I recently noticed myself listing off a few facts about Cape Town to a friend who wanted to visit, and realised this information may not be generally accessible before you get here.

So, if you’re considering a visit to South Africa’s cultural capital, these are the most important things you need to know before you make your decision. 

But first, a few quick points before we deep-dive:

• Much of our local economy is made up of entrepreneurs and small businesses, creating genuine quality products — it does a lot of good when you support them!
• You’ll struggle to find a bad cup of coffee.
• You can get super creative with your beer choices — we have everything, and they’re amazing.
• You’ll find a ton of award-winning wines here, and incredibly beautiful wine estates, at prices that make international visitors’ eyes boggle.
• We have good trains and buses, but neither systems cross the whole city — see our guide.
• The street food is really great, mostly Cape Malay.
• You can find cuisines from all over the world, at excellent quality.
• Waiters expect a 10-15% tip as standard.
• There are regular power outages countrywide — sometimes; you could visit and experience no problems, or it could go out 4h/day; roll of the dice!
• We have a homelessness problem in the city, which increases the risk of petty crime. 

The basics: FAQs

Let’s look at some of your most common questions about Cape Town.

Why is Cape Town so famous?

Because it is so beautiful! Table Mountain is our iconic feature, rising up in the middle of the city. But we also have pristine beaches and coastlines, rich and diverse ecosystems, and so much beauty all around us. There’s more to love about Cape Town, but the city is definitely most famous for its natural beauty.

Which is safer, Cape Town or Johannesburg?

Cape Town. 

Gun violence and murder are higher in Joburg, as are hijacking, kidnapping, and carjacking. In Cape Town, violent crime is localised to specific areas like Delft, Nyanga and Khayelitsha. Petty crime is a risk in both cities, but because tourism is one of Cape Town’s largest industries, popular spaces are well protected.

Is Cape Town a walkable city?

The suburbs of Cape Town are largely walkable — particularly neighbourhoods like Sea Point, Camps Bay, Vredehoek, Kalk Bay and Muizenberg. The CBD is also totally walkable! But it’s a really sprawling city, with some dangerous areas, so you can’t explore the city only on foot.

Is Cape Town an expensive city?

This depends on your definition of expensive. For tourists from the US and Europe, Cape Town is really affordable. If you’re a South African looking to visit the Mother City, you’ll definitely find the prices higher than you’re used to, particularly for accommodation.

Do most people in Cape Town speak English?

Yes! You’ll find that anyone in the service industry speaks fluent English, and so do most of the other people you’ll meet. It’s the main language of communication in South Africa, despite being only one of eleven official languages.  

More generally: The good stuff

It’s mostly good stuff! Cape Town is a magical city, with a stunning and diverse environment, friendly people, and tons to enjoy. But let’s get into some of the nitty-gritty.

1. We’re a land of entrepreneurs 

Exploring a Spring market at Rondebosch Park

There is an incredible amount of entrepreneurs in Cape Town, selling their crafts, their food, their inventions, their skills and expertise. So much creativity and hard work! This is both because South Africa is an inventive nation, and because it is also one with too few work opportunities. So people make their own.

We strongly recommend supporting local and small-scale as much as you can. You can do this via markets like:

• The Neighbourgoods Market, The Old Biscuit Mill, Woodstock
• Oranjezicht City Farm Market, Granger Bay, V&A Waterfront
• Bay Harbour Market, Hout Bay
• The Watershed, V&A Waterfront 

You’ll also find a lot of coffeeshops showcasing local artists and creatives. And if the irregular Candor Market happens to be happening when you’re in the city, I would HIGHLY recommend attending. Our small-scale creatives really shine here, and everything is either beautiful or delicious. 

2. We have an incredible coffee culture

Against the Grain Cafe in Bo Kaap

Don’t support Starbucks! In fact, don’t support any chains if you can avoid it (and you can). Cape Town has so many small, locally owned cafés and I’m telling you now, the coffee is absurdly good. Our baristas are artists, all across the city.

You’ll struggle to go wrong, particularly if you go for the smaller cafes, but a few of my favourites are:

• Sonder Cafe, Observatory
• Our Local, CBD
• Olympia Cafe, Kalk Bay
• Montebello, Newlands
• Pauline’s, Sea Point

Our article on the best brunch spots in Cape Town is a handy resource if you want to look deeper!

3. Craft beers galore 

A few of my favourite local beers

Cape Town has dozens and dozens of craft breweries — and somehow, each one I’ve tried is doing innovative and exciting work. It’s not something most tourists know about Cape Town, but it’s really cool! 

If you want to try lots of local brews from different creators I’d recommend getting the month’s tasting box from Smous (not sponsored, I just love what they do!). This box changes every month and includes 12 different types of beers from micro, small and larger local breweries.

You’ll also find local craft brews in most bars across the city. Ask the barista their favourite and give it a try!

4. Our wines are world-class — and so are our wine estates

Groot Constantia wine tasting

Cape Town’s vineyards have won a ton of awards for their various wines — as have the stunning estates outside of Cape Town, in Stellenbosch and Franschhoek. Our wine is truly world-class. 

While you should definitely get a few bottles to take back home, I’d recommend going for a tasting or two, and getting your bottles at the vineyards themselves. They’re located right in the city, in the neighbourhood of Constantia. And they are all beautiful, with fantastic food and charcuterie platters.

Three favourites are Beau Constantia, Groot Constantia, and Buitenverwachting. I’d recommend taking the hop-on hop-off wine tour if you want to make a few stops! It’s really cheap and easy — and you get to see more of the city while you’re at it.

To learn more check out our articles on: 

• Wine tasting in Constantia
• The Franschhoek Wine Tram, and 
• Mountain biking and wine tasting in Franschhoek, if you want to get more adventurous!

5. Public transport isn’t perfect, but it’s good

MyCity Bus routes — each colour represents a different route

You cannot reach all of Cape Town via public transport, and to move among some of the main sections you may need to change from bus to train or train to bus. So, not perfect… But, most of the city is accessible through that combination — the train covers the Southern Suburbs down to the Indian Seaboard, while the MyCiti buses criss-cross the Atlantic Seaboard and City Centre. 

Both are very cheap, particularly the trains, which cost under R10 for any one-direction trip. It’s important to know that the train requires cash (many of the stops have no card machines), and the MyCiti requires a card which you top up. This card can be bought at any of the main stations.

Check out our article on public transport in Cape Town for more!

6. The street food is great

It’s a universal rule to be suspicious of a new country’s street food. It is, after all, the prime cause of food poisoning on vacation. But, if you skip on ours, just know that you’re missing out! Cape Town’s Cape Malay community is the main producer of street food, and it’s usually freshly baked koesusters, half moons and samosas. All are fantastic.

You’ll also find, in tiny stores off the street, classics like Gatsbies, bunny chow, and pap en wors. Be aware that all of our street food is pretty oily and carby — if that’s up your alley, you can’t go wrong with any of these! 

7. So are our restaurants

Desert at Winchester Hotel’s Harveys Restaurant

I’ve travelled all over Europe, and a little in Asia, and Cape Town’s restaurants are the best I’ve ever encountered. For quality, variety, experience, price, Cape Town’s food scene cannot be beat. There are some crappy places, for sure – like everywhere, you’ll find your McDonaldses and their ilk – but in general, in Cape Town you’ll find any kind of food you might want, and you’ll find it in extremely high quality, in wonderful settings, for what my European and American readers will consider a laughably low price. And this with the same friendliness you’ll find everywhere in the city.

Just to expand on that a bit, you can find (among many others!): South African (an obvious one), Greek, Italian, Ethiopian, Indian, Portuguese, Korean, Chinese, Japanese, and Thai. You’ll also easily find halaal and vegan spots.

Quick tip: tipping is expected here — 10% to be polite, 20% to be generous.

8. Very friendly people

South Africans always find it strange to travel overseas, because people seem so unfriendly. Like they hardly see you when they pass, like they have no interest in talking to you when they do so. It’s very unrelatable to many of us! Many South Africans smile to everyone they walk past, we quip about the weather, cute dogs, something we see, with strangers. We’re big chatters. 

Of course, if you look unapproachable you’ll probably not be approached. But if you throw out a few smiles to test the water, you’ll definitely get a few in return! We’re also an easy bunch to approach if you need directions or advice on where next.

9. Pristine marine ecosystem 

A Cape Radd citizen science snorkeling trip among the kelp

The coast of Cape Town is an incredible, pristine ecosystem that we put a lot of effort into studying and protecting. 

With over 2,000 types of fish, endemic sharks, and the magic of the kelp ecosystem, there is something really special about our ocean. It’s also fantastically diverse, thanks to the meeting of the Atlantic and Indian Oceans! The warm and cold waters meet at the tip of the coastline, which means that the two sides of Cape Town have very different conditions. 

Read next: Exploring Cape Town’s local marine wildlife

10. Many local initiatives invested in our social and environmental success

Volunteers cleaning up the Liesbeek River

This is one of my favourite facts about Cape Town! The locals kind of pick up where the government lets off, providing food, education, trauma counselling and therapy to many of our most vulnerable peoples. We also have groups protecting our coastline from mining (Protect the West Coast), rehabilitating endemic ecosystems (FynbosLife), organising alien hacks, and other initiatives. 

If you want to support any of these, check out our article on where to volunteer in Cape Town! 

The bad stuff

Of course, everyone knows that Cape Town isn’t pure perfection. We’re a country with extreme wealth disparity and many people living below the poverty line. Our infrastructure is outdated and underfunded (something our new government is aiming to change). And there are some definite safety issues.

11. We have a homelessness problem

There are an estimated 14 000 homeless people in the greater Cape Town area. We do not have the infrastructure to provide housing for our full populace, and many live directly on the streets, in tents, and in shacks. 

The City of Cape Town has implemented various programs to address homelessness, including shelters, temporary housing, and social services. However, these efforts fall short of the demand.

