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A brand new year has arrived and there is so much to see and enjoy around Cape Town in 2023! From epic races and sporting events to world-class festivals and natural sights sure to wow the senses, the city plays host to a variety of incredible events in 2023.

To help you make the most of it all, dk villas has put together a list of the top events taking place in Cape Town this year. It was no easy task to limit the list to just 7! There are many more exciting events set to take place so be sure to keep an ear out for them. Take a look below and start planning your bucket list!

Here are the top 7 events not to miss in Cape Town in 2023:

1. The Ocean Race

Date: 5 - 26 February 2023
Location: V&A Waterfront

Calling all sailing enthusiasts! And anyone who enjoys great sports spectacles; head to the V&A Waterfront in February 2023 to experience The Ocean Race. The 14th edition of the annual round-the-world sailing event makes its stop in the Mother City from 5 to 26 February. The Ocean Race is the world’s toughest sailing event. This year, the event takes place over 6 months with competitors racing high-performance ocean-going racing yachts, traversing 4 oceans and visiting 5 continents. Each team will have completed a whopping 32,000 nautical miles by the end of the race!

In Cape Town, make a stop at the V&A Waterfront, which is an official Race Village, in February and look forward to several exciting events. There will be a variety of engaging activities including an Ocean Sports Festival. The activities are specially curated to raise awareness for important issues of sustainability and keeping our oceans healthy.

For more information on the Cape Town stopover take a look at The Ocean Race Cape Town’s Facebook, Instagram and Twitter pages.

© Sailing Energy | The Ocean Race

2. Investec Cape Town Art Fair

Date: 17 - 19 February 2023
Location: CTICC

Discover the best in contemporary African art at the 2023 Investec Cape Town Art Fair! This is Africa’s largest contemporary art fair and this year is the event’s 10th anniversary. Visitors can look forward to hundreds of exhibitors with artists, curators and galleries attending the event hosted at the CTICC in Cape Town’s bustling city centre. Both local and international guests attend to make connections and engage with the incredible art pieces. The art fair will be a hybrid with exhibitions available to view online and in person. Look forward this year’s theme “The Notion of Time” expressed via ideas illustrating the past, present and future. For more info and to book tickets, check out the official website.

3. Cape Town E-Prix

Date: 25 February 2023
Location: Green Point Stadium and surrounds

Another epic racing event will be taking over the streets of Cape Town this year! Electricpowered racecars will speed around the circuit surrounding Cape Town’s Green Point Stadium and the waterfront district. Cape Town is officially the first sub-Saharan African city to host a Formula E race and new high-powered Gen3 machines will be racing around the turns of the 2.8km track. Seats are available in the stands, at great viewpoints located around the circuit, or the Fan Village. A range of ticket prices and package offers are available. More info available here.

4. Cape Town Cycle Tour

Date: 12 March 2023
Location: Cape Town

Get ready for the biggest timed bike race in the world! In 2023, the Cape Town Cylce Tour will be celebrating its 45th year. Cycle around the Cape Peninsula with 109km and 42km distances available. Touted as the most beautiful bike race in the world, register for the race and you’ll cycle through Kalk Bay, Misty Cliffs and Chapman’s Peak; starting and finishing near the magnificent Table Mountain. Spectators can have almost as much fun as the cyclists! On the day, grab friends and family, pack a picnic and head to one of the great view points. Edinburgh Drive, Glencairn Beach, Simonstown, Noordhoek, Hout Bay and the finish line in Sea Point are fantastic options. Take a look at the official website for more info.

5. Two Oceans Marathon

Date: 15 April 2023
Location: Cape Town

Next up is a marathon often voted as one of the most breathtaking in the world! The Two Oceans Marathon route winds through Cape Town’s southern suburbs and towns in the Cape Peninsula, finishing up at the stunning University of Cape Town. Choose from competing in the 56km ultra marathon, 21.1km half marathon (taking place on 16 April), an international friendship walk and variety of fun runs taking place on the day.

