Things to do in Cape Town: Top 10 Activities

The second most populous town in South Africa, Cape Town has an absolute catalogue of astonishing outdoor activities to do. A big feature of these activities is your interaction with the natural elements – be it the water as you go snorkeling, the wind when you go paragliding, or the rocks you climb up/down, Cape Town has a great deal to offer. Covering all activities Cape Town has to offer is a monumental task, which is why we have covered the top 10 outdoor activities that you can do in Cape Town.

1- Paragliding over Table Mountain

Hi5 Tandem Paragliding

Signal Hill is located along the coast facing the Atlantic Ocean, West of the city center of Cape Town, and ranks high in popularity contests among tourists for its splendid views. A 15-minute drive from the city center of Cape Town will get you to Signal Hill.

Although the picture above should be enticing enough for you to try the activity, trust us when we say, it doesn’t do justice to the view. You will glide above a Utopian civilization, lodged in the middle of mountains that resemble a lion sphinx and white sandy beaches with blue waters. A panoramic view of Table Mountain and the City Bowl makes paragliding in Cape Town one of the best things to do in Cape Town.

You’d imagine a great deal of training is involved to attempt the great feat of human flight but with a few minutes of training, you’re all set to go tandem paragliding in Cape Town! What’s more is that, if the weather is optimal, you could also have the chance to fly the paraglider yourself.

2- Abseiling down Table Mountain

Wild Horizons: Cape Town Abseil

When it comes to things to do in Cape Town, Table Mountain has exciting activities to offer. A less than 20-minute drive from the city center of Cape Town, via Tafelberg Road takes you to the popular Table Mountain. A cable car takes you to the top of Table Mountain where you can begin your activity!

For those of us who didn’t know, abseiling is the sport of descending from a rock face, using a rope. It requires a fair amount of technique…and courage. After all, abseiling from Table Mountain means descending from a hill that is 1000 meters above sea level! The threat in this activity is only mental, which means looking down can strike a bit of short-lasting fear, which is quickly forgotten about the second you realize you’re in the company of an experienced instructor.

Otherwise, the view, as you can see in the picture above is absolutely stunning! With the backdrop of the Atlantic Ocean, you will be rewarded with beautiful pictures if you decide to go abseiling down Table Mountain.

3- Shark diving in False Bay

Apex Shark Expeditions

Cape Town is world-renowned for being the shark diving capital of the world and gives you very good odds of actually encountering great whites. Shark diving in Simon’s Town, which is a 45-minute drive from the city center of Cape Town where you can pay a visit to these toothy creatures. Another location that records frequent shark sightings is a town called Gansbaai, which is 2 hours East of Cape Town.

On paper, shark diving sounds like one of the deadliest things to do in Cape Town. However, even though these merchants of death are centimeters away from you, a protective cage acts as a shield between the shark and yourself. A maximum of 6 people in the cage, descend into the shark’s habitat, making this experience the opposite of going to the zoo. You also have the option of witnessing these majestic beasts in action, from the boat.

Even though shark diving in Simon’s Town is spectacular in itself, other shark diving spots in Cape Town, are at par.

4- Sand boarding at Atlantis Dunes

Cape to Addo

One of the most popular spots to go sandboarding in Cape Town (and with good reason) is on the Atlantis Dunes.

You could argue that Cape Town offers all sorts of outdoor activities except snow-based ones…or could you? The truth is sandboarding is very close to snowboarding – the difference being the surface you’re on. You could say that sandboarding allows you to enjoy the sport of boarding even in the summer months! Sand dunes scaling heights of 35 meters for your boarding pleasure, make the Atlantis dunes a prime location for sandboarding in Cape Town. At a quick glance, it is very easy to confuse the sand dunes for mounds of snow. As you ride down on the dunes in the hot summer sun, the cool wind hitting your face will make you want to ascend the dune, to go again!

The best part is that you don’t require prior experience to satisfy your inner child and ride down a pile of sand on a plank.

