Cape Town Sightseeing Tours

Cape Town, the Mother City, is a historically, culturally and breathtakingly vibrant city that was recently named the best city in Africa and the second best city in the world by Condé Nast Traveller. From its beautiful natural landmarks to its colourful culture; from decadent wine farms to captivating history and architecture - it’s a tourist heaven. There’s no finer way to savor Cape Town's pleasures than a guided day tour with Thompsons Africa – from wonderful winelands and wine tastings, to riding the cable car to the top of Table Mountain, we’ll take you there in style. To avoid disappointment, we recommend booking your preferred tours well in advance of your departure date. Speak to your Africa Specialist for more information.

Please note the scheduled tour prices below have additional drop off and pick up points and will have other guests on board. The private tour pricing offers a vehicle and driver just for your use and allows more flexibility – please note that the venues visited will have other guests, it is just the vehicle and driver that is on a private basis. Pricing for both is per person based on a minimum of two people.

Half Day Tours

Amy Foundation Tour

Departs: 3pm. Returns: approx. 4:30-5:00pm.

You will be accompanied by an English-speaking driver/guide to visit the Amy Biehl Aftercare Centre in Gugulethu, for interaction with the kids and gumboot dancing demonstrations and lesson.

Amy Elizabeth Biehl was a white American graduate of Stanford University and an anti-Apartheid activist in South Africa who was murdered by black Cape Town residents while a black mob shouted anti-white slurs. The four men convicted of her murder were released as part of the Truth and Reconciliation process.

18 years ago, on August 25, 1993, Amy made her transition from her eventful life on earth to an even larger life of committed service to the under-served and to the hopeful. The Amy Foundation draws breath and inspiration from Amy and her legacy. It is a creation of family and friends who loved her in life, and is now extended by many hundreds of new friends - young and old - who want to make a constructive difference in their world and who enjoy doing this in Amy's name.

Amy's legacy is how she led her life. Hers is a legacy of inspiration, not tragedy. Amy was an extraordinary example of dedication, perseverance, courage, and compassion. She lived her life to the fullest, never accepting failure in any of her pursuits. It was her goal to become the best and to use her talents to improve the world.

She believed it was her duty, as a person afforded opportunity and education, to actively seek social change for those not so fortunate. It was her dedication and courage that continues to inspire so many people throughout the world.

Cape Town City Tour

Departs: Daily between 7:35 and 8:30am. Returns: Approx. 12:30pm.

This tour is designed to orientate and give you a full-color insight into the extraordinary magic of Cape Town. First enjoy a cable car ride to the summit of the legendary Table Mountain (weather permitting) for panoramic views, including the City and surrounding layout of this southernmost tip of Africa (tickets are for your own account). Next up is a visit of the country’s oldest colonial building, The Cape Castle and the Company Gardens. Then you’ll be driven past Parliament Buildings, City Hall which is where Nelson Mandela made his first public speech after his release from prison and the Slave Lodge. Next, it’s up the cobblestoned hills to the beautifully colorful homes of the Bo-Kaap in the Malay Quarter. The tour ends on a sparkling note, with a visit to a diamond works where you’ll watch a professional diamond cutter as he creates every girl’s dream stone. Perhaps you’ll be taking one home.

Cape Point Tour

Departs: Daily between 8:00 and 8:45am. Returns: Approx. 12:30pm.

The Cape Peninsula and Cape Point is wild, rugged, and undoubtedly one of the most memorable coastlines you’ll have encountered. The trip begins with a drive along Millionaires Paradise, eyeing the glamorous homes of Clifton Beach and Camps Bay which leave you in no doubt as to how it earned its title. From there, it’s on towards the charming coastal town and working harbor of Hout Bay - translated from Dutch it literally means Wood Bay. Then, driving over the legendary Chapman’s Peak Drive with its breathtaking views you’ll arrive at the Cape of Good Hope Section of the Table Mountain National Park and its rugged, intriguing landscape. Next up is a visit to the delightful African penguin colony at Boulders beach (for your own account, approximately USD $5 per person), before moving on to the historical naval port of Simon’s Town. It’s a wonderful half-day spent on the wilder side of this exquisite Cape coastline.