Numerous NGOs and community groups are also active in providing support, including food, shelter, medical care, and employment assistance. These organisations include The Haven Night Shelter and U-Turn Homeless Ministries. 

12. Regular power outages

I imagine that by now anyone planning a trip to South Africa knows about our power outages. Some months, they don’t happen at all. Some months, they hit for 8 hours of the day (split into 2-3 two-hour sessions). It can be really rough, but honestly, Cape Town has been adapting for years now, and most businesses and accommodation now have generators, solar panels, and other solutions. So, while you may be impacted by electricity cuts, you also may not notice it at all. 

13. Many people asking for money

As mentioned, the wealth disparity in South Africa is huge. It’s important to know that — Cape Town is often referred to as the Southernmost city in Europe because of the quality of our services. But we’ve also got an extreme poverty issue, with a massive unemployment rate which has only been growing in recent years. Because of this, you’ll come across many beggars in the streets. 

Many recommend not giving money to these beggars because they may use the money on alcohol and drugs, and also because you may be robbed when you pull out your wallet. However, there are so many who are neither addicts nor violent, and for these people some charity goes a long way. You could keep cash you’re happy to give away in your pocket to avoid the wallet issue.

You’ll also find that almost any time you park somewhere, there will be a parking guard who expects some change for watching your car. I recommend keeping R5-R10 rands to give these guards, as they’re trying to do something relatively productive and that money can go a long way for them. 

14. Issues with safety and petty theft

The unemployment problem and extreme wealth disparity in Cape Town and South Africa means that crime is unavoidable. Petty crime — like stealing your wallet or phone from your bag, holding you up for cash or phone, shoplifting and car theft (theft from a car, not of a car) — are all common in the city. 

This said, there are an increasing number of security measures to protect against petty crime in Cape Town, and the most popular areas for visitors are relatively safe. If you don’t have your phone out while walking on the street, keep your bag closed, and look reasonably alert, you should have no problems. 

Read my top tips and information on safety in Cape Town.

All you need to know about Cape Town

And that is it! Everything you need to know about Cape Town before you visit. It’s a beautiful, vibrant, complex city with so much to enjoy, but definitely a few issues too. 

If you think I’ve missed anything you think folks should know when planning their visit, please get in touch. I’d love to add it

The post 14 Things visitors should know about Cape Town appeared first on Wander Cape Town.

Protect the West Coast (PTWC), a grassroots organisation, has emerged as a crucial force in the fight to preserve this fragile region. Through legal action, community engagement, and public awareness campaigns, PTWC is working to protect the West Coast from further exploitation, advocating for sustainable alternatives that honour the land and its people.

For a more in-depth look, read our interview with PTWC founder, Mike Schlebach.

What makes South Africa’s West Coast special?

Like much of South Africa, the West Coast is a biodiversity hotspot. There are plants and animals endemic to specific parts of the West Coast, which you’ll find nowhere else in the world. Like the newly rediscovered Golden Mole! It’s also home to some of our oldest fishing communities, which have already been massively impacted by the off-coast mining and trawling of this area. 

The West Coast is special for its stunning, far-stretching beaches, its incredible flower season, its untouched nature, and its communities.

Why does it need to be protected?

A screenshot from this interactive map of the status of all known mineral extraction activities in the region

The West Coast is an environment severely under threat. There are many mining threats both to the coastline and the ocean — some of which are active, and others still  prospecting.

“The history of mining on the West Coast is long, the diamond industry has been mining up in the Northern Cape area, on the beaches up there, for the last hundred odd years. But the creep is coming fast and furiously down the coastline.” — Mike Schlebach

This mining is incredibly damaging to the environment, leaving once-thriving ecosystems barren. Rehabilitation efforts have been woefully inadequate or non-existent. Despite legal obligations to restore mined areas, the lack of governmental oversight and enforcement has allowed mining companies to neglect their responsibilities.

These mines also have a serious negative impact on locals, as they prohibit and limit coastal access to traditional fishers and nearby communities. This is one of few food and financial sources for these communities; it is part of their heritage and their culture, and it is being denied to them.

“Apart from inland mining on the West Coast, there’s the beach mining. And then you’ve got on the near shore — most of the coastline has been divided up into diamond concessions. And then you’ve got diamond concessions further out to sea and now they’ve got oil and gas out to sea as well.” — Mike Schlebach

How PTWC is defending the coastline

The Protect the West Coast initiative has made significant strides in raising awareness and driving action to preserve one of South Africa’s most vulnerable regions. One of the organisation’s most notable achievements has been its extensive media outreach. Prior to the campaign’s efforts, only a few thousand people were aware of the environmental challenges facing the West Coast. Today, many more are informed, thanks to their ongoing efforts to highlight these critical issues.

A key victory for Protect the West Coast came through legal action, where they successfully halted TransHex’s mining operations in the Olifants River Estuary. The settlement, reached out of court, marked a major triumph in the fight to protect this vital and delicate ecosystem.

Beyond legal battles, Protect the West Coast has been actively working with various conservation organisations, including Cape Nature and Sanparks, to secure the Olifants River Estuary as a designated conservation area. This effort is especially urgent as multiple prospecting applications currently threaten the region, with the potential to lead to full-scale mining.

Actionable ways you can help the cause

So, how can you help prevent mining and exploitation of this area? Here are a few things you can do.

Register with Ripl

Ripl is PTWC’s new public portal for engaging with mining applications along the West Coast. It has just launched after two years in development, and will notify registered users of new applications, allowing you to review details, submit comments, and file appeals. 

The platform aims to increase public participation by involving more concerned citizens as well as specialists and environmental experts. Ripl will empower more people to challenge mining projects and hold companies and the government accountable, making it more difficult for applications to pass without proper scrutiny and pushback. We are so excited about this project!

Donate

Donating is always a fantastic way to engage. PTWC puts your donations to great use, spreading the message, taking guilty parties to court, and holding companies and government accountable.

Donating is also a really great option for businesses who are interested in helping the community and environment of South Africa. 

Share and spread awareness

Sharing and engaging on PTWCs social media posts on what’s happening on the West Coast is really impactful, despite being a small action in itself. It spreads the message — so many South Africans don’t even know this is happening in our own country — and brings visibility and accountability to the issue. The more people know about exploitative mining practices here, the better we can hold our government accountable for allowing it to happen.

Run West

Run West is an annual race along the beaches, villages and vegetation of the West Coast. It’s a really brilliant initiative which allows you to explore the area, support its protection and defence, and bring more visibility to the issue. 

The most recent Run West took place on the 22 September 2024, so make a note in your calendar for 2025!

Last thoughts on protecting the West Coast of SA

There are so many ways that the West Coast’s situation can be improved! Mining is not a necessary industry here; it has very little economic benefit for our country. 

There are many exciting, hopeful projects, “like algae farming, kelp farming, perlemoen farming, all those kinds of things that are non extractive, they’re circular and they could have a very healthy home on the West Coast. They have the opportunity to employ so many community locals, with long term, sustainable jobs, not just for as long as the mine exists.” — Mike Schlebach

The West Coast can also be rehabilitated, encouraging local vegetation and wildlife to thrive here once again. There’s so much hope for the area. We just need to stop the mining and destruction of delicate areas, and bring more accountability into current processes.

Want to know more? Read our interview with PTWC founder, Mike Schlebach.

The post Protecting the West Coast of South Africa appeared first on Wander Cape Town.

Mike discusses the ongoing damage caused by companies like MSR and Trans Hex, who have been granted mining rights with little oversight or public input. He highlights PTWC’s current initiatives, including the development of Ripl, an online portal designed to empower communities to oppose harmful mining projects. 

This interview offers a look into the struggles and successes of PTWC, showcasing the critical work being done to protect one of South Africa’s last natural frontiers.

What made you start Protect the West Coast?

Mike Schlebach: There were a few of us that founded Protect the West Coast together. Basically just the group or regular users of the West Coast. None of us actually live up there. 

Katja Mamacos: It’s mostly Cape Town based?

Mike: Yeah, we all are Cape Town based. In fact, our legal guy is from Durban. Before he got involved with Protect the West Coast, he’d never been up the West Coast! Now he’s been a few times. But yeah, it started with a small group of surfers that frequent the area and gradually became aware of all these new encroachments of the mining industry down into areas that were largely pristine and underdeveloped or with no development at all.

So I think it was like mid 2020 when we found out that there was a mining company, an Australian mining company called MSR that had just been given a stretch of coastline that included these 10 pristine beaches to mine. It was given to them without them having to go through a whole new mining application.

They have an existing mine there, a very big mine, and they just got this 10 beach extension approved. And that was out in the media a little bit. And that was a light bulb moment for a few people. 

My involvement came a little while later when I just got out of a business that I founded. I had some time and energy and I took a trip up into that area and got to see for myself what was really going on up there.

The history of mining on the west coast is long, the diamond industry has been mining up in the Northern Cape area, on the beaches up there, for the last hundred odd years. But the creep is coming fast and furiously down the coastline.

A screenshot from this interactive map of the status of all known mineral extraction activities in the region

On your site it says there are 30+ applications.

Mike: Yeah, including prospecting applications. When you look at the maps at the moment, the West Coast is severely under siege. 

Apart from inland mining on the West Coast, there’s the beach mining. And then you’ve got on the near shore — most of the coastline has been divided up into diamond concessions. And then you’ve got diamond concessions further out to sea and now they’ve got oil and gas out to sea as well, you know. So it’s just a complete shit show. 

Katja: It really is! So did you start with the legal or the informing the public side of it? 

Mike: Yeah, so for the first two years of PTWC’s existence, our main mandate was to bring what was happening on the West Coast from a mining perspective into the public domain.

Katja: Ja that whole coastline is very out of sight. 

