Zahn de Bruyn, VALIDATE’s Project Coordinator and a proud Cape Town native, has created this quick guide to experiencing some of the best the Mother City has to offer — from iconic sights to exceptional dining:
Table Mountain
If it’s a sunny day, take the cable car to the top of iconic Table Mountain for panoramic views of the city and coastline - www.tablemountain.net.
- Hiking, especially alone, can be dangerous in South Africa. If you wish to hike to the top of the mountain (or anywhere around Cape Twon), we recommend you do so as part of a guided tour from a reputable company.
Red Bus Peninsula Tour
A good value, hop-on hop-off sightseeing tour across a large network of stops, this is one of the best (and safe) ways way to explore the city and surrounds - www.capetown.travel/listing/city-sightseeing-tours-red-bus.
Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden
One of the world’s great botanical gardens, Kirstenbosch’s extensive plant collection is a calm oasis set against the picturesque eastern slopes of Table Mountain; it’s a lovely place for a walk! www.sanbi.org/gardens/kirstenbosch.
Robben Island
Visiting the UNESCO World Heritage Site where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned for 18 years is a thought-provoking experience – and you have stunning views of Table Mountain from the island. This involves a boat ride, for which you’ll need good weather - www.robben-island.org.za.
Wine Tours in Constantia, Stellenbosch, or Franschhoek
Sample some of South Africa’s best wines in beautiful surroundings by joining a wine tour – while these are usually by car/minibus, you can do also wine tours by bicycle or on horseback if you’re feeling adventurous:
Recommended Restaurants
Affordable
Mid-range
High-end
Please note: If your Annual Meeting costs are being covered by VALIDATE, these high-end restaurants are not suitable and will not be covered as part of your expense claim. If you plan to claim for a meal, we recommend keeping the cost under ZAR600, which is more than enough for a delicious meal in Cape Town.
- Chorus at Waterkloof Wine Estate (Somerset West)
Chef Bertus Basson’s acclaimed vineyard restaurant with a modern tasting menu.
Estimated Cost: R950–R1,500
https://bertusbasson.com
- FYN (City Bowl)
A stylish, award-winning restaurant blending African and Japanese influences.
Estimated Cost: R1,100–R1,600
https://fynrestaurant.com
- La Colombe (Constantia)
One of South Africa’s most acclaimed fine dining restaurants, known for its tasting menus.
Estimated Cost: R1,000–R1,800
www.lacolombe.restaurant/la-colombe
