History buffs and geography enthusiasts know that the Cape of Good Hope in South Africa played a major role in establishing a route between Europe and the "Far East." Portuguese explorer Bartolomeu Dias was the first European to navigate the southern tip of Africa by taking the risk of going through the cape and the continent’s southernmost point, Cape Agulhas. The area remains an important sailing route and is now a popular recreational area, plus one of the most Instagrammable locations in the country.
There’s one thing to know before visiting this South African spot: the Cape of Good Hope is not the continent’s southernmost point but its most southwestern point. The capes of Good Hope and Agulhas, however, are both stunning. The former is so beautiful it might as well be named the Cape of Best Hope.
10 Visit The Cape Point
For a truly South African experience, tourists should not miss visiting Cape Point. Located north of the Cape of Good Hope, this rocky promontory is a popular attraction because it offers visitors an expansive view of the Atlantic Ocean. The photos look stunning, more so when tourists are at the viewpoint where they can enjoy checking out the rushing waves seemingly eager to meet them. There’s an Instagrammable lighthouse in the area but what takes the cake is the panoramic and picture-perfect view of the cape.
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9 Hiking
Hikers who want a moderate journey with the Atlantic breeze as their companion is in for a treat in Cape Town. They can take on the challenge of the 21-mile Cape of Good Hope Trail. The loop takes two days to finish, a bit tiring but rewarding. Tourists will trudge through fynbos trails and pristine beaches, where they can drop their bags and enjoy a swim. They should be alert, though, because baboons might scavenge for some trail mix. Hikers will stay in huts where they can rest well for the uphill climb the next day.
8 Visit The Nature Reserve
The Cape of Good Hope, located in the Cape Peninsula, is part of the Table Mountain National Park. The area boasts of brimming ecological spots where wildlife watchers can spend their days taking photos and recording on their log books. The biodiversity is rich, and the scenery is alluring, so visiting the nature reserve is a must for Cape Town visitors. The fynbos is home to more than 250 species of buck, baboons, birds, and zebras. Picnic spots dot the area, perfect for watching those critters.
7 Biking
From tarred to dirt roads and from historic spots to nature views, cycling through Cape of Good Hope, especially in the reserve, is a biker’s paradise. Biking is perfect for those who want to enjoy the scenery while having a quick workout – all at their own pace. Whether tourists want to explore the peninsula or just the tip, they will be welcomed by an array of attractions only South Africa can offer: a biodiverse area near a metropolis. They can check out zebras, hartebeest, and antelopes, then drop by a lighthouse and historic landmarks. It’s the best of both worlds in the Cape of Good Hope.
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6 Beach Day
As expected, a beach day in Cape Peninsula means having fun-filled moments, thanks to the pristine Atlantic waters. Bordjiesrif is perfect for picnic lovers who want to enjoy a braai with friends and loved ones. They can also have a splashing good time in nearby False Bay; even its tidal pools are safe for kids. For a more secluded sandy saga, tourists should visit Buffels Bay Beach in the reserve. Aside from being an ideal rest stop for hikers and bikers, the area is perfect for those who want to be away from the crowd and enjoy a calming beach day.
5 Fishing
The Atlantic is the perfect playground for anglers – it’s roaring yet inviting. Cape Peninsula is perfect not just for big game fishing but also for a mellow fly fishing day. Aboard a boat, the Atlantic is of course the best bet, while fly fishers can find the right spot along False, Kommetjie, or Jacobs Bay. Wherever they throw a line, anglers might score tunas, steenbras, galjoen, and stumpnose. They can also patiently score a catch at Rooikrans, one of the most famous recreational fishing spots in the country.
4 Sightseeing
The Cape Peninsula is a famous sightseeing spot, thanks to its natural gifts and man-made gifts. Aside from the rich fynbos, tourists can also reach the old lighthouse, where they can take in the sights of the ocean. Along the way, and if they’re visiting during migration season, they might even spot some whales. They can also drop by a shop to buy South African curios, then enjoy the tasty treats of Two Oceans Restaurant.
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3 Check The Nearby Historic Spots
As part of a sightseeing tour, visitors will also drop by historical monuments and buildings. Apart from the old and new lighthouse, another point of interest for sightseers to explore is the Castle of Good Hope. Located in Cape Town, this 17th-century bastion fort is the oldest surviving building in the country. It now houses a museum where tourists can have a fun time learning local history. They can also attend ceremonies in the castle and watch cannon firing.
2 Ride The Flying Dutchman Funicular
The Flying Dutchman is the first commercial funicular in Africa, something visitors should try at least once in Cape Town. From the terminal, the funicular will take passengers along dense foliage and fynbos until they reach the viewing point in the lighthouse. The journey might be short, around three minutes, but it’s a must-try.
1 Helicopter Tour
Those who want to take their travel experiences to the next level should join a helicopter tour. There’s nowhere to go but up -- the best seat to drink in the sights and sounds of the peninsula and the majestic Atlantic Ocean. Starting a trip from the waterfront, the helicopter will take guests atop the stunning peninsula where they can see how tricky the place is, something early navigators faced. It’s a wonder to behold.
