Transfer Types
This vibrant city on Africa’s southern tip could strut its stuff in the middle of mainland Europe and be completely at home. Historical buildings loom large on the city outskirts and in the inner CBD many have been given a modern overhaul to fit the Mother City’s growing reputation as a hub of art, culture, events and food. There’s no denying it, Cape Town has come of age as one of the must-do cities on the travel bucket list. This full-day private guided tour gives you the flexibility to see the best highlights of Cape Town with a knowledgeable local guide, the way you want to.
After enjoying panoramic city views from Table Mountain*, head into town to see the sights up-close on a walking tour. Pass colonial-era hotspots such as Company’s Gardens and the Castle of Good Hope, and then travel to Bo-Kaap neighbourhood for photos. Opt to visit the District Six Museum and then enjoy free time at the V&A Waterfront, before finishing the day with a drive along the dramatic Atlantic coastline. The itinerary is flexible and can be tailored to spend more time at the city tour's highlights that interest you the most, or you can even visit some sights that are not listed in the itinerary, its all up to you. This is an ideal way to see a large part of Cape Town in a short amount of time while helping you get a brilliant orientation of all that the Mother City has to offer.
Hear a former resident share their District Six story for an emotional glimpse of Apartheid.
Glide up the aerial cableway to see Cape Town from atop the iconic Table Mountain.
Indulge in Bo-Kaap's rainbow colours and Cape Malay flavours.
Hear the kaboom of the Noon Gun on Signal Hill.
Explore the V&A Waterfront's cacophony of sights, sounds and tastes.
Let a local lead you through Cape Town's inner city for an insider view of the Mother City.
Start with a morning pick-up from your accommodation in Cape Town. Embark upon a journey of the senses, as you explore your way through the diverse Mother City, learning about her history and marvelling at her abundant sights.
Your private guided day tour begins with an optional summit of Table Mountain. Weather dependant, you can choose if you would like to hop on one of the sturdy cable cars to ascend this world icon. On top of the world, Cape Town’s sprawling mass is laid bare in grid-like formation and the panoramic views make you feel as though you are the only one up there. From here, you’ll head to the heart of Cape Town CBD to get a glimpse of the inner workings of the bustling streets. Your guide will lead you on a walking tour of the city, offering insights into all the different landmarks that you pass along the way.
Beginning in the historically rich Company’s Garden, you’ll pass top sites such as St George’s Cathedral; the Slave Lodge, which was built in 1679 to house slaves who used to tend to the Gardens; and Groote Kerk, originally built in 1678. You’ll have some time to explore Greenmarket Square, sifting through the many curio shops, browsing local crafts and meeting some eccentric and friendly local vendors in the cobblestone square. Instagram won’t know what hit it with your next location, the bright and eclectic Cape Malay capital of Bo-Kaap. It's a treasure trove of Instagram-worthy walls, quaint homes, charming doors and colourful streets. Try a local samoosa and experience authentic Cape Malay culture in this little photo haven.
Your guide will then whip you up the winding road to the Noon Guns of Signal Hill to witness the traditional shooting of the cannon at 12pm SHARP. From here you can chose to visit the District Six Museum to get an emotional understanding of the effects of Apartheid, or shuttle straight on to the V&A Waterfront. A cacophony of sights, sounds and tastes, the Waterfront is undoubtedly Cape Town’s shopping capital, offering world-class brands alongside authentic South African talent. Grab lunch at one of the many restaurants on offer and choose your activities to follow, whether it be a ride on the Cape Town Eye, a relaxing harbour cruise, exploring the craft shed, or just perusing the elaborate collection of top-class brands.
Finally, round off your day with the wind in your hair as you drive along Cape Town’s Atlantic Seaboard. Watch the waves crashing against the jagged shores, and pass through swanky neighbourhoods such as Clifton and Camps Bay. Your tour then finishes with a drop-off at your Cape Town hotel.
Please note: The Table Mountain Cableway will be closed to perform maintenance for two weeks in July / August. Cable car tickets are not bookable during this period but the mountain hiking trails remain open. A visit to Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens can be scheduled as an alternative.
End with an evening drop-off at your Cape Town accommodation.
This trip's transport will run exclusively for you. Included activities and transfers may join other groups.
Led by a local English-speaking professional tour guide.
Private transfers to included tour highlights.
There is no central meeting point for this tour. A transfer service will collect you from your Cape Town accommodation.
Optional activities can be paid and booked during your journey as per price listed in the itinerary.
*Table Mountain Cableway will be closed to perform maintenance for two weeks in Jul/Aug. Cable car tickets will not be bookable then but the hiking trails remain open. A visit to Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens can be scheduled as an alternative.
Local and international flights are excluded.
You are responsible for your own travel insurance.
You can purchase meals + drinks on tour.
from ±R1200 per day
This is a surcharge to travel in a luxury SUV vehicle. Maximum 3 people allowed per car.
Click terms for more details.
A non-refundable deposit is needed to reserve a booking and full amount payment required at least 31 days before a tour to confirm a booking.
Read the full terms online at https://hotspots2c.co.za/agent#terms
Cancelaltion fees are calculated on the total amount of the booking.
Children are welcome on private tours. Some activities will have age limits and alcohol may only be served to adults over 18 years of age.