Stellenbosch Winelands Tour

Departs: Mon-Sat between 12:45 and 1:45pm. Returns: Approx. 5:30pm.

Stellenbosch, with its Cape Dutch architecture, is the warm and wonderful heart of the Cape Winelands and is surrounded by stunning wine estates. It’s truly the prettiest town, home to one of the country’s prestigious universities, and you’ll love exploring the fine art galleries, the architecture, the history, and the curious and quaint shops. You’ll be taken on a leisurely drive to become acquainted with the area, before being introduced to the wine-making process in a fascinating cellar tour. Of course, you‘ll have a chance to taste the wine for which this area is renowned, and no doubt, you’ll leave with a favorite bottle or two under your arm. Stellenbosch is arguably one of the Province’s most beautiful towns.

Walk to Freedom Tour

Departs: Daily between 8:00 and 8:45am. Returns: Approx. 12:30pm.

Experience the wonderful raw energy of Cape Town's Townships in one unforgettable morning. After a visit to District Six (closed on Sundays), where you will learn a little of the history of the townships, the tour continues on to the oldest township in Cape Town, Langa, and its people. Strolling through Langa Township, pop in to a local market, an Arts & Crafts center and visit a traditional healer. Experience the warm hospitality at a local Bed & Breakfast as well as a day care center that provides local children with a safe haven and fun environment. Then from Langa you will visit two other townships, Khayelitsha and Gugulethu to get a more in-depth look at the vibrant communities. For those who have the time, we recommend you extend to a full day tour with a visit to Robben Island in the afternoon. Home of Nelson Mandela for so many years, it’s a highly charged and emotional moment when you visit the site of this suffering, and realize how far South Africa has come from those days.

Robben Island Tour

Board the Robben Island Ferry at the Victoria and Alfred Waterfront and take part in a half day Robben Island tour.

For nearly 400 years, Robben Island was a place of banishment, exile, isolation and imprisonment for political "troublemakers" and social outcasts. During the apartheid years Robben Island became internationally known for its institutional brutality. Some freedom fighters spent more than a quarter of a century in prison for their beliefs. Nelson Mandela was one of them.

Those imprisoned on the Island succeeded on a psychological and political level in turning a prison 'hell-hole' into a symbol of freedom and personal liberation. Robben Island came to symbolize, not only for South Africa and the African continent, but also for the entire world, the triumph of the human spirit over enormous hardship and adversity. You will be escorted around the island by an ex-political prisoner, and given insight into the past and how the human spirit triumphs.

Feathers and Fins Tour

Departs: Mon, Wed, Fri between 12:45 and 1:45pm. Returns: Approx. 5:30pm.

This entertaining, family-friendly trip includes a visit to the Hout Bay World of Birds where adults and children can get up close and personal with nature, with over 400 different species to discover including birds, reptiles, mammals - don’t forget to visit the walk through monkey jungle! The tour continues with some of the finest beach views on the coastal drive to the Two Oceans Aquarium in the famous Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, where a magical underwater world awaits. Learn about mysterious deep sea creatures, dangerous predators and see a real “happy feet” family. Touch pools and tidal walks are part of the fun while puppet shows and play areas are on offer for younger children. For older children, fascinating discoveries, interesting facts, and shark encounters await! Bring your family on this fun tour to see, touch, learn and play...who knows, they may even find Nemo!

Cape Malay Cooking Experience with Cass Abrahams

Departs: subject to chef's availability.