Mike: Out of sight, out of mind. There’s very few communities up there. And it’s not a big tourist area either, so we saw it as one of the last frontiers, as an area that we could go and visit, surf and free camp and do all these things that you can’t do anywhere else in the world. Yeah, not so much anymore. But there are also these communities up there that have been severely affected, especially in the northern regions, by the diamond mining industry.

And if you think about De Beers, which is the biggest diamond producer and seller in the world… They extracted all of the early billions from that Northern Cape area. And they’ve left that area completely unrehabilitated. Some of the community there, they’re some of the poorest in the country — some of those towns have like a 75% unemployment rate, and those were all diamond areas. 

Why is it that the mining companies aren’t legally obligated to restore the area? 

Mike: They are. The government, through the Department of Minerals and Energy, is supposed to be providing oversight. They are the same entity that is approving the applications, and then they’re supposed to provide oversight and things like that as it goes along, but they don’t do that. They don’t have the capacity and so it’s a complete free for all. The approvals and the applications historically have been woeful at best, in terms of the content of these applications. They’re copy and paste. 

Katja: They really don’t have to put in much effort. 

Mike: Ja, and then they’ll say, okay, we’ll give X amount to the local communities. We’ll have a one and a half million rand rehabilitation fund when they’re looking at a couple of billion rand mining site, and they’ll say we’ll provide X amount of jobs. But ultimately they don’t; nothing transpires as it should…

So PTWC was really about bringing the mining story on the West Coast into the public, and now it’s transitioning into a new phase. Last year we took one of the mining companies to court — Trans Hex, which has been mining on the West Coast for the last 60 or 70 years. And to date, we have not been able to find a single rehabilitated site that they’ve mined. 

Katja: I saw you described it as a moonscape on your blog.

Mike: Yes! For example, the area between Hondeklip Bay and Alexander Bay. It’s a stretch of coastline that spans about 230 kilometers, and it’s been severely ravaged by the diamond mining industry. It’s not just De Beers, it’s De Beers, it’s Transhex, it’s Alex Core, which is a state owned entity.

And that area, if you drive through it, you can look in and see parts of it — it’s 230 kilometers long and about 20 or 30 kilometers wide. And it’s just… it looks like what I would think the moon looks like. And a lot of these companies are moving further and further south down the coastline.

In the middle of 2022, Transhex started mining the beaches of Dooringbaai. That’s why we took them to court, because there was no public engagement. No one knew who they were, they just showed up and started mining and it turns out that the Department of Minerals had given them a new permit to mine and we thought that was illegal. 

The Tronox mine, by Jacque Smit

Katja: Yeah, without any community engagement. 

So with the community engagement, I know you’re working on a comments and appeals portal. How’s that going? 

Mike: Yes, Ripl! We’re calling it Ripl. And Ripl is in the final throes of coming to life. We are hoping to have it live in the next two weeks. 

It’s been a two year project at least. A lot easier said than done, but it will be a first of its kind in South Africa. It’s a portal that allows the public to really engage with the mining sector on the West coast.

So when a new application comes in, we will get notified. We put it on the portal and the portal sends out an alert to everybody that signed up for it. And then people can go through the details of the application, everything will be there and then they can provide comments and appeals and things like that when the time is right.

Katja: That’s really great!

Mike: Yeah, it’s really great because historically the amount of people that engage with these applications, you can count on one hand. You get four or five people that are knowledgeable and they’ve been completely overwhelmed, because there’s just so much going on.

So now we’re looking to get hundreds, if not thousands of normal people just registering their views. And then, it’s a great opportunity for specialists and scientists and things like that, who know a lot about how these things should work to also have their say. It should make life much more difficult for both the government and for the mining applicants just to push these things through, because there’s this proper pushback. 

Katja: Ja, because we also have a lot of people who know so much about our local environment, who would definitely get involved if it’s accessible. 

Mike: Exactly, that’s the idea. And then we also want to take this opportunity to the youth. We want to go and roll this out at schools and get the youth involved. Because this is their future. Over the three and a half years since we’ve been in existence, we’ve had a lot of quite a bit of engagement from schools and youngsters at schools that are like, how can we help? How can we get involved? And this is a wonderful way for them to do that. 

Katja: That’s fantastic. Because until now, every time a new application comes through, you have to find it and register as interested. This is really great, that interested parties can stay consistently involved. 

Do you think it’ll be possible to roll it out in different parts of the country?

Mike: Absolutely, yeah we do. This portal was created by a local digital agency that has done it all pro bono — a digital agency called ibay. It’s taken a massive effort on their behalf and our behalf just to get it to where it is.

And the idea really is, like you’ve alluded to, to start with the West Coast and then gradually expand it. But there are costs involved. It’s SMS based, as we’re trying to appeal to the affected areas and affected people and communities that don’t have email and don’t have the internet. But they have a phone and they have SMS. And there’s a cost to an SMS, so if you’ve got tens of thousands of people doing this thing, it can cost quite a lot of money. but yeah, but that is the plan

Katja: And then put it on a subscription service for those who can afford it? Or how would you cover the cost? 

Mike: We would get sponsors. We could maybe even get one of the big cell phone providers on board. It’s petty cash for them. 

Katja: Okay, lovely. That’s really exciting!

You refer in your 2024 goals to a Strategic Environmental Assessment. What needs to happen to get the government to commit to doing that along the entire coast? 

Mike: That’s a very good question. In the last few years we wrote to Barbara Creasy when she was the minister of environment and suggested a moratorium on mining until a strategic environmental assessment had been done. Because we feel that the government is flying completely blind. They’re approving all these applications ad hoc and when you look at the maps of where these things are, they’re all right next to each other or even on top of each other, and and they’re not taking into account the accumulative impacts of all of these things. If things carry on the way the they are then the coastline from at least Elands Bay all the way to Alexander Bay will be one big mining pit. 

So yeah, the SEA should be commissioned by the government themselves, by the Minister of Environment or the DMRE. It’s not a small project — normally SEAs are done for a much smaller area. But we would encourage them to do one from all the way from Elands Bay all the way up to Alexander Bay and that’s a lot of money and takes a lot of time.

But yeah, we’ve encouraged them. We’re actually putting together a new letter for the new Minister of Environment. We’re going to be writing to him in the next two weeks. Again, just bringing his attention to what’s going on up there, and strongly suggesting the idea of an SEA.

The reality is that there are so many interested and affected parties on the coast that an SEA would really benefit, and if the government won’t get it done themselves, then potentially what we could do is just find the funding to initiate it ourselves.

And then, just get the government to agree to at least looking at it and using it as a tool to make informed decisions. 

Katja: So why would it cost so much? What is involved? 

Mike: It’s a lot of scientific data you’re looking at. So what an SEA really encompasses from my understanding, is it takes a look at how the West Coast should best be utilized from an economic perspective, from a social perspective, from a heritage perspective, and then also from an environmental perspective.

So if you could think of it like, mining in some areas is acceptable and can happen as long as it’s done legally and properly, and then you’ve got areas that are rich in biodiversity and that should be left untouched. 

Katja: Because a lot of these areas where the plants are endemic and can’t be found anywhere else.

Mike: Yeah, there’s the golden mole up there that Leonardo DiCaprio posted about that is nowhere else — it lives on a 20 kilometer stretch of coastline. There’s plants up there, like you’ve alluded to, that don’t grow anywhere else in the world.

People think because it’s a semi arid, desert type of area that it’s barren. But it’s one of the richest, most biodiverse areas in the world.

Then there’s also agriculture, there’s tourism, there’s all these other factors that play a role. Those all need to be factored in and you need to go in there and collect all the data and do all this research. And it’s a big area, it’s a changing area, so it’s not all just copy and paste, so every area has got to be looked at individually and you’re probably looking at two years or so and ~10 million rand just to get that done properly.

Katja: That makes sense because it sounds like a really holistic overview. 

Mike: Ja, and it’s the kind of thing that can be used for the next 50 years. So when you think about it in that context, and you think about all the people that it’s affecting and the environments that it’s affecting, then 10 million is nothing. 500,000 US dollars or something, it’s really doable. 

Katja: And it’s something that maybe the mining companies themselves should be contributing to? 

Mike: There is that too. Ja. But a lot of these mining houses are really, not B grade, but more like C grade mining operations. They’re there because they know they can get away with a lot. Mining legally and responsibly costs a lot of money, and a lot of these company don’t have that kind of money. So they’re here because they know that they can bribe government officials and they can get away with stuff and they don’t have to do what they say .

So what are some ways that readers can help with the West Coast? They can register as an interested party. Are there any other paths? 

Mike: Look, yeah, it’s yeah when Ripl comes to life in the next couple of weeks people can register there. They can get involved that way. They can donate to our organization — the team that work at protect the West coast have been up until a few months ago doing this all pro bono and now they get paid a small stipend for their work.

But yeah, they can donate, they can engage with us on social media. If you’re a specialist or a scientist, as in geologists, marine biologists, etcetera, can always reach out to us and see how we can work together and collaborate. Then for the layman, really just sharing our stories and engaging where you can on social media. And if you’re a specialist in anything, a writer, journalist, whatever, you know helping tell our stories or your own stories, even, that’s great.

And then yeah, we sell merch on our website and all that kind of stuff. So if you want to support that way, that’s great too. 

Tormin mining operation, by Jacque Smit

Katja: That’s great. 

What is PTWCs biggest success story so far? 

Mike: I think our biggest success story has been our media outreach, what we’ve done to highlight this plight, this issue. I think before we came into existence, it was probably a few thousand people that knew about it. 

Katja: That even knew that it was happening at all. 

Mike: Yeah. And then you’d probably go down to a few hundred, that actually saw the problem for what it is. Now many more people know, and I think that’s been our biggest achievement by a long way. 

And then the court case, for sure, we settled out of court and we stopped TransHex from mining in the Olifants River Estuary. 

We’re also doing a lot of work with various different organizations like Cape Nature and Sanparks, to get the Olifants River Estuary deemed a conservation area, because there are actually, I think, three or four mining applications in the Olifants River Estuary at the moment. They’re not mining, but prospecting, which leads to mining. 

