Cape Town & Winelands Explorer: Your Ultimate Guide to South Africa's Gems

What to Know when Visiting Cape Town or the Winelands

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Cape Town

If you haven’t been to Cape Town before, you sure have heard of it! It is one of our fav cities to explore in South Africa. Nestled at the foot of the well-known majestic Table Mountain, Cape Town beckons adventurers, hikers, foodies, beach lovers and culture enthusiasts alike. With its breathtaking landscapes, pristine beaches and incredible restaurants, this vibrant city offers a tantalizing blend of natural beauty and urban charm. There is so much to do here you will never get bored, so if you are lucky enough to have a day or two in this epic place, we have put together some personal suggestions on how to spend your time!

Let’s go have fun in Cape Town!

shopping etc

Kalk Bay

Nestled along the scenic coastline, this charming bay is a hidden gem booming with epic boutiques, quirky galleries, and artisanal delights waiting to be discovered. From handmade jewelry to vintage finds, every street holds the promise of something special and unique. So, wander through the colorful lanes, soaking in the relaxed vibes and seaside charm. Who knows what delightful treasures you'll unearth in this shopper's delight?

Visit the V&A Waterfront / Shop at The Watershed

You absolutely cannot visit Cape Town without at least popping in to the Waterfront! This bustling and iconic neighborhood attracts every tourist as it is a wonderful expression of South African culture and diversity with a whole host of things to get up to. Offering world renowned restaurants, brilliant shopping opportunities, live entertainment, art and design you will need to give yourself a few hours more than you think! The Watershed is a vibrant art and design space where you will find unique items to purchase and grab a bite to eat while you are at it!

Markets, history, arts and culture

The Oranjezicht City Market (Wednesday evenings, or Saturday/Sunday daytime)

Markets in Cape Town are so full of vibrancy, incredible buys, delicious food and beautiful people! This market is always busy but in the best way, so don’t get overwhelmed just go with the flow (of people) and while you might wait in line for your tasty food or drink just take in everything going on around you - the people, the smells and the atmosphere because man it’s cool!

The Zeitz Museum of Contemporary African Art

Recently opened in 2017, this is the largest museum of contemporary art from Africa. Located in the V&A Waterfront in the Silo District, it attracts art enthusiasts from around the world to see and appreciate its extensive collection. If you feel like getting those cultural juices flowing pop in here for sure!

Visit Robben Island

Known as the site of Nelson Mandela’s incarceration, this small island located just off the coast off Cape Town is a top tourist attraction. This UNESCO World Heritage Site bears witness to South Africa's tumultuous past, serving as a reminder of the human spirit's indomitable strength as you can have a glimpse into the lives of those who once lived here, alongside Madiba. You can visit his cell, as well at the island’s museum and lighthouse. Although a sad and scary history, this is a must do if you can!

Time Out Market (Sunday - Thursday Daytime)

Another epic market to visit, this one situated in the V&A Waterfront neighborhood. Situated in a cool warehouse. here you will come across well known-up and coming chefs and mixologists that will make it tricky for you to choose which way to turn!

Adventure and Outdoors

Visit Table Mountain by Cable Car

If you are visiting CT, you would have heard about Table Mountain! Seeing this mountain is one thing, but going up and seeing the rest of the city FROM the mountain is another! This is definitely something you won’t want to miss - a comfy cable cart that slowly lifts you up into the clouds, with the most amazing views the whole way up. This is bucket list stuff!

Hike Lion’s Head

Hikers and outdoor enthusiast’s paradise! Take your time or challenge yourself with a bit of pace but whatever you do just make sure you reach it to the top! You won’t want to miss out on the incredible 360 degree views from up there and of course a perfect Instagram story snap!

Boulders Beach Penguin Colony

Prepare to be charmed by these adorable waddlers as they go about their daily beach antics. These little guys are a crowd favorite, and if the weather is good then remember this is also a really good spot to go kayaking too! Because this beach falls under the Table Mountain National Park Marine Protected Area it isn’t often crowded, it’s always clean and safe and there are wonderful rockpools for the kids to enjoy! No wonder there are 60 000 visitors here a year!

Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens

Nestled at the foot of Table Mountain, this beautiful location is a wonderful place to visit if you feel like exploring through windy paths surrounded by vibrant blooms with breathtaking scenery surrounding it. This is also a birdlife haven, and there are a couple of hiking trails too! If live music is your vibe, make sure to look up whether there are any shows on as while you are here as this one of the most sought after locations for weekend performances and what a location it is!

Let’s go! Winelands time

Wine, farms and tastings

Tastings, tastings, tastings

If you are a wine enthusiast, you have most certainly come to the right place! Most experts agree that if you are searching for world-calss wines, South Africa produces the best! Whether you prefer a bold red, a crisp white, or something in between, there's no shortage of tasting experiences to indulge your palate and on top of that, your jaw is going to drop when you see each of these wine farms - unmatched beauty!

The Wine Tram

Climb aboard this charming tram and prepare to be whisked away on a wine-tasting adventure like no other., through the beautiful Franschhoek Valley. This is such fun to do if you enjoy wine but also want a bit of change of from a traditional tasting! On this trip you will wind your way through picturesque landscapes and stop at some of the region's most esteemed wine estates along the way. With each stop, you'll have the chance to sample world-class wines while learning about South Africa's winemaking heritage

Boschendal Farm

This farm offers timeless beauty and a sense of fun to those who visit. You can take a bike ride around the estate, or simply relax under the trees for a picnic, or sitting down for a world-class wine tasting experience. If you are here on a Friday night you will be faced with the hard choice of deciding whether to be here or at Babylonstoren - here you will also experience a vibrant atmosphere of a local food and drink market!

Visit Franschhoek, the town

Spend some time meandering through tree-lined, cobblestone streets that are full of beautiful boutiques, art galleries, quaint cafe’s and stunning retail shops. If you decide to visit this town, we recommend taking your time! It’s so wonderful to soak in the ambiance, amble your way through and let Franschhoek work it’s magic on you! If you are interested in the

Babylonstoren Wine Farm

A haven for foodies, wine lovers, and nature/outdoor beauty! If you want to escape to a world of rustic charm and culinary delights, you have come to the right place! Here you can spend the day exploring these beautiful gardens and orchids, popping into the little shops within the farm where you will find the most incredible treats from freshly brewed coffee and warm pastries to exceptional local olive oils, literally a feast for the senses at every turn. But don’t eat too much if you want to experience the farm-to-table dining experience at the Babel, where fresh, seasonal ingredients take center stage. You can also schedule a picnic lunch if you visit on a Saturday, go for a bike ride around the farm, do a wine tasting, or visit the Friday night food/music market. As you can see, a place with many talents!

Markets and Museums

Franschhoek Village Market

A good old Saturday farmer’s market awaits! Wander through this brilliant set up as you make your way through different food, drinks, local crafts all while listening to wonderful live music This market comes to life every Saturday, a wonderful way to start your day and a welcoming affair for you and the whole family!

Franschhoek Motor Museum

For all the car and history enthusiasts, this incredible museum showcases over a 100 years of automotive history. Impressively, this museum has over 220 vehicles that have been collected over time. An incredible experience that is both exciting and extremely informative. You can either wander around yourself or book a museum tour, whatever tickles your fancy!

Nairobi Uncovered: Explore Top Shopping & Dining Experiences in Kenya's Capital

Nairobi, the thriving capital city of Kenya, offers a unique blend of urban excitement and African charm. Known for its vibrant culture, rich history, and stunning wildlife, Nairobi has something for everyone. In this blog, we'll explore some of the top things to do in Nairobi, including boutique shopping, amazing restaurants, and unique shopping destinations. Get ready to be inspired and discover the best of Nairobi!

Savor Nairobi's Culinary Delights

Nairobi is a food lover's paradise, with an array of top-notch restaurants offering diverse cuisine options. Here are some of the city's must-try eateries:

• Talisman: An elegant restaurant in the Karen suburb, Talisman offers an eclectic menu that fuses European, Asian, and African flavors. The lush garden setting and cozy interior make it an ideal spot for a romantic dinner or a leisurely brunch.

