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Cape Town holds a piece of my heart. It’s not just one of the most breathtaking cities in the world; it’s also the place where our family story grew, welcoming our two beautiful girls into our lives. If you're planning your first visit, don’t miss our guide to the top things to do in Cape Town.

But one of the best parts of a Cape Town itinerary? The incredible day trips just outside the city. From world-class wine regions to thrilling safaris and penguin encounters, there are endless ways to explore the diversity of the Western Cape. Whether you're a first-time visitor or returning to discover more, here are our favorite day trips from Cape Town!

Visit the Penguins at Boulders Beach

Located along the scenic Cape Peninsula, Boulders Beach is a protected cove home to a colony of endangered African penguins. Walk the boardwalks, watch them waddle through the sand, and even swim nearby in the clear (though chilly!) waters.

We combined this stop with Chapman's Peak Drive and Cape Point: a full-day route that’s perfect especially if you’re heading toward Hermanus or Gansbaai for more wildlife adventures.

Driving Distance: ~45 minutes from Cape Town

Safari at Gondwana or Aquila Game Reserve

A safari is a must when visiting South Africa. If you’re not adding Kruger National Park to your trip, you still have options near Cape Town!

Aquila Private Game Reserve is about 2 hours from the city and offers Big 5 game drives and luxury amenities.
Gondwana Game Reserve is a longer drive (~4 hours) near Mossel Bay but features stunning terrain and wildlife-rich safaris.

Driving Distance: Aquila ~2 hours | Gondwana ~4 hours

Explore Cape Point Nature Reserve

Cape Point, part of Table Mountain National Park, is known for its rugged coastline, dramatic cliffs, and rich maritime history. The famous lighthouse offers panoramic views of where the Indian and Atlantic Oceans seem to collide.

It’s a scenic drive down the peninsula, and the stop pairs perfectly with Boulders Beach and Chapman's Peak for a full loop. We prefer self-drive but you can also pick up a guided tour.

Driving Distance: ~1.5 hours from Cape Town

Whale Watching in Hermanus

Known as one of the world’s best spots for land-based whale watching, Hermanus is a charming seaside town with coastal trails, seafood restaurants, and frequent whale sightings from June through November.

On our way to Gansbaai for a shark cage diving adventure, we made a quick stop here and loved our sunset dinner at Dutchies. On our next trip, we’re planning to stay longer and whale-watch right from the shore.

Driving Distance: ~1.5–2 hours from Cape Town

Surf & Stroll at Muizenberg Beach

Famous for its colorful beach huts and laid-back surf scene, Muizenberg is the ideal family-friendly beach destination just outside Cape Town.

Perfect for beginners learning to surf or anyone looking for a relaxed seaside day, this spot is high on our list for our next return to South Africa.

Driving Distance: ~30 minutes from Cape Town

Scenic Drive Along Chapman’s Peak

If you do one drive while in South Africa, make it this one. Chapman’s Peak Drive is a toll road carved into the cliffside with jaw-dropping views of the Atlantic Ocean, dramatic cliffs, and turquoise bays.

Sunset here is unforgettable, and it’s the perfect route to combine with Cape Point, Boulders Beach, or a winery stop.

Driving Distance: ~30 minutes to start of the route

Cage Diving with Sharks in Gansbaai

Not for the faint of heart, but if you're an adventure seeker, this is it. Gansbaai is one of the best places in the world to cage dive with great white sharks (though sightings are less likely nowadays, but you can still see other types of sharks!).

We waited years for this bucket list experience. Read all about our family’s shark diving adventure with Marine Dynamics in our full blog post!

Driving Distance: ~2.5 hours from Cape Town

Wine Tasting in the Cape Winelands

Just outside Cape Town lies Stellenbosch, Franschhoek, and Paarl: the heart of South Africa’s wine country.

On our last trip, we visited:

Tokara Wine Estate – Kid-friendly with a bistro and playground!
Middelvlei Wine Farm – Family-run and perfect for letting little ones roam.

Even as a non-wine drinker (and pregnant at the time), I loved the scenic beauty and relaxed pace of the Winelands.

Driving Distance: ~1 hour from Cape Town

Drive the Garden Route (Start from Cape Town!)

While not exactly a day trip, the Garden Route deserves a mention. This coastal stretch from Mossel Bay to Storms River is one of the most famous road trip routes in the world.

Highlights include Knysna, Plettenberg Bay, and Tsitsikamma National Park. If you have extra time, rent a car and explore it at your own pace—you won’t regret it.

📍Driving Distance: Start from Cape Town, multiple nights recommended

📍Visit Cape Agulhas, the Southernmost Tip of Africa

Think Cape Point is the southern tip of Africa? Think again! That title belongs to Cape Agulhas, where the Atlantic and Indian Oceans officially meet.

It’s a remote, peaceful destination and one of the most geographically significant points in the world.

📍Driving Distance: ~2.5 hours from Cape Town

Cape Town is so much more than a city—it's a launchpad to some of the most diverse and breathtaking experiences in Southern Africa. From surfing with locals at Muizenberg to sipping wine in the rolling vineyards of Stellenbosch, every direction from the city leads to something magical.

If you’re planning a visit, make sure to give yourself a few extra days to venture beyond the city limits. South Africa’s soul often lives in the places just outside the spotlight.

The Best Day Trips from Cape Town, South Africa