The 11 best adventure activities in Cape Town

When it comes to exciting things to do in Cape Town, you’re in for a treat. Cape Town offers a wide range of thrilling activities that are sure to get your adrenaline pumping. Here are 11 of the best adventure activities to try:

1. Shark Cage Diving

Diving into the crystal blue waters of Cape Town and coming face to face with a great white shark is an experience like no other. If you’re a thrill-seeker, this is a must-try activity.

2. Table Mountain Hike

A hike up Table Mountain is a challenging but rewarding adventure. As you make your way to the summit, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the city and the Atlantic Ocean.

3. Paragliding

Soar through the skies like a bird with a paragliding adventure. Experience the thrill of flying above Cape Town’s beautiful landscapes while taking in the stunning views.

4. Abseiling off Table Mountain

If you’re looking for an adrenaline rush, why not try abseiling off the iconic Table Mountain? Descend down the side of the mountain for an exhilarating experience.

5. Cape Peninsula Bike Tour

Explore the scenic Cape Peninsula on a bike tour. Cycle along the coastal roads, taking in the breathtaking views and stopping at various attractions along the way.

6. Sandboarding in Atlantis Dunes

For an adrenaline-packed activity, try sandboarding in the majestic Atlantis Dunes. Slide down the sandy slopes and experience the thrill of this unique adventure.

7. Kiteboarding in Bloubergstrand

If you’re a water sports enthusiast, don’t miss the chance to try kiteboarding in Bloubergstrand. Feel the wind in your hair as you glide across the waves.

8. Zip-lining in Constantia

Zip through the treetops of Constantia on a thrilling zip-lining adventure. Enjoy the rush of adrenaline as you fly through the air and take in the beautiful surroundings.

9. Surfing in Muizenberg

Cape Town is known for its excellent surfing conditions. Head to Muizenberg and catch some waves as you learn to surf in the beautiful coastal setting.

10. Kayaking with Penguins

Get up close and personal with African penguins on a kayaking adventure in Simon’s Town. Paddle alongside these charismatic creatures and enjoy the unique experience.

11. Helicopter Tour of Cape Town

See Cape Town from a whole new perspective with a thrilling helicopter tour. Fly over the city and take in the iconic landmarks from above.

With these 11 adventure activities to choose from, you’re bound to find something that gets your heart racing. So, are you ready to embark on an adventure in Cape Town?

Can you believe it? Would you dare to try it? Take a look at these 11 thrilling adventures in Cape Town that will get your heart pumping and your adrenaline flowing!

Imagine this: a dramatic landmass surrounded by stormy seas and topped with towering mountains. That’s the Cape Peninsula, jutting out like a talon from the southern tip of the continent. It’s a place where extreme adventures come to life, offering an unforgettable experience.

And that’s where the magic happens. The idea was born to create a three-day challenge that showcases the best of what this world-class destination has to offer.

The goal? To gradually work your way up to the ultimate thrill of skydiving. You’ll start slow, engaging in activities that chip away at your fear and heighten your senses. By the time you find yourself at the door of that plane, you’ll be so overwhelmed with excitement that fear will be a distant memory.

1. Seal Snorkelling in Hout Bay

Hey there! I’ve got some exciting news for you. Animal Ocean offers amazing tours that you wouldn’t want to miss. They have tours at 9:30am, 11:30am, and 1:30pm every day, and you’ll start from Hout Bay harbor. But here’s the best part – you’ll actually meet at their offices in Albert Road. How cool is that?

If you’re into capturing incredible moments, you can even rent a GoPro with an underwater casing. Just imagine the breathtaking footage you could get!

Are you ready for an adventure? Call them at 072 296 9132 or visit their website animalocean.co.za to book your tour.

2. Get Your Adrenaline Rush with Ziplining in Constantia Nek

When it comes to tours with SA Forest Adventures, you have four different options to choose from: 9:30am, 11:30am, 1:30pm, and 3:30pm. I highly recommend going on one of these tours because they offer a unique experience. Just keep in mind that there isn’t much shade on the tour and it can be tricky to wear a hat under your helmet, so make sure to pack some sunscreen. Don’t worry about staying hydrated though, because water is provided along the way.

If you have any questions or want to book a tour, you can reach SA Forest Adventures at 021 795 0225. You can also visit their website at saforestadventures.co.za for more information.

3. Drive a Cape Cobra

Hey there! So, you’ve got your rented Cobra and you’re ready for an adventure along the scenic coastal route to Cape Point. But guess what? You’re the boss! You can also venture into the Winelands or the Overberg if that’s where your heart takes you.

If you’re feeling up for some excitement, how about kayaking in Granger Bay? It’s a fantastic activity that will get your heart racing and fill your day with unforgettable memories.