5- Surfing in Cape Town

Surf Life Surf School

One of the most popular things to do in Cape Town is surfing, with a variety of spots to choose from depending on your level and the kind of waves you’re after. Two of the top locations are Big Bay in the north of Cape Town and Devonbosch, just a short drive from the city center, where you can also try modern eFoil lessons for a unique twist on surfing.

Surfing in Big Bay is a favorite among beginners and experienced surfers alike. With east to south-east winds, it offers consistent waves and plenty of space to practice. The area has a lively, welcoming atmosphere with friendly locals, cozy coffee shops, and parks where you can relax before or after hitting the waves.

Efoil Cape Town

For something different, surfing in Devonbosch gives you the chance to glide above the water on a motorized surfboard with eFoil lessons. Perfect for beginners or experienced riders, you’ll learn balance, speed control, and maneuvering under the guidance of an expert instructor, all while enjoying Cape Town’s stunning coastline from a new perspective.

6- Zip-lining in and around Cape Town

Explore Sideways

Just like some of the previously mentioned things to do in Cape Town, zip-lining in Cape Town too has more than one destination. Zip-lining is no different with options such as:

• Ziplining in Constantia Nek: Located in Silvermist Estate, Constantia Nek is the most recommended spot to go zip lining in Cape Town, as it’s almost in the city. You will have spectacular and unique views of Cape Town and Table Mountain National Park Reserve, zip-lining from a height of 155 meters, lasting 1 km.
• Ziplining in Elgin Valley: 50 minutes East from the city center of Cape Town via the N2 Highway, will take you to our next zip-lining location – in the heart of the Elgin valley. Hottentots Holland Nature Reserve is an adventure lover’s playground in the heart of a World Heritage Site. A 70,000-hectare reserve is what you will be suspended above by 13 zip lines and slides with the longest one being 320 meters. The activity lasts around 4 hours, which includes, hikes to and from the activity spot in the valley, briefing sessions, and a visit to the region’s famous vineyards.
• Ziplining Ceres Mountain Fynbos Nature Reserve: Less than 2 hours away from the city center of Cape Town via the N1 and R44 Highways is the Ceres Mountain Fynbos Nature Reserve. Just like the name of the place, the zip-line is long too with a total length of around 1.4 km between 8 ziplines. The Skurweberg Mountains, along with other rock formations and rivers form a very typical zip-lining backdrop.

If you’d like to check out all our other zip lining activities in Cape Town, please click the provided link for further booking information.

7- Helicopter tours in Cape Town

Cape Town Helicopters

Discover Cape Town from above with stunning helicopter tours that showcase the city’s most iconic landmarks and natural wonders. Fly over Table Mountain, the Cape Peninsula, and the sparkling Atlantic coastline, and take in breathtaking views of Robben Island. Helicopter tours range from short 12-minute scenic flights to full 50-minute excursions, offering the perfect way to experience Cape Town’s unforgettable landscapes. Whether you’re looking for thrilling adventure or a unique sightseeing experience, a helicopter tour in Cape Town is a must-do activity for any visitor.

8- Quad biking around Cape Town

Quadzilla X Adventures

When it comes to things to do in Cape Town, for motor-junkies, this activity is tailor-made! Quad bikes are small four-wheelers, that resemble motorbikes and are designed for off-roading. These unique and fun vehicles allow you to experience the thrill of hitting high speeds on irregular surfaces. Quad bike excursions are not limited to one trail in or around Cape Town:

• Full Day Quad Biking Safari Tour: Around two and a half hours from Cape Town, this safari experience combines the excitement of quad biking with the chance to spot African wildlife. After a hearty breakfast, you will set off on a two to three hour quad bike ride across the reserve, with opportunities to see zebras, antelope, and even the Big Five. The full day tour also includes lunch and time to relax by the pool before heading back to the city.
• Quad Biking in Witzands Aquifer Nature Reserve: If you are looking for something closer to the city, this guided quad biking tour is set in the stunning Witzands dunes, less than an hour from Cape Town. The reserve covers almost 500 hectares, with rolling white dunes that rise up to fifty metres. Over the course of an hour, you will speed across the sand with views of the Atlantic Ocean and Table Mountain on clear days, making this a perfect quick adventure just outside Cape Town.

