Western Cape Holidays in South Africa

Western Cape

Home to South Africa’s most vibrant city, award-winning vineyards, a spectacular coastline and picturesque rural interior, the Western Cape is an enticing region and gateway to many of this colourful nation’s most exciting experiences.

The best way to explore the Western Cape is by car since the roads are well-maintained and navigation easy making it the perfect self-drive destination. Cape Town is a cosmopolitan city with a fabulous coastal setting in the shadow of the unmistakable Table Mountain. Soak up the atmosphere of the V&A Waterfront, enjoy the exceptional Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens and see the penguins on the way to Cape Point. North of Cape Town are the world-class vineyards and comfortable hotels of Stellenbosch and Franschhoek and, further afield, the picturesque rural farmlands of the Klein Karoo. If travelling between June and November, the small coastal town of Hermanus transforms into one of the best places to whale watch in South Africa.

Holiday Ideas for the Western Cape

Old classic car in colourful Bo Kaap neighbourhood, Cape Town, South Africa

15 DAYS

Classic South Africa - Cape Town, Winelands and the Garden Route

from £3700
per person

Leopard in Kruger National Park, South Africa

12 DAYS

Cape Town, the Blue Train & Kruger National Park

from £5200
per person

Camps Bay tidal pools, Cape Town, South Africa

12 DAYS

Hidden Treasures and Highlights of the Western Cape

from £3800
per person

12 DAYS

Cape Town, Kruger National Park and Victoria Falls

from £4900
per person

13 DAYS

Wine, Whales and Wildlife in the Western Cape

from £3400
per person

Start Planning Your Holiday

When to visit the Western Cape

The Western Cape in South Africa mirrors the Northern Hemisphere’s seasons, making November to April the best time to visit. December, January and February boast hot weather and long sunny days, however, this is the peak time to travel meaning Cape Town and the surrounding areas can be busy and more expensive at this time of year. We recommend visiting the Western Cape during the shoulder seasons, especially November during late spring and March to April for early autumn. This is a beautiful time to visit with warm temperatures and little rain, creating perfect conditions for hiking and sightseeing. They are also wonderful months to travel to the Cape Winelands including Stellenbosch, Paarl and Franschhoek, where you will experience spring flowers or colourful autumnal foliage. June to early October marks the Western Cape’s winter. Whilst this season brings cooler temperatures, wind and rain, you can find some fantastic deals on accommodation, and it is also the best time for whale watching.

JAN

FEB

MAR

APR

MAY

JUN

JUL

AUG

SEP

OCT

NOV

DEC

BEST TIME

GOOD TIME

LOW SEASON

OFF SEASON

This is a general overview suggesting when to travel in the country. Please note that this may not directly apply to any specific itinerary or region.

What to do in the Western Cape

South Africa’s Western Cape is a treasure trove of breathtaking scenery, iconic landmarks, winelands, coastal towns, and of course, Cape Town, Africa’s most cosmopolitan city. With endless options of things to do in Cape Town, highlights include hiking Lion’s Head, wandering around the picturesque V&A Waterfront, visiting historic Robben Island, enjoying sundowners at Camps Bay and experiencing a heritage walk through colourful Bo-Kaap. To the immediate south of Cape Town, you will find False Bay which is home to beautiful beaches featuring pastel-coloured waterfront huts, Boulders Beach which is known for its penguin colony and the Cape Peninsula with breathtaking views and walking trails to the Cape of Good Hope and Cape Point Lighthouse. The Western Cape is also known for its winelands, in particular Stellenbosch, Paarl and Franschhoek. Spend a few days relaxing in this serene area framed by dramatic mountain peaks and enjoy visiting world-class wineries, breweries and restaurants. Elsewhere, coastal Hermanus is best-known for its whale watching, De Hoop Nature Reserve is perfect for off-the-beaten track exploration and the seaside town of Mossel Bay, the gateway to the Garden Route.

Book with confidence with Pettitts Travel

We are here to take the stress out of your holiday, to provide you with impartial well-informed advice and assist you in navigating regulations and guidelines to ensure your trip goes as planned.