There are many ways to tour the city but the best of these might be the bus! The reason for this is that it’s affordable (R200 when purchased online at time of publishing) but also that the tour covers a lot of ground. The hop on, hop off bus Cape Town has several lines that loop throughout different sites but we’ll focus on the Classic Tour which has four loops that include mountains, harbours, beaches and botanical gardens. There is audio commentary as you pass the different sites and children have their own special one to listen to! These are just a taste of the main stops featured on these loops but there are many sights to see in between, depending on where you decide to hop on and off. There are also lines that travel out as far as the Cape Winelands.
STOP 1 – Table Mountain
Start on Table Mountain, a World Heritage Site where you can climb to the top in around 2hrs or take a quick zip in the cable car which showcases breathtaking views. There is also a restaurant on the top of the mountain where you can enjoy a meal or cup of coffee before heading down. Apart from the fynbos growing up there, you’ll also find a secret beach and an assortment of wildlife.
STOP 2 – V&A Waterfront
The V&A Waterfront is a hub of shopping and gourmet delights. Take a ride on the big ferris wheel, grab a bite to eat and peruse designer shopping boutiques while here. If you’re lucky, you may also spot a visiting ship docked in the harbour, including those sailed by some famous adventurers. Another more recent addition is the Zeitz MOCAA museum, the largest collection of contemporary African art in the world, situated in the Silo District.
STOP 3 – Camps Bay
Camps Bay is a small beach area with mountain views. An ideal spot for cocktails, this is your midway stop. Walk along the strip all the way to Clifton or simply relax with a bite to eat at one of the many eateries that offer a wide range of culinary styles. Although the water is rather cold on this side, dolphins have been known to make an appearance in the waves here…
STOP 4 – Kirstenbosch
Come full circle with a trip to Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens where you’ll find an assortment of creatures and plant species including an entire protea garden. Choose to picnic on the expansive lawns or meander through the different sections, showcasing herbs, indigenous trees and mountain views. There is also a Tea Room where you can enjoy high tea and a Moyo Restaurant that serves authentic African dishes.
Another way to bus Cape Town, that isn’t tour-based but makes it amazingly easy to get around, is the MyCiti. Read our MyCiti Guide and familiarise yourself with the different routes that take you as far as Melkbosstrand.
Featured Image: Philipp Alexander