Cally & Clayton
Things To Do & Local Dishes to Try
Table Mountain
Table Mountain is a must-see when visiting South Africa. One of the official 7 Natural Wonders of the World, the mountain is not only home to over 200 unique species of flowers that are found exclusively on the mountain, but it is the single best place to take in the full majesty of Cape Town with incomparable views (provided the weather cooperates!). The quickest way up the mountain is the cable car, but plan ahead because if the weather is nice, there will be long queues (the cable car does nor operate during on very windy days).
Hout Bay
In Hout Bay you will find the best fish and chips in South Africa at Mariner's Wharf Bistro (an alfresco take-out restaurant on the harbour, on ground level). There is also the Mariner's Wharf Grill on the second storey (which is also good), but the fish and chips from the ground level Bistro is a must. There is a resident seal that one of the locals claims to have tamed (and will try to charge people money to take photos with) and there are boat trips from the harbour to a nearby seal colony. The bay itself is very picturesque and offers some curio shopping opportunities.
Robben Island
Robben Island (Robbeneiland: Afrikaans for "Seal Island") is an island in Table Bay that was used as a prison from the late seventeenth century until the fall of Apartheid. It is where President Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela was imprisoned from 1964 until 1982 and is currently recognised as one of South Africa's most important historical sites. Day trips depart of the V&A Waterfront.
Chapman's Peak
Arguably the most scenic drive in South Africa, Chapman's Peak Drive is sure to inspire awe and wonder. Showcasing the magnificent southern coastline of the continent of Africa, the views will surely not disappoint. Consider a drive through Chapman's Peak after grabbing lunch in Hout Bay.
Franschhoek Wine Tram
Franschhoek is one third of South African wine country and is home to some of the best wineries in the southern hemisphere. The Franschhoek Tram is hop-on hop-off and affords the opportunity to do some wine tasting in a fun and safe way. South African wines are certainly worth experiencing, and there is no better way than to do it at the source. Be sure to leave plenty of space in your luggage for all the wine!
Castle of Good Hope
For history buffs, the Castle of Good Hope offers an opportunity to look into the colonial history of South Africa. This star-shaped, bastion fort built in the 17th century was originally built on the Table Bay coastline but due to receding coastlines is now some distance from the harbour. It is the oldest colonial building in South Africa and has not only served as the seat of government in the past, but has also been a military base. Building of the fortress was started by the Dutch in anticipation of conflict between the Dutch settlers and England in the late 17th century. It is sure to offer some insight into the colonial history of South Africa,
Boulders Penguin Colony
Boulders Beach is home to one of South Africa's most famous penguin colonies! The entire beach falls within a national nature reserve and visitors are able to view penguins in their natural habitat.
Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden
Serene and beautiful, these botanical gardens are at the foot of the Wynberg Mountains and are worth a visit.
Game Viewing or Safaris
Going to a game park ("game" is the colloquial word for "wild life") is one thing that you cannot skip if you're going to South Africa. Game viewing, or going on safari as it's referred to in the US, is an integral part of any African experience and something that will leave an indelible impression on your entire trip to South Africa.
The Big Five
You will undoubtedly come across the phrase "the Big Five" while in South Africa. It refers to a list of the five most impressive, most elusive, and biggest animals in Africa, namely lion, rhino, elephant, buffalo and leopard. Originally used to refer to the five animals most difficult to hunt, it has become synonymous with the bush and wildlife in general in Africa. A great bucket list item is to see all five in the wild - rhinos and leopards are particularly elusive.
Kruger National Park
The Kruger National Park is by far the creme de la creme of game parks and absolutely worth the trip to the northern part of the country. It is bordered by three countries and is roughly the size of Connecticut and Rhode Island put together.
Botlierskop Private Game Reserve
A beautiful private game reserve on the Garden Route, this scenic location was very nearly the local for our wedding. At about a four hour drive from Cape Town, it is definitely worth a visit!
Buffelsfontein Game & Nature Reserve
Just over an hour's drive from Cape Town, this private game reserve boasts four of the Big Five. Perfect for a day trip out if you are pressed for time and want to see some game.
Aquila Private Game Reserve
Just a two hour drive from Cape Town, this private game reserve will certainly give you a game viewing experience worth having.
Bobotie
Bobotie is traditional South African dish. It consists of curried ground beef topped with an egg-like bake. Definitely worth a try!
Biltong
A dried meat delicacy not unlike beef jerky except that it is nothing like beef jerky. It can be bought in its generic form from most supermarkets and stores, but you will want to buy authentic biltong from a butcher. It comes in various levels of dryness, and the recommendation will be to try it dry until you've determined you like it.
Malva Pudding
A traditional dessert that somewhat resembles a sticky toffee pudding from the UK, the malva is a definite fan favourite of desserts (typically served with custard).
Peppermint Crisp Tart
Minty, chocolatey heaven! Do yourself a favour and seek this one out!
Milk Tart
One of the most agreeable desserts in South Africa, milk tart can be described as a light vanilla-custard tart. Great with some rooibos tea.
Rusks
These are like biscotti but better! Traditional rusks had an anise flavour, but in recent years rusks have become so much more than that. Buttermilk is particularly good, but any nut, seed or berry flavoured versions are some of the best you will try. Dunk in your morning coffee to soften or eat dry - whatever works for you.
Wine
Not much more we can say. Try the wine! Go on wine tasting tours in Franschhoek, Stellenbosch and Paarl.
Rooibos Tea
Rooibos tea (Red bush tea, Red tea) is unique to South Africa. Caffeine free and high in antioxidants, this is a South African export we are particularly proud of. In South Africa you will be able to try it as a red latte (which is particularly good) or even as an iced tea.