100 Ways To Enjoy Winter In Cape Town

Winter in Cape Town is no excuse to slow down; it’s the perfect season to get out and explore a city full of cosy, exciting, and unexpected adventures.

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

Explore Nature

Spot Whales in Action

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 everything you need to know.

Locations: Various
Price: Free

Learn to Kitesurf

Kitesurfing is a popular winter activity. It won’t be the ideal 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 heading out into the grey outdoors.

Locations: Blouberg, False Bay
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 the latest deals! Experience unforgettable wildlife, luxurious African hospitality, and world-class facilities at an affordable rate. Short on time? Their day safaris are ideal for a quick escape from the city, offering a full Big Five experience without an overnight stay.

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 R110 for adults and R55 for children.
Funicular ticket (one way) from R100 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 the Helderberg’s incredible terrain, gear up and head to your favourite spot for a winter trail-running session.

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

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 in the sunshine on a winter afternoon. The garden made The New York Times Style Magazine’s list of the Top 25 Gardens Around the World.

Location: Rhodes Drive, Newlands
Price: South African Residents & SADC Nationals aged 18 and older (with ID): R110. Children aged 6 to 17: R40. Under 6: Free. Standard Adult: R270 pp.
Website: www.sanbi.org/gardens/kirstenbosch

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.

Climb the 7th Natural Wonder of the World

Our beloved Table Mountain is the ideal playground for nature lovers and adventure seekers this winter. Hiking up the mountain is popular, with fewer crowds and cooler weather. Table Mountain Aerial is running a Local is Lekker special this winter for South Africans. Adult return tickets are priced at R250, while children aged 4–17 can enter for R100 return. Please note that bookings are available online only and require a valid South African ID. All tickets must be purchased in advance of your visit.

Location: Tafelberg Road, Gardens
Website: www.tablemountain.net/

Go on a Winter Walk

Cape Town’s cooler temperatures and lush landscapes provide an ideal setting for outdoor enthusiasts to explore the city’s diverse trails. Here are a few winter hikes and nature walks we recommend.

Swing Through Treetops

Acrobranch offers unique treetop experiences for the whole family in Hout Bay and Stellenbosch. Each park features a range of obstacle courses, 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 Road
Price: From R170 pp.
Website: www.acrobranch.co.za

Stargazing in the Cederberg

High in the Cederberg Mountains, on Dwarsrivier farm, lies the Cederberg Astronomical Observatory. After a short slideshow, gaze through a telescope to 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

Go Kayaking

Calm, quiet winter evenings are ideal for kayaking. Kayak Adventures Cape Town hosts nightly kayaking trips, weather permitting, at the V&A Waterfront.

Location: Battery Park, V&A Waterfront
Price: R450 pp.
Website: www.kayakadventures.capetown/

Consider Paragliding

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

Location: Signal Hill, Cape Town
Price: From R1800 pp.
Websites: www.flycapetown.co.za / www.paraglide.co.za / www.parapax.co.za

 

Chase Waterfalls

Head to 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 here.

Abseil Down Table Mountain

Hang off the side of one of the New 7 Natural Wonders of Nature, descending a total of 112 m. Enjoy incredible views of the Atlantic Seaboard while leaning over our iconic mountain. This thrilling adventure is safe, with professional guides to show you the ropes. This activity is weather-dependent and does not include a Table Mountain Aerial Cableway ticket.

Location: Table Mountain.
Price: From R1100 pp.
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 R1275 pp.
Website: www.canopytour.co.za

Suit Up for Wreck and Reef Diving

The waters around the Cape are littered with thousands of shipwrecks, both recent and ancient, 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 Road, Simon’s Town
Price: From R2900 pp.
Website: www.piscesdivers.co.za

SUP Cape Town

Stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) is the practice of propelling yourself on a floating platform with a paddle or pole. This ancient art dates back 3,000 years to the Caballitos de Totora, a reed-based watercraft propelled by a bamboo paddle. Today, you can experience a modern version 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 R200 pp
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-sand beaches or gallop with the wind blowing through your hair. Trails range from an hour to multi-day and cater for single riders and group excursions.