And then Ripl and our community engagement, we’ve created community around this and a platform for the affected communities — we’ve given them a voice, or giving them a voice, we’re in process. And it’s the first time ever. Over the years there’s been activists or individuals in the communities that have been trying to push back against what’s happening up there, but it’s always been ad hoc and one at a time and individual, and now we’re providing a unified voice which has been really great.

Katja: Yeah, that’s fantastic. 

Mike: The other sort of agenda, I suppose you could call it, is that we want to encourage other industries, more modern industries that fall under the nature-based solutions umbrella. Like algae farming, kelp farming, perlemoen farming, all those kinds of things that are non extractive, they’re circular and they could have a very healthy home on the West Coast. They have the opportunity to employ so many community locals, with long term, sustainable jobs, not just for as long as the mine exists.

Katja: That would be amazing. Is there any current movement in that direction? 

Mike: Yeah, there is, but in typical South African government style, the red tape surrounding these things is massive. We know of several international kelp farming organizations that have tried to set up shop here and that have actually left because they couldn’t get it right, from a red tape and legislative perspective.

We’ve also been engaging and partnering with an organization called CH4. They want to create algae from seaweed. And a perfect plant for them could be set up on the coastline in an old mining dump site or mining site. A small plant could produce at least a thousand full time jobs. And then the bigger plants could produce like 4,000 jobs. And that’s creating biofuel for the shipping industry, which is also amazing.

Katja: Then it’s non extractive and it’s contributing positively. Yeah, that sounds incredible. 

Mike: It is! And honestly, there’s enough diamonds in the world now to service whoever wants them. And there are better solutions. 

And rehabilitation — we could set up some rehabilitation projects on old mining sites up there that could reestablish the fauna and flora that was there, and create jobs for people.

Katja: There’s so much more that could be done. Are there any restoration projects currently? 

Mike: No, we pitched one to De Beers last year and they just flatly said no. They strung us along for a few months, the initial reaction to our proposal was, yes, this sounds like something we could get involved with, sounds like a great initiative and would do a lot of good for the area. Then they sold their last mine, and it changed to ‘we’re done here now, we don’t have to do anything else, it’s somebody else’s problem’. 

Katja: That’s disappointing. Okay, so no projects yet, but if Protect the West Coast got greater funding, then there’s so much that you can still do there.

Mike: Ja exactly. We really see our role as a facilitator. We have great community engagement and we’ve learned from the communities that we’ve engaged with, that they are really desperate, they are some of the poorest communities in the country. A lot of them can’t even fish for their living because of government intervention, and there’s not a lot of farming because these are arid areas. And ja, the mining industry has turned their back on these communities by and large. And so nature based solutions are the way of the future. All of these guys are crying out for it, the powers that be need to see it for what it is. 

So that’s our project, it’s really to firstly tell the world that this needs to happen, and then try and facilitate as best we can.

The post Interview with Protect the West Coast CEO, Mike Schlebach appeared first on Wander Cape Town.

This article is split into the best, biggest things to do in Muizenberg, and the little special places and activities that make it a wonderful home. And, of course, some of the loveliest places to eat! Let’s get into it.

Getting to Muizenberg

One of the best ways to get here is via train. Muizenberg is serviced by the upgraded blue trains, which feel (and are) safe and easy to use. The station stops right alongside Surfers Corner, which is exactly where you want to be.

If you want to catch the train, be sure to take cash, as most of the paypoints won’t accept any alternative. It’s super cheap, under R10 from anywhere in Cape Town.

If you’re driving to Muizenberg, I recommend you take the M3. It’s often a few minutes longer than the M5 route, but it’s the prettier drive, and a lot safer. I’ve never had any danger on the M5, but it passes through some areas infamous for carjacking and other crimes. 

6 greatest things to do in Muizenberg

Planning to visit Muizenberg? It’s got a ton to offer both day and night!

The Beach

Muizenberg Beach is, of course, the main reason to come to Muizies! It’s a fantastic long beach, with calmer, warmer waters (compared to the Atlantic side of town). It’s a lovely safe space to swim, to surf and learn to surf, to laze in the sun, and to walk your dogs and/or yourselves!

Alongside the beach is Surfers Corner, a space of cafes, restaurants, surf-schools and shops. Be sure to stroll along and get yourself a treat. There’s also nothing quite like a hot brekkie bun and a coffee after a successful  surf!

Read our article dedicated to Muizenberg Beach if you want to know more.

Blue Bird Garage Market

This is one of the best food markets in Cape Town! It’s situated in a large lofty garage, and filled with locally made foods, treats, and drinks. There are also vendors selling second-hand books (a beautifully curated selection, I’ve found so many I love here), clothes, jewellery and crafts.

The market happens every Thursday and Friday eve, 4pm to 10pm, so if you’re in the area at this time, we highly recommend popping in. You really can’t go wrong with any of the options. 

The Commons

I LOVE the Commons. It’s really one of those spaces that tries its best to uplift and engage the community, creating so many events worth supporting. The Commons is a lovely place to visit for a light meal or a coffee during the day — and it has the best view over the ocean, undoubtedly. But it really comes alive at night. 

They have live music jams regularly (their Instagram page is the best place to see what’s happening now), as well as silent discos and vinyl grooves, storytelling, chess, and poetry eves, and public talks.

The Commons also has a yoga studio (offering, in addition to yoga, reiki, improv acting classes, and contemporary dance). They also have a gallery showcasing local artists. In other words, they do a bit of everything and they do it well. 

Surf

I’m adding this here in case it’s not clear — Muizenberg is famous for its perfect surf conditions, and if you’ve ever wanted to take a surfing lesson, this is one of the best places in the world to do it. Folks also rent apartments here, and book accommodation, just so that they can walk across to the beach in their wetsuits, board under arm. If that sounds great, you should do the same!

Surfers Corner has plenty of affordable board rentals, and just as many group and individual classes available. So whether you’ve been surfing for years, or you’re ready to start, it’s the perfect beach for the job.

Of course, if you’re an experienced barrel-rider, Muizenberg may be a little too mild for you. Check out the best places to surf in Cape Town to find the perfect conditions for you. 

St James walk

This is a stunning coastal walkway. It starts in Muizenberg, goes through St James, and takes you all the way to beautiful Kalk Bay! Terrific if you want to visit that part of town, but it’s also really lovely if you’re just looking for a stroll. 

Grab a coffee at Surfers Corner and go exploring — there are many rock pools filled with life to see, birds to watch, and general ocean gazing to enjoy.

First Thursdays Down South 

First Thursdays are always a lot of fun in Cape Town, with gallery crawls, free beer and wine, and live music events. But in the past year or so, the South has given the CBD a run for its money. 

For a perfect First Thursdays experience, I recommend you start at Kalk Bay, go to the lovely galleries along the neighbourhood’s main roads, and then, a couple hours later, head to Muizenberg. Here, there are a few galleries to visit too, and The Commons always hosts a great gig late into the night. So, you get art, culture, drink and dance, all in one Thursday eve!

Muizies restaurants and cafés 

Tortuga — a local Mexican restaurant with brilliant food, lovely decor and atmosphere, and delicious cocktails; perfect for a romantic evening date.

Empire Cafe — great vibe and big, tasty portions; I particularly enjoy their breakfasts!

Hang Ten Cafe — a local favourite, this is a really relaxed space, dog-friendly and remote worker friendly too; great coffees, juices, and vegan treats, and one of the few places you can try kelp lasagne.

Local’s corner

Muizenberg has a great deal more to offer than the tourist favourites — although as a local, those favourites are some of my own too! But looking further, Muizies can really keep you busy. There are also a number of ways to get involved and engaged in the community.

More things to do

Take a walk on the Vlei

The Vlei is a little-known attraction in Muizenberg — despite being a large part of it! It’s a beautiful place to come bird-watching. We’ve seen cranes, flamingos, sea birds, and little birds like Cape Robin-chats among the reeds. It’s a biodiversity hotspot, right between the houses, and we love to see it!

Visit the art galleries

Muizenberg has a number of art galleries and creative spaces showcasing talented local artists. A few favourites are Gallery South, Blue Planet Fine Art, Studio 21, and of course, The Commons.

Go second-hand shopping

Muizies has a number of lovely second-hand shops selling clothes, homeware and books. A few favourites are Hidden Treasure, Living Hope, and The Preloved Shop. You’ll also find some really lovely second-hand clothing among local designers at Mystic Muiz. 

Go to the Muizenberg library

Get some great books on loan, use their desktops, or join an event hosted at this public space!

Sign up to a class at The Commons

Not only does The Commons host events and gigs, their studio space plays host to yoga, dance, improv and other weekly classes. The studio is also one of the most beautiful spaces in Muizenberg, its large windows offering a stunning view over the ocean and the mountain. I’ve done a yoga class here at sunset, and it was one of the most peaceful I’ve experienced.

Getting involved in the community

Getting involved in one of the community projects is a really great way to get to know people in your area, to help your fellow Muizers, and to ensure our neighbourhood is at its best, long-term. 

Join beach and vlei cleanups

The vlei in particular can pick up so much rubbish swept in from the surrounding areas. This endangers the fish that make their home in the shallow waters, the birds that hunt and nest here, and the dogs that get walked daily along the vlei banks. 

And of course, rubbish on the beach gets swept by the wind and high tide into the ocean, too. 

Community members can organise cleanups, but you can also just take a bag and some gloves, and do some cleaning up solo. There are official cleaners that come occasionally, but not at all often enough. 

Have dinner at Muizenberg Kitchen

The Muizenberg Community Kitchen provides affordable, plant-based meals to the local community. Collaborating with the Muizenberg Community Garden, they also offer services like freezer meals and weekly vegetable delivery.

