As the temperatures dip and the rain – even snow – threatens one might think that Cape Town has little appeal and less to offer.
Think again, this beautiful corner of the world doesn’t hibernate, there’s plenty on offer during the colder months.
1. Explore Table Mountain
Table Mountain is a must-visit year-round. In winter, the mountain is often less crowded, making it a perfect time for hiking. The trails are lush and green, and the cooler weather can make the hike more comfortable. If hiking isn’t your style, take the Table Mountain Aerial Cableway for panoramic views of the city and the Atlantic Ocean. But be sure to bundle up, it gets cold on top! (Keep in mind that the Cableway closes from mid July to 1 September for its annual maintenance)
2. Visit the Cape Winelands
Winter is an excellent time to explore the Cape Winelands, with its scenic vineyards and cozy wine cellars. Visit renowned estates in Stellenbosch, Franschhoek, and Paarl for wine tastings and tours. The fireplaces in the tasting rooms create a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Vrede and Lust has lots of special events
Winterfest in Stellenbosch
3. Visit an indoor market
Cape Town’ market culture is thriving and takes no seasonal breaks as most of them are indoors or under cover. There’s no better place to tuck into delicious artisan food and homegrown produce, stock up on beautiful local goods and enjoy local craft beers and wines. Some of the popular markets in Cape Town include: Oranjezicht City Farm Market in Granger Bay; Mojo Market Sea Point; Hope St market in the city centre; Neighbourgoods market at the Old Biscuit Mill; Hout Bay Market and The Watershed and Food Market at V&A Waterfront.
https://capemarkets.co.za/markets/
4. Surfing
Winter storms mean larger swells, and bigger waves from June to August along the West Coast. The combination of these wind conditions and warmer sea temperatures creates ideal surfing conditions in numerous coastal towns. Grab your wetsuit or camera and head to Muizenberg, Long Beach, Llandudno, Glen Beach, Big Bay, Scarborough Beach, or Off The Wall for some great surfing and surfing photography.
5. Cozy cuisines
Everything tastes better next to a crackling fire. Cape Town has a number of restaurants that offer fireplaces where you can enjoy scrumptious meals. There are also lots of winter deals to take advantage of, and who knows, some restaurants may even offer both.
6. Tulbagh Christmas in Winter
Tulbagh celebrates Christmas early this year with a winter festival in June. Starting on Friday, 28th June, the event features a Farmer’s Electric Light Parade and festivities in Church Street. Over the weekend, enjoy Christmas decorations, lights, live music, food, and a market. The Kids Zone offers activities like a jumping castle, face painting, pony rides, and tractor trips. Winemakers will host wine tastings and cellar tours, while local restaurants and coffee shops provide winter lunches and traditional Christmas dinners. Tulbagh is the place to be this winter!
https://www.tulbaghtourism.co.za/event-heading/events
7. Warm up with laughter
South Africa’s favorite, oldest, and largest comedy festival, The Jive Cape Town Funny Festival, marks its 25th anniversary this year. Celebrate with us and enjoy a night filled with laughter that will leave you smiling for the next 365 days.
When purchasing tickets, enter your important anniversary dates—such as your birthdate, wedding date, or any other significant anniversary—for a chance to win at the festival on the night you attend.
Known as Cape Town’s Winter comedic tonic, the Funny Festival promises a fantastic night out. Additionally, many charities and clubs benefit from our generous group discounts, raising significant funds.
https://www.webtickets.co.za/v2/Event.aspx?itemid=1537988556
And finally, don’t forget Mandela Day.
One of the ways you can get involved is with Ladles of Love who are aiming to raise R5million to nourish, nurture and grow small children at Early childhood Development Centres in impoverished communities.
This year they aim to break a world record together by having the largest number of volunteers paying to spend 67 minutes on Mandela Day in service, to grow children in need.
https://ladlesoflove.org.za/mandela-day-2024/
You can also find some other ideas on the Mandela Day website:
https://www.mandeladay.com/pages/what-can-i-do
Winter in Cape Town is filled with unique experiences and no shortage of activities to enjoy. Embrace the charm of Cape Town this winter and discover all that this incredible city has to offer.
Trip Advisor - Cape Town 