9- Snorkelling in Cape Town

Into the Blue

Snorkelling in Cape Town is a magical way to dive into the ocean and meet its vibrant marine life up close. Snorkelling in the Great African Seaforest, you float among swaying plants while colourful fish dart around like tiny dancers, making you feel part of an underwater garden.

On a snorkelling excursion to see marine life in the kelp forest, the adventure in Cape Town becomes even more playful when incredible cape fur seals swim alongside you, popping up for a closer look or offering a cheeky nudge as if joining in the fun. Keep your eyes peeled for dolphins gliding past, penguins waddling along the rocks, and other fascinating sea creatures that turn every moment into a delightful surprise

The best snorkelling tours in Cape Town provide all the equipment and expert guidance so you can enjoy the adventure safely. Don’t forget your swimwear and sunscreen and get ready for one of South Africa’s most unforgettable underwater experiences.

10- Sea Kayaking on the Cape Town Coastline

Kayak Adventures

With a coastline length of 307 km, Cape Town has a diverse list of options to choose from, when it comes to sea kayaking. If you’re looking to spend a relaxing afternoon in the sun, sea kayaking is among the best things to do in Cape Town. Getting back to where you can go to sea kayaking in Cape Town:

• Sea kayaking in Hout Bay: Hout Bay is a seaside town in the Western Cape of South Africa and is only 25 minutes from the city center of Cape Town, via the M63. What can you expect to see? With stunning views of Chapman’s Peak and a visit to the seal sanctuary, be sure to keep an eye out for penguins, dolphins, whales and sunfish!
• Sea Kayaking in Table Bay: A short 20-minute drive from the city center of Cape Town, near the V&A waterfront, is where you set off in your kayaks towards Table Bay. A 5 km sea kayaking excursion that lasts a total of around 2 hours will give you unforgettable views of Signal Hill, Table Mountain, and the 12 Apostles. Additionally, the green-point lighthouse and stunning views of the Lion’s head give you a unique perspective of life on the sea.
• Sea Kayaking in West Coast National Park: For a more nature-focused adventure, the West Coast National Park near Langebaan offers guided sea kayaking tours through pristine coastal waters. Surrounded by rugged landscapes and abundant birdlife, this excursion gives you an immersive experience of South Africa’s wild coastline. The tours provide all the necessary equipment and guidance so you can explore safely while soaking in the natural beauty.

Bonus: Bungee Jump from the World’s Highest Bungee Bridge

Face Adrenalin

Among the many things to do in Cape Town, this one can go on the bucket list. At 216 m, the Bloukran’s bridge is one of the highest commercial bungee bridges in the world and is located right above the Bloukran’s River. Bungee jumping from Bloukran’s bridge is not for the faint of heart, but participants are rewarded with a great deal of adrenaline and a lifetime worth of memories.

As you may know, you don’t need to be experienced in order to jump off a bridge…just take the leap and let gravity do its thing. Nevertheless, a short tutorial on certain basics about the activity will help you and be provided by the instructors.

Bloukran’s bridge is around 6 hours away from the city center of Cape Town but regular bus tours from the city center make your journey very convenient.

Beyond Cape Town

Hi5 Tandem Paragliding

Cape Town is a playground for adventure lovers, where every corner of the city and coastline offers thrilling outdoor experiences. From soaring above Table Mountain while paragliding to gliding through kelp forests while snorkelling, or paddling along the coast on a sea kayaking excursion, the city’s natural elements make every activity unforgettable. Whether you are seeking adrenaline-pumping thrills, peaceful encounters with wildlife, or simply a way to connect with nature, Cape Town has something for everyone.

If you loved exploring the top outdoor activities in Cape Town, you will definitely want to check out our blog article 10 things to do on the Garden Route Roadtrip. Stretching along South Africa’s south-eastern coast, the Garden Route is packed with stunning landscapes, from lush forests to sparkling beaches and dramatic cliffs. The article highlights the best outdoor adventures along this spectacular route, giving you plenty of inspiration for your next South African adventure.