Cape Peninsula Day Tour

Article published at: Oct 7, 2025 Article author: Toine Swart Article tag: Boulders Beach Penguin Colony
Cape Peninsula Day Tour
All Big 6 Blogs

Cape Peninsula Day Tour – Where Oceans and Beauty Meet

Experience one of the most breathtaking coastal routes in the world with a Cape Peninsula Day Tour — a journey through rugged landscapes, dramatic cliffs, charming seaside towns, and iconic landmarks where the Atlantic and Indian Oceans meet.
This unforgettable full-day experience showcases the very best of the Cape — from Chapman’s Peak Drive and Cape Point to Boulders Beach’s penguins, with stops at local gems along the way.


What to Expect on the Cape Peninsula Tour


🏖️ Hout Bay & Chapman’s Peak Drive

  • Begin your adventure with a scenic drive along the Atlantic Seaboard, passing Camps Bay and Llandudno.

  • Stop at Hout Bay Harbour, a vibrant fishing village surrounded by towering mountains.

    • Explore the market stalls and cafés.

    • Take an optional boat trip to Seal Island to see hundreds of Cape fur seals basking in the sun.

  • Continue along Chapman’s Peak Drive, one of the world’s most beautiful coastal roads, carved into the mountain with sweeping ocean views and dramatic cliffside lookouts.

💰 Chapman’s Peak Toll Fee: ± R61 per vehicle (paid at the Hout Bay Toll Plaza; card or cash accepted).

🛥️ Optional Seal Island Boat Trip


🗺️ Cape Point Nature Reserve & Cape of Good Hope

  • Enter the Cape Point section of Table Mountain National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site rich in wildlife and fynbos vegetation.

  • Visit the Cape of Good Hope, the most south-western point of the African continent — a must for every traveller’s photo collection.

  • Ride the Flying Dutchman Funicular (optional) or walk up to the historic Cape Point Lighthouse for panoramic views of the cliffs and crashing waves below.

  • Spot baboons, ostriches, antelope, and seabirds along the trails, and keep an eye out for dolphins or whales offshore.


🐧 Boulders Beach Penguin Colony – Simon’s Town

  • Visit the famous Boulders Beach, home to a colony of endangered African Penguins.

  • Stroll along the wooden boardwalks for close-up views of these charismatic birds in their natural habitat.

  • Enjoy the tranquil coves and white-sand beaches surrounded by granite boulders — perfect for photos.


🌊 Simon’s Town & False Bay Coastline

  • Explore the historic naval town of Simon’s Town, with its quaint Victorian architecture, harbour, and naval museum.

  • Continue along the False Bay coastline through Fish Hoek, Kalk Bay, and Muizenberg.

    • Stop at Kalk Bay Harbour for a quick visit to its art galleries and quirky cafés.

    • Take photos of Muizenberg’s colourful beach huts, one of Cape Town’s most iconic landmarks.


Getting There

All Cape Peninsula tours depart from Cape Town, with pickup from your accommodation (for guided tours) or self-drive options available.

🕗 Typical Departure: 08:00 – 09:00
🕔 Return Time: 17:00 – 18:00

The total route covers approximately 180 km round trip, offering spectacular views at every turn.

Transport Options

  • 🚗 Self-Drive: Ideal for independent travellers. Car rentals are widely available in Cape Town, and major roads are well-maintained.

  • 🚐 Guided Tour: Choose a private or small-group tour with hotel pickup, professional guides, and all entry fees arranged.

  • 🚌 City Sightseeing: The Blue Mini Peninsula Tour (Hop-On Hop-Off bus) covers major stops, including Hout Bay and Kirstenbosch.

💡 Tip: For the most relaxing experience, opt for a fully guided tour that includes transport, entrance fees, and local insights.


Dining Along the Route

The Cape Peninsula offers a variety of dining experiences, from seaside cafés to fine dining restaurants with panoramic views.

🍴 Popular Stops:

  • Harbour House (Kalk Bay): Elegant seafood with ocean views.

  • Two Oceans Restaurant (Cape Point): Fresh, local ingredients served at the edge of the continent.

  • Simon’s Town Waterfront Café: Relaxed meals and coffee overlooking the marina.

  • Chapman’s Peak Hotel (Hout Bay): Famous for its legendary calamari.

There are also numerous picnic spots within Cape Point Nature Reserve if you prefer to pack lunch and enjoy a scenic outdoor meal.


Shopping

  • Cape Point Curio Shop: Find locally made souvenirs, books, and wildlife-themed gifts.

  • Boulders Beach Gift Shop: Penguin plushies, crafts, and coastal keepsakes.

  • Kalk Bay Village: Browse art galleries, antique stores, and handmade jewellery boutiques.

  • Hout Bay Market: Open on weekends with local crafts, organic produce, and live music.


Fees

Cape Point Nature Reserve (Standard Entry Fees)

(subject to change – check official SANParks rates before visiting)

  • Adults (South African ID): R105

  • Children (South African ID): R55

  • Adults (Non-SA): R455

  • Children (Non-SA): R225

Flying Dutchman Funicular (Optional):

  • Return Trip: Adults R105, Children R55

Boulders Beach Penguin Colony (TMNP Entry):

  • Adults (South African ID): R50

  • Children (South African ID): R25

  • Adults (Non-SA): R215

  • Children (Non-SA): R105

Chapman’s Peak Drive Toll:

  • Passenger Vehicles: R66

🎟️ Book tickets for all attractions directly via the official SANParks and City of Cape Town websites for up-to-date pricing and availability: CLICK HERE TO BOOK


Tips for Guides and Drivers

Tipping is appreciated in South Africa for excellent service:

  • Tour guides: 10–15% of the tour cost.

  • Drivers: R50–R100 per day (depending on service level).


Travel Tips

  • Arrive early: To avoid queues and enjoy quiet photo stops.

  • Bring cash or cards: Some viewpoints and tolls only accept on-site payments.

  • Dress in layers: Weather can change quickly along the coastline.

  • Pack water, sunscreen, and a hat.

  • Watch for wildlife: Baboons and ostriches are common — keep a respectful distance.

  • Fuel up: There are no petrol stations inside the reserve.

 


Final Word

A Cape Peninsula Day Tour is the ultimate Cape Town experience — combining ocean vistas, wildlife encounters, and dramatic natural beauty into one unforgettable journey.
From the penguins of Boulders Beach to the towering cliffs of Cape Point, every moment along the Peninsula feels like a postcard come to life.

Whether you self-drive or join a guided tour, this day trip promises spectacular scenery, rich culture, and timeless memories.

Share: