11 of the Most Instagrammable Places in Cape Town
The port city of Cape Town, in South Africa, is easily one of the most photogenic destinations on Earth, with its breathtaking coastlines and colorful neighborhoods. For photographers, its diverse landscapes offer no shortage of stunning vantage points — and it's one of TPG’s all time favorite vacation spots.
So go ahead, book that dream trip to South Africa with your points and miles. These photographs of the Mother City will have followers swooning all over your Insta feed.
Lion's Head
If you've ever seen a photo of Cape Town, you've probably noticed that rocky spire rising from the city. That iconic mountain is called Lion's Head, and it's one of the most popular hiking spots in Cape Town. The trail circles the mountain and takes about 90-minutes, starting as a smooth, even path and becoming tougher as you ascend. Eventually, you'll reach areas so steep you'll need to do a vertical climb up a ladder. It's best to avoid venturing up the mountain in the hot South African sun, so get an extra early start and enjoy the sunrise on your way to the top.
TPG Tip: There are plenty of peaks you can sit on that give the illusion you're hanging off the edge. You'll look like a daredevil, but in reality, there is a platform just a few feet below. Even without a DSLR, using portrait mode on your phone is a great way to emphasize depth in your shots.
https://www.instagram.com/p/BnADTQNlWKy/
Table Mountain
Take the tram up to the top of Table Mountain for some of the best views of Cape Town. Hiking the mountain is also an option, thanks to a number of trails of varying difficulty. The most popular trail, Platteklip Gorge, typically takes 3 to 4 hours (depending on your fitness level). The hike is more advanced than Lion's Head, so if you're concerned, simply ride the tram to the top. Either way, be sure to check the forecast before you go, and make sure that rain or clouds won't be an issue. If it's too cloudy, adjust your schedule to visit on a clearer day. Otherwise, don't count on the #views. This is also the perfect place to enjoy a picnic brunch — just watch out for the dassies! These rabbit-like animals love to find human friends with food and may even grab a bite for themselves.
TPG Tip: If you've never taken a helicopter ride before, this may be the time to splurge for an unbeatable aerial view. Always wear black clothing when taking photos from a helicopter, because it won't cause a glare in the windows — otherwise, you'll see a reflection of your light-colored clothing in all your photos. On some days, you may be able to see the the layer of clouds across Table Mountain locals have dubbed the "tablecloth."
https://www.instagram.com/p/BtiyYEMHXl7/
The Silo Hotel
The Silo is a 28-room luxury boutique property located on Cape Town’s Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, occupying a space that was once a historic silo complex dating back to 1924. If the $1,000+ per night room rate is out of your reach (sadly, you won't be able to cash in any award nights, though it's a great option for the Citi Prestige Card's fourth-night free perk), you can always stop in for a cocktail at sunset and snap a photo in the hotel's jewel box-like lobby on your way out.
https://www.instagram.com/p/BowzWc3hNUP/
Boulders Beach
Famous for its colonies of African penguins and giant granite boulders, this sheltered beach is popular among both sunbathers and photographers. The tuxedo-wearing penguins are known for their donkey-like cries, and are actually an endangered species. So make sure to get a photo with them while you still can. (Just remember to never touch or disturb them!)
TPG Tip: Once you step foot on the beach, walk to the left to find a narrow pathway between the large boulders. It can be tricky to spot without the guidance of a local, so keep an eye out for people venturing off. You will have to climb on the rocks and tread a knee-deep area of water, but once you reach the other side you'll find a secluded enclave with way more penguins than you can find at the tourist-filled entrance of the beach.
https://www.instagram.com/p/BopaZqKB6Ma/
Woodstock
Woodstock is Cape Town's version of Bushwick, in Brooklyn. The suburb has undergone a serious transformation and become a vibrant, trendy community following a period of decline. All across the neighborhood, homes and buildings have been revitalized by colorful street artworks. Take an organized tour of the area and learn the meaningful story behind each piece of art. New murals tend to pop up overnight and the pieces are constantly changing.
