Western Cape travel guide

Many of the attractions in the Western Cape are well known. Set in beautiful scenery you will find the Winelands where you can explore centuries-old towns and vineyards.  The Garden Route encompasses a highly attractive stretch of coastline and its main attraction is its beaches and forests that offer some excellent walks and a wide range of activities.

Sights and places to see in Western Cape

Situated on the very south western tip of Africa are Cape Town and the Western Cape. The Western Cape is recognised as one of the most beautiful places on earth that offers a wide range of attractions. It is a year-round holiday destination with breathtaking sights and endless activities and friendly people.

The Garden Route follows one of the most beautiful stretches of coastline dotted by towns such as Witsand, Stilbaai and Albertinia and stretching some 200 km past George, Wilderness, Sedgefield and Knysna on to Plettenberg Bay. Mountains line up close to the shoreline with many beautiful beaches, bays and forests which are the main attraction. You can find some excellent walking routes here and also a wide range of activities from diving and sailing to bungee jumping.  

Knysna is considered the jewel of the Garden Route. Situated by a serene lagoon and surrounded by forests, although mostly privately owned, it is also a protected area. A nice way to enjoy the area is to take a cruise and most run from one side of the lagoon to the other.

Hermanaus around the Cape Hangklip, there is a thrilling coastal drive and itself is a popular seaside resort. From here you can view the mighty southern right whales in Walker Bay between June and November

Stellenbosch Wine Region is known as the more beautiful of South Africa’s wine producing areas it also has a lively town and nearby Franschhoek has the most spectacular settings and best dining options. Paarl has a commercial centre with plenty to see and the Wine Region is less touristy and more spread out.

Weather, flight and travel information in and around western Cape  

With moderately hot summers, and mild to chilly winters. It is one of the richest rainfall areas in South Africa. Most of the rains occur in the winter months, brought on by the humid sea-winds from the Indian Ocean. The Garden Route's temperate weather falls between two climatic regions of summer and winter rainfall so it rains mostly at night which keeps the area perennially green.

One of the best ways to explore South Africa’s Western Cape is by car as this offers you more freedom to move around at your leisure. There are some incredible tourist routes including the famous Wine Route and the scenic Garden Route that are well mapped out and easy to find.

Money; £1 = 13.94 South African Rand (ZAR)

Time; GMT/UTC +2

Telephone; 00 or + 27

Last updated; March, 09