Price: From R750 pp.
Website: www.horseridingcapetown.com

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 on offer, grab your City Sightseeing ticket today. If the weather turns chilly, you can opt for seating below the top deck.

Location: 81 Long Street, Cape Town
Price: Cape Town 1-day bus ticket special
Winter Kids Special: R65 (aged 4-17)
Winter family package: R780 for 2 adults and 2 kids (aged 4-17)
Website: www.citysightseeing.co.za

Out and About

Total Ninja

Ready to bounce, leap, and ninja-roll your way through Africa’s biggest inflatable obstacle course? Total Ninja is an adrenaline-packed playground where you (yes, adults too!) and the kids can channel your inner warrior and put your fitness to the test.

Location: Black River Park North, South Park Entrance, 2 Fir Street, Observatory
Price: From R160 for children older than 5 years for an hour of play.
Website: totalninja.co.za

Meet Colourful Amuki Characters

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

Location: Hazendal Wine Estate, Bottelary Road, Stellenbosch.
Price: From R100 pp.
Website: www.wonderdal.co.za

Laugh Out Loud at a Comedy Show

Brighten 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 turns up the cold, rain and wind, Cape Town’s luxury spas are the perfect excuse to slow down and indulge. Swap gloomy weather for steam rooms, massages and pure relaxation at one of the city’s many dreamy spa retreats.
See available spas.

Never Forget First Thursdays

On the first Thursday of every month, the arts and culture scene in Cape Town is celebrated with this cool night-time event. Dozens of galleries and cultural events showcase the wealth of talent in the Mother City. The event is free and does not include a structured tour. Enjoy at your own leisure.

Location: Cape Town and Stellenbosch
Price: Free entry.
Website: www.first-thursdays.co.za/cape-town

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 can enjoy hours of fun and host kids’ parties, corporate events, and school groups.

Location: The Watershed, V&A Waterfront
Price: From R120 pp.
Website: www.beuppark.co.za

CityRock Indoor Climbing

Fun awaits at CityRock. The Cape Town branch features 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.

Location: 9 Milner Street, Paarden Eiland
Price: From R210 pp.
Website: cityrock.co.za/

Explore the Largest Contemporary African Art Museum in the World

Zeitz Mocaa, known as the world’s largest contemporary African art museum, is perfect for exploring in winter. Wander on your own or arrange a private tour with one of the curators. The museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday, 10am to 6pm. Locals with valid ID receive free access every Wednesday, between 10am and 1pm.

Location: V&A Waterfront Silo District, S Arm Road, Waterfront
Price: From R 265 pp.
Website: zeitzmocaa.museum/

Appreciate Eclectic Tunes at a Jazz Lounge Near You

Get down to one of the Cape’s finest jazz hotspots. Laid-back 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

The V&A Waterfront’s Mini Explorers Club takes young adventurers on a journey through the V&A Waterfront, with fun stops, quests, hidden treasures, and plenty of opportunities to laugh, play, and learn along the way. It’s designed for children aged 5–12, but grown-ups are encouraged to join in too. Whether you’re discovering secret corners, spotting sea creatures, or simply soaking up the views, there’s something for everyone.

Location: V&A Waterfront, Cape Town
Price: R150 for a passport, an adventure map, and access to exclusive discounts delivered straight to your inbox.
Website: www.waterfront.co.za

Wine Tasting in a Barn

Farm Sanctuary aims to foster a connection between farm animals and visitors and to inspire positive changes in how society views and treats them. This unique attraction also offers you the chance to sleep in a barn with rescued farmed animals, enjoy wine tasting in a barn, and visit a plant-based café.