TPG Tip: Before exploring Woodstock's street art scene, pop into one of the neighborhood's hip coffee shops, such as Espresso Lab Microroasters, to jumpstart your day.
https://www.instagram.com/p/BiNhMcRle5T/
Bo-Kaap
The Bo-Kaap neighborhood is pure Insta gold. The area is known for its bright-colored houses. Not only are the homes beautiful, but they carry a great deal of history. Formerly known as the Malay Quarter, the neighborhood was once home to rental houses that were leased to slaves in the 18th century. It's said that, while leased, the houses had to remain painted white — and once slavery was abolished, the former slaves bought the properties and painted the buildings in bright colors to celebrate their freedom.
TPG Tip: Many of the families that live in Bo-Kaap have been here for generations. Be respectful while taking photos in front of the houses, and remember that people actually do live there. Luckily, many of the residents embrace the popularity of their homes. If you meet a local, introduce yourself and ask for permission to snap a photo.
https://www.instagram.com/p/Bf6rYfJFbnJ/
Muizenberg Beach
Bo-Kaap isn't the only colorful spot in Cape Town. Head to Muizenberg Beach to capture a few photos in front of the rainbow row of huts lining the shore. This beach is perfect for visitors looking to take a surf lesson or simply soak up some sun, too.
https://www.instagram.com/p/BquZN8dheuR/
Cape Point
Cape Point is located on the Cape of Good Hope, the southwesternmost point on the continent of Africa (not to be confused with the most southern tip of the continent, Cape Agulhas). It takes about an hour and 20 minutes to get there by car from Cape Town. Once you arrive at Cape Point, take the tram, known as the Flying Dutchman Funicular, up to the lighthouse. Here, spectacular stone cliffs reach out to what seems like the end of the world.
TPG Tip: Whatever you do — don't forget a jacket! The winds tend to be very strong at Cape Point.
https://www.instagram.com/p/BhchNXhF_xH/
Signal Hill
One of the most popular paragliding spots in South Africa, I don't suggest trying the sport for the first time while in Cape Town, because every other paragliding experience after just won't compare. Strap in and run off the top of Signal Hill at an elevation of just over 1,000 feet. The ride could last anywhere between seven and 20 minutes, depending on the wind. While it may seem scary, gently gliding over the city of Cape Town is actually quite relaxing.
https://www.instagram.com/p/BorTGuQhJHt/
Stellenbosch
The 45-minute car ride from Cape Town to the Cape Winelands is an amazing, and beautiful, day trip. If you have time in your schedule, consider staying overnight at one of the wineries. (I recommend the Boschendale Wine Farm, which has been producing farm-to-table cuisine and wine since 1685.) Travel back in time and stay in one of the rustic cottages on the property, and enjoy a horseback ride through the vineyards or have a picnic while floating in the middle of the lake. Everything here is so scenic, you'll have more Instagram opps than you know what to do with.
TPG Tip: Make sure to try a glass of Pinotage, a red wine exclusive to South Africa.
https://www.instagram.com/p/BhRiptJg4KN/
Gondwana Game Reserve
A safari is a must when visiting Africa. After all, you've made the trek halfway across the world — so, take time to spend a few nights in the bush. The Gondwana Game Reserve in Mossel Bay is a fantastic option and just a four-hour drive from Cape Town. Gondwana offers everything from luxury villas to glamping-style eco huts. From both, you could step out to your porch and find a zebra on your doorstep. Wake up before sunrise and set off on a game drive with your ranger in search of the the Big Five (lions, buffalo, elephants, rhinoceroses and leopards). After a long day of off-roading, kick back and enjoy a sundowner before continuing on for a nighttime adventure. The lions, especially, love to come out after dark.
TPG Tip: Purchase a zoom lens for your DSLR camera to capture animals farther off in the distance. You'll be glad you did.
https://www.instagram.com/p/Bgwo1rZg78k/
If you'd like to see what it was like to hike Lion's Head at sunrise or see real-life lions at Gondwana Game Reserve, follow me on Instagram at @destinationdanielle and check out the Cape Town highlight on my profile!
