Why holiday in the Western Cape

One of the world’s most beautiful destinations for a holiday, the wonderful Western Cape offers unmatched scenery, cultural diversity and a magnificent coastline with exquisite white-sand beaches fringed by the azure sea. Cape Town, the Mother City, boasts the iconic Table Mountain as its backdrop and offers a variety of scenic and active attractions, from mountain climbing to exploring the city’s history at the Castle of Goodhope, Company's Garden, Bo Kaap and more. A short drive from the city centre, Simons Town makes for a delightful day trip. Explore the town's naval history, tuck into fresh seafood at a quayside restaurant, and visit with the resident African penguin colony at Boulders Beach.

The nearby Cape Winelands offer opportunities to explore world-renowned wine estates in Stellenbosch, Paarl and Franschhoek – the Gourmet Capital of South Africa. But that’s not all. In the 'valley of wine and roses' at the heart of Route 62 – the longest wine route in the world, Robertson is a charming town to explore on a day trip or longer stay. Also set along Route 62 is the small town of Montagu, a village packed with historical attractions and an almost endless variety of active adventures. A short drive inland will take you to Ceres, a mountainous area that incorporates beautiful towns such as Clanwilliam, Riebeek Kasteel and Tulbagh. Further afield, the wide horizons and haunting arid landscapes of the Karoo beckon adventurers and those seeking secluded holidays in a unique setting.

The Western Cape is also home to Hermanus, on the Whale Coast, which offers unmatched whale watching between June and November every year. The town is a great starting point from which to launch an adventure in the stunning Garden Route on the south-east coast, with its glorious natural beauty, ancient forests, excellent beaches, picturesque lagoons, lakes and mountain ranges. In contrast, the West Coast stretches along the cold Atlantic coastline and is dotted with picturesque seaside towns, including the popular village of Paternoster, famous for its blue and white cottages.

Why we love holidays in the Western Cape

The breathtaking white-sand beaches are some of the world’s best.
You can see awe-inspiring natural beauty wherever you travel.
In spring, the West Coast interior transforms into a kaleidoscope of colour when the wildflowers cover the landscape in blankets of vivid hues.
There are so many beautiful places to visit, from Cape Town and its many museums and art galleries to the small towns along the Whale Coast.
You can go on a Big 5 safari just a few hours from Cape Town, such as Aquila, Gondwana and Sanbona Private Game Reserves.
There are incredible adrenaline-pumping adventures to enjoy, including paragliding, deep-sea fishing, snorkelling and many more.
The food is delicious – many of the country’s top restaurants are located here.
It’s home to Hermanus, the whale watching capital of the world.

With its mild climate, breathtaking scenery, never-ending list of sights to see and things to do, the Western Cape is a holiday paradise for families, couples and road-tripping friends. So pack those bags and contact Thompsons Holidays to organise your Western Cape holiday package.

Things to do in the Western Cape

Western Cape holidays are all about natural beauty. Its mountains, beaches, vineyards, villages and cities provide the perfect canvas on which to create your ideal holiday. This magnificent province offers a wide selection of holiday destinations, depending on what type of activities and attractions you are hoping to enjoy. Adventurers, head to Ceres and explore the mountains, rock art and haunting landscapes in one of the province's most unique regions. Foodies, the world is your oyster in the Western Cape. Literally! Head to Knysna for the annual Oyster Festival or the Cape Winelands, the culinary heart of the country. Go whale watching in Hermanus, see the wildflowers on the West Coast, or explore the famous Garden Route.

Of course, no Western Cape holiday is complete without a stay in Cape Town, where your choice of things to do runs the gamut from exploring historical attractions to discovering the modern cosmopolitan city and living like a local. Whether you’re after a secluded getaway with your partner, a chance to connect and enjoy some fun with the family, or an action-packed time with friends, you can do it all in this beautiful province. The Western Cape is full of treasures, so you can come back time and again to enjoy them all.

Things to do in the Western Cape

Take a wine tasting tour through the Cape Winelands.
Climb up Table Mountain.
Take a free walking tour around Cape Town.
Enjoy whale watching on a boat tour in Hermanus.
Explore the West Coast on a Flower Tour.
Glide through the Spier vineyards on a Segway tour.
Enjoy blackwater tubing in Tsitsikamma National Park.
Experience the iconic John Benn Cruise on the Knysna Lagoon while savouring Knysna oysters.
See ostriches up close on a safari in Oudtshoorn.
Explore the legendary Cango Caves.
Enjoy the coffee culture in the Mother City, at a choice of excellent coffee bars.
See the quirky penguins while you soak up the sun on Boulders Beach.

Our list of exciting things to do in the Western Cape is just a taste of what to expect on holiday. So contact Thompsons Holidays right away, and let us put together the ultimate Western Cape holiday package for you.

Know before you go...

When is the best time to visit?

The Western Cape has a Mediterranean climate, with hot, dry summers and cold, rainy winters.
The best time to visit the Western Cape is from March to May and September to December.
Summer is the high season, but winter can be a magical time to holiday in the Western Cape and take advantage of all the seasonal specials.

Getting there

The Western Cape is serviced by two airports: Cape Town International Airport and George Airport.
Flight duration from Johannesburg to Cape Town: approximately 2 hours.
Flight duration from Johannesburg to George: approximately 2 hours.

What can I do to be a responsible traveller?

Be water-wise. The Western Cape is a water-scarce region and visitors need to use water as sparingly as possible.
Support the local economy. Wherever possible, buy local food and souvenirs and support local artisans.