Location: 63 Dirkie Uys Street, Franschhoek
Price:  Entry is free, but donations are welcome.
Website: www.farmsanctuarysa.org/

Be Mesmerised by a Sunset On Table Mountain

Every year, hundreds of thousands of visitors from around the world take the Aerial Cableway up Table Mountain. Make your next trip memorable with a spectacular winter sunset. Buy an afternoon ticket, valid from 1pm onwards, and take the last trip down as the sun descends over the Mother City. Table Mountain Aerial is running a Local is Lekker special this winter for South Africans. Adult return tickets are priced at R250, while children aged 4–17 can go up for R100 return. Please note that bookings are available online only and require a valid South African ID. All tickets must be purchased before your visit. Please be mindful of Table Mountain Aerial Cableway’s annual maintenance.

Location: 5821 Tafelberg Road, Table Mountain Nature Reserve
Website: tablemountain.net

Stay and Save at Southern Sun Hotels

Take advantage of Southern Sun Hotels’ special rates during the winter months.
Website: www.southernsun.com

 

Unwind on the Franschhoek Wine Tram

The double-decker wine trams are the perfect way to experience the Franschhoek countryside in the cooler months. Choose 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 Street, Franschhoek and Drakenstein Terminal: Corner of R310 Main Road & R45 Groot Drakenstein
Price: From R350 pp for adults.
Website: www.winetram.co.za

Explore History by Visiting a Museum

Explore and immerse yourself in the past by visiting one of Cape Town’s many museums. From budget-friendly options to unique museums, there’s something for every curious mind.

Get Creative at Clay Café

Clay Café began at an old dairy farm and has since expanded to eight franchised stores across the country. There are three locations in the city. This ceramic hand-painting venue is perfect for all ages, blending art, food, and good company. Choose from 180+ items, select your colour palette, and get creative. Once you’re done, your masterpiece will be fired and ready for collection a few weeks later.

Locations:
Hout Bay: Main Road, Hout Bay
In the City: 199 Bree Street, CBD
Paarl: Groot Parys, Jan Van Riebeeck Drive
Price: From R150 pp.
Contact: Visit claycafe.co.za/

Bounce Here, There and Everywhere

Is your family driving you up the wall during the winter months? Then take them to Rush Trampoline Park for wall-to-wall trampoline fun. Highlights include two dodgeball courts, three basketball slam dunk lanes, two long trampoline lanes, and much more. It’s a fantastic way to let your hair down (and to keep it).

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

Let Loose at Freedom Adventure Park

Freedom Adventure Park offers kids the perfect indoor play park experience with a wide range of activities, including a trampoline park, a dodgeball arena, a large foam pit, a 50-metre-long adrenaline-pumping high-line rope course, multiple climbing walls, and custom-built play pods.

Location: Unit 3A, 333 Main Road, Tokai, and Canal Walk at 490 Century Boulevard, Century City
Price: From R150.
Website: freedomadventurepark.co.za/

Museum of Dogs

Calling all dog lovers! The Museum of Dogs is the first of its kind in the world: a tail-wagging celebration of all things canine. Open Tuesday to Sunday, 10am to 5pm, visitors can sniff out fascinating dog stories, explore interactive exhibits, and discover what makes our four-legged friends so special. With monthly events and, yes, dogs welcome too, it’s a paws-itively unforgettable outing for humans and hounds alike.

Location: 95 Keerom Street, Gardens
Price: R100 for adults, R50 for children under 16, and free for those under 10.
Website: museumofdogs.co/

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 whatever 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 25 arts-and-crafts studios and workshops, plus a historic greenhouse nursery, you can nurture your creative imagination with an art class or an explosive ceramics session.

Location: 31 Newlands Avenue, Newlands.
Price: Free entry. Prices vary per establishment.
Website: montebello.co.za

Visit a Perfume Museum

The First South African Perfume Museum, founded by the Kumanov family, celebrates the art and history of fragrance through a collection of perfume bottles, ranging from antique treasures to modern designer pieces. You can explore interactive exhibits and learn how perfumes are made. Your ticket also grants access to nearby heritage attractions, including the Huguenot Memorial Museum, the Annex Museum, and the iconic Huguenot Monument. Just a short stroll away, Kumanov Perfumery hosts guided workshops where you can explore the art of perfume-making.