TPG featured card
Rewards
| 4X | Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on purchases at restaurants worldwide, on up to $50,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year. |
| 4X | Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent at US supermarkets, on up to $25,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year. |
| 3X | Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with airlines or on AmexTravel.com. |
| 2X | Earn 2X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on prepaid hotels and other eligible purchases booked on AmexTravel.com. |
| 1X | Earn 1X Membership Rewards® point per dollar spent on all other eligible purchases. |
Intro offer
Annual Fee
Recommended Credit
Why We Chose It
There’s a lot to love about the Amex Gold. It’s a fan favorite thanks to its fantastic bonus-earning rates at restaurants worldwide and at U.S. supermarkets. If you’re hitting the skies soon, you’ll also earn bonus Membership Rewards points on travel. Paired with up to $120 in Uber Cash annually (for U.S. Uber rides or Uber Eats orders, card must be added to Uber app and you can redeem with any Amex card), up to $120 in annual dining statement credits to be used with eligible partners, an up to $84 Dunkin’ credit each year at U.S. Dunkin Donuts and an up to $100 Resy credit annually, there’s no reason that foodies shouldn’t add the Amex Gold to their wallet. These benefits alone are worth more than $400, which offsets the $325 annual fee on the Amex Gold card. Enrollment is required for select benefits. (Partner offer)Pros
- 4 points per dollar spent on dining at restaurants worldwide and U.S. supermarkets (on the first $50,000 in purchases per calendar year; then 1 point per dollar spent thereafter and $25,000 in purchases per calendar year; then 1 point per dollar spent thereafter, respectively)
- 3 points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with the airline or with amextravel.com
- Packed with credits foodies will enjoy
- Solid welcome bonus
Cons
- Not as useful for those living outside the U.S.
- Some may have trouble using Uber and other dining credits
- You may be eligible for as high as 100,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $6,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer. Apply to know if you’re approved and find out your exact welcome offer amount – all with no credit score impact. If you’re approved and choose to accept the Card, your score may be impacted.
- Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on purchases at restaurants worldwide, on up to $50,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
- Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent at US supermarkets, on up to $25,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
- Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with airlines or on AmexTravel.com.
- Earn 2X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on prepaid hotels and other eligible purchases booked on AmexTravel.com.
- Earn 1X Membership Rewards® point per dollar spent on all other eligible purchases.
- $120 Uber Cash on Gold: Add your Gold Card to your Uber account and get $10 in Uber Cash each month to use on orders and rides in the U.S. when you select an American Express Card for your transaction. That’s up to $120 Uber Cash annually. Plus, after using your Uber Cash, use your Card to earn 4X Membership Rewards® points for Uber Eats purchases made with restaurants or U.S. supermarkets. Point caps and terms apply.
- $84 Dunkin' Credit: With the $84 Dunkin' Credit, you can earn up to $7 in monthly statement credits after you enroll and pay with the American Express® Gold Card at U.S. Dunkin' locations. Enrollment is required to receive this benefit.
- $100 Resy Credit: Get up to $100 in statement credits each calendar year after you pay with the American Express® Gold Card to dine at U.S. Resy restaurants or make other eligible Resy purchases. That's up to $50 in statement credits semi-annually. Enrollment required.
- $120 Dining Credit: Satisfy your cravings, sweet or savory, with the $120 Dining Credit. Earn up to $10 in statement credits monthly when you pay with the American Express® Gold Card at Grubhub, The Cheesecake Factory, Goldbelly, Wine.com, and Five Guys. Enrollment required.
- Explore over 1,000 upscale hotels worldwide with The Hotel Collection and receive a $100 credit towards eligible charges* with every booking of two nights or more through AmexTravel.com. *Eligible charges vary by property.
- No Foreign Transaction Fees.
- Annual Fee is $325.
- Terms Apply.
