5 DAYS SOUTH AFRICA: CAPE TOWN HIGHLIGHTS

Reach the top of the Table Mountain for picture-perfect views over the Mother City, the ocean, the harbour and Robben Island. You can hike to the top, which takes two to three hours and is physically quite demanding. The easier way is by cableway, making you literally fly to the top – you can book your tickets for this experience up to seven days in advance online. On the summit, simply soak in the views, have a snack or take a guided tour which starts from the Twelve Apostles Terrace (below the TEN67 eatery) daily on the hour from 9 AM to 3 PM. Staff members tell you more about the history of Table Mountain and the cableway, and the tour is free!

Robben Island, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is best known as the prison where Nelson Mandela spent 18 of his 27 years behind bars. Once a leprosy colony, a mental hospital and a military base, it now stands as a powerful symbol of South Africa’s journey to democracy. Visit the prison and see for yourself where Mandela, along with thousands of other freedom fighters, was incarcerated for so many years. Tours include a ferry ride from Cape Town’s V&A Waterfront, a bus tour across the island and a visit to Mandela’s former cell. Ferries depart daily (weather permitting), and booking in advance is essential. Prepare for a 3.5 – 4 hour tour through one of South Africa’s most important historical landmarks.

Kirstenbosch is a UNESCO-listed botanical garden on the slopes of Table Mountain, showcasing South Africa’s unique flora like proteas (the national flower!), strelitzias and fynbos. Don’t miss the Boomslang (meaning tree snake) Canopy Walkway; this 12-metre-high walkway takes you from the forest floor into the trees, providing spectacular panoramic vistas. You can also visit the art garden and go for a short, sign-posted hike! And if you get hungry, there are three on-site restaurants to choose from. Free guided garden tours are available on weekdays at 10 AM, 11 AM, and 2 PM (weather permitting).

Groot Constantia, established in 1685 by Cape Governor Simon van der Stel, is South Africa’s oldest wine estate and the birthplace of its wine industry. Chosen for its ideal terroir and stunning views, the estate’s wines soon gained global fame, favoured by royalty and even mentioned in Jane Austen’s Sense and Sensibility. Today, visitors can explore this legacy with the Visitors Route Experience, which includes a museum visit, cellar tour, wine tasting and a souvenir glass. For a sweeter touch, add a chocolate pairing to your tasting. Tickets are available online or at the estate. And if you're into fine dining, nearby La Colombe – Africa’s top-rated, Michelin-starred restaurant – is an unmissable treat … But book well in advance to avoid disappointment!