Support homeless rehabilitation projects

Muizenberg has a number of shelters and rehabilitation projects for homeless people, providing housing, skills training, and therapy to some of our most vulnerable citizens. They’re really great projects to support — and a new one is opening up soon!

There are a number of ways to support these projects, including donations and skills sharing. You can support New Hope’s work-based program or buy one of their woodwork pieces (our desk and planter boxes are both their work!). 

You can also support the Muizenberg branch of U-Turn by volunteering your time, buying vouchers, or running a clothing drive.

Join FynbosLife talks and buy some native plants

FynbosLIFE is a non-profit committed to protecting and promoting the city’s endangered lowland fynbos biodiversity. Run by botanists, ecologists, and horticulturists, FynbosLIFE focuses on conservation through educational horticulture, habitat restoration projects, and operating the Cape Flats Fynbos Nursery — here in Muizenberg! 

They believe in the power of gardening with locally indigenous flora to support urban wildlife conservation. It’s a wonderful mission, and one you can support by planting a few of their native plants in your own garden.

Make the most of Muizenberg

Now you know all the best of Muizenberg! It is such a beautiful part of Cape Town, and it’s just getting better every year.

If I’ve missed something you love to do or see in the neighbourhood, please let me know. I’d love to see it for myself and add it to the list!

The post Experiencing the best of Muizenberg | Neighbourhood guide appeared first on Wander Cape Town.

This post is about our experience tandem paragliding, everything you can expect, and also what your options are for proper solo paragliding courses in Cape Town.

What to wear paragliding

• Wear sturdy shoes like trainers or hiking boots, as you need to jog down a patch of hill in order to take flight! And flip-flops would probably fall off never to be found again.
• Long pants and a long-sleeve shirt are most comfortable, even on a warm day, as it can get chilly and breezy; but in summer, vests work too!
• You’re always recommended to bring sunglasses to help with the wind as you fly, and also because there’s a section where you’re flying over water and it reflects sunlight.

Cape Town’s tandem paragliding

When you go for a single paragliding session, it will always be tandem paragliding! This is because you need to be properly trained in order to handle your own paraglide. So, instead, you’ll be strapped to a chunky tandem seat, with your guide comfortably behind you. They’ll instruct you and run all safety checks. They can also do tricks with the gear, and take photos as you enjoy the ride!

What to know about paragliding in Cape Town

Price: ~ R1650 ($89)

Location: Meet on Signal Hill — the trip includes transfer back to the meeting point

Duration: Time in the air is 5 – 20 minutes depending on weather conditions

Tickets: You can book tickets here, via GetYourGuide, or in person — this is a very popular trip, so if you’re visiting in Summer or Spring I recommend booking early

Signal Hill paragliding

Most of Cape Town’s paragliding takes place on Signal Hill. That’s because you can easily drive right up to the hilltop paragliding location, whereas on most of Cape Town’s mountains, you’d have a heavy trek up. It’s also at a perfect height for sailing down, and there’s enough wind here to be able to paraglide most days.

You can book a tandem paragliding trip online — my favourite tour provider is AirVentures. Alternatively, you can go to Signal Hill and find an operator there. There are multiple companies offering tandem paragliding here, so you’re likely to find someone!

The experience

Glenn and I went paragliding for our first anniversary together, because we thought what better way to celebrate than with an exciting experience. And it was fantastic! We booked our experience online to make things simpler, and when we got there they quickly briefed us on safety and got us strapped in.

I went again recently with AirVentures, and it was just as exciting and enjoyable! I suppose flying just doesn’t get old — which my guide, who’s been doing this for over 10 years, wholeheartedly agrees with.

Feels like flying

We chatted to our guides and to each other while we waited for the wind to pick up (which is often something you have to do, otherwise you may end up paragliding for just five minutes instead of fifteen).

When the wind picked up, my guide walked us into position, and then told me to start running. I can’t explain the experience of jogging along together down the little hill runway, and then just as you’re nearing the end of it, your feet just don’t hit the ground anymore. And suddenly, you’re flying!

Glenn and his guide followed quickly behind us, and we could shout to each other while we flew. It was incredible, looking out over the beautiful hillside below us. We spun upside down and flipped to the sides and soared smoothly. It was such a fun time, and the guide really made sure it was as great as it could be!

Landing in Sea Point

Landing was another bit of fun – right in the middle of Sea Point Promenade’s grassy patch, we abruptly dropped down, the brightly coloured gear billowing behind us and pulling us about a bit before we wrangled it under control. There were people there to help us unclip, and then when Glenn had landed, we were driven back up to Signal Hill, where we’d left the car.

And just like that, it was done! The whole experience lasted less than an hour, but it was such fantastic fun.

Solo paragliding courses

If you’ve tried tandem paragliding before and absolutely loved it, then a solo course is a great option! It’s a pricey hobby, since in addition to the course you need to buy your own gear – and ideally first hand, considering the risks involved.

But, if you have the money to spend and you dream of flying like a bird, Cape Town does offer a number of solo paragliding courses! You can actually get your paragliding certification at the age of 17, so this is even something parents can do with their children.

A basic paragliding license course takes about 14 days. You’ll learn safety and theory, and gain hands-on experience paragliding in different conditions.

You can find course information with Fly Cape Town

Or with Air School Paragliding

Last thoughts on paragliding in Cape Town

The windy city is one of the best places to go paragliding. You easily reach the site due to its central location, making it possible even for spontaneous adventures. And Cape Town’s ever-present winds allow you to stay up in the air for longer. It’s also just such a beautiful city to soar above, giving you a unique view over rocky coastline, fynbos-covered hills, and always, Table Mountain looming behind it all.

Check out more of our favourite adventure activities in Cape Town here!

The post Paragliding Cape Town | Tandem trips & solo courses appeared first on Wander Cape Town.

Get back in touch with nature as you camp under the stars, dive under the freshwater pools, and hike the mountain trails. Whatever it is that you’re looking for from this gorgeous space, you’ll be going home happy.

So keep reading to find out how to get to Beaverlac as well as the camping and non-camping options. We will also tell you about the hiking trails and swimming spots that you can find, so that you’re fully ready for your adventure. And, if you’re keen on climbing and highlining in the Cederberg, check out Rocklands!

Getting to Beaverlac from Cape Town

Cape Town has so much to do and see, from Table Mountain to the sea. But one thing it doesn’t have, is a great camping site within the city limits. So, since it is simple to get from Cape Town to Beaverlac, this is a great option for a weekend away.

Follow the N7 to Kerk Street in Piketberg, and take the R44. Continue on the R44 until you get to Dasklip Road, which will be indicated by signage. Dasklip will take you straight to Beaverlac. Just be sure to send out your last messages before you turn onto the road, as you’ll quickly lose signal!

You can plan to take about two hours to get to the campsite. Since most of the drive is along the N7, you can appreciate the scenery as you go. There are also a number of petrol stations and rest stops where you can grab a cup of coffee.

It is also a good idea to draw some money at the ATM, as the campsite has a well stocked store, but it only accepts cash. It would also be wise to bring along everything you need, in case the Beaverlac store doesn’t have your favourite foods and snacks.

The basics: what you need to know about Beaverlac

• Everyone in your group needs to apply and be approved before you arrive — you can use this booking form
• Dogs are allowed, as long as you can control them
• Beaverlac is a family campsite, so they ask for quiet after 10pm, and no music at any time of day
• Beaverlac is cash only, and a solid 1-hour drive from the nearest town
• They have an uncommonly well-stocked shop and good bathrooms
• The dirt road into Beaverlac can be harsh on small cars; if you have the option, it’s best to go in a larger or even offroad vehicle

Beaverlac camping

One of the biggest attractions of this stunning space is the excellent camping. With no demarcated campsites and space for over 1000 people, you’ll have all the freedom you could want here.

Simply drive around the area and take a look at the options. There are multiple shower and toilet blocks, so you will never be too far from one, wherever you choose to settle.

In summer, it’s best to find a spot that will be under the shade of the plentiful trees, so that your tent doesn’t overheat too much. If you’re camping with a number of people, you can set your site up around a fire pit. It’s always best to be near a fire pit, even if you don’t intend to cook. After all, a campfire is an institution, and roasted marshmallows go hand in hand with a great camping experience.

During your stay be sure to keep all of your rubbish together so that you can take it with you from the campsite when you leave. Also, don’t forget your camping essentials!

And try not to make the same mistake as me and bring a weak tent that will collapse on you during the night. Damp plastic on my face in the morning was not an ideal wake up!

Beaverlac non-camping options

For those who prefer to be surrounded by four solid walls, there are Beaverlac’s cosy cabins. There are a number of options, ranging from a snug one-person shelter to a large six-person cabin. All of the options have beds, but that’s about all that they have in common.

You can find an option where your party will need to bring everything but chairs, and it will offer you an experience very near camping. Just with walls protecting you from the elements, and a bed to relax in.

You can also choose to bring nothing but your sleeping bag and food, if you bag one of the cabins with crockery, electricity and a fridge.

So as you can see, there is a good range at the Beaverlac campsite, and you’re sure to be comfortable, no matter your tastes.

Beaverlac hiking trail

With such beautiful surroundings and scenery, Beaverlac is the perfect place to lace up your walking shoes to set out and explore. Though the hiking routes might not measure up to the majesty of Table Mountain’s hiking trails (or the difficulty), they’re still stunning, and a really great way to spend a few happy hours.

There is only one marked hiking trail in Beaverlac, and that is the Totem Pool trail, otherwise known as Leopard Trail. The highlight of this trail is the rock pools that you can find along the way, including Totem Pool. Since hiking can be hard work, it’s great to dip into a few of these on the way.

Swimming spots and rock pools

There are three major swimming holes in Beaverlac, with a few river spots along the way to cool off in. Each natural pool boasts its own beauty and is unique from the others.

The distance to each pool differs, which determines their level of busyness. But we recommend that you visit each if you’re here for a full weekend. They are, after all, one of the main attractions of Beaverlac.