Location: 13 Lambrechts Road, Franschhoek
Price: R100. Tickets are available at Kumanov Perfumery, 2 Huguenot Street, Franschhoek.
Website: www.perfumemuseum.co.za

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

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

Bokeh Creative Studio

Channel your inner Mariah Carey or Elvis Presley at Bokeh Creative Studio in Sea Point and Claremont. Gather a few of your mates and head down for a night of singing, dancing, and loads of fun. Doors open at 6pm every evening, with karaoke running from 8pm to 12:30am. Booking is advised via +27 (0)82 973 4673.

Website: www.facebook.com/BokehCreativeStudio

Go on a Free Walking Tour of the Mother City

Looking for a little “infotainment” with your sightseeing? Lace up and join a Free Walking Tour in Cape Town, one of the city’s best free experiences. Wander through the CBD, uncovering fascinating history, hidden gems, local secrets and the latest must-see spots, all while meeting fellow explorers and friendly local guides.

Website: www.freewalkingtourscapetown.co.za

Escape a Room in 60 Minutes

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

Location: JH02 The Watershed, 17 Dock Road, V&A Waterfront.
Price: From R395 pp.
Website: www.hinthunt.co.za

Book Mid-Week Magic at Club Mykonos Langebaan

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

Location: Mykonos Access Road, Langebaan.
Price: On request.
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 Book Lounge, situated in the Cape Town City Centre. If you are looking for something more social, The Silent Book Club Cape Town hosts regular events around the city.

Websites: Cape Town Silent BookClub and Book Lounge.

Go on a Romantic Winter Escape

Take your other half on a romantic winter getaway just a short drive from Cape Town. Think cosy fireplaces, mountain views, wine tasting, and spa treatments. Here are some of our recommendations.

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

Discover a path to a hidden waterfall, the grave of a famous dog, the Marine Big Five, and ghost stories in 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

Think you’re a trivia titan? A mastermind of random facts? A champion of useless knowledge that suddenly becomes very useful? Round up your smartest mates, or brave it solo, and put your brainpower to the test at pub quiz nights covering everything from current affairs and sports to history, pop culture and wonderfully weird categories. Grab a drink, claim your bragging rights, and let the battle of the brains begin at Oblivion Wine Bar every Monday from 7pm or at The Fireman’s Arms every Thursday from 7pm.

Enjoy Family-Friendly Experiences at Imhoff Farm

Open daily, Imhoff Farm in Kommetjie offers a range 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, which offers outrides on Noordhoek Beach. There are also spaces to host children’s parties.

Location: Kommetjie Road, Kommetjie.
Price: Free entry.

Explore The Cape via VoiceMaps

No awkward groups or rigid schedules. Download the Voicemap app and go on a guided voice tour whenever and however you want. It’s easy to use. Tours work offline and play automatically via 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, took place on December 3, 1967, in the Charles Saint Theatre at Groote Schuur Hospital. Today, this momentous event is honoured by the Heart of Cape Town Museum, which offers guided tours and a recreation of the scene using lifelike static tableaux.

Location: Main Road, Observatory
Price: Walk-throughs range from R100 to R250, and the 90-minute guided tour for adults starts at R250.
Website: heartofcapetown.co.za/

Explore an Underwater World at the Two Oceans Aquarium

The aquarium is home to more than 8,000 incredible marine animals from the Atlantic and Indian Oceans. Come face-to-face with graceful rays and cheeky musselcrackers. Watch sea turtles cruise by as if they owned the place. Peer into the shadows of misunderstood predators, then lighten the mood with the famously playful penguins as they waddle, dive, and steal the show.

