Natural Attractions in Cape Town: Everything You Need To Know!
Cape Town is an iconic destination, celebrated for its exceptional natural beauty, cultural depth, and contagious energy. Our striking city in South Africa’s Western Cape was voted the second-best city in the world by Time Out Magazine, just behind New York! And it’s no wonder that Cape Town’s world-class airport, unblemished beaches, and lavish biodiversity are admired worldwide by tourists because they flawlessly combine urban sophistication with untamed scenery.
If you’ve been itching to visit the thrilling natural attractions in Cape Town but need that extra nudge to book your flight, let this guide inspire you. We’ll highlight the must-see natural attractions in Cape Town. Paired with a luxurious stay at a prestigious venue like Century City Hotels’ Bridgewater Hotel, these memorable natural features in Cape Town make our city one of the world’s most sought-after vacation spots. We will also provide practical tips to make your visit one for the books. Let’s dig in.
8 Incredible Natural Attractions in Cape Town
Table Mountain (The Most Famous Natural Landmark in Cape Town)
A trip to Cape Town is incomplete without a visit to Table Mountain, one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature. This flat-topped mountain, natural spectacle overlooking the city gives panoramic views of Cape Town, the Atlantic Ocean, and more. You can hike to its summit or take a revolving cable car; either way, prepare to have your breath taken away.
Distance from Century City: 18.6 km (28 mins)
Practical Tips for Visiting
The cable car is the easiest way to the top. The rides operate year-round, depending on the weather. Book your tickets online to secure your spot. If you’re an adventure buff, hiking trails like Platteklip Gorge can provide a rewarding challenge, but always check the weather before setting out. Visit in the early mornings or late afternoons to get the best light and encounter fewer crowds.
Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden (A Plant Lover’s Paradise)
As one of Cape Town’s natural attractions, Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden is famous for the indigenous plant life that decorates the eastern slopes of Table Mountain. This 528-hectare garden showcases South Africa’s envious vegetation, including the famous fynbos. Being just a short distance away from the Century City Hotels’ central and convenient base, it’s the perfect place to explore walking paths, picnic amidst vibrant blooms, or relax with the gigantic mountain backdrop.
Distance from Century City: 15.7 km (15 mins)
Practical Tips for Visiting
Pack your wallet to cover the small entrance fee; children and seniors get discounts. Visiting this Capetonian natural landmark in spring (September to November) is best to experience the gardens in full bloom. Don’t miss walking along the Boomslang Canopy Walkway, a treetop bridge with stunning views of the gardens and surrounding highlands.
Cape Point (Where Two Oceans Meet)
Cape Point, located within the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve, is a dramatic site where the Indian and Atlantic Oceans touch. Visitors can stop to take in its rugged cliffs and immaculate beaches. You can even spot some wildlife like antelope and ostriches. The resident historic lighthouse provides unbeatable views, and the cliffs are perfect for a windy, exhilarating trek for brave travellers.
Distance from Century City: 68.2 km (1 hr 19 mins)
Practical Tips for Visiting
Cape Point is about 60 km from central Cape Town, so we recommend renting a car or joining a guided tour. Mornings are optimal times to visit to beat the heat and midday crowds. Remember to bring a windbreaker because the weather gets unpredictable and windy.
Boulders Beach (A Penguin Paradise)
Ever wanted to swim with penguins? Boulders Beach in Simon’s Town presents the fascinating experience of getting up close and personal with African penguins. The soft, sandy beach and massive granite boulders, with their picturesque setting, are perfect for a family day out or a refreshing dip in the clear waters.
Distance from Century City: 45.7 km (49 mins)
Practical Tips for Visiting
A small conservation fee – going toward conservation efforts – is charged to enter the beach. The penguins may be friendly but sticking to the designated swimming zones gives them the space they need in their habitat. Visiting early in the morning to get to the front of the queue can make watching the penguins live more pleasant.
Chapman’s Peak Drive (The Scenic Route)
Chapman’s Peak Drive, regarded as one of the most spectacular coastal drives in the world, stretches along the Atlantic Coast between Hout Bay and Noordhoek. This winding road provides picturesque views for pictures and picnics with its sheer drops and rugged cliffs. The route is one of Cape Town’s natural attractions because it is inescapably captivating at sunset. The setting sun reflects the sky and ocean stunningly.
Distance from Century City: 32.5 km (37 mins)
Practical Tips for Visiting
There’s a toll fee to access Chapman’s Peak, but the views are well worth the price. You can take the best photos in the late afternoon by taking a sunset drive to capture the golden hour. Always be cautious when parking as the road can be narrow.
Signal Hill and Lion’s Head (For the Best Sunsets)
Signal Hill and Lion’s Head are top attractions in Cape Town because of the amazing sunset views of the city, ocean, and mountains. A drive to Signal Hill as an outdoor activity in Cape Town in the company of locals will set you up to catch the sun dip below the horizon. A hike up Lion’s Head can be challenging but climbers are rewarded with scenic views stretching across the city and coastline.
Distance from Century City: 14.8 km (17 mins) and 15.7 km (18 mins)
Practical Tips for Visiting
Hiking at Lion’s Head takes around 2-3 hours. The path is relatively manageable until the final stretch, so wear comfortable shoes. Driving to the top of Signal Hill will be the easiest option. Bring a blanket and snacks for some quality time in nature.
Safety Tip: Hikes during the day and with great company are always better and safer than a solo adventure.
Robben Island (A UNESCO World Heritage Site)
Though more famous for its historical significance than its natural beauty, Robben Island offers a surprising combination of both. As one of Cape Town’s tourist attractions, this island on which Nelson Mandela was imprisoned for 18 years provides regular guided tours. It gives visitors an insight into South Africa’s tumultuous past while showcasing its scenery and wildlife, including seals and seabirds.
Distance from Century City: 15.5 km (18 mins)
Practical Tips for Visiting
The only way to get to Robben Island is by ferry from the V&A Waterfront so book tickets in advance to prevent disappointment. Opt for a guided tour to learn about the island’s legacy and environment. It’s great to go in the morning because the calmer seas make for a smooth ferry ride.
Tygerberg Nature Reserve (Natural Bliss)
The luscious Tygerberg Nature Reserve can be found in Cape Town’s northern suburbs. It is a 388 hectare paradise with 562 plant species, 24 mammal species, 137 bird species, 22 kinds of reptiles, 7 types of frogs, and countless butterfly species. Visitors can catch extravagant views of the city from the top of its hill and get lessons about the local ecology from the reserve’s resource centre.
Distance from Century City: 15.6 km (17 mins)
Practical Tips for Visiting
The reserve has no entrance fee and has many exciting onsite activities apart from walking, hiking, and picnicking. Guests can spend time at the Environmental Education Centre where they can join an enviro-talk or take part in cannon firing. The bird centre hosts bird talks and bird ringing sessions (the process of tracking birds). Make sure to call ahead for bookings and enquiries.
Conclusion (Explore Cape Town’s Natural Wonders)
We hope this list of outdoor things to do in Cape Town has filled up your upcoming holiday itinerary. Will you be hiking Table Mountain, swimming with penguins at Boulders Beach, or sipping wine in the Cape Winelands? Whichever you choose, the natural attractions in Cape Town promise life-changing adventure and so much more. Add to that a hotel near to the natural landmarks in Cape Town like the premier Urban Square Hotel, Bridgewater Hotel, or self-catering Bridgewater Apartments, and your stay in Cape Town will be nothing short of spectacular.
Book your reservation at a Century City Hotels property today to be immersed in Cape Town’s natural attractions and experience one of the world’s most extraordinary cities.