6. Wildflowers (Clanwilliam Wildflower Show)

Date: August/September
Location: The West Coast region

When August and September roll around, the West Coast bursts into bloom. Spring brings with it fields of beautiful wildflowers. One of the most popular activities in Cape Town during this time period is to take a day trip to see the wildflowers. Head to destinations such as the West Coast National Park, Darling and Paternoster. In addition to this, Clanwilliam hosts an annual wildflower show where you can admire the beautiful blooms. Located 200km outside of Cape Town (about a 2 ½ hour drive), Clanwilliam is one of the oldest towns in South Africa and is also famous for being the Rooibos capital of the world! The annual wildflower show takes place in September. Keep an eye on their website for updates.

Psst… would you like a travel tip? Clanwilliam is just over a 1 ½ hour drive from Dwaskerbos making it a great day trip destination if you’re staying at our Skilliepark Dwaskersbos property!

Rocking the Daisies

Date: 6 - 8 October
Location: Cloof Wine Estate, Darling

Number 7 on this list is an event for the music lovers! This is one of Cape Town’s favourite events. Rocking the Daisies is an annual mutlti-day music festival that takes place on Cloof Wine Estate in Darling. Attendees from South Africa and further afield gather to camp, socialise and listen to world-class artists perform on the epic stages. You can look forward to both local and international big names performing. In previous years, Rocking the Daisies has been headlined by Black Coffee, the 1975, Mac Miller, MGMT, The Kooks, Wolf Alice and more!

Artist announcements will be revealed soon so be sure to stay up to date with the latest news and get your tickets!

Bonus: Musicians rocking Cape Town in 2023

Luckily for those of us who are living in or visiting the Mother City in 2023, there are several bigname singers and bands performing in Cape Town this year! Catch Imagine Dragons and Sting in February, Calum Scott in April and UB40 in May with more performers sure to be announced as the year goes on.

This is just a taste of what’s on in Cape Town this year. Keep up to date with the best things to see and do by checking out Cape Town Tourism, local tourism groups, What’s On in Cape Town and our Instagram and Facebook where we share info on all the best ways to experience this city. Here’s to an exciting and fun-filled year. Happy 2023 everyone!

Just like that, we are already saying goodbye to 2022! It’s been a bumper year for travel as the world has returned to a new normal and travel has recovered. The same goes for Cape Town; the city and its surrounding suburbs has been welcoming travellers from around the globe once again.

Here at dk villas, we have enjoyed a tremendous year. Each guest that we have welcomed to our properties in 2022 holds a special place in our hearts. Now, we would like to take a moment to look back on the year that was, express our gratitude to our new and returning guests, and offer a sneak peek into the upcoming year. Read on to hear more from dk villas owners Johan and Petra de Kock.

Dk villas 2022 Year in Review:

1. What have been the biggest achievements for dk villas in 2022?

We feel that 2022 has been the recovery phase after the impact of the Covid-19 epidemic that utterly dominated the previous two years. We have gone out of our way to maintain dk villas in high-profile visibility throughout and we are delighted that we have had a positive year with many new guests and many returning guests.

One common thread of comment among returning guests is that they had never expected to find the amazing quality of accommodation, fittings, fixtures and appliances, and that having experienced it once, and realising the enormous value of dk villas, they would not stay anywhere else.

2. Have there been any challenges in 2022? If so, how did you overcome them?

Regrettably, one of the big challenges that has really hit all South Africans this year, has been the massive impact of ongoing loadshedding. It has now become a very much permanent part of everyday life. Understanding how massively inconvenient and disruptive this can be for our guests, we have installed inverters and backup batteries in all of our Hout Bay units, providing our guests with sufficient power the keep their lights, television and WiFi on when the electricity is switched off. Installations at our Dwarskersbos unit will follow early in 2023.

3. For you two, what is the best thing about working in hospitality?

We are both from a hospitality background. Working with people and providing them with a special, rewarding and memorable experience is a great pleasure for us. We get to meet a wide variety of visitors to our city and have the opportunity to give them tips, help and guidance as to how to get the most out of their stay here.

Whether it be for a quick weekend visit or a leisurely month in Cape Town, we love to interact with our guests and provide them with as much input as they would wish. In each of our units, we also offer a custom-produced dk villas Guest Guide which gives the details of all attractions, places of interest, outdoor activities and restaurants in the area.

