Cape Town is the adventure capital of South Africa and an adrenalin junkie’s dream destination. There are literally thousands of outdoor, cultural and foodie based activities on offer in the Mother City. Some of these day trips and activities come at a hefty cost, while others are for free. There are the guidebook listed things to do in South Africa, and then there are the relatively unknown activities that are pretty remarkable. Creative ways of experiencing Cape Town are always cropping up, and it can often be quite tough to decide on a selection of activities showcasing the best of the city.
Here are 4 relatively unknown activities in Cape Town :
Kayak with Penguins at Boulders Beach
Boulders Beach in Simon’s Town is renown for its protected penguin colony, and tourists flock to the protected bay to observe – and swim with – the African penguins. The Penguins move between the beach and the turquoise waters, so they’re quite easy to spot. An adventurous and unique way of spotting penguins is to go kayaking in the warm waters of False Bay.
The guided sea kayak tour is done through Kayak Cape Town, and trips involve plenty of sightseeing combined with a visit to Boulders Beach to spot the penguins. Don’t be surprised if you see the penguins gliding through the waters as you get closer to the bay. Kayaks are double kayaks, which means you can bring a friend along (one that you won’t end up arguing with when it comes to paddling). This tour doesn’t require any experience, and the guide will prep you beforehand with a few handy tips and hints.
Enjoy a kayak trip to Boulders and see the Cape Point route from an entirely different angle.
“Hey Pioneer” Bespoke Camping Adventures
Bespoke camping adventures? Yes. This new kid on the block is a fun and unique concept that offers the best of the outdoors and a luxury camping experience. Considered to be “pop-up” camping experiences, Hey Pioneer is a unique concept for adventure seekers and glampers. The team will organise and set-up a fully-furnished tent with beds, rugs and other furnishings. Hey Pioneer will even do an entire backyard camp style dinner party around a roaring campfire. Get a group of friends, or simply enjoy a romantic getaway for 2. Either way, the Hey Pioneer team with personalise your outdoor experience in a pristine location of their choice. It’s camping – done differently!
Snorkelling with Seals in Hout Bay
For the water adventure lovers, we highly recommend a seal snorkelling trip with ocean experts, Animal Ocean. Glide your way through the turquoise waters of the Atlantic Ocean, interacting with a seal colony and observing their antics as you float on the surface kitted out in your snorkelling gear. Seal snorkelling with Animal Ocean is the top-rated activity in Hout Bay, and there’s always the possibility of spotting dolphins while en route to the seals.
Trips normally take about half a day, and all snorkelling gear is provided. Just bring your sense of fun and leave your fear at the door. The location is at Duiker Island where there is a huge seal colony 100’s of seals strong. Animal Ocean’s vessels take 10 snorkelers to Duiker Island and when they drop anchor, that’s when the breathtaking adventure begins!
Take the Luxury Train to the Elgin Market
Climb aboard the Ceres train and combine a luxury train ride with a slice of history and old world charm. The Ceres Railway line offers a novel way of experiencing the valley while being immersed in an atmosphere reminiscent of a bygone era. The steam train has its own bar area and comfy lounges framed by expansive windows giving rise to endless views of the orchard-laden landscapes of Ceres and Elgin. The train to Elgin is a day trip that departs from the Royal Cape Yacht Club in Cape Town and ends at the bustling market in Elgin. There are set dates and departure times for this luxury train trip. It’s a full day experience and a unique one at that!