Location: Dock Road, V&A Waterfront.
Price: From R130 pp, free for children under 3.
Website: www.aquarium.co.za

Hangout at the Mill

Find one-of-a-kind fashion, eclectic artworks, and award-winning eateries at The Old Biscuit Mill. Meet innovative designers, dynamic photographers, and foodie connoisseurs who host a range of workshops in this vibrant space. Then head back at the weekend for the ever-popular Neighbourgoods Market, bustling with even more to see, eat and do.

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

Watch a Movie at The Labia Theatre

The Labia Theatre is South Africa’s oldest independent art-house cinema, screening the best in circuit, independent, foreign, and arthouse films, documentaries, and other alternative films. Check out their Movie Meal Specials for Two, available Monday to Thursday.

Location: 68 Orange Street, Gardens.
Price: Single tickets: R90.
Website: www.thelabia.co.za

Go Glamping

Immerse yourself in nature without sacrificing too many 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, you can stay warm and dry under the stars this winter. Read more here.

Speed Downhill Tobogganing

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

Location: Carl Cronje Drive, Tygervalley
Price: From R100 pp.
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 designed to build little muscles, encourage problem-solving, and spark wild imaginations while having tons of fun!

Location: 56 Tarentaal Street, Joostenbergvlakte, Kraaifontein.
Price: R190 pp.
Website: www.bugzplaypark.co.za

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

Beat the cold with a steam session at the Long Street Baths on Long Street. It’s a blissfully warm way to relax on a chilly winter’s day.

Location: Long Street, Cape Town City Centre

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 offers 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 R95 pp.
Website: www.ctsc.org.za/

Go Full Throttle at Century Karting

Feel the adrenaline rush as you race high-tech karts around a racetrack, jostling for pole position in this fun family activity. The tracks are well maintained, with experienced marshals ensuring drivers’ safety.

Location: Mezzanine Level, Canal Walk Parking
Price: From R195 pp.
Website: www.karting.co.za

Head Completely Off the Beaten Track with Jeep Tours Cape Town

Go on the ultimate 4×4 Jeep driving experience. Spend the day cruising across powdery white sand before sandboarding down the iconic Atlantis Dunes with your dedicated instructor. A picnic-style refreshment box is included for the journey. Bookings can be made via their website, with a minimum of two people per booking.

Website: www.jeeptours.capetown

Learn to Salsa

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

Price: Various
Website: www.salsacapetown.co.za

Head to Ceres for a Snow Day

Just 150 km from Cape Town lies the enchanting Ceres Valley. April to September is the 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 updates on snowfall.

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 and 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 in a classy cocktail lounge, there’s something for everyone. More info here.

Witness the Art of Diamond Cutting

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

Location: 10 Christiaan Barnard Street, Cape Town
Price: Free. You can make a booking online.
Website: www.thediamondworks.co.za/

Indoor Padel: Rain or Shine

Padel is all the rage in Cape Town right now, with courts popping up across the city. Whether you’re a seasoned player or keen to try the sport for the first time, there are plenty of great venues to choose from, many of them perfect for winter thanks to their indoor facilities. Aura Padel Club is on the Woodstock/Montague Gardens side, close to the CBD, while Padel 365 is in Century City near Canal Walk. Moving into the southern suburbs, Padel Life is based in Pinelands at the Old Mutual Sports Club. Further north, in the Durbanville and northern suburbs, Eden Padel is set in the scenic Durbanville Hills, with Epic Padel located further out towards Durbanville and Kraaifontein. Racket and Ball Club and Lifestyle Padel have several venues.

Imagine Play Village

There’s no better place to spark a young child’s imagination than Imagine in the Southern Suburbs. This immersive role-play village is designed to inspire purposeful, imaginative play in a fun, engaging setting. While the little ones explore, parents can unwind with a cup of award-winning, locally sourced Cape Town coffee, accompanied by a selection of snacks, pastries, cakes, and light meals.