• Boho Eatery: Nestled in the heart of Karen, Boho Eatery is a trendy, vegetarian-friendly spot with an emphasis on fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The menu features a mix of international dishes and healthy options, making it a popular choice for Nairobi's health-conscious crowd.

• Cultiva: If you're craving farm-to-table dining, Cultiva is the place to be. This rustic restaurant in Loresho offers a menu focused on seasonal, organic produce, and its picturesque setting provides a serene escape from the bustling city.

• Wine Box: Wine enthusiasts will fall in love with Wine Box, a stylish wine bar and restaurant in Westlands. With an extensive wine list and a Mediterranean-inspired menu, it's the perfect spot for a relaxed evening with friends.

• Tin Roof Café: This charming café in Karen offers a casual, laid-back atmosphere and a menu filled with delicious homemade meals, including hearty breakfasts, fresh salads, and mouthwatering burgers.

• Inti: For a taste of South America, head to Inti, Nairobi's first Peruvian-Japanese fusion restaurant. Located in the heart of Westlands, Inti serves up a delectable array of sushi, ceviche, and grilled dishes that are sure to please your taste buds.

• Nairobi Street Kitchen: Experience the city's vibrant culinary scene at Nairobi Street Kitchen, a unique food hall concept located in Westlands. With a variety of food stalls offering dishes from around the globe, this lively venue is perfect for trying an assortment of flavors and cuisines under one roof. Whether you're in the mood for sushi, burgers, or Indian street food, Nairobi Street Kitchen has something to satisfy every palate.

• Open House Restaurant: For a taste of authentic Indian cuisine, visit Open House Restaurant, located in Westlands. Known for its mouthwatering curries, succulent kebabs, and scrumptious biryanis, this popular eatery offers a warm and inviting atmosphere, perfect for a family dinner or a get-together with friends. With an extensive menu catering to both vegetarians and meat lovers alike, Open House Restaurant is a must-visit for anyone craving flavorful Indian dishes.
  

  Unique Shopping Destinations

In addition to the Village Market, Nairobi offers several other unique shopping destinations worth checking out:

• Langata Link: This upscale shopping complex in Langata offers a curated selection of boutiques, featuring everything from fashion to home decor. Don't miss the Langata Link Art Gallery, showcasing works from local and regional artists.

• House of Treasures Emporium: Located in the leafy suburb of Karen, the House of Treasures Emporium is a treasure trove of unique gifts, homeware, and fashion items. With a focus on supporting local artisans and businesses, it's a great place to find one-of-a-kind souvenirs.

• Opportunity Factory: Situated in the heart of Nairobi's industrial area, Opportunity Factory is an innovative concept store that offers high-quality, ethically made products from local artisans and entrepreneurs. Shop for sustainable fashion, accessories, and gifts while supporting the local community.

• Boutique Shopping at the Village Market: No visit to Nairobi is complete without exploring the Village Market, one of the city's premier shopping destinations. With over 150 shops spread across a lush, open-air setting, the Village Market is the perfect place to find unique African crafts, designer clothing, and eclectic homeware. Take your time to browse the various boutiques, and don't forget to stop by the Maasai Market on Fridays, where you can find an array of handmade crafts and souvenirs…

  Nairobi is a vibrant city teeming with unique experiences, exciting culinary delights, and incredible shopping opportunities. From boutique shopping at the Village Market to indulging your taste buds at renowned restaurants like Talisman, Boho Eatery, Cultiva, Wine Box, Tin Roof Cafe, and Inti, there's something for everyone in this bustling metropolis. Don't forget to explore other shopping destinations like Langata Link, House of Treasures Emporium, and Opportunity Factory to find unique gifts and support local artisans.

  Beyond the incredible shopping and dining experiences, Nairobi also boasts a rich cultural scene, with museums, art galleries, and local events that showcase the city's diverse heritage. If it isn’t already in your plan, be sure to explore Nairobi National Park, the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, and the Giraffe Centre to get up close and personal with Kenya's incredible wildlife.