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Cape Explorer Tour: Cape Point and Boulders Beach Adventure

November 2025

Discover the Dramatic Cape Peninsula Scenery

What makes this particular route special? Visitors enjoy a full day trip in a luxury, air-conditioned coach, with an on-board tour guide sharing information throughout the day. It’s the longest tour on the City Sightseeing roster, and guests are advised to allocate a full day to enjoy the outing. The route comprises a wide range of spectacular sights. You'll journey along the coastline, passing charming villages and taking in the breathtaking scenery before reaching the Cape Point Nature Reserve, which falls within the Table Mountain National Park. Keep an eye out for potential sightings of local wildlife, including the baboon (but please remember not to feed them!). The tour brings you back to Cape Town at the end of the day.

Cape Point: Myth, History, and Spectacular Views

Cape Point is often mistakenly called the tip of Africa, but that title is reserved for Cape Agulhas. Nonetheless, this dramatic corner is known for its treacherous waters, earning the historical nickname, the "Cape of Good Hope" or "Cape of Storms." The views here are truly spectacular, where the Atlantic and Indian Oceans meet in False Bay.

  • The Lighthouse: You'll visit the Cape Point Lighthouse area. The original lighthouse was built in 1893, and the current functional lighthouse dates to 1914.
  • The Funicular: You can take the scenic funicular ride up the incline to the viewing point for sweeping ocean views. (The funicular ride and national park entry fee are paid separately.)
  • A World Heritage Site: The Cape Point Nature Reserve forms part of the Table Mountain World Heritage Site network, an important natural landmark in South Africa.

Boulders Beach: Home of the African Penguins

A highlight of the tour is a visit to Boulders Beach, one of the prime spots in South Africa to see the penguins in their natural habitat.

  • The Colony: Boulders Beach is home to a protected colony of endangered African Penguins (Spheniscus demersus).
  • The Habitat: The beach features large granite boulders, and penguin viewing takes place from raised boardwalks.
  • Muizenberg: The return trip to Cape Town often passes Muizenberg, known for its colourful beach huts.

Travellers’ Tips for Your Day Trip

  • Pack Warm: Bring something warm because it can get chilly at Cape Point.
  • Charging & Wi-Fi: Take your charger or USB cable. The bus has charging ports and Wi-Fi so you can stay connected.
  • Booking: The Cape Point Tour runs daily with staggered departures from selected hotels and stops in Camps Bay, Sea Point, Green Point and the city. Buy your ticket online or at a City Sightseeing office and confirm your pick-up point when booking.

The Cape Point Nature Reserve is a popular destination with tourists and locals alike, offering a fantastic day trip experience year-round. City Sightseeing's Cape Point and Boulders Beach excursion is a live-guided, full-day tour to this one-of-a-kind spot on the Cape Peninsula and its surrounding areas.


FAQs: Cape Peninsula Day Tour

What are the main stops on this day tour itinerary from Cape Town?

This tour showcases the key highlights of the Cape Peninsula, including Muizenberg Beach, a visit to Simon’s Town to see the penguins at Boulders Beach, a scenic drive through Hout Bay, and time to explore Cape Point and the Cape of Good Hope.

Where can I see the adorable African Penguins up close?

You will visit Boulders Beach in Simon’s Town, where thousands of African Penguins gather. The viewing area at Foxy Beach lets you watch the penguins safely as they rest among the granite boulders.

What makes the drive from Cape Town so scenic?

The route features some of the most dramatic coastal scenery in South Africa, including Chapman’s Peak Drive. The area south of Cape Town forms part of the Table Mountain Nature Reserve, offering stunning ocean and mountain views throughout the journey.

How long is this day trip from Cape Town, and what will I learn?

The tour lasts about 8–9 hours. Your guide will share insight into the marine life of the region, the history of Simon’s Town, conservation of the African Penguins, and the meeting point of the Indian and Atlantic Oceans at Cape Point and the Cape of Good Hope.

Is the entrance fee to see the Boulders Beach African penguins included in the tour price?

The ticket covers the main tour and transport, but entry fees for Boulders Beach and the Cape Point Nature Reserve may be paid separately depending on your booking. Check your tour details for confirmation.