Cape Town is a destination packed with natural beauty, cultural richness, and endless things to do—but one of its greatest advantages is how easily you can escape the city for unforgettable day trips. Within just a few hours’ drive, you can experience wildlife safaris, charming wine farms, coastal towns, and mountain adventures. Whether you’re craving a bush escape or a scenic drive, here are some of the best day trips from Cape Town. 

 Aquila Private Game Reserve – Safari Experience

Travel time: ±2 hours 

If you’ve ever dreamed of seeing the Big Five without flying to Kruger National Park, Aquila is your go-to option. Located just two hours from the city, this game reserve offers guided safari drives where you can spot lions, elephants, rhinos, and more. Day packages often include transport, meals, and a two- to three-hour game drive. 

Highlights: 

• Big Five sightings 

• Guided game drives 

• Buffet lunch and spa facilities 

 Cape Winelands – Stellenbosch & Franschhoek

Travel time: ±45 minutes to 1 hour 

For wine lovers and foodies, nothing beats a trip to the Cape Winelands. Stellenbosch charms with its oak-lined streets and historic architecture, while Franschhoek offers award-winning restaurants and scenic vineyards. A wine tram experience or a guided tour makes it even more relaxing. 

Highlights: 

• Wine tastings at world-class estates 

• Gourmet dining 

• Franschhoek Wine Tram 

• Art galleries and boutique shops 

 Cape Point & The Cape of Good Hope

Travel time: ±1.5 hours (with stops) 

This iconic day trip takes you to the southernmost tip of the Cape Peninsula. Along the way, drive Chapman’s Peak for breathtaking views, stop in Hout Bay for a seal island cruise, and meet the penguins at Boulders Beach in Simon’s Town. 

Highlights: 

• Cape Point Lighthouse 

• Boulders Beach penguins 

• Chapman’s Peak scenic drive 

• Hout Bay harbour and local markets 

 Hermanus – Whale Watching & Coastal Charm

Travel time: ±1.5 to 2 hours 

Between June and November, Hermanus becomes one of the world’s best places to see southern right whales from the shore. Even outside whale season, it’s a gorgeous coastal town perfect for cliff walks, seafood lunches, and relaxed vibes. 

Highlights: 

• Whale watching (in season) 

• Cliff Path hiking trail 

• Fresh seafood restaurants 

• Local craft markets 

 West Coast – Wildflowers & Seaside Villages

Travel time: ±1.5 to 2 hours 

The West Coast is a quieter, less touristy gem that offers something different depending on the season. Visit in spring (August to September) for carpets of colourful wildflowers in the West Coast National Park. Langebaan Lagoon is ideal for kayaking or a beach day. 

Highlights: 

• Spring wildflower displays 

• West Coast National Park 

• Langebaan Lagoon 

• Traditional West Coast seafood 

 Ceres – Ziplining & Scenic Mountains

Travel time: ±2 hours 

Adventure seekers will love the mountainous landscapes of Ceres. The Ceres Zipline offers 8 slides covering nearly 1.5km of mountain gorge, while the surrounding valleys are ideal for fruit-picking in season and exploring small-town charm. 

Highlights: 

• Ceres Zipline Adventures 

• Fruit farms and tasting tours 

• Snow in winter (rare for South Africa!) 

• Peaceful natural settings 

 

Plan Your Cape Town Stay 

Whether you’re based in the heart of the city or a quiet neighbourhood like Sea Point or Gardens, Cape Town Holiday Apartments offers fully equipped, self-catering accommodation in ideal locations for both city exploration and day trips. 

Your Cape Town adventure doesn’t stop at the city limits—book your stay and discover it all.