Best Outdoor Activities in the Western Cape

Beautiful white sand Noordhoek beach along Chapman's peak drive Cape Town South Africa
Beautiful white sand Noordhoek beach along Chapman’s peak drive Cape Town South Africa.

The Western Cape, nestled at the tip of Southern Africa, is a unique place, drenched in natural beauty and diverse cultures. From the bustling city of Cape Town to the exquisite Winelands, it’s safe to say that there’s something for everyone. And what better way to explore the Western Cape, than by renting a car, giving you the freedom to experience it all at your own pace. Here are some of the best outdoor activities the Western Cape has to offer.

The Table Mountain Cableway

Colorful cable car in the Table Mountain National Park under the sunlight in South Africa
A colorful cable car in the Table Mountain National Park under the sunlight in South Africa

One of the most popular tourist attractions in Cape Town is Table Mountain. You can take a cable car ride to the top of the mountain for stunning views of the city and surrounding area. On a clear day, you can see as far as Robben Island. The Table Mountain Cableway is open every day from 8:30am to 5pm, weather dependent. 

Whale Watching in Hermanus

Southern Right Whale resting at sea surface, in Hermanus, South Africa
Southern Right Whale, Eubalaena australis, close to land, resting at sea surface. Hermanus, Garden Route South Africa

When landing at Cape Town International Airport, make sure to book a rental car in Cape Town and begin your journey to the quaint town of Hermanus. This charming sea side town is one of the best places in the world for whale watching. Every year between June and November, southern right whales come to the waters off Hermanus to mate and calve. You can see these magnificent creatures from the cliffs or go on a whale-watching boat tour. Boat tours leave daily at 10am and 1pm from the Old Harbour in Hermanus.

Exploring Townships in Cape Town

4_Best Outdoor Activities in the Western Cape

Cape Town’s townships are home to a vibrant culture and cuisine. A good way to explore these areas is on a township tour. These tours usually include a visit to a shebeen (local tavern), a traditional meal, and a performance of township music or dance. You can book a township tour through companies such as Township Experience Tours or African Sunrise Tours.

Visiting Robben Island

View from the top of Table mountain in Cape Town
CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA,: Lions Head, Signal Hill, Robben Island and part of Cape Town as seen from the top of Table mountain

Robben Island, off the coast of Cape Town, is a former prison and World Heritage Site. It was here that Nelson Mandela spent 18 years of his life in prisont. A boat trip to the island takes about 30 minutes from the V&A Waterfront in Cape Town and includes a tour around the island with an experienced guide, who will provide information about the history of the island and its significance in South Africa’s struggle for freedom. You can book a tour online or at any tourist office in Cape Town.

Tasting in the Winelands

Oude Libertas Vineyard and Cape Dutch Building
The Oude Libertas vineyard and Cape Dutch homestead in Stellenbosch in the Western Cape, South Africa.

The Cape Winelands are a region renowned for its beauty and award-winning wines. A tour of the winelands is a great way to learn about South African viticulture and sample world-renowned wines. You can choose from full-day or half-day tours, which include visits to wine cellars, and wine tastings. There are many specialised tours available focusing on specific regions or wineries. Booking a tour online is the best way to ensure you get the most out of your time on the Wine Route.

These are just some of the exclusive outdoor activities you can enjoy while visiting the Western Cape. By taking advantage of our hassle-free car rental in Cape Town, you can explore everything this beautiful place has to offer! With its breathtaking natural beauty, vibrant culture and delicious cuisine, the Western Cape is an unforgettable destination.

Explore Cape Town and surrounds by renting a car at Cape Town International Airport. SANI Car Rental is a South African homegrown car rental company. Vehicles available to rent include compact cars, economy cars, premium cars, people carriers and SUVs. SANI Car Rental serves customers throughout South Africa including at all major local and international airport.

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