The cultural wonders of majestic Cape Town
Book flights to Cape Town and explore unforgettable wildlife, rugged landscapes and delicious cuisine in this iconic South African city.
Discover adrenaline-fuelled diving and stunning safari adventures on outskirt of the city.
Ascend Table Mountain for sweeping views over the cape, or take to the beach in search of warm sands and relaxing escapes.
Stroll through Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden, picnic in Green Point Urban Park and wander the beaches that penguins call home. Follow the lead of locals and take advantage of the great outdoors by wandering up a hiking trail, enjoying a surf class or cycling around the city.
The streets of Cape Town are brimming with life, meaning cuisine and markets are rich and varied, perfect for an afternoon exploring.
Browse the museums and art galleries for a real taste of South African culture and history.
Book your Cape Town flights with Etihad and see all that this stunning beachside capital has to offer.
Reasons to visit Cape Town
Dive into nature
Located about an hour’s drive south of central Cape Town is the beautiful Boulders Beach, home to over 2,000 endangered African penguins.
Here is the only place in the world where you can get close to the creatures, with visitors to the public beach allowed to swim with the penguins in the surrounding waters of False Bay.
There’s also a visitor’s centre where you can learn all about the unique African penguin, and a boardwalk through the small national park, allowing you to see their burrows up close.
Hit the heights
The first thing you’ll be able to point out as your flight to Cape Town arrives is Table Mountain. It’s even more magnificent from the ground. Look up from almost any spot in the city and you’ll see the wondrous peak looming over the skyline.
But if you think this view is mesmerising, just wait until you’re looking out on to the city from the top. The Table Mountain aerial cableway has been ferrying visitors to the top for 90 years now, and with its 360° rotating floor and views, it’s a ride to remember.
A capital of culture
Cape Town encompasses numerous cultural influences, but no neighbourhood is more diverse than Bo-Kaap Malay Quarter. Nestled under Signal Hill and on the edge of the Cape Town Central Business District (CBD), Bo-Kaap is instantly recognisable thanks to its vividly-coloured houses, which exude cheerfulness and make for a fantastic photo opportunity.
The neighbourhood is a gorgeous representation of Muslim culture, with aromatic spices wafting through the air as you wander its streets. Follow your nose to one of the many Cape Malay restaurants, then head to the museum — there’s a lot to learn about this little corner of South Africa.
Flying to Cape Town: FAQs
Where should I stay in Cape Town?
Nestled between the Waterfront and Bo-Kaap neighbourhoods, De Waterkant puts you right in the heart of the action with Signal Hill overhead and Table Mountain in the distance. It’s a thriving neighbourhood so there are lots of cafes and restaurants to choose from.
Are there any nearby day excursions I can take outside Cape Town?
Flights to Cape Town give you a whole rang of options to explore. Some amazing safari experiences are just a couple of hours away from the city – Klein Karoo has a number of reserves to choose from. Here, you can spot lions, leopards, rhinos, elephants and Cape buffalo).
The West Coast is another good day trip – where you’ll find small towns, fishing villages with wonderfully fresh seafood on offer, and bright fields of wildflowers.
How many days should I book in Cape Town?
Five or six days in Cape Town should be enough time in this incredible city and will allow ample time to visit the key attractions. You could also use the city as the first stop on a longer exploration of South Africa.
Will I need to hire a car in Cape Town?
It’s not always necessary to hire a car in South Africa – it depends on your itinerary. If you’re staying in central Cape Town there’s plenty of public transport. However, if you want to take day trips further afield renting a car can make sense.