Image by neilsingapore

The second largest city of South Africa and the southern most city of the mighty and timeless African continent, Cape Town is a place of many marvels. A journey to this modern city takes you back into nature’s lap to your complete surprise. There are so many wonders that are waiting to thrill you to bits, so many adventures to excite you and millions of sights and sounds— almost overwhelming. Other than the great heritage, the city’s culture and the amazing architecture, here are 13 reasons to visit Cape Town.

1. Meeting of the mighty Indian and Atlantic Oceans

Image by zug55

Image by Michel van den Burg

Few top notch cities in the world lie at a stone’s throw away from the merger of two great oceans. And with the vast temperature differences of the Indian and the Atlantic oceans, you can expect great diversity as you enjoy a very rare sight indeed. A trip to the Cape of Good Hope offers you sights and sounds you will never forget.

2. Swim with the penguins at Boulders

Image by ifijayImage by teachandlearn

The popular beach near Simon’s Town is known for the colony of friendly African Penguins that take shelter here. Just a small trip away from Cape Town, you can not only get friendly with the clever little guys, but also take a swim with them. Unlike in the case of being caged and going underwater to meet a shark, this is a lot happier, pleasant and a far less tense affair.

3. Go back in history at Robben Island

Image by fihliwe

Image by maanskyn

Used during the apartheid days to hold political prisoners, including Nelson Mandela and the late Walter Sisulu, this iconic former prison is not just a spot of extraordinary historic significance, but also a beautiful little ride for nature lovers as well. For many, the soothing half day ferry ride symbolizes the struggle for equality and a fight against discrimination… Robben Island merits a special spot anyway you see it.

4. Victoria and Alfred Waterfront

Image by slack12

Image by troopa

Situated between Robben Island and Table Mountain and in the heart of Cape Town’s working harbor, the waterfront that attracts over 20 million tourists each year is a great place for having fun, dining, shopping and just enjoying flat out in every way that you can. If you wish to party loud, then this is the place to hang out. With scenic views of Table Mountain, historic buildings, museums and even a chopper ride for those interested, this is all about living it up in a classy way!

5. Bo-Kaap

Image by exfordy

The part of Cape Town which was once a settlement for mainly Muslim descendants of slaves from South-East Asia, the region presents for an awesome walk through its colorful streets. It offers a glimpse into its unique and vibrant culture. An hour long walk through the Bo-Kaap is both a treat for your eyes and your stomach as you will find some real delicacies on its crowded streets.

6. Winelands of Cape Town- Intoxicating beauty

Image by coda

This is what the city of Cape Town was initially famous for—  its magical and endless stretch of Winelands that not just produce amazing wine, but look as if they were part of a heaven dropped on earth by the gods. A trip around the Cape Winelands will carry you through Stellenbosch, Paarl and Franschhoek. This is Cape Town at its most seductive as you enjoy its breathtaking exquisiteness.

7. Whale watching at Simon’s Town and Cape Point

Image by ifijay

If you fancy running behind the largest animal on the planet and maybe catching a glimpse of these rare mammals, then a visit to Simon’s Town and Cape Point will present you with a good opportunity for whale watching. You often can take a look at these giants pretty close to shore as Southern right whales, Humpback and killer whales are common in this region. You just have to be lucky to be able to view that rare aquatic exhibition.

8. Castle of Good Hope

Image by hansenfotos.com

Image by blyzz

If you go around Cape Town and ask the locals for ‘The’ castle, they will show you the Castle of Good Hope. The castle, today, is home to an art collection and the William Fehr Collection, historic military memorabilia and artillery and other display items that reveal its history.

9. The imperious Table Mountain

Image by joshhogue

Image by aprillyn77

Image by 333junction

The table mountain is the most obvious and recognizable natural feature of the city and home to varied ecosystems and great natural parks. But one thing that you should not miss is a trip to the top of Table Mountain. You can either choose the Cable car orthe steep 2 hour trek to the top. The trek will be worth the effort though as you can always get back down in the car!

10. An encounter with the jaws at Shark Alley

Image by squiddles

Located in the water stretch between Dyer Island and Cape Town, the notorious waters are known for being home to the Great White Shark. This is your one time chance to go face to face with the emperor of oceans in its own backyard. Apart from expert company, a very well protected steel cage will also accompany you as you go below the surface for your encounter with the jaws! Try it out and you will never forget the adrenaline rush for the rest of your life.

11. Ratanga Junction

Images by DanieVDM(1 +2)

Ratanga Junction is more for those who love the carnival-styled attractions with plenty of rides for the kids, nice shopping malls, fine food and plenty of comfort. The theme park is pretty popular both among locals and visitors, and the exciting rides offered by Ratanga is the reason why people call it the wildest place in Cape Town. And the parties, too, of course!

12. Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens

Image by ifijay

Image by RandyOHC

Dubbed apparently as one of the ‘Seven Magnificent Botanical Gardens of the World’, it houses some astonishing, gorgeous and rare flora of the Cape Town region. Situated on the backside of Table Mountain, the numerous pathways, its ambient atmosphere and some of its rare African plants ensure that you have a peaceful, as well as, educative time in the Kirstenbosch.

13. The ride in Blue Train to Pretoria

Images by zug55, bluetrainsouthafrica.com

This exquisite and elite journey carries just 84 passengers on the classic route between Pretoria and Cape Town and in case you can afford its majesty, it is a must for everyone and anyone visiting Cape Town. You can either come to Cape Town or leave to Pretoria in the Blue Train and apart from lavish luxury, it takes you through Africa at its wild best!

And if these aren’t enough … here’s more!

Images by neilsingapore, januarys, flickrbug, dkeats, sa-venues

Popularity: 2% [?]