plan for about 2-3 hours to enjoy the experience without rushing.

The best months for an early morning visit to Table Mountain are during South Africa's spring (September to November) and fall (March to May).

Kirstenbosch

Next, head to Kirstenbosch National Botanical Gardens. This is more than just a garden; it’s a showcase of South Africa’s incredibly diverse plant life. Take a walk along the Boomslang, a treetop canopy walkway, for a unique perspective over the gardens.

Kloof Street

Wind down with an evening on Kloof Street, one of Cape Town’s trendiest spots. Here, you can grab a drink at Yours Truly, a popular rooftop bar, and then explore a mix of local boutiques and dining options.

The street really comes to life in the evening, making it a perfect place to people-watch and get a taste of local Cape Town life.

Day 14: Day two in Cape Town

Today, you’ll get a feel for Cape Town’s wildlife along with a sobering look at its history, adding a different dimension to your experience of the city.

Morning at Boulders Beach

Start your day with a visit to Boulders Beach, home to a colony of African penguins. Getting there early around opening time (8:00 AM) gives you a quiet chance to see the penguins as they start their day. A boardwalk lets you watch them without disturbing their habitat, and the setting itself—clear water and granite boulders—makes this a unique place to spend a morning.

Exploring Bo-Kaap

Afterward, head to Bo-Kaap, Cape Town’s iconic, color-filled neighborhood. The brightly painted houses and cobbled streets here reflect a deep history tied to the Cape Malay community.

Walk through the neighborhood, and if you have time, stop by the Bo-Kaap Museum for some context on the area’s cultural roots.

Afternoon trip to Robben Island

Conclude your Cape Town experience with a ferry trip to Robben Island, leaving from the V&A Waterfront. Former political prisoners lead tours of the island, offering firsthand perspectives on apartheid-era South Africa.

The tour includes stops at significant sites, like the limestone quarry and Nelson Mandela's cell, grounding the visit in the weight of its history.

Getting home or to your next destination

Cape Town International Airport is about a 20-30 minute drive from the city center, though traffic during rush hours (7:00-9:00 AM and 4:00-6:00 PM) can extend this time significantly. When returning your rental car, look for the clearly marked return area located just before the terminal building.

• Arrive early: Plan to arrive at the airport 3 hours before international flights and 2 hours for domestic.
• Car rental returns: While the process is straightforward, allow an extra 30 minutes during peak hours to avoid any last-minute stress.
• Convenient drop-off: All major car rental companies have designated drop-off points at Cape Town International, making the return process easy and accessible.

If you're not done reading, see our other South Africa itineraries:

• 10 days in South Africa
• One week in South Africa