September 2021
Known as Cape Town’s secret season due to the idyllic weather, the city starts flourishing as soon as the vibrant wildflowers open, which means Spring has officially arrived. The sun is shining brighter, the days are getting longer, and the birds are singing sweet tunes. It would be an understatement to say that we have missed the warm weather.
Spring Flowers
We have listed six things you can do to put a spring in your step and celebrate Spring's triumphant return:
ON THE BUS
Our famous City Sightseeing Red Open Top double-decker bus is one of the best ways to see the Mother City in Spring. Being on lockdown level two, more attractions are open and sitting on our top deck, you can appreciate the beautiful Spring weather. We offer three routes: The Red Route, the Blue Route, and the Purple Route. There are so many places to explore and experience along these routes, with over 30 stops. Visit our website for our amazing specials and tour options.
And the even better news is that our Sunset Experience is back, and is operating every Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday. Join us on a drive along the Atlantic coast from Sea Point to Camps Bay to Signal Hill. Bring your own picnic and enjoy it here as the sun sets over the Atlantic Ocean. As night falls, the bus will take you back to the V&A Waterfront via the city as Cape Town lights up.
Sunset views
ON THE WATER
Join our Red Boats on The Harbour Cruise which focuses on Cape Town's bustling Waterfront. You will learn about the history of the Waterfront basin, including the ancient Chavonnes Battery Museum, the Nelson Mandela Gateway, and the iconic Clock Tower. The many Cape Fur seals that may be spotted during the voyage will delight the kids. Alternatively join our Canal Cruise where you will learn more about the "suitcase of money" and other interesting stories of the canal, as you cruise along the calm waters between the Cape Town Convention Center and the V&A Waterfront.
Join our Blue tour and stop off in Hout Bay (Stop 24) and experience a Seal Island Tour. Views of the famous Chapman's Peak Drive and Sentinel Mountain are guaranteed to take your breath away. This is an exciting, family-friendly 40-minute cruise from Hout Bay harbour to Duiker Island's Seal Colony, where you can see thousands of wild Cape Fur Seals up close and personal in their natural habitat.
If you’re looking for the perfect sundowner experience from the ocean, we definitely recommend booking a Sunset Champagne Tour. Enjoy a complimentary glass of local sparkling wine, toast the setting sun from the decks of a variety of beautiful vessels.
Sunset yachting
ON FOOT
You'll be guaranteed to view the city's main sites and learn things along the way on our walking tours starting from our office in Long Street (Stop 5). These walking tours are led by local guides who will give you insights into the city that you won’t experience from a car. You can choose between the Historic City Tour (Old Town) or the Vibrant Bo-Kaap Tour. Oh, and did we mention these tours are free? In addition, Cape Town offers so many fantastic hikes in and around the city. Take a sunrise or sunset hike on Lions Head, or hike to the summit of Table Mountain (Stop 7). Alternatively, experience the Pipe Track, which is known to be one of the easiest Table Mountain hikes. It’s a 6km hike and it’s fairly level apart from a few stone steps.
ON A BICYCLE
Warmer weather means more opportunities for bike rides. There are a variety of bike routes available and areas to explore. Hire a bike from the Waterfront (Stop 1) and enjoy a cycle along the promenade to Sea Point (stop no. 10). Stop for ice cream before you continue to Camps Bay (Stop 8). There are even tandems and e-bikes available on this route.
Bikes on the promenade
Or enjoy a fantastic experience with Scootours. You will have the opportunity to freewheel down two different off-road tracks during the 1.5 to 2-hour experience. The first track descends the side of Signal Hill and into Bo Kaap. After being picked up in Bo Kaap, the adventure continues as you are transported to Table Mountain for your final descent down the lower slopes of this world-renowned landmark.
ON THE SAND
Spending the day on the beach soaking up the Spring sun is the perfect activity. There are numerous pristine beaches in Cape Town that are ideal for sunbathing and water sports. Camps Bay (Stop 8) is one of our favourites. This pristine beach is ideal for swimming because there are few waves and large boulders from which to jump into the calm, clear water. Pack a picnic, rent an umbrella and a deckchair, and enjoy the changing of the seasons on this lovely beach. And after a beautiful day on the beach, enjoy a sundowner at one of the many trendy beachfront bars in Camps Bay.
Beach time
ON THE LAWNS
Spring to us means fresh air, picnics, and time in nature. Bring a picnic and relax on the grassy hills in the Spring light at Kirstenbosch Gardens (Stop 20). Located on the eastern slopes of Table Mountain, Kirstenbosch is regarded as one of the world's seven most stunning botanical gardens. The flowers are in full bloom in the spring, and the scenery is breathtaking. Alternatively, pack a picnic and enjoy the beauty of Green Point Urban Park (Stop 12). Walkthrough the wetlands, where you can see water birds frolicking and learn about the diverse water flora. Freshwater flows down from Table Mountain into the wetlands area. Take in the sea breeze from the Sea Point promenade, with views of Table Mountain, Lions Head, and Cape Town Stadium.
Spring is here, let’s celebrate life, and a season of change. Enjoy the fresh air and get out and about after a cold Winter. We can’t wait to welcome you onboard.
