Adobe Stock 376607890 jpg
July 5, 2024

72 HOURS IN CAPE TOWN Enjoying Africa’s Southern City

Scroll

A WEEKEND IN CAPE TOWN
Pre-Safari Adventures in South Africa’s Capital

Cape Town: Your adventure starts now.

When booking your African safari, it is to the final destinations that we look, often forgetting about those stepping stones that will get us there. International visitors frequently first touch African soil in Cape Town, the southernmost tip of the continent and one of its three capital cities.

Though many will rush onwards to their safari destinations, desperate to immerse in the natural surroundings for which they journeyed, taking the opportunity to experience the diversity and luxury of Cape Town is highly recommended. But with so much to see and a limited time to do it, where to begin?

PNG 384781280 jpg

Here is a selection of exclusive activities to do when you have 72 hours in Cape Town:

Cape Town, Your Way

While there are many wonderful experiences to choose from, to consummately discover the sights, flavours and wonders of Africa’s southernmost peninsula, the best option of all is to leave the planning up to us.

A bespoke itinerary will always far exceed the offerings available to the average traveller and, with a short discussion on your preferences, interests and intrigues, we can formulate an exclusive Cape Town adventure encompassing all you could wish for. 

Your true Cape Town experience cannot be found in guidebooks and Google searches. Cape Town, your way, evolves through conversations with your travel designer and our extensive knowledge, connections and local wisdom of this wonderful city; the ideal starting point for your African safari.

Cape Town for Gastronomists

Wandering the streets in your own time will reveal numerous culinary experiences, but for the true flavour of Cape Town, place yourself in the expert hands of the region’s chefs and creators. With their in-depth local knowledge, they will take you through the regional farmers’ markets and even into the fields to discover fresh produce and South African specialty ingredients. They will then handcraft a dish especially for you, discussing the process, enlightening you on flavour balance and sharing the nuances of local cuisine. Take a peek behind the curtain of Cape Town’s culinary world to discover the fascinating talents and personalities behind some of Cape Town’s finest restaurants.

Brianna r zj GA Xcyu9 VQ unsplash 2048x1416 jpg

Change Your Perspective

As mentioned below, helicopter excursions allow you to observe the Southern Cape from a rarely accessible vantage point. However, your whirlybird adventure need not be limited to a quick one-hour tour. A helicopter makes the diversity of the region far more accessible and, rather than limiting yourself to one particular landscape, you can take in a wide variety of locations and experiences all within a single day.

Breakfast with the rising sun on your own deserted beach before being whisked away to the Cape Winelands. There, you can enjoy a relaxing massage followed by a gourmet degustation lunch, your sommelier perfectly pairing a locally-selected demi-tasse with each exquisite course. With your dining experience complete, your pilot will take you for an afternoon’s mini safari before returning you to the heart of Cape Town for an evening overlooking the tranquil Victoria & Alfred Waterfront.

Adobe Stock 108019546 2048x1365 jpeg

Cape Town’s Art Culture

From the ancient tribal artwork to the visual political protests of apartheid and contemporary fine and modern art, Cape Town is certainly not lacking in creativity and inspiration. An afternoon spent in any of the city’s diverse galleries is time well spent, but there is little exclusive about queuing to enter a public building with 3,000 other patrons.

A personal invite to a renowned South African artist’s studio gallery is not found on the coupons and flyers of any hotel reception, and your concierge is unlikely to have their phone number squirrelled away in his little black book or on a long-forgotten cocktail napkin. 

Delving into the city’s tormented and unsettled past, iconic graffiti artists – Cape Town’s answer to England’s Banksy – will take you on a walking tour through the streets, highlighting poignant pieces that give insight into the tempestuous past, as well as the bright and jubilant post-apartheid unity and cultural reformation.

Discovering not only the art itself, but the story, emotions, inspiration and personality behind it is a wonderful way to gain new insight. Introducing you to the culture and community of Cape Town’s artist district, these celebrated creators provide an experience that is second to none for any art lover. 

Rutendo petros wxy XZ6m OA3o unsplash 2048x1536 jpg

The History of the Cape

The contemporary history of Cape Town is wonderful, painful and inspirational in equal measure. Take a helicopter flight to Robben Island for a personal guide tour from a former political prisoner of the institution that tried to erase former activist and, later, South African president, Nelson Mandela. Or perhaps a guided tour by air of the city’s colonial and contemporary architecture inspires you.

The hinterland offers a more physical step through the pages of the history books. Settler’s ranches have been wonderfully restored, often by the descendants of the original colonials, and maintain their roles as working smallholdings. Even more fascinating, they have developed little, or been returned to their earlier ways, so you can take to horseback, be regaled by the family members of their history upon the land, and experience almost precisely what it would have been to have migrated here all those many years ago.

Kersefontein jpeg

Cape Town’s Celebrities

From golfers and fishermen to race car drivers and icons of the national sport of rugby, Cape Town has its share of celebrity sportspeople, several offering you the exceptional opportunity to go 18 holes with a pro, cast a line with an expert angler or even enjoy a picnic with a Springbok, followed by a quick game of barefoot touch rugby.

265232706 10158953773694576 7863768633444835132 n jpeg

Even those less inclined towards sports will be thrilled to spend a day with a personality, to hear tales from their careers, their personal knowledge of their home city and even – if you’re just a little lucky – some secret inside tips on how to land that hole in one!

Whatever intrigues or inspires you, our limitless list of exclusive itineraries, personal connections and wonderful ideas will offer you 72 exceptional hours in Cape Town like no other, and that few, if any, have ever experienced before you.