Main Pool

This gorgeous rock pool is just a 5-minute walk from the campsite. Just put on a pair of sandals to walk through the bush path, and you’re good to go. Because of how easy it is to get to, it is the busiest pool, and you can often find people frolicking here from the early morning till the light fades. In fact, it’s also a perfect place to have a nighttime dip and watch the stars while you float about!

The rocks that surround the pool are a great place to relax and sun yourself when you get out of the chilly water. If you come prepared, it’s also a perfect spot to enjoy a little picnic or a drink. However, because this is the busiest pool, you might have a few envious eyes on your snacks.

Totem Pools

Katja jumping in! Image courtesy of Timothy Chambers

If you and your party are feeling up for a little hike, the Totem Pools are a worthy destination. The 45-minute trek will also give you a chance to really appreciate the surrounding nature and the flora that grows here.

The hike can be a bit steep and on a hot day it may feel daunting. But jumping into the cold water at the end makes it so worth it. There are a number of chilly pools up here, and plenty of rocks to laze on. The main pool is backed by a rock cliff, from which you can jump into the deep water, if you’re feeling brave.

Secret Pool

When our friend told us about this one, we thought it really was a secret pool, known only to a few. Though that’s not actually the case (bummer) it is a quiter, calmer pool.

A 15-minute walk from the campsite, this natural pool is far away enough that people don’t flock to it like the main pool. But it’s not nearly as tricky to get to as the Totem Pools, as there are no uphills involved.

The surrounding area is every bit as beautiful as the clear waters, with interesting rock slabs leading away from the pool creating an otherworldly appearance. Sometimes a river flows languidly through the rocks, and you can slide your way down. Even if not, it’s worth walking down it for a bit to appreciate this natural phenomenon.

Ready to go camping at Beaverlac, Porterville?

One of the most popular camping sites in our region, Beaverlac makes for the perfect weekend in nature. Without cell service or the other modern-day distractions, you can really connect with those you’re camping with.

So pack a couple games, a few beers, a good book and tasty snacks, and get ready to have a wonderful time. We certainly did, and its refreshing effects lasted for a good few happy weeks. And when the memory fades and you need another, why not try multi-day hiking in Zooridge? Or this other lovely Cederberg camping site, Jamaka! Or a romantic camping getaway to Suikerbossie!

The post Beaverlac | Cederberg Camping, Swimming & Hiking appeared first on Wander Cape Town.

Ultimate Frisbee, or Ultimate for short, is a fast-paced and dynamic sport that combines teamwork and athleticism with the casual fun of throwing, flicking, or hammering a frisbee or disc (more on hammering later). What sets Ultimate apart is something called “Spirit of the Game”, an emphasis on fair play, camaraderie, and sportsmanship above all. 

In Cape Town, Ultimate has found a home in the city’s diverse parks, stunning beaches, and community spaces. Whether you’re a seasoned Ultimate player or just someone looking for a fun way to spend your free time, Cape Town’s Ultimate scene has something to get excited about.

By the end of this article, you will know more about Ultimate in Cape Town, its history and origins, what Ultimate is exactly, where to play, the community, some tips, and the unique culture that makes this sport more than just a game. 

Origins of Ultimate

Photo by Dharanidharan Dharanidharan

Ultimate originated in the United States during the 1960s. It was initially developed by a group of high school students in New Jersey and has since grown into many different sporting endeavours. 

Over the years, Ultimate evolved, and formal rules were established, emphasising sportsmanship and fair play. The sport grew in popularity, spreading to colleges and universities, and eventually gained international recognition. Today, it’s played by millions of people worldwide in organised leagues, tournaments, and casual games.

What is Ultimate?

Photo by UCT Ultimate

Ultimate is a non-contact team sport combining elements of American Football and Netball, played with a frisbee. It is gender-neutral, accommodating both mixed and same-gender teams, which is an incredibly appealing aspect of the sport to many. The field, varying in size depending on player preference, features two end zones and a central zone. Official games involve seven players per side, but casual games can be adapted to player preferences as well.

The objective is to score points by catching the disc in the opponent’s end zone. To initiate a point, a team “pulls” (the only throw in Ultimate you can do while moving) the disc, and the opposing team has an opportunity to score. Players do their best to avoid contact and are encouraged to avoid plays that could be dangerous.

Photo by Dharanidharan Dharanidharan

In Ultimate, there are usually only two positions labeled Handler and Cutter. Handlers are those who primarily throw the disc upfield to Cutters who are using their athletic ability to accelerate in one direction and change it rapidly to generate space between them and their mark to receive a pass. 

There are plenty of nuances that I could include but with what I have provided, you have more than enough information to find some friends, find a frisbee, find a space, and get your own game going! Check out the Ultimate Rules Cheat Sheet to get yourself up to speed.

Casual Ultimate in Cape Town

Photo by Dharanidharan Dharanidharan

If you’re looking for a casual fix, I have you covered! Cape Town is host to a plethora of teams and communities that you can join to play casually. PickupUltimate is a terrific resource to use to learn about where games are taking place and who to contact if you need to find out more information.

Two of my favourite pickup games to attend are the UCT Friday Social and the Rondebosch Social Frisbee. These are great communities that are fun, easy, and open to all ages and levels of experience. Both have a WhatsApp group that they use to communicate times, locations, memes, and other information. Here are the UCT Friday Social and the Rondebosch Social Frisbee WhatsApp groups to get yourself involved! 

Photo by Dharanidharan Dharanidharan

One of the best ways to learn and to play Ultimate is on the beach. Nothing quite compares to sand, sun, fun, and frisbee and Cape Town has some of the most beautiful Cape Town beaches to throw plastic. Clifton Beach Pickup is an all-time favourite of mine. Games are organised on their WhatsApp group and usually take place at Clifton 1st Beach on Sundays between 9 – 12 am. 

Alternatively, Hout Bay Pickup organises regular Ultimate games on the beach. This is a terrific option for those who find themselves on the other side of the mountain. These games are usually hosted at Hout Bay Beach or Ambleside Fields on Sundays between 4 – 6 p.m.

Competitive Ultimate in Cape Town

Photo by UCT Ultimate

Along with the casual coolness of Cape Town Ultimate, the competitive scene is always looking to grow and develop new players. Along with the regular leagues that take place in the summer and winter periods, there are plenty of tournaments to participate in too.

If you’re interested in playing competitively, you’ll need to sign up as a Cape Town Flying Disc Association (or CTFDA) member. You can sign up here to participate in any CTFDA-organised league or tournament. Check out the website for a bunch of cool events, informative resources, and points of contact to get involved.

One of the oldest competitive clubs in the Cape Town scene is Chilli Ultimate. They pride themselves on being pioneers, fierce competitors, and fair and spirited sportspeople. A close-knit, loyal family of Chillies is looking to welcome new (and experienced) players to the squad. Drop them a message on Facebook or Instagram to get involved.

Nomad Ultimate is one of the newest competitive Ultimate clubs to enter the fold. They are a group of alumni University of Cape Town students and pride themselves on clean competitive Ultimate while still having all the fun. If you are looking for like-minded young athletes, this is your port of call. Check out their Instagram page to find out more.

What do I need to play Ultimate?

Photo by Dharanidharan Dharanidharan

As if Ultimate wasn’t appealing enough, this sport requires so little it’s almost silly. Sports like Tennis, Hockey, Rugby, and Cricket, amongst others, require a fair amount of equipment and specific fields to play. Ultimate, on the other hand, requires just a frisbee and an open space to play on. 

Sadly, it is tricky to find the official Ultimate Frisbee discs in South Africa, which has been a real issue for South Africans to acquire their WFDF-approved discs. Many Ultimate players need to look overseas to find the right one. Aria Discs is a great option as well as Discraft if you are looking to get your hands on an official disc. 

The Ultimate Frisbee Club at the University of Cape Town imports discs yearly from Discraft and has them available for sale to the general public. Drop UCT Ultimate a follow and a message and they’ll help you out! CTFDA usually has discs available for sale too.

Cleats (soccer boots) are a helpful addition but running shoes/trainers or bare feet work just as well. Any sort of exercise clothing works too however it is recommended that you bring both a light and dark shirt (white or black ideally). This is a standard practice in the Ultimate community to differentiate teams. 

Other than that, bring along lots of water (I always joke that Ultimate is HIIT with a disc, i.e. you will be doing a lot of sprinting), some snacks to replenish electrolytes, sunblock is useful for the fair-skinned, a hat, and all the enthusiasm you have.

Coaching and training resources

The internet is littered with resources that you can use to learn more about Ultimate and how it is played. From never having touched a disc to more technical and structural knowledge, there is a resource available online for you to find and explore. A quick “How to play Ultimate” on Google helped me immeasurably when I first learnt to call it a disc and not a frisbee (more than 6 years ago).

Here are two of those resources that I’ve ground my understanding of Ultimate. The first is How To Play Ultimate “Frisbee” created by a Belgium Ultimate club called Diabolic Heaven. This animation is a great tool to understand the basics of Ultimate visually. It’s only 2 minutes long so it is a fantastic intro if you have no clue what the sport of Ultimate looks like.

The second resource is a more detailed video intro video. How to Play Ultimate Frisbee for Beginners is a voice analysis done by Rowan McDonnell of the 2012 Club Championship Mixed Finals between Polar Bears and Blackbird. This is an awesome illustration of how Ultimate is played at the top level and broken down so that even the newest players can learn and understand.

Tips to up your Ultimate game

Photo by Dharanidharan Dharanidharan

My biggest tip for any player at any level is to play. Just playing the game as much as you can will teach you how to catch, how to throw, and how to move on the field. You’ll meet so many different people with different perspectives that can contribute to your growth as an Ultimate player. 

If you are looking to take your game to the next level and become more serious about Ultimate, I would recommend that you find a team nearby that you can practise and play league matches with. This is a level-up from the previous tip and a great way to enter the competitive scene of Ultimate. 

