EXPLORE

Our stunning city, resting in a bowl at the tip of Africa, is a sight to behold. With a breathtakingly impressive coastline, it features iconic landmarks such as Table Mountain. We take pride in being part of this vibrant metropolis, celebrated for its natural beauty and rich heritage. Come & experience our bustling harbour and internationally acclaimed Cape Floral Kingdom. Forbes has named ours one of the most beautiful cities in the world, making us an essential destination for travellers. Discover the enchantment of the 'The Mother City' and be captivated by its irresistible charm.

Where Nature Takes Centre Stage.  
This majestic expanse of land boldly extends from the southwestern corner of the African continent. With dramatic mountains, pristine beaches, and iconic landmarks, it offers an awe-inspiring experience all in one breathtaking destination.

Cape Point and the Cape of Good Hope - an adventure awaits at the very tip of Africa!

The Garden Route is a stunning stretch along South Africa's southeastern coast, a true paradise for nature lovers. It’s a delight to introduce travellers to our Eden, which boasts lush landscapes, diverse flora, and abundant estuaries and lakes. The route is dotted with charming towns like Knysna, Plettenberg Bay, and Mossel Bay, each offering its own unique attractions. With an oceanic climate and mild to warm summers, the Garden Route is ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking and birdwatching, providing a refreshing escape for those seeking adventure or relaxation. Come and discover the wonders of the Garden Route - a genuine gem of South Africa.

Where Nature Meets Wonder.

Discover the enchanting Overberg Whale Coast, where the majestic mountains meet the vast Atlantic Ocean! This stunning region, famous for its Southern Right whale sightings, offers thrilling outdoor adventures like hiking and kayaking amidst vibrant fynbos. After your explorations, treat yourself to delicious local cuisine in charming seaside towns like Gansbaai and Stanford. Whether you're seeking excitement or relaxation, this coastal paradise invites you to unwind while soaking in breathtaking views and warm hospitality. Join us for unforgettable experiences that create lasting memories—let’s embark on this adventure together!

Where Desert Blooms and Culture Thrives.

Discover the captivating Klein Karoo, a region where stunning landscapes and vibrant culture intertwine! This semi-arid paradise is famous for its beautiful flowers, rich traditions, and delicious local cuisine. Explore iconic Route 62, venture into the fascinating Cango Caves, or immerse yourself in the local art scene in Barrydale. As night falls, gaze at the stars in clear skies, and indulge in delightful farm-to-table meals, especially the renowned Karoo lamb. Your adventure awaits in this enchanting destination—pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable journey!

Uncover the Untamed Beauty of the West Coast.

Where dramatic coastlines meet vibrant culture and natural wonders. Just a short drive from Cape Town, this stunning region transforms in spring as fields burst into colourful blooms, perfect for strolls and photography. Beyond the scenery, friendly locals share their rich heritage amid charming fishing villages. Adventure awaits with endless outdoor activities tailored for every explorer. Don't miss the chance to indulge in fresh seafood and warm hospitality, making every meal a special gathering. Embrace exploration and create unforgettable memories on this exquisite coastline.

Afromontane Forests are unique, ancient, lush, evergreen forests scattered across the mountains of Africa. 

The Western Cape of South Africa boasts beautiful Afromontane Forests, known for their high biodiversity and ecological significance. These forests thrive in mountainous areas and are integral to the region's environmental health.

Key Highlights of Afromontane Forests in the Western Cape

They harbour a variety of plant and animal species, some of which are endemic to the region.

• Diverse Flora

Dominant tree species include the Outeniqua Yellowwood, Real Yellowwood, Ironwood, and Stinkwood. A rich understory vegetation features various shrubs, ferns, and climbers.

• Unique Fauna

Bird species such as the Cape Parrot and Knysna Turaco are found within these forests, as well as a diverse range of mammals, include bushbuck and various primates. The abundant insect life contributes to the ecological richness.

• Climate and Geography

Found in regions like Knysna and Tsitsikamma, which are part of the Garden Route, the forest is cooler and more humid compared to surrounding areas, with frequent mists and higher rainfall.

• Ecological Importance

Afromontane Forests play a crucial role in water catchment, soil conservation, and climate regulation, providing habitats for many endemic and endangered species, making them conservation priorities.

These forests not only contribute to the region's natural beauty but also support a wealth of biodiversity that is vital for ecological balance and sustainability.

Key Locations in Cape Town

Afromontane forests are relatively rare in Cape Town but can be found in a few special areas. 

• Newlands Forest

Situated on the eastern slopes of Table Mountain, Newlands Forest is a well-preserved example of an Afromontane Forest. Popular for hiking, jogging, and picnicking, it offers a tranquil escape with lush vegetation and well-marked trails. 

• Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden

While primarily a cultivated garden, Kirstenbosch also preserves patches of natural forest within its grounds. This area showcases a variety of indigenous plants and trees typical of Afromontane forests. The gardens are renowned for their beauty and biodiversity, providing educational and recreational opportunities.

• Cecilia Forest

Located near Constantia Nek, Cecilia Forest features a network of trails that weave through dense woodland, offering breathtaking views and diverse plant life. This area is particularly known for its old growth and shaded pathways.

Afromontane Forests are not only natural treasures but also offer peaceful retreats from the urban hustle of Cape Town. These areas provide opportunities for nature walks, bird watching, and environmental education.

Table Mountain, located in Cape Town, South Africa, is one of the world’s most iconic natural landmarks. Rising to 1,086 metres (3,563 feet) above sea level, its flat-topped summit is flanked by Devil’s Peak and Lion’s Head, with Maclear’s Beacon marking its highest point. The mountain’s geological history spans over 600 million years, making it one of the oldest mountains on Earth. It forms part of the Cape Floristic Region, the smallest yet most diverse floral kingdom globally, hosting over 2,200 plant species – 70% of which are found nowhere else. Wildlife is equally rich, with caracals, rock hyraxes (dassies), porcupines, snakes, ghost frogs, and numerous lizard species calling the mountain home.

One of Table Mountain’s most famous features is the “tablecloth,” a dramatic cloud formation that spills over the summit when south-easterly winds push moist air up its slopes. The mountain also contains several caves.

Its cultural significance is deep-rooted; the indigenous Khoi people named it Hoerikwaggo, meaning “Mountain of the Sea,” and it even inspired the naming of the Mensa constellation.

In 2004, Table Mountain was officially recognised as part of the Cape Floral Region Protected Areas, which were designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site for their outstanding biodiversity and ecological value. This global recognition underscores the mountain’s importance not just to South Africa, but to the planet.

Recognised as one of the New7Wonders of Nature in 2011, Table Mountain National Park (which includes Table Mountain, Cape Point, and Boulders Beach), attracts around 4.2 million visitors each year. This includes both ticketed and open-access areas like hiking trails. And it is estimated that over 1 million people visit the Table Mountain summit annually, either by cable car or hiking. Popular hiking routes include Platteklip Gorge, Skeleton Gorge, and India Venster, offering varying levels of difficulty and stunning views. 

The cableway queues can get crazy! Is it worth it for Table Mountain? Definitely!

The unique and often oddly shaped geology of the Table Mountain National Park deserves a mention.

The Cape Peninsula is composed of three main rock formations of varying ages

1. The Malmesbury Group, around 540 million years old, consists of dark grey mudstones and lighter coloured sandstones. Examples of this formation can be seen on Signal Hill and the lower slopes of Devil’s Peak.
2. Cape Granite, around 540 million years old, is much harder and coarse-grained characterised by large white feldspar crystals, shimmering flakes of black mica and grey glassy quartz. This formation is the foundation for most of the Table Mountain Chain and good examples of granite outcrops can be seen at Boulders, Chapman’s Peak and Lion’s Head.
3. Table Mountain Group, only 520 million years old, comprised of a further three formations:

• The Graafwater Formation: This layer is around 25m-65m thick and consists of sandstone and mudstone in red and purple hues.
• The Peninsula Formation: comprised of light grey, pebbly sandstones, forms the bulk of Table Mountain and is around 700m thick.
• The Pakhuis Formation: found on the top of Table Mountain and identifiable by glacially deposited pebbles of sandstone.

Locals and tourists alike consider African Penguins to be a fascinating and endearing species. The penguin’s loud bray call, in particular, charms onlookers. Apparently, it sounds quite like a donkey and is hence also known as the jackass penguin. They are native to the southern African coastline. 

Key facts about these remarkable birds

• Appearance: African penguins are medium-sized, with distinctive black and white colouring. They have a unique pattern of black spots on their chest and a black stripe running from their chest to their feet.
• Size: They typically weigh between 2.1 and 3.7 kg and stand about 60-70 cm tall.
• Habitat: They are found along the southwestern coast of Africa, from Namibia to South Africa. They often nest in burrows, rock crevices, or under bushes to protect themselves from the heat.
• Diet: Their diet primarily consists of fish such as sardines and anchovies, as well as squid and crustaceans. They are excellent swimmers and can dive to great depths to catch their prey.
• Conservation: The African penguin is currently listed as critically endangered due to threats like oil spills, overfishing, and habitat destruction.
• Conservation Efforts: Numerous organisations are working to protect these penguins through habitat restoration, pollution control, and sustainable fishing practices.
• Viewing Locations

1. Boulders Beach: A popular spot near Cape Town, South Africa, where visitors can observe these penguins up close in their natural habitat.
2. Stony Point: Another significant colony located in Betty's Bay, offering excellent viewing opportunities. These charming birds are a vital part of the marine ecosystem and a beloved sight for both locals and tourists.