Of course, Cape Town holds appeal for every visitor, and with its growing reputation as an exceptional tourist destination, offers a wealth of more conventional activities as well.

Adobe Stock 340405735 2048x1365 jpeg

Cape Town’s Penguins

Only 40 minutes from Cape Town, Boulders Beach offers visitors the chance to observe the adorable yet endangered Cape penguin colony up close.

Adobe Stock 238394229 2048x1365 jpeg

Wander the City

With a little guidance, you can discover magical alleyways, cultural street markets & myriad mouthwatering eateries.

Tobias reich 1 Gg Wb P74ph Y unsplash 2048x1365 jpg

Cape Town by Air

Taking in the former penal colony of Robben Island, the sweeping vistas of the Cape and the stunning panoramas of the hinterland, a helicopter flight offers a completely new perspective, quite literally, on the Cape region.

Elgin Valley jpeg

The Elgin Valley

For some excitement, take a zipline adventure through the Hottentots Holland Nature Reserve or rent a mountain bike and take to the trails. For a more refined excursion, board a steam train for a yesteryear afternoon tea.

Ellerman House 01 jpg

Ease in with a Spa Day

Luxury estates and premier venues allow you to enjoy a day spa, wander through lush gardens and take in your surroundings for a relaxing start to your safari adventures.

Cape Town 01 jpg

Vineyards by Bike

While spending time in the Cape Winelands is always a joy, there are few better ways than on an electric bicycle, riding from vineyard to vineyard to sample the wines and take in a picnic lunch.

La Residence 01 jpg

Adventures for the Tastebuds

Cape Town is rapidly developing a reputation as one of the foremost culinary capitals of the world, and for good reason. Enjoy the finest in African dishes, world fusion menus, haute cuisine and everything in between.

Shashank kumar ru5 N Zl M Xdzc unsplash 2048x1455 jpg

Take to the Ocean

Fringed by two great oceans, visitors can learn to surf, stand-up paddle through the tranquil waterways of the V&A Waterfront, or take a sunset sail, sipping champagne as the sun bids adieu to Africa’s most southerly point.

So before boarding your connecting flight and hastening to your eagerly anticipated safari camp, take the opportunity to explore the wonders of Cape Town.

Test image

Empowering Women Through Travel: 5 Remarkable Initiatives

Celebrating inspiring initiatives that empower women through travel, from all-female safari guides to community-driven programs, creating opportunities, fostering independence, and making a lasting impact in the industry.
Explore
Leora 4

The Extraordinary Women of Rothschild Safaris

Meet the women of Rothschild Safaris - leaders, adventurers, and creatives shaping luxury travel and making a difference both in their work and beyond.
Explore
Shutterstock 2486135973 copy

Aotearoa: The Wonders of New Zealand

New Zealand is a nation of extraordinary contrasts, where the majesty of nature is mirrored by the rich tapestry of its culture and history.
Explore
Bucket List Experiences Main 02 25

Top Bucket List Experiences for 2025

Whether you're drawn to the mystical heights of the Andes, the vibrant wildlife of Africa, or the architectural splendor of ancient wonders, this year is your canvas. Join us as we unveil seven extraordinary destinations and experiences that are sure to top your travel bucket list for 2025.
Explore
Beautiful view of lion s head mountain at sunset i 2023 11 27 04 50 03 utc jpg

A CAPE TOWN GUIDE The Quintessential Luxury Travel Destination

A curated guide to the plethora of experiences that await in & around Cape Town—each promising an unforgettable journey of discovery & relaxation.
Explore
Our Story thumb

Rothschild Safaris | Our Story

Each day at Rothschild Safaris we are filled with inspiration. Every one of us possesses a thirst for travel, a passion for the wild places of the world and a heartfelt desire to share them with others.
Explore
Aimee Olson Morocco thumb

Aimee Olson | Morocco 2024

Rothschild Safaris Travel Designer Aimee Olson shares her upcoming journey to the fascinating and magical landscapes of Morocco.
Explore
Bhutan thumb

Rothschild Safaris | Bhutan

Heralded as the Kingdom of Happiness, the mystical land of Bhutan is steeped in spiritualism. The mountainous nation is devoutly Buddhist, and monasteries, ceremonies & daily devotion is ubiquitous.
Explore
Chile thumb

Rothschild Safaris | Chile

A country of diverse wilderness, Chile defies singular description, ranging from towering, snow-capped mountains to sweeping, tempestuous beaches, lush temperate forests & the driest place on Earth: the Atacama Desert.
Explore
Namibia thumb

Rothschild Safaris | Namibia

The hauntingly beautiful landscapes of Namibia are utterly unique, more akin to a far-off planet than a foreign land. The rich red dunes, skeletal trees, fascinating tribal inhabitants and unforgiving Skeleton Coast add to the spectacularly bewitching Namibian wilderness.
Explore
Argentina thumb

Rothschild Safaris | Argentina

A destination of coastal towns, spectacular glaciers, expansive wilderness & rural culture, Argentina is a multifaceted nation particularly suited to outdoor enthusiasts. One will be left awestruck by its spectacular and diverse scenery.
Explore
Rwanda thumb

Rothschild Safaris | Rwanda

Rwanda is rapidly outshining its dark past. Immortalised by Hollywood, its history is a foremost thought at the mention of this jungle nation, but much has changed in three decades & its warm hospitality, verdant mountains & primate residents are making Rwanda a favourite destination.
Explore
We Are Africa
Travel Leisure A List
Travel Leisure A List 2024
Conde Nast Traveler
Bentley 100 Celebration
Search for...
Destinations, Experiences, Itineraries and Articles