Today you will be picked up at 08h30 for your Cape Malay Cooking with Cass Abrahams Tour. Cass is the foremost authority on the cuisine in the Cape and is a local celebrity. The tour starts with a chat and a coffee with your guide so that you have some background on the people of the Cape, the history of their cuisine and on Cass. Cass realized that for a variety of reasons the cuisine was dying out in the Cape and made it her mission to rescue the recipes. She interviewed the grandmothers in the community and dug in the archives and then wrote a cookbook that became highly sort after by many South Africans. Today you have the opportunity to enjoy a hands-on class with her in her home in the Southern Suburbs. You will cook three to four dishes and then relax over lunch. Please note that no alcohol is served in respect for Cass's Muslim faith.

Sea Kayaking

Departs: daily, subject to weather. Please note the tour excludes transport to and from Simon's Town — prices available upon request.

Visit one of the most unique places in the world — a penguin colony in suburban Cape Town. And the best way to see it is from the water. Leave from Simon's Town Waterfront and paddle past the civilian and Naval Harbor and out to Boulder's Beach. After visiting the penguins, stop on a lovely semi-private beach for refreshments, swimming and snorkeling (snorkels and bottled drinking water are provided). Your double kayak is very stable and perfect even if you have no paddling experience.

We can also arrange for you to go cycling, skydiving, sandboarding and abseiling among other activities — please let us know if you would like more information on these activities.

Full Day Tours

Cape Winelands Tour

Departs: Mon-Sat between 8:00 and 9:00am. Returns: Approx. 5:30pm.

This is a superb day exploring the exceptional Winelands region with its heavenly scenery. The area is rich with history, and you can’t help but feel it as you visit this region. Experience a wine cellar tour, where you’ll learn all about the process of winemaking, and have the chance to savor the wines. Visit the charming little town of Franschhoek, pass by the impressive Huguenot Monument, and enjoy lunch (your own account) – the town is known as the gourmet capital of South Africa. After lunch, the tour takes you over the Helshoogte Mountain Pass to the pretty university town of Stellenbosch. You will have time to stroll through this little town, absorbing the quaintness, and enjoying the shops! A trip to the Winelands isn’t complete without a wine tasting, so you'll visit two different wine estates. During your visit, you’ll be able to purchase your favourite wine to take back home!

Whales & Wine Tour

Departs: Wed, Fri & Sun between 7:45 and 8:45am. Returns: Approx. 5:00pm.
Only operates Jul-Nov during whale season

The quiet little fishing village of Hermanus has the best shore-based whale watching in the world! The drive takes you along the coast with its glorious ocean view and hopefully – the awe-inspiring site of Southern Right whales at play. There may be an opportunity to join boat-based whale watching (subject to availability, time and weather conditions and for your own account. The cruise lasts about 2 and a half hours). You will be able to enjoy lunch in the town (your own account) if you choose not to do the boat trip. The day also includes a visit to the Hemel-On-Aarde (Heaven & Earth) valley to visit a boutique winery to sample some wines of outstanding quality (on Sundays when the winery is closed you will visit the Cheetah Sanctuary in Somerset West instead). The return drive to Cape Town takes you via the pretty apple-growing region of Elgin and through Sir Lowry’s Pass with its spectacular views.

***Handy tip: sun protection, protective clothing and preventative treatment against sea sickness are advisable when going on the optional boat trip***

Cape Peninsula Tour

Departs: Daily between 7:45 and 8:45am. Returns: Approx. 6:00pm.

On this tour you will see why the area earned the name of The Fairest Cape. Sit back and relax, as you’re driven along the exquisite stretch of coastline known as Millionaire’s Paradise – from Clifton to Camps Bay, to the exclusive beach hamlet of Llandudno – towards the charming working harbour of Hout Bay.

You then wind your way along the legendary Chapman’s Peak Drive, hugging the cliffs and relishing the breathtaking ocean views. After a stop for lunch (your own account), visit the wild and beautiful Cape of Good Hope Section of the Table Mountain National Park, an integral part of the world-renowned Cape Floral Kingdom.