4. Are there any exciting new plans for dk villas in 2023 that you could share with us?

There are always plans at dk villas! The first plan is always to improve in any way possible on whatever it is that we do. Success is an ongoing journey, not a destination. We strive to improve on perfection constantly.

As for specific plans, keep following our website, our blogs, and our social media platforms to remain up to date with our forthcoming active and agile developments!

5. Why do you think people should visit Cape Town and the Western Cape in 2023?

Cape Town is regularly on lists of the most desirable city destinations in the world. As covered in the questions below, Cape Town boasts world-class sophistication, in conjunction with some of the most spectacular scenery and sights, offering visitors every opportunity to indulge in whatever sort of holiday you seek! The mere fact that one city offers Table Mountain, Robben Island, Cape Point, a variety of wine regions (some within the city itself), as well as the worldfamous V&A Waterfront is a strong drawcard to entice anyone to visit Cape Town.

Moving on to the remainder of the Western Cape, the West Coast region offers the rugged beauty of the Atlantic coastline. Inland, you’ll find the various regions and districts of the Great Karoo and Little Karoo. In Oudtshoorn, the Cango Caves and ostrich farms are a great attraction. Along the Garden Route are various towns, resorts and beaches offering visitors a vast choice of destinations. The growth in this part of the Western Cape has been substantial and it is served by George Airport, which offers a quick access point to all the destinations of the Garden Route, from Mossel Bay in the west to Plettenberg Bay in the east.

6. What makes South Africa a unique destination for travellers?

South Africa offers every possible form of holiday to suit the tastes of almost all travellers. A city like Cape Town is right up there amongst the most sophisticated and desirable cities in the world. Even better, we have every form of outdoor activity that one could wish for right on our doorstep. Hiking, serious mountain climbing, surfing, sailing, windsurfing, swimming, diving, offroad trails, and many more. The surrounding wine-growing regions within a 90-minute drive from the city offer the most amazing scenery and culinary delights. Moving beyond our city, the rest of South Africa offers a vast variety of big game viewing at incredible safari destinations. South Africa truly has it all!

7. What would you like to say to your guests from this year?

Our thanks to all of our new and returning guests for your support and wonderfully favourable comments. We strive to continuously provide you with the finest facilities and service. In terms of setting standards of perfection for you, we regard 100% as being the pass-mark that we always aim to achieve, and aim never to drop below 100% service, facilities and value.

To all of our guests - thank you once again and we wish you a peaceful and prosperous New Year. Never stayed with us before? We hope to be welcoming you to a dk villas property soon! Here’s to an amazing 2023 filled with great people, great adventures and great memories!

It’s the most wonderful time of the year! In just a few short weeks, Christmas Day will be here. Cape Town is getting into the swing of things with some excellent festive season events taking place around the city and its surrounding areas.

South Africa celebrates Christmas in the summertime. This means, that while we may not experience any snowy days and won’t necessarily be cosying up next to any fireplaces, we will be making the most of the festive season under the sun! Locals and visitors in Cape Town get to embrace the long days, warm weather, sandy beaches and ocean waves. Don’t worry about missing out on a Christmas experience though as the festive spirit is still strong! Take a look at the festive events below to enjoy during December 2022.

The Best Christmas Events around Cape Town in December 2022:

Makers Market Festive Edition - Dates: 26 November - 31 December

Throughout the year, Makers Landing in the waterfront hosts several exciting markets, cooking classes and food and drink festivals. The Makers Market Festive Edition takes place every weekend from late November until the end of December. Visit and enjoy festive handmade gifts, local artisanal food and drinks plus fun activities for the whole family! Find Makers Landing at the V&A Waterfront Cruise Terminal.

Kirstenbsoch summer sunset concert series - Dates: Various dates during the summer season

Embrace the best of the festive feeling this season while enjoying one of the city’s most beautiful outdoor spaces! Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden hosts a Summer Sunset Concerts series from December to January. During the 2022/23 season, head to the beautiful Kirstenbosch gardens to watch performers such as Mi Casa, Goldfish, Majozi and more! Get tickets here.

Charles Dickens’s A Christmas Carol - Dates: 29 November - 10 December

Watch one of Charles Dickens's most famous tales come to life on stage this festive season! Theatre on the Bay is putting on a production of the classic Christmastime favourite for the whole family to enjoy - find tickets here.

Interestingly, 2022 is the year for this famous Dickens story! Two new Netflix films are premiering this festive season. Spirited is a musical version of A Christmas Carol starring Ryan Reynolds and Will Ferrell while Scrooge: A Christmas Carol is a new animated version of the classic tale. If you can’t make it to Theatre on the Bay, be sure to add these two films to your watch list!

The Nutcracker at the Artscape - Dates: 7 - 23 December

Why not watch the Cape Town City Ballet perform a Christmas classic? Enjoy a festive night out with an evening spent enjoying the talented performers of the Cape Town City Ballet in action! The Nutcracker is the tale of a family gathering on Christmas Eve; taking the audience on an enchanting adventure featuring the Nutcracker Prince, the Sugar Plum Fairy and the Mouse King. The ballet will take place at the Artscape Opera House and the Cape Town Philharmonic Orchestra will perform at select shows. Find more information here.

Imhoff Farm Christmas Market - Dates: 19 - 22 December

Around the Southern Suburbs and looking for a great way to spend an evening in the week before Christmas? Visit the Imhoff Farm Christmas Market in Kommetjie! Browse vendors offering a variety of local food and crafts at the evening market, from art, clothing and handmade gifts to great local food and produce. It’s a wonderful way to round off a day in this beautiful part of the Cape Peninsula!

Franschhoek Village Christmas Market - Dates: 16, 17 and 18 December

Enjoy the incredible scenery of the Cape Winelands with a visit to the Franschhoek Village Christmas Market. Franschhoek is famous for its wine farms and gourmet cuisine. The village itself is warm and welcoming with a weekend market. During December, the market gets into the festive swing of things! Shop for unique gifts while enjoying the live music and food stalls of this family-friendly market. Furry friends are welcome too!

DARG Christmas Night Market - Date: 16 December

Feel the joy of giving back this festive season! Visit DARG (Domestic Animal Rescue Group) in Hout Bay on Friday 16 December for a wonderful Christmas Night Market. Support the adorable animals during your visit while doing your Christmas shopping or simply enjoying the vibe! You can browse crafts, fresh produce, home decor, art, second-hand books and antiques. Tuck into dishes hot from the food trucks, listen to the live music and enjoy the company of the DARG pooches!

Christmas Special at Warwick Wine Estate - Date: 10 December

Have you had your fill of markets and Christmas shopping? Try something different with a visit to Warwick Wine Estate in Stellenbosch for a festive day out on 10 December! Enjoy a joyful Christmas atmosphere with live music and a gourmet picnic. This is the perfect way to sit back and relax under the sunshine and enjoy the South African summer Christmas-time experience!
Dress up for the occasion in your best festive gear and look forward to a jolly afternoon. As Warwick Wine Estate says, this event is sure to put you in the ho ho ho-liday mood! More information and tickets can be found here.

City Centre Christmas Lights Dates: Miscellaneous

Finally for this list is a perennial Christmas classic - Christmas lights! Each December, Cape Town city centre comes to life with a skyful of Christmas lights! While it was a more subdued affair during 2020 and 2021 due to travel restrictions, this year, the lights are back in full force! The Christmas lights were officially illuminated ay the end of November during the official Festive Lights Switch-On ceremony. With a crowd of 80,000, performances by famous South African artists and an impressive light show, the Festive Lights Switch On was an incredible way to launch this Christmas tradition! You can take a wander around the city centre either on foot or by car and admire the lights. Seeing the bright, sparkling colours is sure to get you into the festive spirit!

Jump straight into the festive season with these fun Christmas-time events! You get to see some of Cape Town’s most beautiful spots while celebrating with friends and family, what could be a better way to end off the year?

These are just a selection of the fun activities taking place around the city at this time of year so be sure to keep an eye on your social media channels for more exciting events!

South Africa is world-renowned for many reasons. The country is home to beautiful landscapes, rich history, stellar safaris and wildlife, warm hospitality and award-winning wines of course! Luckily, here in the Western Cape, we have a vast amount of wine farms and estates right in our backyard! Visiting these farms to experience the unique tastes and terroirs is truly a treat. In this blog, we cover a visit to Constantia Glen; a stunning wine farm located in Cape Town’s Southern Suburbs.

Read on below to find out more about what it’s like to spend an afternoon at Constantia Glen.

What is Constanita Glen?

Constantia Glen is a boutique wine farm in the Southern Suburbs of Cape Town. Situated on the Constantiaberg mountain slopes, just below Constantia Nek, the wine farm offers beautiful views of the vineyards and surrounding area in a picturesque setting!

The wine farm has a history dating back to the early 1800s, having been operated by several different families for several different functions over the generations. The Waibel family became custodians of the Constantia Glen in 1960 and set about the challenging task of transforming into a high quality wine-producing farm. Constantia Glen as its known today began in the early 2000s with the first Constantia Glen wine being produced in 2005.

The wine farm produces bespoke, cool climate wines. There are four Constantia Glen flagship wines available to order online or at the farm in person: Constantia Glen Sauvognon Blanc, Constantia Glen TWO, Constantia Glen THREE and Constantia Glen FIVE. When you’re visiting the farm, you’ll find these are joined on the menu by Van Wyk family wines and Constantia Saddle wines. The farm describes their award-winning offerings as including “crisp white wines and fresh, vibrant reds of great elegance and structure.”

Where is Constantia Glen?

As mentioned above, Contantia Glen is located in the Southern Suburbs, along the Constantia wine route. The Constantia Wine Route is located a short 20-minute drive from Cape Town City Centre, making it an excellent option for a wine farm trip while in Cape Town! Sitting in the heart of the suburbs, Constantia is easily accessible from neighbourhoods around the Cape Peninsula including Hout Bay (an afternoon trip while staying at a dk villas Hout Bay property, anyone?), Muizenberg, Simon’s Town and more.

The Cape Winelands, which includes famous wine destinations such as Stellenbosch, Franschhoek and Paarl, is 45 minutes to an hour outside of the city centre. While the Cape Winelands is an amazing day trip or longer sojourn, the Constantia Winelands are perfect for people looking for a wine experience close to the city.

What can I expect from a visit to Constantia Glen?

Visiting a wine farm like Constantia Glen is a super fun way to spend an afternoon. Visit, and you can look forward great wines, great views, great food and a great time! The tasting venue is split into inside and outside areas; with outside courtyards, a sun room, cosy private spaces and tables outside. The space is a great combination of elegance and modern comfort which creates the perfect atmosphere to sit back and enjoy yourself with family and friends. There are also beautiful lawns offering spaces to relax as well as great photo opportunities!

Enjoy several tasting options of offer which showcase the farm’s different products. You can sip your selection while enjoying the picturesque scenery! Not keen on a tasting? Order a bottle (or two) of your preferred wine and enjoy! Constantia Glen’s Cellar Door is the perfect place to buy a few of your favourite bottles during your visit.

Feeling hungry? Worry not, there is some incredible food on the menu! Tuck into the generous cheese and charcuterie boards or order one of Constantia Glen’s salads, soups or gourmet mains (including burgers, fish, beef fillet, goulash and more with lovely vegetarian optoins). Why not try a slice of flammkuchen? This thinly rolled flatbread originated in Alasace in France and the Palatinate region in Germany and is a must-try.

When is the best time to visit Constantia Glen?

One of the best things about Constantia Glen is that it is open year round and great to visit in any season. Warm summer days are perfect for lounging under the sun with a glass of white, spring and autumn offer milder weather and stunning views of the changing foliage while winter is perfect for cosying up inside next to a heater or under a blanket and sipping on a robust red.

Visit now to enjoy the sunshine and toast to the festive season with a glass of MCC!

Add Constantia Glen to your list of destinations to visit along the Constantia Wine Route. Be sure to keep an eye on our blog and social media channels for more recommendations on great things to do around Cape Town!

This week, Lonely Planet published its Best in Travel 2023 list. Several incredible destinations received accolades this year but the inclusion we are most excited about is South Africa! The Best in Travel list is Lonely Planet’s selection of destinations which they feel will be “buzzing in the year ahead”. While we already know how wonderful of a destination South Africa is, it is always exciting to see this incredible country recognised internationally!

For 2023, to help people discover more of the world and embark on unforgettable adventures, Lonely Planet has split the list of 30 destinations into five categories: eat, journey, connect, learn and unwind. Read on to find out how South Africa ranked!

The “Eat” list: Must-visit destinations for 2023

South Africa is placed in the “Eat” category, alongside five other mouthwatering destinations including Lima in Peru, Umbria in Italy, Fukuoka in Japan, Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia and Montevideo in Uruguay. Interestingly, South Africa is the only country on the list that is mentioned in its entirety (as opposed to selecting a single city). Locals and visitors who love South Africa will know this is due to the fact that no matter where you go in South Africa, you’re bound to stumble across something tasty!

Lonely Planet lauded South Africa as a wine destination, thanks to its internationally accoladed vineyards, many of which are not only wine-centric but offer incredible culinary experiences too! Beyond the vineyards, the publication also praised the country’s new generation of chefs who are propelling the South African culinary scene into the future. All of the above makes South Africa a must-visit destination for foodies in 2023!

South African food is a unique, social adventure

From traditional dishes like bobotie, chakalaka and pap, potjiekos and melktert, to South Africa’s signature snacks including biltong, vetkoek, droewors and “walkie talkies” (deep fried chicken head and feet), you’re guaranteed to come across something unique in South Africa.

In the “Rainbow Nation”, eating is a social activity. Whether you are sipping beer and swapping stories around a braai (also known as a shisa nyama), picnicking while on a beautiful hike, gathering around the table for Sunday lunch or catching up with friends over a meal at a renowned local restaurant, you’ll likely be enjoying great food and company!

A mix of flavours and influence

South Africa is often described as a “melting pot” of cultures. Looking back on the country’s history and the mix of different nations which have left their mark on South Africa over the centuries, it's no surprise that there has been an impact on our culture and cuisine. Examples are the French Huguenots in the Cape Winelands, the diaspora of African nations across the country, the Indian community in Durban and the Cape Malay community in and around Cape Town. The influences are felt in homes and restaurants around the country.

From laid-back local fare to fine dining

Over the past few years, South Africa has steadily grown as a culinary destination. Our favourite aspect of South Africa’s foodie scene is that you can enjoy the full spectrum; from cheap and cheerful local finds and warm and welcoming eateries to fine dining in award-winning restaurants.

South Africa is no “one-trick pony.” Walk around popular central destinations in cities such as Cape Town, Johannesburg and Durban and you’ll find an eclectic mix of restaurants with cuisines from around the world to suit a range of tastes! Think Italian, Vietnamese, Chinese, Mexican, Indian, French cuisine and much more!

Two of the country’s most famous restaurants are the award-winning La Colombe in Cape Town’s southern suburbs and Wolfgat in Paternoster on the West Coast.

The best places for food lovers to visit in South Africa

A foodie-based trip will likely take you all over South Africa. Here are a few of the places we feel are the best for food lovers to visit:

• Cape Town
  Cape Town boasts a number of incredible experiences for foodies! Visit Bo Kaap and discover Cape Malay cuisine which you can try at local restaurants and during local cooking classes! For fine dining experiences, visit award-winning restaurants including the Test Kitchen, the Pot Luck Club and Belly of the Beast.




• The Cape Winelands & the Spice Route
  Of course, the beautiful Cape Winelands are included on this list! Visit the incredible variety of vineyards and wine estates in Stellenbosch, Franschhoek and Paarl, enjoying great wine and food as you go. For a great stop that offers a variety of excellent foodie options, visit the Spice Route in Paarl.




• The West Coast
  Travel up the West Coast for an unparalleled seafood experience! With the waves of the Atlantic Ocean lapping on the shore, you can look forward to fresh, tasty seafood at destinations along the West Coast. Die Standloper restaurant is one of the most popular spots in the region.




• The Karoo
  For a journey that is as unique as it is beautiful, travel through the stark and striking landscapes of the Karoo and Klein Karoo. While here, enjoy the famous Karoo lamb - you won’t taste anything like it elsewhere!




• The KZN Midlands
  For a truly Instagram-worthy road trip, venture along the Midlands Meander in Kwa-Zulu Natal. This beautiful part of South Africa boasts rolling green hills, sparkling blue dams and quaint towns and villages which lead up to the majestic Drakensburg Mountains. Throughout the Midlands, you can find welcoming local eateries as well as high-brow, fine-dining destinations.




