Today is free for you to explore under your own steam and there is ample choice on how to spend your day.
If you want to visit Robben Island, this morning is the best time to go. With prior booking, you can visit the infamous Robben Island, the former prison where Nelson Mandela was incarcerated. There are departures at 9am, 11am and 1pm but the city's changeable weather often means the earlier morning departures are the most reliable. For information on how to book this, please see the optional activities section or visit www.robben-island.org.za.
Alternatively, the morning is also the best time to hike up Table Mountain, with more reliable weather and cooler temperatures making a better experience and breath taking views over the Apostles, the Atlantic and the city below. The walk up to the viewpoint takes between three to four hours and is accompanied by our Explore Leader. There is also the option to take the aerial cable car to the top, which runs frequently to and from the summit, where a network of trails criss-cross the plateau and provide a variety of vantage points.
While a Robben Island visit and cable-car visit to Table Mountain can be completed in the same day, time does not allow you to visit Robben Island and hike up Table Mountain, therefore, you need to choose between Robben Island and the Table Mountain hike, or alternatively book a pre-trip stay to give yourself more time.
Another option is to take a trip to the Kirstenbosch National Botanical Gardens, which claims to be the most beautiful garden in Africa and is devoted to conservation of the Cape's indigenous species. Your Explore Leader will be able to give further local advice and recommendations on the optional activities.
Late this afternoon, we'll leave Cape Town and head to the scenic winelands of Stellenbosch where you can relax with a sundowner on the terrace. Our hotel has a restaurant and there are a small selection of eateries just a short walk away.
Please note: Both Robben Island and Table Mountain are weather dependant. Table Mountain's cableway is closed for two weeks at the end of July for maintenance.
Please note: Table Mountain's cableway is closed for two weeks at the end of July for maintenance.