Location: 1st Floor, Cavendish Close, 11 Warwick Street, Claremont
Price: From R120 pp
Website: www.imagine-cpt.co.za/

For The Foodies

Taste the Cape Fynbos

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

Location: South African Fynbos Farm, Wellington
Price: R2400 pp, includes walk & tapas lunch.
Website: www.southafricanfynbos.com

Eat Your Way Through Cape Town’s Best Burgers

Cape Town is stacked with seriously good burgers, and this is your excuse to try them all. From the towering, over-the-top creations at Gibson’s to the iconic classics at Royale Eatery in the city, this is your ultimate burger bucket list. Come hungry because winter has just got a whole lot tastier.

Feast on Surf or Turf with a View

Bertha’s has been serving sensational, fresh meals since 1993. The restaurant is located at 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

Enjoy 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 such as French toast, eggs, and bacon. We recommend wine tasting at Groot Constantia afterwards.

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

Get Hooked on Cape Town’s Best Fish ‘n Chips

Cape Town’s fish and chips scene is not to be missed, and this is your sign to dig in. Think golden, crispy fish, thick-cut chips, and salty sea air as your backdrop. Pull up at the harbour wall at Fish on the Rocks in Hout Bay, soak up the laid-back local vibe at Kalky’s in Kalk Bay, or go old-school with a stop at the legendary Snoekies in Fish Hoek or Hout Bay. It’s simple, it’s messy, and it tastes like Cape Town at its best.

A Tiffin Affair

Invite your friends and family to a delightful winter high tea at some of Cape Town’s top locations. Treat yourself to a selection of sweet or savoury dishes, beautifully presented on three-tier stands. Pair your treats 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 pp.

Learn How to Forage

Join Veld & Sea for their winter foraging experiences. Roushanna Gray and the team begin with an educational walk and talk around the cultivated wild herb gardens, the farm, and the fynbos mountainside in search of wild flavours. Warm up at the Glasshouse with fynbos chai tea and wild greens soup. Price on request.
Location: Good Hope Gardens Nursery, Plateau Road (M65), Cape Point
Website: www.veldandsea.com

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. Set in a beautiful postal plane hangar, enjoy homemade grub from a variety of food stalls, or pick up fresh fruit and veg 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: vredenheim.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, using only the very best local ingredients. The beloved café has locations in Sea Point, Stellenbosch, Paarl, Durbanville, 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 fully immersive social and cultural experience combines a walking tour, a hands-on cooking workshop, and a 2-course lunch. Learn about the food, culture, and traditions of the Cape Malays of Bo-Kaap. Discover how to make masala and prepare roti, samoosa, dhaltjies, and chicken curry from scratch.

Location: 46 Rose Street, Bo-Kaap
Price: On request.
Website: www.bokaapcookingtour.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 beers. Located in Darling, you can pair your beer with their sumptuous burgers.

Location: 48 Caledon Street, Darling
Price: Various
Website: darlingbrew.co.za/

Sample Whisky in Wellington

James Sedgwick Distillery, Africa’s only commercial whisky distillery, offers a range of immersive whisky experiences, perfect for warming up in the colder weather. Choose from three tasting options, each featuring three to five carefully selected whiskies.

Location: 79 Stokery Road, Wellington
Price: Various.
Contact: www.jamessedgwickdistillery.co.za

It’s 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 a wine-and-chocolate pairing session. Alternatively, start with a guided tour of the Manor House Museum and Cloete Cellar, then pamper your palate with an exquisite vintage.

Price: From R155 pp.
Location: Groot Constantia Road, Constantia
Website: www.grootconstantia.co.za

Experience a 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 features their award-winning 12-, 15- and 20-year-old brandies, paired with three delicious Von Geusau Chocolates. Alternatively, indulge in the Decadent Delight Tasting, which also uses their signature vintages, this time paired with three decadent delights created by Roses Handmade.

Location: Van Ryn Road, Vlottenburg, Stellenbosch.
Price: From R125.
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, the Constantia Valley is well worth a tour. Each farm in the area has its own unique charm and atmosphere, and, of course, world-class wine tasting. Explore here.