• Durban
  Finally, if you find yourself in Durban, be sure to try an authentic Durban curry! The Indian cuisine scene in Durban is strong with variety and flavour and features dishes from the north and south of India. During a visit, be sure to try the uniquely-named Bunny Chow, which, interestingly, does not contain any bunnies!

More reasons to visit South Africa

In addition to the incredible cuisine, there are a number of reasons to visit South Africa. The landscapes are varied and offer exciting outdoor activities. Bustling cities like Cape Town and Johannesburg offer world-class shopping and eating while also boasting the allure of laid-back coastal and countryside getaways nearby. The wildlife, including the famous Big 5, in places such as the Kruger National Park is simply incredible and cements South Africa’s position as a top safari destination! Add all this to the affordability and welcoming locals, and a trip to South Africa will stay in your heart long after you return home!

Is exploring South Africa to experience the cuisine (and more!) on your bucket list for 2023 yet? It should be! Whether you are a first-time visitor, a long-standing South Africa fan or a local who wants to discover more of their home country, 2023 is the year to do it! Find your next adventure in South Africa.

For many of us, 9 - 5 office jobs are a thing of the past. People around the world are working remotely, embracing the “digital nomad” lifestyle and embarking on workcations. With many companies offering more flexibility when it comes to work, people are able to see more of the world than ever before!

South Africa is undoubtedly one of the world’s best travel destinations. It’s also an incredible workcation destination! A workcation allows you to combine a vacation with work - so you can keep on top of your responsibilities while enjoying the benefits of a holiday! South Africa’s Western Cape is home to a number of wonderful cities and towns that would be the perfect place for a workcation. To help you choose your next workcation spot, we have put together a list of the best workcation destinations in the Western Cape.

Whether you’re working from home and keen on a change in scenery or a digital nomad looking for an unforgettable getaway, South Africa’s Western Cape should be on your must-see list.

Add the destinations below to your must-visit list for your next workcation:

1. Cape Town City Centre

We had to start in the heart of the Mother City! If you want to feel like you’re in the centre of the action, choose to stay in Cape Town’s city centre. The area encompasses neighbourhoods such as Sea Point, Green Point, De Waterkant, Gardens, Tamboerskloof, Vredehoek and more; each with its own unique character. In the city centre, you’ll find the world-famous V&A Waterfront which boasts world-class restaurants and shopping in a stunning setting. The promenade is a popular walking and running spot, and, of course, you have Table Mountain and Lion’s Head crowning the urban centre! Cape Town has a continuously growing foodie scene with local eateries, vibey bars and award-winning restaurants welcoming customers around the city. You can make the most of the city’s outdoor adventures; whether it's nature walks, hiking, cycling, sea kayaking, or beach visits to nearby Clifton and Camps Bay.

Dotted among it all are co-working spaces and coffee shops and cafes that offer free wifi. After working hours, enjoy the welcoming locals, visit local art galleries and museums, and the buoyant atmosphere of the city’s nightlife.

The City Centre is an excellent base from which to explore more of the Western Cape as it is within easy driving distance of areas such as Cape Point, the Cape Winelands, the West Coast and cosy towns in the Southern Suburbs. Which brings us to our next spot…

2. Hout Bay

For the ultimate relaxing workcation getaway, visit Hout Bay! Nestled on the Atlantic Seaboard, this gorgeous seaside neighbourhood sits between the ocean and the mountains. Here, you’ll be treated to gorgeous natural scenery, great outdoor activities and a laid-back vibe.

Keen to explore the outdoors during your downtime? Hout Bay is the perfect place. Hit the nearby hiking trails or explore the ocean on boat trips or exciting kayak and seal snorkelling expeditions!

Bay Harbour Market is a great weekend spot - here you can browse the artisanal goods and local food stalls while enjoying live music! Hout Bay is also home to great restaurants (fresh seafood, anyone?) and the stellar wine farms of Constantia are a short drive away.

You’ll also enjoy easy access to the city centre, Camps Bay, the Southern Suburbs, Muizenberg and more. However, it is still secluded enough to feel like you’re completely separate from the hustle and bustle of Cape Town! It’s even been nicknamed the “Republic of Hout Bay”!

