If two of your favorite things are wine and wildlife, like me, you’d be hard-pressed to find a better place to visit than Cape Town, South Africa. The winelands surrounding Cape Town are scenic, beautiful and produce delicious Pinotage and Chenin Blanc wines to name but a few. South Africa is also known for safaris, of course, but today, I want to share with you three day trips from Cape Town where you can experience the wine and a different side to Africa’s wildlife (think penguins vs lions!).
Stellenbosch and Paarl
Our first day trip to the Cape Winelands took us to Villeria and Middelvlei wine estates in Stellenbosch and Fairview in Paarl. You’ll need to rent a car or go with a tour group if you venture out. This is one of those times I’d say to go with a tour. You learn so much more when you’re tasting under the guidance of a wine expert, and you don’t have to drive! Who wants to drive when there’s wine to be had?! If you’re looking for a fun tour that’s not boring or pretentious, check out Wine Flies.
Penguins at Boulders Beach and Cape Point
Our next day trip itinerary took us south of Cape Town, passing through beautiful Hout Bay to Cape Point at the southern tip of Africa. Along the way we stopped at Boulder’s Beach in Simonstown to see the penguins—yes, you read that right–penguins! I was so excited to see these little guys and the real life experience did not disappoint. And, we even saw ostriches along the way to Cape Point!
Wine and Wales in Hermanus
Our second wine tour with Wine Flies (yep, we did two wine tours in 7 days in Cape Town) started with a couple stops in Stellenbosch and Paarl. Then we continued south for whale watching in Hermanus, lunch at the seriously gorgeous ELL Eatery at Spookfontein Wines, and finally on to Wildenkras wine estate in Bot River. If you’re only going to do one tour, make it this one!
Bonus: Seals at V&A Waterfront
This isn’t exactly a day tour if you’re staying in Cape Town, but it’s a lovely way to spend a few hours. Pop over to the V&A Waterfront and explore the Two Oceans Aquarium. Or, just grab a coffee and plop yourself on the edge of the water and watch the Cape Fur Seals play in the harbor among tourists, hotels, shops, and restaurants.
Related: What a African Safari Taught Me About Living My Best Life
Related: Your Essential African Safari Packing List (and What to Leave Behind)
Related: What to Expect on a Botswana Safari
Related: 5 Reasons to Visit Mauritius
What tour company did you use for the whale and wine?
Hi Lindsay. It was Wine Flies, same as the first wine tour. http://iconsofsa.co.za/. Super fun. 🙂