Rewards Rate
| 4X | Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on purchases at restaurants worldwide, on up to $50,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year. |
| 4X | Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent at US supermarkets, on up to $25,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year. |
| 3X | Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with airlines or on AmexTravel.com. |
| 2X | Earn 2X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on prepaid hotels and other eligible purchases booked on AmexTravel.com. |
| 1X | Earn 1X Membership Rewards® point per dollar spent on all other eligible purchases. |
Intro Offer
You may be eligible for as high as 100,000 Membership Rewards® Points after spending $6,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer.As High As 100,000 points. Find Out Your Offer.Annual Fee
$325Recommended Credit
Credit ranges are a variation of FICO® Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application.Excellent to Good
Why We Chose It
There’s a lot to love about the Amex Gold. It’s a fan favorite thanks to its fantastic bonus-earning rates at restaurants worldwide and at U.S. supermarkets. If you’re hitting the skies soon, you’ll also earn bonus Membership Rewards points on travel. Paired with up to $120 in Uber Cash annually (for U.S. Uber rides or Uber Eats orders, card must be added to Uber app and you can redeem with any Amex card), up to $120 in annual dining statement credits to be used with eligible partners, an up to $84 Dunkin’ credit each year at U.S. Dunkin Donuts and an up to $100 Resy credit annually, there’s no reason that foodies shouldn’t add the Amex Gold to their wallet. These benefits alone are worth more than $400, which offsets the $325 annual fee on the Amex Gold card. Enrollment is required for select benefits. (Partner offer)Pros
- 4 points per dollar spent on dining at restaurants worldwide and U.S. supermarkets (on the first $50,000 in purchases per calendar year; then 1 point per dollar spent thereafter and $25,000 in purchases per calendar year; then 1 point per dollar spent thereafter, respectively)
- 3 points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with the airline or with amextravel.com
- Packed with credits foodies will enjoy
- Solid welcome bonus
Cons
- Not as useful for those living outside the U.S.
- Some may have trouble using Uber and other dining credits
- You may be eligible for as high as 100,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $6,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer. Apply to know if you’re approved and find out your exact welcome offer amount – all with no credit score impact. If you’re approved and choose to accept the Card, your score may be impacted.
- Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on purchases at restaurants worldwide, on up to $50,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
- Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent at US supermarkets, on up to $25,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
- Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with airlines or on AmexTravel.com.
- Earn 2X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on prepaid hotels and other eligible purchases booked on AmexTravel.com.
- Earn 1X Membership Rewards® point per dollar spent on all other eligible purchases.
- $120 Uber Cash on Gold: Add your Gold Card to your Uber account and get $10 in Uber Cash each month to use on orders and rides in the U.S. when you select an American Express Card for your transaction. That’s up to $120 Uber Cash annually. Plus, after using your Uber Cash, use your Card to earn 4X Membership Rewards® points for Uber Eats purchases made with restaurants or U.S. supermarkets. Point caps and terms apply.
- $84 Dunkin' Credit: With the $84 Dunkin' Credit, you can earn up to $7 in monthly statement credits after you enroll and pay with the American Express® Gold Card at U.S. Dunkin' locations. Enrollment is required to receive this benefit.
- $100 Resy Credit: Get up to $100 in statement credits each calendar year after you pay with the American Express® Gold Card to dine at U.S. Resy restaurants or make other eligible Resy purchases. That's up to $50 in statement credits semi-annually. Enrollment required.
- $120 Dining Credit: Satisfy your cravings, sweet or savory, with the $120 Dining Credit. Earn up to $10 in statement credits monthly when you pay with the American Express® Gold Card at Grubhub, The Cheesecake Factory, Goldbelly, Wine.com, and Five Guys. Enrollment required.
- Explore over 1,000 upscale hotels worldwide with The Hotel Collection and receive a $100 credit towards eligible charges* with every booking of two nights or more through AmexTravel.com. *Eligible charges vary by property.
- No Foreign Transaction Fees.
- Annual Fee is $325.
- Terms Apply.