‍

On our way to a hunting trip in the Eastern Cape, my wife Kristi and I spent several unforgettable days exploring the beautiful and complex city of Cape Town, South Africa. As a history enthusiast, I was especially eager to dive into the rich and sometimes difficult past of the region, and I can honestly say—Cape Town exceeded every expectation. It’s a destination that combines stunning natural beauty, deep historical roots, vibrant culture, and world-class food and wine, all in one incredibly accessible package.

A City Built on History

Cape Town is one of the oldest cities in Southern Africa, originally established by the Dutch East India Company in 1652. The Dutch settled in what is now known as the Cape of Good Hope, building a supply station for ships traveling between Europe and Asia. Jan van Riebeeck led the original expedition, and the establishment eventually expanded into a colony, with farms, forts, and trading posts. This colonial foundation shaped much of South Africa’s early history, from the introduction of vineyards to the complex interactions between Dutch settlers, indigenous Khoikhoi people, and later British colonialists. Understanding this early history adds valuable context to everything you see and experience in the city today.

The Legacy of Nelson Mandela and Robben Island

One of the most moving and powerful experiences Kristi and Ishared was visiting Robben Island, the infamous prison where Nelson Mandela washeld for 18 years. Visiting Robben Island is like stepping back in time. The ferry ride across the bay is somber, and when you walk the halls of the prison—many led by former inmates—you can feel the weight of South Africa’s painful apartheid past. It was truly life-changing, and I would recommend it to anyone seeking a deeper understanding of South Africa’s journey to democracy.

Boulders Beach: Penguins in the Wild

On a lighter note, one of the most fun and unexpected highlights of our trip was visiting Boulders Beach, home to a large colony of African Penguins. It’s something else to see penguins—not in a zoo, but waddling around on the beach and diving through the surf in their natural habitat. This protected area is just outside of Simon’s Town and is part of Table Mountain National Park. The board walks make it easy to get close without disturbing the penguins, and the experience is fun for travelers of all ages.

Cape Wine Country: Stellenbosch & Franschhoek

No visit to Cape Town is complete without a day—or several—in the nearby Cape Winelands. Kristi and I toured both Stellenbosch and Franschhoek, charming towns nestled among rolling hills, vineyards, and dramatic mountains. The wine here is not just good—it’s world-class. Guided tours made the experience seamless and educational, as we visited multiple wineries, learned about the wine making process, and (unsurprisingly) got a bit tipsy along the way. It’s easy to fall in love with the relaxed pace, gourmet food, and crisp glasses of Chenin Blanc and Pinotage. Shoshone Adventure Consulting partners with trusted local tour operators to offer affordable, all-inclusive guided tours throughout Cape Town, including the Winelands. Having a knowledgeable local guide adds so much depth—you get insights and stories you’d never hear otherwise.

Natural Wonders: Table Mountain, Lion’s Head & SignalHill

Cape Town is known for its iconic landscape, and nothing defines the city skyline like Table Mountain. Weather permitting, you can take a cable car to the top for panoramic views of the city, ocean, and surrounding peaks. Kristi and I were lucky to catch a clear day, and it was nothing short of breath taking.

Adjacent to Table Mountain are Lion’s Head and Signal Hill, both popular hiking and viewing points. Signal Hill, in particular, has a fascinating past—it was historically used to signal the arrival of ships into Cape Town’s harbor, using flags during the day and cannons at night. The famous Noon Gun still fires from Signal Hill daily, a tradition that dates back to 1806.

The Cape of Good Hope: Where Oceans Collide

We also made the scenic drive down to the Cape of Good Hope, the southwestern tip of Africa where the Atlantic and Indian Oceans meet. It’s a dramatic and rugged coastline, full of crashing waves, wind-blown cliffs, and panoramic ocean views. Standing at the edge of the continent, looking out over the sea, you get a sense of just how big and wild the world really is. It’s a humbling and awe-inspiring place—and an easy addition to any Cape Town itinerary.

Medical Milestones: The Christiaan Barnard Museum

As someone fascinated by history, one of the most interesting and lesser-known stops was the Christiaan Barnard Museum, located at Groote Schuur Hospital. Dr. Barnard performed the world’s first successful human heart transplant here in 1967, marking a turning point in medical history. The museum walks you through the groundbreaking operation, the international reaction, and the lasting impact of Barnard’s work. I’ve read several books about Dr. Barnard over the years, and seeing the surgical theater and original equipment in person was absolutely fascinating.

Cape Town: Easy to Reach, Hard to Forget

One of the great things about Cape Town is how easy it is to get to. The city is served by major international airlines with direct flights from Europe, the Middle East, and other African hubs, making it a convenient stopover or addition to any South African hunting safari. Cape Town is a vibrant, exciting destination with something for everyone—history, wildlife, shopping, cuisine, adventure, and culture. With incredible food, friendly people, and unforgettable scenery, it’s no wonder more and more Shoshone clients are choosing to add a few days in Cape Town before or after their hunts.

Whether you’re sipping wine in the hills of Stellenbosch, walking with penguins at Boulders Beach, or standing in the cell where Mandela spent decades fighting for freedom, Cape Town leaves a lasting impression. And the best part? Shoshone Adventure Consulting can help you plan it all—from flights and accommodations to guided tours and excursions. Whether it’s your first trip or your tenth, Cape Town never disappoints.

Peyton Merideth is the CEO of Shoshone Adventure Consulting.

‍

‍