One of the largest cities in South Africa is Cape Town which has a rich history and culture. While travelling around the city you will come across a lot of open land stretches comprising of desert roads and the African wildlife, making it an excellent setting for an exciting adventure – it is one of the most popular African city destinations boosted by its vibrant colours of life and culture, an excellent tourism network and its wildlife. By hiring a car in Cape Town you will be able to travel independently, gain the freedom to explore the outskirts of the city and absorb all the vivid natural beauty that the place has to offer.
New and old
The city is a good mix of both the old and the new architectural designs. It is an assortment of various ethnic communities that have contributed in their own way to its 300 year-old history. The “city bowl” includes the corporate area with numerous Victorian and Edwardian buildings which have a slight hint of the Cape Dutch architecture too.
A walk down Long Street will bring you to the remains of the old town. You will find cobbled lanes leading up to the Greenmarket square.
If you want to learn more about the city’s past then you should visit the District 6 and BO Kaap museums. The ancient remains of the early Dutch and British rule are found in the Good Hope Castle Fort, established on a huge open area. Other places or buildings of prime attraction include the President’s residence and other Government buildings.
Getting around by car
Car hire here is very easily available. The best prices are without a driver of course, so make sure you have a sat-nav to guide you around if you pick this option. You’ll need an international driver’s license if you are not from South Africa. Don’t forget to hop over to Robben Island where Nelson Mandela was incarcerated. There is a museum there: http://www.robben-island.org.za/. Ferries depart from the V&A Waterfront.
The Victoria and Albert Waterfront
From Robben island, make your way to the Victoria and Albert Waterfront which has been re-structured recently. The Victoria and Albert Waterfront is located at the heart of Cape Town’s harbour, between Table Mountain and Robben island. With exquisite views of sea and mountains, this waterfront is South Africa’s most visited destination according to the Sovereign Publications. With plenty of shopping opportunities and over 80 restaurant venues, a day won’t be enough for you to take it all in.
More major tourist attractions in Cape Town
Table Mountain – An icon of Cape Town, this mountain stands in the aptly-named Table Mountain National Park, rising to a height of 1,086 meters and draped in a curtain of clouds most often.
Cape Point – This is situated at the end of the peninsula at a distance of about 80 km from Cape Town itself. Also known as Cape of Good Hope, it is an extension of the land that teases the treacherous sea.
Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens – This garden is spread over 528 hectares of land and lies at the feet of the Table Mountain. There is a large variety of bird population and wildlife to spot.