If you are stressed for time and can’t commit to regular practices or games, getting your hands on your disc is a must to improve your throws. All you need is a buddy and an open space and you’re good to go. Not only is this a great pastime and a lot of fun, it is good exercise, great for hand-eye coordination, and a good reason to get outside and away from screens or sitting. Nothing quite as simple as a disc, a friend, and the beach has made me so easily happy. I highly recommend this tip. 

If you are getting into Ultimate and find yourself regularly attending practices and matches, cleats (Soccer boots, togs, studs, whatever you want to call them) are a must-have. Ideally, you want to find plastic studs. These will change your game as they allow you to accelerate more efficiently as well as change your direction without slipping and falling on your butt (I learnt the hard way, as you might tell). 

History of SA Ultimate

Photo by Dharanidharan Dharanidharan

The annals of Ultimate in Cape Town tell tales that the first forms of the sport were initiated as early as the 1980s. At the time Prima Toys, one of South Africa’s largest importers of games and toys (who also had a license for Frisbees in South Africa), became heavily invested in disc sports such as Ultimate and FreeStyle (a sport and performing art characterised by creative, acrobatic, and athletic maneuvers with a flying disc). And while things looked like they were talking off, it did not last long. The sport slowly started to die as committed members started leaving and finding other ventures. However, thanks to members of the community like Justin Smith who was Chair of SAFDA (South Africa Flying Disc Association), the community was kept afloat. At the time, Justin and just a handful of people were playing as much as they could, wherever they could.

In late 1997, one of the regulars had a chance encounter with the Canadian Women’s Team coach. It was then that the seed of attending Worlds (the biggest international Ultimate Frisbee tournament that takes place once every four years) was planted, which they managed to attend the following year. 

“That tournament was the first proper Ultimate tournament most of us had ever played in,  and that became the springboard for Ultimate’s growth in Cape Town.” – Ant Pascoe, Former SAFDA Chair and Founder of Chilli Ultimate. 

Shortly after this, a development program sponsored by Truworths began to teach Ultimate at schools in Khayelitsha. Pindi Mey was instrumental in that program which saw young stars like Asanda Nanise, Asanda Ntshanga, and Thabane Vusane emerge as a new generation of talent. All the while Ultimate players were growing numbers slowly from the original base of 14 players.

The Cape Town Flying Disc Association was formed alongside SAFDA as Ryan Males, a key player at the time, left for Johannesburg and started to develop the sport there as well. This led to the first South African National Ultimate Tournament taking place in 2001. Four teams attended namely Big Strong Arm, Yellow Fever, Akkediske (from Stellenbosch), and International All Stars. 

Each year saw new members enter the community and some leave as well. Slowly but surely, the community grew and Ultimate maintained itself with regular leagues taking place each year as well as Nationals. South Africa, and Cape Town in particular, was able to send teams to Worlds in 1998, and 2000. In 2004, Khaya was the first junior team to attend, which was the product of those development programs and sponsorships from the Finnish embassy. 

Photo by Dharanidharan Dharanidharan

UCT hosted regular social games with minimal rules and formalities around this time. But by happenstance, a member of the Cape Town league passed by where they were playing and shared with them that this was a legitimate sport and gave them a bit more structure with the implementation of proper fields and a stall count (a 10-second count the defending player says out loud when marking a player with the disc).

“After joining the local league and pick-up games, a bunch of us decided to start a club at UCT and got together and it was done pretty quickly. We had a lot of help from sports admin and the first year was super boosted by a bunch of US exchange students in the mix.” – Nick Zaloumis, Former CTFDA Chair and League Coordinator. 

In 2010, UCT Ultimate was formed and became a pillar in the Ultimate community in Cape Town, hosting regular practices, social games, and a space for league matches to take place. Stellenbosch University followed shortly and attended league matches as well. 

Throughout 2010 and onwards, we have seen a few clubs form and leave as interest levels change with teams like Ghost, Catch-22, Salusa, Home Bru, Viking, and Northern Lights. Currently, the league has 6 – 8 teams participating regularly and many more teams attending Nationals as well! The rest is history. 

Ready to throw a disc?

Photo by Maties Ultimate

Ultimate is an incredibly fun and exhilarating sport that takes the best parts of sports we already know and love and throws a frisbee into the mix. The casual nature of the sport, the emphasis on fair play and sportsmanship, and the gender-mixed aspects make Ultimate appealing to people of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds. 

It is worth mentioning that this article is not all exhaustive and I will have definitely missed a few things here and there. Cape Town is also littered with opportunities, communities, teams, leagues, and tournaments of all sorts for you to join and participate in. Whether it is the beach or the field, you can find something that suits you in our beautiful city!

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So if you’re feeling a bit stuck and want to explore more creative options, read on for our top recommendations!

Quick look: who to follow for updated creative workshops

The list below is some of my top recommendations, but there is honestly so much more to do in the city. It’s a creative hub, with workshops for cyanotype printing, flower pressing, natural dying, carpet making — all sorts of wonderful creative activities. I’ll be updating this list as I find more wonderful options!

So, before we jump into the general advice, here are some awesome local creatives that offer workshops in Cape Town:

• Flower Cafe — hosts several different workshops and masterclasses 
• Nadia Spencer — sun printing, screenprinting and botanical casting workshops
• Philippa Versfeld — lino printing workshops 
• Candice Christie — watercolour workshops for beginners 
• Okay Now Studio — pottery workshops 
• Creative workshop SA — polymer clay earring workshops

A recent workshop with artist Katherine Horn at Kaya Cafe

9 creative things to do in Cape Town

And now, for the more general creative experiences and ideas! Like the list above, this is sourced from my own experience and will be expanded on as I find more crafty activities in my beloved city.

Art galleries

Cape Town has some of the coolest art galleries around. Reflective of South Africa’s diversity, there is a broad range of galleries, from contemporarily fantastic to old-school grand and everything in between. 

First Thursdays

First Thursday at InkBox Gallery, Kalk Bay

The best way to experience and enjoy the galleries of Cape Town’s CBD, First Thursday occurs on the first Thursday of each month. Art galleries around the city will stay open much later than usual operating hours (don’t trust Google for open hours on First Thursday), most of them selling alcohol and giving visitors an opportunity to experience the art of Cape Town in a fun and social way, my personal favourite way to enjoy art!

Recently, First Thursdays in the Deep South have also started, with the many art galleries in Kalk Bay also opening their doors — and offering free wine and beer — to evening visitors. Muizenberg, for its part, has live music at The Commons, and a few lovely galleries also exhibiting. 

Zeits MOCCA

One of the most incredible architectural feats in Cape Town, the Zeitz MOCAA (Museum Of Contemporary Art Africa) was once a grain silo that has been reimagined into an incredible space for African artists to exhibit their work.

Youngblood Africa Art Gallery

Possibly my favourite art gallery in Cape Town, Youngblood is a stunning exhibition space for African artists to display their works, with three floors of exhibition space. There’s some really fantastic work here, they host occasional events, and also have a lovely restaurant if you want to dine among the artistry.

South African National Gallery & Irma Stern Museum

These two in particular are spaces for historical works that you may have seen in school or your text books. 

The Irma Stern Museum was once the home of the acclaimed South African artist Irma Stern. Now it serves as a vibrant space for anyone to explore her and other artists’ works.

The South African National Gallery of Art is the Mother City’s premier art space where visitors can find a collection of historical, modern, and contemporary art from artists across South Africa and beyond. Visiting this museum is an excellent way to learn about South African art history and more!

Live drawing class

If you’ve never done a live drawing class before, buckle up, and put your adult face on. 

To be serious, a live drawing class is a fantastic opportunity to study and capture the human form, in a number of interesting ways. From that fold there to the way the neck cranes and twists the back, live drawing gives you an opportunity to look and express. It’s also really fun!

Kalk Bay Community Centre

The Kalk Bay Community Centre hosts a live drawing class every Tuesday, and it’s brilliant. You bring your own materials, pay R55 at the door, and off you go. Someone will sit in the centre of a large circle of artists, and change positions with predetermined regularity. At the class I joined, we started with 10 seconds, 1 minute, up to a full 30 minute sit.

What I really enjoy about these art classes is that you can do as you see fit. One elderly gentleman sculpted the muse in clay, while others used charcoal, pencil, pastels and more. I myself chose watercolours, and while this is supposed to just be a study, not the time to create fully-fledged artworks, I have three little works I made hanging in my room, I was so pleased. 

If you are new to live drawing, I do recommend that you try more of a class format, as these can be particularly intimidating for newcomers.

Tiffany Onderstall Live Drawing 

Based in Woodstock, this is a great way to get involved in live drawing. At R160 pp with all materials included, Tiffany provides a great space for newcomers and artists alike to try live drawing in any medium. It takes place every second Wednesday of the month from 7– 9 pm so be sure to plan in advance.

En-plein-air watercolour on the mountain

Two very different examples of a landscape you can paint/sketch; next time I’ll get a shot outdoors!

We have such beautiful spaces in Cape Town to do some out-of-doors painting or sketching. Get a group of friends together, pack a picnic and some art supplies, and trek up a mountain! 

Table Mountain’s a pretty hefty hike, so a mountain like Silvermine or Little Lion’s Head is better for this. Then you can paint the views, the flowers and plants, the clouds, lichen on the rocks, a friend sitting at their own painting. It’s a beautiful way to spend a half-day. 

Cooking classes

Learning to cook Cape Malay cuisine with Faldela

Now, whoever doesn’t think of cooking as a creative activity isn’t doing it right. A South African cooking class is such a fun way to experiment with spices and flavours you don’t know well. 

We love the Cape Malay cooking class in Bo Kaap, where you learn how to make curry, samosas, roti and salsa. It’s such a fun experience — best done with a friend or partner, that you can then host a Cape Malay food night for your friends or family!