Get Together at a Premium Shisanyama

Step into a truly local experience with an African Authentic Experience that takes you beyond the usual tourist spots. Gather with friends and enjoy a premium shisanyama, where you can soak up the local lifestyle while savouring authentic South African cuisine in a vibrant, social setting.

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

Sample Award-Winning Olive Oil and Wine at

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 tasting their wares.

Location: Morgenster Wine & Olive Estate, Vergelegen Avenue, Somerset West.
Price: From R100.
Website: www.morgensterestate.co.za

Warm Up with a Hot Chocolate Tasting at Revved Up Café

Wintertime calls for one of our favourite comforting drinks, hot chocolate! Revved Up Café has a viral hot chocolate tasting that pairs well with cookies. The flavours are bold and delicious, perfect for friends or couples to enjoy together.

Location: 112 Buitengracht Street, Cape Town City Centre
Price: R119 pp.
Website: www.revvedupcafe.co.za/

Parisian Hot Chocolate at The Wes Bistro & Bar

The Wes Bistro & Bar is serving the ultimate winter warmer: a hot chocolate made with real couverture chocolate and cream, melted slowly and gently for maximum decadence.

Location: 55 Shortmarket Street, Cape Town City Centre
Price: R145 pp.
Website: thewes.co.za/

Grab a Hot Beverage

Cape Town is home to plenty of delicious, and unique, beverage options. Here are some to consider.

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, music and fun! From private functions to community kitchen cook-offs (and everything in between), reveal your inner MasterChef at a Food Jams session this winter.

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

Taste Cape Town at Makers Landing

Celebrate a farm-to-table and nose-to-tail approach with food producers and small businesses at Makers Landing. Here, the very 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 Breakfast or Lunch Inside a Prison

Set within Pollsmoor Prison, Idlanathi Restaurant offers a canteen experience unlike any other in Cape Town. Beyond the low prices and the novelty of walking through Pollsmoor’s gates, there’s a deeper human story worth uncovering. Guests can enjoy a variety of dishes, all cooked and served by inmates as part of a rehabilitation programme focused on skills development and reintegration.

Location: Informal Road, Pollsmoor
Price: Various

Dip, Decorate, and Wrap Bonbons at Honest Chocolate

If you’ve ever wondered about the magic of chocolate-making, 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’ll get to dip, decorate, and wrap your own set of four bonbons to take home.

Location: 7 Barron Street, Woodstock
Price: From R450 pp.
Website: www.honestchocolate.co.za

Smash Plates at Mykonos Taverna

Enjoy an evening of Greek food, dance, and culture on the last Saturday of every month. You will be served mezze, salads, and a main of your choice, followed by platters of Greek pastries and seasonal fruit to finish 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

Diptyque Tea Experience

Held at Labotessa Luxury Boutique Hotel, the Diptyque Tea Experience isn’t just high tea; it’s a sensory journey where Diptyque’s fragrances meet decadent treats and sparkling bubbles. Sip a glass of bubbly as you wander through the stunning Diptyque Boutique, then settle in for an indulgent spread, all paired with TWG teas and inspired by Diptyque’s iconic scents.

Location: 5 Church Square, 37 Parliament Street, Cape Town City Centre
Price: R650 pp, maximum of 6 guests. Booking is essential.
Website: https://labotessa.com/

Time Out Market’s Winter Wine Series

Time Out Market Cape Town’s Winter Wine Series brings together the finest local wineries from the Western Cape. This year’s series celebrates 3s, the only trinity that matters at the dining table: good food, good wine and you. Events are held monthly. For tickets and information, go to timeoutmarket.howler.co.za.

Dine at a Cosy Fireplace Restaurant

Beat the chill with a cosy dinner by the fire. From crackling fireplaces to warm winter menus, many Cape Town restaurants are bringing the heat this season. Here’s our list.

Sample our Fast-Food Scene

Looking for some comfort food for the cold weather? Our fast-food scene celebrates Cape Town’s favourites, including the gatsby, koesisters, vienna and chip parcels, and much more! Get the full list here

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