South Africa
11 official Languages Spoken
Afrikaans – English – isiNdebele – Sepedi.– Sesotho – Siswati – Xitsonga – Setswana – Tshivenda – isiXhosa
How to say hello?
Molo – Xhosa
Sawubona - Zulu
Hallo - Afrikaans
Dumela - SeSotho
Electricity – Volt & plug
The South African electricity supply is 220/230 volts AC 50 HZ. Most plugs are 15 amp 3-prong or 5 amp 2-prong, with round pins.
Measurements
Metric System
WiFi/Internet Access on tour
WiFi can be found at most accommodations, restaurants and airports, however, the download speed is often slow and many connections limit your data usage. In short, you’ll be able to stay connected with home, but don't expect to watch HD movies in your spare time.
When to go
South Africa is blessed with a mostly mild climate, but different areas will yield different temperatures throughout the year. Summer in South Africa is usually peak season, lasting between November – February, however Easter time (March) is often still considered peak season too. Temperatures range from 25ºC in coastal areas to high 30ºs in inland areas. Cape Town has ideal weather during this time and Durban sports warm beaches and humid air, Johannesburg experiences hot clear days and often an afternoon thunderstorm.
Shoulder season is April and May, as well as September and October. Surprisingly, the weather in Durban is often at its best during this time, and other areas simmer down from their scorching highs. Prices are lower and crowds are smaller. September and October see eruptions of flowers and blooms all around the country.
Winter is beautiful in most parts of the country. Cape Town experiences winter rain and is often a little cold and miserable, but still crisp and beautiful. Because of the warm Indian Ocean, Durban has spectacular weather in winter, often hovering around 20-25ºC with clear blue skies. Inland areas get quite chilly and the odd snowfall is not uncommon (it only lasts for a day though!). Prices are at an all time low and it is an ideal time for game viewing, as the animals are more active in the cooler weather.
Best time to go
Jun-Jul = Safari
Jan-Feb = Beach
Public Holidays
With the possible exception of Christmas Day and New Year's Day, most tourist services and attractions are open on South African public holidays. In addition most city shopping centres, restaurants and entertainment venues remain open.
1 Jan | New Year's Day | |
21 Mar | Human Rights Day | |
30 Mar | Good Friday | |
2 Apr | Family Day | |
27 Apr | Freedom Day | |
1 May | Workers' Day | |
16 Jun | Youth Day | |
9 Aug | National Women's Day | |
24 Sep | Heritage Day | |
16 Dec | Day of Reconciliation | |
17 Dec | Day of Reconciliation Holiday | |
25 Dec | Christmas Day | |
26 Dec | Day of Goodwill |
Visa & Travel docs
Travellers from most Commonwealth countries (excluding New Zealand), most Western European nations, Japan and the USA receive a free, 90-day visitor's permit on arrival. These travellers do not need a visa to enter South Africa. A valid passport is essential with at least two empty pages. You generally will need to show return or onward travel arrangements. Children aged under 18 must show an unabridged birth certificate (showing both parents details).
Some countries do, however, need a visa. Visas are not issued upon entry, they must be attained beforehand. It is advised that you clarify this before you leave, the Department of Home Affairs office has a comprehensive list of countries that do not require visas. http://www.dha.gov.za/index.php/immigration-services/exempt-countries
What to pack
We're generally laid back in South Africa, so no need to haul out your best silks and diamonds when you head to our shores. Here's some clothing advice when in South Africa:
Health & Safety
There are no compulsory vaccinations required to enter South Africa with exception of a yellow fever vaccination if you have been in a yellow fever area within the last 12 months.
The only major health risk you might face in South Africa is malaria, which is confined to small areas in the north-eastern parts of the country. Small pockets of the northern parts of the Kruger National Park fall under this area but the risk here is considered extremely low and it is not always necessary to take anti-malaria tablets. Remember as a precautionary measure to check with your accommodation what is recommended.
South Africa may have high crime statistics, but if you conduct yourself wisely, most tourists enjoy the country without any incident at all. Ensure that you lock away your passports and travel documents in a safe, which is usually provided by your accommodation. Don't flash around valuables and keep an eye on your belongings at all time. Majority of South Africa’s crime is opportunistic petty crime, so if you are vigilant about your belongings you should not have any problem.
Getting Around
South Africa has 3 world-class airports that receive international flights every day; Johannesburg, Durban and Cape Town. Most international airlines will have flights into one or all of these airports daily.
There are numerous budget carriers that offer domestic flights between the major cities for very reasonable rates; this is the fastest and safest way to span large distances, especially between Johannesburg and Cape Town, which is a 2-hour flight.
From the airports there are numerous shuttles and taxis that you can pick up upon arrival, there are also many different car hire options at each airport and in all major cities. Uber is another reliable and affordable option.
Money
Our currency in South Africa is the South African Rand. You can easily convert your currency to rand at a bank or Forex Bureau, the airports and larger towns often have many different Forex options. You can also withdraw from an ATM, banks are available throughout South Africa. Be sure to check what international bank charges you will incur for withdrawals before you arrive. Major credit cards are usually accepted in hotels or restaurants, however, there may be a surcharge. It is advisable to have small amounts of cash for curios and tipping.
Tipping