Street Art walking tour

Street art in Woodstock

Cape Town is covered in the most incredible street art. The trick is to know where to look. You could find a guided street art walking tour online which I would recommend if you are unfamiliar with the areas you are visiting. That being said, if you’d like to do this yourself, a great place to start is Woodstock — that’s where most of the tours go, anyway! 

Open mic nights

Cape Town is a city full of creatives, and open mic nights are a fantastic opportunity for these brilliant individuals to showcase their talents. Not every performer will be your cup of tea, but open mic nights are different to karaoke events, with a touch more professionalism and skill, instead of just plain eagerness.

Youngblood Gallery has recently started hosting monthly open mic nights, Armchair Theatre has a proud tradition of them,  and The House of Machines also offers regular opportunities. That being said, open mic nights are sporadic, and often hard to pin down. Here is a link to a page that shares the offerings in any given week, so if you have a sudden hankering for up and coming or unknown talent, you can take a quick look.

Pottery workshops

Pottery and mimosa date at Baikt

There are a lot of pottery workshops in Cape Town’s neighbourhoods, and they are such a wonderful way to spend a few hours! Sink your hands in some clay, get creative, and see just how far your creation falls from what you pictured in your head. Sorry, but if this is among your first few times potting, that’s just the reality! But it doesn’t matter; you made a thing. That’s the important part.  

Pottery takes about two months to bake and glaze, so you won’t get to take it home, but it’ll be another great day when you do get the call to come collect, and you can put your cute little soap dish/pen holder/wonky cup in its spot in your home.

Montebello Design Centre

With 25 different arts and craft studios and workshops, the Montebello Design Centre is one of Cape Town’s best kept secrets. Located in Newlands under the shade of trees planted more than 250 years ago, Montebello is your one-stop destination for all your creative endeavours, not just pottery.

Beading, artwork, traditional African instruments and of course, the ceramics workshops hosted by John Bauer. These are the Explosive Ceramics 101 workshops and take a unique approach to pottery and ceramic making! 

Clay Hands

A beautiful creative home for those looking to become more invested in pottery and clay. Clay Hands offers a variety of courses and classes for you to participate in. If you’re just starting out and eager to learn more, I’d recommend checking out their intro short course which is 5 weeks long and is perfect for beginners.

Clay hands also offers regular classes for all levels of experience, as well as once-off workshops that take place once or twice a month. Student discounts are available as well as catch-up classes for those who have purchased a pass but missed a day. Aprons, coffee, tea, and all the tools are provided along with clay and firing. 

Baikt

Another lovely pottery workshop, this one is hosted in Sea Point and provides drinks with your potting experience. Ideal for a crafty date! The workshops here are really cute and curated, and include mimosa Saturdays, date night, and queer events.

Beading workshops

Beading bracelets at Soul Design

Soul Design Kalk Bay

We went beading at Soul Design in Kalk Bay the other day, and it was a terrific time. You can get creative with your colours and bead types, your charms and style, and then walk off with your own creations! The location is also so beautiful, with huge windows overlooking the bay, impeccable music choices, and the option of tea or gin and tonics.

This is a creative activity I’d recommend doing with friends. Most places that provide workshops, like Soul Design, offer them for groups of 6+.

DIY beads with friends

Of course, you can also get your buddies together and bead at someone’s home. That can be just as fun, just a lot more preparation and bead-acquisition! Some recommendation I could make to make this easier are The Bead Shop in Cavendish and Big Tree Designs in Ndabeni.

Tufting your own carpet

If I’m honest, I didn’t think I’d be adding carpet tufting to this list. But its become really popular recently and for good reason — it’s darn fun! Tuft Crowd (very fun name, nicely done) offers workshops where you can tuft small to medium rugs of your own design. 

It’s a 3-hour workshop where you’ll learn how to tuft from the professionals, get plenty of assistance along the way where needed, and trim and shave the piece so that you walk away with your very own self-made rug by the end of the day.

Get creative in Cape Town

In conclusion, Cape Town stands as a vibrant haven for creatives, offering so many workshops and activities for you to explore your creative side. 

Cape Town’s artistic heartbeat is not just confined to traditional forms, but has expanded to embrace a kaleidoscope of creative activities. So, whether you’re a seasoned artist or a novice looking to explore your creative side, Cape Town welcomes you with open arms and a palette of possibilities!

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Many of our public holidays have deep roots in our country’s social and political struggles. For instance, Freedom Day is about remembering our first democratic elections in 1994, while Youth Day pays tribute to the young adults who fought and died for equal education during the Soweto Uprising. Days that we as a country should remember and celebrate as important moments in a difficult past.

New Year’s Day (January 1)

New Year’s Day in South Africa is a festive occasion celebrated globally, signifying the start of a new calendar year. Similar to traditions worldwide, South Africans usher in the New Year with parties, family gatherings, and spectacular fireworks displays. The day holds universal significance, allowing people to reflect on the past, set goals for the future, and embrace the promise of a fresh start.

Human Rights Day (March 21)

March 21st, Human Rights Day in South Africa, serves as a solemn remembrance of the Sharpeville Massacre in 1960. This tragic event unfolded when police fired on a peaceful anti-passbook protest in Sharpeville, resulting in 69 deaths and 180 wounded. The brutality of it became an early catalyst for the global anti-apartment movement, which was so influential in finally winning freedom.

Human Rights Day stands as an important reminder of the country’s struggle against apartheid and emphasizes the principles of human rights, equality, and dignity for all. It fosters reflection on the progress made and the ongoing commitment to a just and democratic society.

A still from video ‘Sharpeville: A Model Township’, 17 March 1990

Good Friday and Easter Monday

Good Friday, a Christian holiday observed worldwide, commemorates the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. In many South African households, it is a day for religious reflection and rituals. 

Easter Monday follows Easter Sunday, extending the holiday period for reflection, family gatherings, and outdoor activities. While not tied to specific historical events in South Africa, these days are marked by a blend of Christian traditions and leisure. You’ll find people in many parts of the country celebrating outdoors with friends and family, at beaches, parks, and other public spaces.

Freedom Day (April 27)

April 27th, Freedom Day, holds immense significance in South Africa, marking the transition from apartheid to democracy. It commemorates the first non-racial, democratic elections in 1994, symbolising the end of apartheid and the dawn of a new era of freedom, equality, and unity. 

Freedom Day is a time for reflection on the sacrifices made during the struggle for democracy and a celebration of the principles that underpin the country’s foundation.

Workers’ Day (May 1)

May 1st, Workers’ Day, globally celebrates the labour movement, and in South Africa, it honours the 1973 labour strike in Durban. This strike, fueled by protests against poor working conditions and apartheid restrictions on labour unions, marked a pivotal moment in the labour movement’s history. Workers’ Day underscores the contributions of labourers, advocating for fair practices and improved conditions while commemorating the historical struggles for workers’ rights. There’s still more to be fought for, in our unequal and 

Youth Day (June 17)

Youth Day on June 16th pays tribute to the pivotal role played by young people in the struggle against apartheid, particularly during the Soweto Uprising in 1976. The day emphasizes the importance of education, unity, and the rights of young South Africans. 

The Soweto Uprising, sparked by protests against mandatory Afrikaans instruction, resulted in tragic confrontations with the police. Youth Day commemorates the bravery and sacrifice of the youth, serving as a reminder of the ongoing commitment to education and social justice.

Creator: City Press | Credit: Getty Images; Copyright: 2013 Gallo Images (PTY) LTD

National Women’s Day (August 9)

National Women’s Day, observed on August 9th, commemorates the 1956 women’s march to the Union Buildings in Pretoria. The march protested against apartheid’s pass laws, part of the significant contributions of women to the struggle for freedom and equality in South Africa. 

This day celebrates the strength and resilience of South African women, emphasizing gender equality and acknowledging the pivotal role they played in shaping the nation’s history.

Protesters at the 1956 Women’s March; image sourced from The Civil Rights Movement of South Africa

Heritage Day (September 24)

Heritage Day, officially recognized as a public holiday in 1996, encourages South Africans to celebrate their diverse cultural heritage. Initially rooted in Shaka Day, which commemorated the Zulu king Shaka Zulu, Heritage Day expanded to include all cultural traditions in the post-apartheid era. On this day, people embrace and share their cultural practices, fostering understanding and unity among different cultural groups.

Day of Reconciliation (December 16)

The Day of Reconciliation, observed on December 16th, calls for reflection on South Africa’s history of division and conflict. Initially known as the Day of the Vow, commemorating the Battle of Blood River, it was transformed post-apartheid to promote national unity and reconciliation. 

The day symbolizes the country’s commitment to overcoming historical divisions, fostering forgiveness, and building a more inclusive and harmonious society.

Christmas Day (December 25)

Christmas Day in South Africa blends Christian traditions with cultural celebrations. Commemorating the birth of Jesus Christ, it holds deep spiritual significance for many. In this multicultural and multi-religious society, Christmas involves festive decorations, family gatherings, and the exchange of gifts. We also have Christmas markets dotted around the city (although they’re not as impressive as the European markets, a lot smaller scale), and a switching on of the lights.

Day of Goodwill (Boxing Day) (December 26)

The Day of Goodwill, observed on December 26th, aligns with the global tradition of Boxing Day. Rooted in acts of charity and kindness, South Africans use this day to give back to their communities. While the historical origins of the term “Boxing Day” are debated, its emphasis on charitable actions resonates with the broader values of social responsibility and community involvement. It serves as a meaningful addition to the holiday season, reinforcing the spirit of generosity and goodwill.

If you want to give back on Boxing Day, your community will likely have an initiative to join — or you can check out our guide on where to volunteer in Cape Town.

Celebrate our public holidays

While there aren’t public events to join for every public holiday in South Africa — particularly not outside of the cities — every workplace should provide leave on these days.

Celebrate with your friends and families, look into the history of these days and why they’re so important to us, and consider doing some good for your fellow South Africans.

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