What are you looking for?

Hello traveller!

It's in Cape Town now.

We're sorry. Our safari planners aren't available now. Our office hours are 08:00 - 19:00 (GMT+2).

Call us to speak to an experienced safari planner.


Alternatively, we recommend...

travel-form-icon

Complete our travel enquiry form to connect with a safari planner

ENQUIRE TODAY

Last Updated: 20 February 2024

Discover the Small Towns Outside of Cape Town

Devryn Panaino Headshot

Written by  Tiffany Bowers

 • Travel Writer

Verified by  Devryn Panaino

 •  Africa Safari Expert

Part of the Cape Town Safari Collection

The new year brings the continued allure of summer in Cape Town. This vibrant city, known for its dynamic activities, stunning landscapes, and unique accommodations, promises an unforgettable experience.

Ideal for both international visitors and locals, exploring the quaint towns around Cape Town enriches any South African adventure. Let’s delve into some captivating small towns that are a must-visit.

Simon’s Town

Situated just 40 km from Cape Town’s bustling centre, Simon’s Town is not only steeped in history and home to South Africa’s largest naval base but also a community with a heartwarming aura. The town has expanded its offerings beyond the renowned Boulders Beach, allowing visitors to explore secluded coves where African Penguins live.

Penguins around Boulders Beach, Cape Town
Penguins around Boulders Beach, Cape Town

A minimal entry fee opens the door to these tranquil locations, creating a unique beach experience where visitors can witness wildlife in harmony with nature. Personalised day tours are also available, providing deeper insights into the town’s rich history and culture, with the convenience of pick-up and drop-off from your accommodation.

Franschhoek

An hour’s drive from Cape Town, Franschhoek stands as a gastronome’s paradise against the stunning backdrop of the Cape Winelands. This town has extended its appeal to include interactive wine-making workshops with local vintners and the opportunity to learn the intricacies of wine pairing with traditional South African dishes.

Franschhoek Wine Tram.
Franschhoek Wine Tram.

For the more adventurous, guided hikes through vineyards and mountain biking trails are available, adding an adventurous element to the wine country experience.

Langebaan

Langebaan is about 90 minutes from Cape Town along the picturesque R27 and is renowned for its exceptional seafood and rich local culture. This coastal town has enhanced its leisure offerings, including opportunities for fishing with local fishermen and various water sports such as kite surfing and paddleboarding.

spring in langebaan on the West coast
Spring in Langebaan on the West coast of South Africa

The nearby casino and golf course have expanded their activities to include themed events and family-friendly options like mini-golf tournaments, catering to visitors of all ages.

Hermanus

Located 125 km southeast of Cape Town, Hermanus is globally celebrated for whale-watching. This seaside town now offers an interactive whale-watching experience led by marine biologists, providing an educational perspective on these magnificent creatures.

Whale Watching in Hermanus
Whale Watching in Hermanus

Additionally, Hermanus has diversified its event calendar, hosting various cultural and food festivals throughout the year, which celebrate the town’s heritage and culinary delights alongside the famous Whale Festival.

The area surrounding Cape Town is dotted with numerous other charming towns, such as Darling, Tulbagh, Stellenbosch, and Grabouw, each offering a unique holiday experience.

Each town around Cape Town presents an opportunity to create lasting memories. Cape Town is more than just a destination; it’s a gateway to various unforgettable experiences, perfect for rejuvenating and spending quality time with loved ones. Plan your journey with Discover Africa to these towns today.

Written by  Tiffany Bowers

 • Travel Writer

Team Member Headshot

Verified by  Devryn Panaino

 •  Africa Safari Expert

Devryn is a passionate safari consultant and Southern African specialist with over 10 years of safari and travel experience.

Discover the African Journey that’s Right for You

Discover Africa Through Travellers' Stories

These stories capture the real magic of Africa – where every journey becomes a chapter worth sharing.

The true magic, though, is with the people. They’re not just staff; they’re my friends, my family.

JJ Towler

United States

Matthys Van Aswegen

JJ Towler's journey was crafted with the expertise of Matthys Van Aswegen

I went to Africa to help my parents check a box, but I returned with a new perspective on my own life. Africa is no longer a "someday" destination for me; it’s a "must-return".

Steven

United States

Vihann Van Wyk

Steven's journey was crafted with the expertise of Vihann Van Wyk

We trusted our guide implicitly as we sat mere metres from elephants, lions, and hippos.

Cathy & Debb

Canada

Vihann Van Wyk

Cathy & Debb's journey was crafted with the expertise of Vihann Van Wyk

The Serengeti offered us sights we had never witnessed before, such as the surreal image of lions lounging high in the trees

Cathy & Nat

Canada

What Our Guests Have to Say?

Read recent reviews from travellers who have planned and booked their trips with us

star-iconstar-iconstar-iconstar-iconstar-icon
Trustpilot review

"After a 10-day trip to South Africa with my wife, I'm still raving about the experience Discover Africa put together for us. We worked with Matthys Van Aswegen, who was fantastic from start to finish. He listened to what we wanted, rolled with a few changes..."

Eric Moore, United States•15 Sep 2026•

Read More
star-iconstar-iconstar-iconstar-iconstar-icon
Trustpilot review

"Chrizaan was wonderful. She took our requests to heart and created a once in a lifetime trip for us. The transportation was arranged flawlessly and the safaris were breathtaking. We saw so much and did so much but it didn’t feel rushed. I would recommend Ch..."

Jacqueline Berkebile, United States•28 May 2026•

Read More
star-iconstar-iconstar-iconstar-iconstar-icon
Trustpilot review

"We worked with Discover Africa to arrange our first ever Safari. Chrizaan from Discover Africa did a tremendous job in first understanding our requirements and wishes and then translating them into the perfect trip for us! Everything was organized to the..."

Elke Bregler, United States•21 Apr 2026•

Read More
star-iconstar-iconstar-iconstar-iconstar-icon
Safari Bookings review

"After discovering a high number of camps in and around the Okavango, and at a price higher than we typically go for on a safari, we were very unsure on the route to go down for our honeymoon (especially whilst trying to planning our wedding!). So we reached..."

Rhys and Grace Fitzgerald, Bahrain•10 Apr 2026•

Read More
star-iconstar-iconstar-iconstar-iconstar-icon
Trustpilot review

"We had a wonderful safari experience, and Justin from Discover Africa made everything seamless from start to finish. Communication before the trip was clear and helpful, and we felt well supported throughout. Some truly special moments including the fant..."

Tim Curtis, Netherlands•18 Feb 2026•

Read More
star-iconstar-iconstar-iconstar-iconstar-icon
Trustpilot review

"We travelled last August on a trip planned with Dev at Discover Africa. It was a family trip that i wanted us to remember forever and we definetly will! We could not have had an easier or more wonderful time and we would never have been able to plan and man..."

Megan Gray, United Kingdom•16 Feb 2026•

Read More
View All Testimonials

Our safari traveller reviews are independently verified and sourced from trusted third-party review platforms.