Hey there! Let me tell you about a fantastic two-hour tour that you’re going to love. It starts from the V&A Waterfront and takes you past the charming Green Point lighthouse. And you know what’s even better? You get to cruise back to the base afterward!

Now, I know you’re wondering about the tour times. Well, you have two options: 7:30am and 10:30am. Take your pick!

If you’re excited to embark on this thrilling adventure, you can give us a call at 081 863 3622. We’d be thrilled to have you join us!

Oh, and if you want to learn more about this amazing tour and other great offerings, you should definitely check out our website atlanticoutlook.com. It’s packed with all the information you need!

5. Hiking Kloof Corner Ridge

When I went hiking with Santonio “Tony” Jonkers and Johan October, it not only eased my worries but also allowed me to discover hidden gems along the way. It was an eye-opening experience that made me appreciate the beauty of nature even more. In addition to hiking, Tony also offers kayaking tours in Hout Bay, where he hails from.

Contact Tony at 062 348 8446 for an unforgettable adventure.

6. Exploring Table Mountain on Scootours

When it comes to exploring the mountain, Scootours offers a unique and exciting way to do it. Imagine riding a bicycle with really big wheels and no seat or pedals – that’s what it feels like! It’s a simple and fun way to soak in the beautiful views while having a thrilling adventure.

Tours are available at 10am, 12:30pm, and 3pm, so you can choose a time that works best for you. It’s a great activity for families with young children, as they can stand in front of their parents and enjoy the ride. Older kids, around nine years old and up, can even handle the scooter on their own.

For more information and to book your Scootours experience, you can call 082 776 0557 or visit their website at scootours.co.za.

7. Paragliding

Tandem flights are available all day from 7:40am to 5:40pm. You can park at Signal Hill and enjoy an 8-10 minute flight down to the Sea Point promenade. But, keep in mind that the flights are dependent on the weather. Cape Town’s winds can be unpredictable, so there may be last-minute cancellations through WhatsApp if the wind decides to misbehave.

If you’re interested, you can contact them at 082 881 4724 or visit their website at parapax.co.za.

Now, let’s move on to another exciting option: helicopter rides.

‘I love it when things get adventurous, when the rush of adrenaline takes over,’ says Federico Chabrat, a pilot with NAC Helicopters. ‘You can’t help yourself from being glued to your seat because, unlike being on a regular plane, you’re able to fly so close to the ground, where the view is much more exhilarating.

You can contact us at 021 425 3868 or 063 808 4141 (WhatsApp).

Check out our website at nachelicopterscapetown.com

9. Skydiving

Hey there! Can you believe that Skydive Cape Town has been around for five decades? It all began in Stellenbosch, and since then, they’ve been offering thrilling skydiving experiences. You can join them on one of their daily tours, usually in the morning when the winds are calm.

If you’re ready to take the leap (pun intended), you can reach them at 082 800 6290. They also have a website at skydivecapetown.co.za if you want to check them out online.

10. Sandboarding

Hey there! I have almost 20 years of experience navigating the majestic sand dunes, and I’m excited to offer you a thrilling sandboarding session. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned sand pro, I’ve got you covered!

My sessions are two hours long and are available at 10am and 2pm. You’ll have plenty of time to learn the ropes and conquer the dunes. Trust me, it’s an experience you won’t want to miss!

Ready to hop on board? Give me a call at 021 054 0124 or visit my website at sandboardingcapetown.com to book your session. Don’t wait too long, spots fill up fast!

11. Set Sail and Watch the Sunset at the V&A Waterfront

When it comes to experiencing a sunset at sea, there are plenty of options to choose from. You could hop on a schooner, book a private charter, or even board a pirate boat. But if you’re looking for the most elegant and luxurious option, the Explore Catamaran is the way to go.

Why do I say that? Well, for starters, when you embark on the Explore Catamaran, you’ll be treated to two glasses of sparkling wine. Sipping on some bubbly while cruising along the ocean is an experience that will make you feel like royalty.

And the possibilities are endless on this trip. You might get lucky and spot some magnificent creatures like whales, dolphins, seals, or even sunfish. Imagine the thrill of catching a glimpse of these majestic beings in their natural habitat.

The tour itself lasts for around 1½ hours, but the memories you’ll create will stay with you long after the journey ends. Just thinking about the smug glow you’ll have after being on such a beautiful boat puts a smile on my face.

If you’re already itching to book this extraordinary adventure, you can reach out to them at 081 433 4041. You can also find more information on their website, explore.co.za.

Before I wrap this up, I want to mention that this article was adapted from a version that appeared in our December 2022 magazine issue. Credit goes to the original author, Matt Sterne.

So, what are you waiting for? Don’t miss out on this incredible experience. When it comes to sunsets at sea, the Explore Catamaran is the one to choose.

Hey, have you tried checking out the amazing restaurants in Hout Bay? They are absolutely worth a visit!

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