Budget-Friendly Luxury Getaway in Cape Town, South Africa
Curated By
Rachel Hillebrand
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South Africa
Cape Town
Adventure Travel
City Travel
Food & Wine
International Travel
Luxury Travel
Nature Escapes
Bougie on a Budget
Bucket list
Hidden Gems
Curator’s statement
Cape Town, South Africa and its Winelands in Paarl are historically rich regions that show the convergence of many different beautiful cultures, languages, geographical features, and activities. The Afrikaans, Dutch, British, Portuguese, Zulu and Xosa have helped shape Cape Town into what it is today, making it a unique destination. While it may be quite far across the world, South Africa offers an array of budget-friendly options that won’t break the bank and provide a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
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Where to stay in Cape Town, South Africa
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Things to do in Cape Town, South Africa
There is plenty to do when in Cape Town, South Africa – from exploring the city to the countryside.
Beaches
The southern tip of South Africa is privy to an array of beaches, including Camps Bay, Blouberg Bay and Hermanus. However, if you’re looking to encounter some new friends at the beach, head to meet the penguins at Betty's Bay. This is one of two places to see penguins up close in the wild!
Water Cruise
See Cape Town from the water in a V&A Waterfront Cruise. Consider a sunset cruise that includes sailing around the bay in a Victorian sailboat.
Hiking
Cape Town is an excellent destination for hiking! Head out to Lions Head, Signal Hill and Table Mountain National Park offer breathtaking views and a bit of a workout.
Lion Sanctuary
You cannot miss out on the South African Drakenstein Lion Sanctuary. Here they rescue and rehabilitate lions. They even have an albino lion that is simply majestic looking.
Taal Monument
The Taal Monument is worth checking out, overlooking Paarl, Western Cape Province. It commemorates Afrikaans declared an official language of South Africa separate from Dutch. After you snap a photo of the gorgeous otherworldly architecture, you can hike around the trail and then enjoy the swing set on the side of the hill that has the most epic views of the town.
A note from Rachel
Day trip
Stay overnight (or a few nights!) at Beloftebos (in the town of Stanford) near the most southern tip of Africa, tucked away in a valley. This is a perfect destination to disconnect and reconnect.
Eat & drink in Cape Town, South Africa
De Villiers Chocolate: One of the spots on the Spice Route that offers delicious chocolate and wine tastings.
Fairview Wine Estate: Stop by for exquisite cheese and wine tastings.
The Twelve Apostles: Indulge in high tea (classic and vegan options offered) with beautiful gardens and wild mountain landscape overlooking the ocean.
Mynt Cafe: Come here for fish and chips, prawns and cheap drinks!
A note from Rachel
When in South Africa, support local farmers and order their national specialty: pinotage wine. It is made from South Africa's signature grape variety. Also, sample the local Braaibroodjie, the Cape Town version of a grilled cheese sandwich. It typically consists of cheese, tomatoes, red onions and chutney!
Need to Know
Remember to take cash (rands) to tip the parking attendants throughout town if you get a rental car, as it can offend the locals if you do not tip them.
Travel Advisor
Rachel Hillebrand
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