Sights for tourists, table mountain, robben island, v and a waterfrnt, kirstenbosch gardens, nature reserves

SIGHTS

To consider your visit successful, you have to see the sights, and take the videos and photos, to show the friends and family back home. How else will you remember your wonderful experience? Cape Town is blessed with many unique natural sights. Here are a few.

Table Mountain

Take the revolving cable car journey to the top of the mountain and enjoy panoramic views of the Cape Peninsula. The cable car operates only in good weather, so choose the right day. There is a restaurant at the top and many viewing platforms. In high summer, the hours are extended, so that you have the opportunity to watch the sunset and have a sun downer on the top of the mountain.

Robben Island

Book yourself a trip to the island that is a National heritage site.

The island has been through many transitions. Originally it was used by the Dutch East India Company as a victualling station. In later years it became an asylum and a leper colony. Most recently became famous as the former prison of Nelson Mandela and other political prisoners. Boat trips depart from the V&A Waterfront daily and you will receive a guided tour of the Island. The weather conditions can play a part, so choose a calm day.

Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve

Claimed to be the South Western tip of Africa, and the place where the Two Oceans meet, Cape Point lies within the Nature Reserve. You will be surrounded by abundant indigenous fynbos. From your vehicle you will spot species of wild local deer such as springbok, even zebra and ostrich. Watch out for the troops of baboons, who will steal your lunch if given a chance!!

Kirstenbosch

Our National Botanical Gardens will be 96yrs old in October 2009. It welcomes hoards of tourists every year.

A tranquil destination on the slopes of Table Mountain boasting manicured lawns and displays of local flora. The South African exhibit has won numerous Gold Medals at the Chelsea Flower show in London.

Enjoy lunch at the restaurant situated in the grounds.

In the summer season the gardens are the venue for evening Music Concerts hosting a wide range of musical talent such as Choral, Big Band, Jazz, African and even visiting International Pop stars.

Bring your picnic basket (or buy one at the gate) and blanket, sit on the lawn and be entertained!!

Victoria & Alfred Waterfront

In the heart of the Cape Town working commercial Dockyard, the historic Victoria and the Alfred Basins have been successfully re-developed into a shopping and entertainment complex, while retaining the architecture and atmosphere of the past. Abundant shops, a large variety of restaurants, top quality hotels several Breweries and exciting music venues draw visitors from many countries throughout the year. The Two Oceans Aquarium is a spectacle of ocean creatures, that are only found in this part of the world.

History

Cape Town has a rich and interesting patchwork of history that weaves together the Cultures of many continents. Historic buildings from Dutch and English Colonial architecture lie side by side to the Malaysian Slave Quarters. The history of the apartheid years is recorded in many venues around the city. Heritage tours are available.