After, you'll head back along the coast towards the City, visiting the historic naval port of Simon’s Town and the endearing African penguin colony at Boulder’s Beach (own account – approximately USD $5 per person). Next, you’ll head inland to the last stop of the day. In the summer months this will be at Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens. With the sun setting over the tall peaks of Table Mountain, the last rays sparkle on the trees and flowers. In the winter months (May 1st to Aug 31st), the last stop is at Groot Constantia where you’ll stop for a wine tasting and cellar tour of South Africa’s oldest wine estate.

Wine & History Exploration

Departs: Daily about 8 am. Returns: Approx. 5:30pm.

Tour Stellenbosch where you will taste wines and shop at some of the most outstanding wine estates in the Cape. Your first wine tasting is at Rustenberg Estate, where wines have been bottled for an unbroken period since 1682. The estate offers an intimate exclusivity and the beautiful gardens are truly a plant lover's dream.

Your next stop is the beautiful Delaire Graff Estate, nestled between majestic mountains and overlooking the vineyards of Stellenbosch. The original artworks from Laurence Graff's personal collection are on display throughout, representing some of South Africa's finest contemporary artists.

After a wine tasting and fascinating walk through this estate, you'll travel to Franschhoek for lunch at a local restaurant before stopping at L'Ormarins, home of Antonij Rupert Wines.

L'Ormarins was restored in 1984 and the Manor House and Cellar declared national monuments. The Antonij Rupert Cellar is a state of the art gravity fed cellar with revolving ceiling and underground barrel cellar built in memory of Antonij Rupert. The Franschhoek Motor Museum at the magnificent L'Ormarins offers the opportunity to look back at more than 100 years of motoring history, with its unique and exciting collection of more than 300 vehicles, motorcycles, bicycles and memorabilia.

Evening Tours

Sunset and Beach Dinner

Departs: Tue & Thu between 5:30 and 6:00pm. Returns: Approx. 10:00pm.
Only operates Sep - May

Join your host and head out of the city before sunset. Savor a chilled glass of sparkling wine while overlooking one of Cape Town’s most beautiful beaches and taking in the sunset. You’ll be shown how to find the Southern Cross in the night sky (if the moon isn’t too bright!), before enjoying dinner at a sensational restaurant offering seafood and South African specialties. If you’re celebrating a special occasion let us know and we can arrange a separate table. As you return to the hotel, you'll enjoy the city lights by night.

Sunset Champagne Cruise

Departs: daily subject to weather conditions — times vary according to sunset.

Board a sail boat that will follow the wind for this cruise and allow you to experience sunset and the views of Cape Town at dusk from a different perspective! Typically in a SE Wind direction, you will head out of the Harbour and sail across Table Bay towards Milnerton lighthouse, then return to the protection of Granger Bay in the lee of Table Mountain to watch the sun set, and then motor back to the Waterfront.

Custom Day Tours

We can also tailor make tours to match your interests or simply arrange for you to have a vehicle and driver available with no plan in mind to take you wherever you feel like going. Cape Town has been chosen as the Design Capital for 2014, we can include Architecture, Art, local clothing designers. In addition to the beautiful Winelands, Cape Point and City tours, consider a family day out, to see seals, penguins, monkeys and butterflies; splash out on a hot shopping extravaganza; or indulge in a grand gourmet food and wine tour of golf or bicycle tours.

Half Day Private Tours

Half day private trips depart daily on request and run from either 8:30 am to 12:30pm or 1:30pm to 5:30pm and cover up to 150km’s.

Full Day Private Tours

The full day private vehicle and driver hire departs daily on request with a pick up time of 9:00am, dropping off at 5:30pm and covers up to 250km's.

Both half and full day options exclude all entrances, parking fees, toll fees and any other costs which you would need to settle directly at the venues visited and in the case of parking, with the driver. Touring is done in an air-conditioned 7-seater vehicle with a tour guide.