Cape Town

As the tourist centre of South Africa, Cape Town is the state capital of the Western Cape. A fascinating melting pot of African, Dutch, British and Cape-Coloured culture, and a wonderful place to visit.

Everyone ascends Table Mountain (most by cable car) but climbing it on foot from the lower cable car station or from Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens means you really earn that view.

Discover the Robben Island, where Mandela was jailed, have a tour of the Cape Flats and bring home the challenges faced by this fledgling democracy.

Events calendar

Cape Town International Kite Festival

25 - 26 Oct 2008 (annual), Cape Town

Making the most of the mighty south-easter, Cape Town's annual International Kite Festival presents spectacular shows by local and international teams, including Japan, the USA, India, Malaysia and China. more »

Toy Run

30 Nov 2008 (annual), Cape Town

Toy Run is the largest charity motorcycling event in South Africa. Organised by the IMOC, Cape Town's rally starts at Ratanga Junction and ends in Maynardville. Thousands of riders carry toys to be distributed by charity agencies among underprivileged children. more »

OBZfestival

Dec 2008 (annual), Observatory

Every year on the first weekend of December, Cape Town celebrates the beginning of summer with the OBZfestival, a street festival held in the suburb of Observatory that features music, film screenings, arts & crafts and children's activities. more »

See more events »

	The Mount Nelson Hotel
	Nestling at the foot of Table Mountain and set in nine acres of lush gardens, this luxury hotel is an elegant hideaway. more »

	Cape Colony Restaurant
	This restaurant features an eclectic mix of contemporary Southern European and Western Cape trends. more »

	The Librisa Spa
	Newly opened in April 2008, the Librisa Spa is a world class spa in the heart of Cape town. more »

	Cape Town Guide
	A concierge's guide to the best places to visit on your trip to Cape Town more »

Languages: Afrikaans, English

Currency: Rand

Climate: Mild winter and a long summer period from November to February. Between June and August, temperatures range from 7°C to 18°C; and from September to November, weather can be unpredictable. December to March are very hot. The weather remains good From March to May, and the wind is at its most gentle.

Culture: Affectionately known as the Mother City, Cape Town is South Africa's oldest city and was founded in 1652 by Jan Van Riebeeck.

Places to visit: the Table Mountain, Robben Island, the Victoria and Alfred Waterfront, Bo-Kaap Museum.

	Luxury for Less with Orient-Express Safaris

	3 nights for 2 in Cape Town

	Special Occasions at The Westcliff, Johannesburg