Take a look at dk villas accommodation in Hout Bay for unmissable long or short-term workcation options!

3. The Cape Winelands

Are wine farms and sprawling estates on your workcation wish list? The Winelands is where you want to be! The Cape Winelands encompasses a large area and includes famous wine destinations such as Stellenbosch, Franschhoek and Paarl.

Enjoying a workcation to the Cape Winelands is a great option as it offers the relaxing vibe of being surrounded by dramatic mountain ranges, historic towns and beautiful vineyards. The many wine farms and estates in the area cover a variety of interests and preferences; from fine dining to family-friendly picnics. You’ll even find quite a few unique wine tastings such as wine and cupcake pairings and even wine and biltong tastings!

The Winelands is also not only for wine lovers. Here, you can also enjoy the outdoors, with Jonkershoek and Helderberg being two popular trail destinations. The cuisine scene in Franschhoek is legendary while the history is nothing short of captivating! Many of the historic estates are home to museums and galleries detailing various aspects of the area's 300+ year history! The Cape Winelands is also a great all-year destination - bask in the sunshine in summer, enjoy the mild-yet-bright weather of spring and autumn and cosy up next to roaring fires with a glass of red in the winter!

4. The West Coast

Finally on this list is the West Coast. Stretching up from Cape Town and meandering towards the Northern Cape, the West Coast is made up of gorgeous coastlines, seaside towns and cosy hamlets. It is the ultimate secluded getaway!

Many travellers enjoy day trips up the West Coast, stopping in towns such as Langebaan, Darling and Paternoster along the way. The West Coast National Park is another perennial favourite with locals and visitors alike - especially during the flower season!

While there are several wonderful options for a workcation along the West Coast, we have one destination in particular that is our favourite - so much so that we set up a property there! Dwarskersbos is a tiny fishing village which offers the perfect opportunity to work, rest and rejuvenate. Stay in Dwarskersbos Skilliepark for a place that allows you to both focus and unwind after you’ve logged off for the day! There will be lazy days off and long beach walks aplenty!

Are these spots on your remote work wishlists? They should be! Enjoy the best of both worlds when you embrace remote work and the workcation lifestyle in the Western Cape!

With its long stretches of white sandy beaches, dramatic mountainscapes, scenic wine farms and inviting towns, the Helderberg Region is a popular holiday destination for Western Cape locals. Home to towns including Strand, Gordon’s Bay and Somerset West, the region has long been a popular summer getaway spot; it’s also great to visit throughout the rest of the year too. Plus, it’s 45km east of Cape Town making it an easy day trip destination.

This dk villas blog writer recently had the opportunity to enjoy the delights of the Helderberg region on a road trip. Take a look at the top things to see and do on your next day trip to the area, below!

Pajamas and Jam

Start your day trip with a stop at Pajamas and Jam eatery for an unforgettable meal in a cute and quirky location!

Situated in an unassuming area of central Strand, Pajamas and Jam offers an exquisite menu and freshly baked goods. Try one of their unique breakfast dishes such as the mushroom affair or croissants in bed. For lunch, choose from the butternut ravioli, the dreamily-named “warm rendang afternoon” and much more. Or, treat yourself to one of Pajama and Jam’s delicious, freshly-baked pastries or cakes!

Be sure to enjoy the ambience of the setting while there. Pajamas and Jam’s decor is cosy, stylish and eclectic - and filled with antiques, most of which are available to purchase. There is also a homeware and pantry store on site. The eatery is popular so go early to secure a table!

Gordon’s Bay Beach

A day trip to the area would not be complete without some fun in the sun! Travel along the seaside to Gordon’s Bay. This small seaside town offers the ultimate “R&R” opportunities.

Slow down and relax on one of the picturesque beaches in Gordon’s Bay. Try Main Beach or the blue flag-rated Bikini Beach for a dose of sun, sand and sea. The area’s beaches are family friendly and are perfect for a few hours by the ocean. Interestingly, for a small town, Gordon’s Bay has two working harbours; the Old Harbour and Harbour Island, both of which you can choose to explore.

Bikini Beach Books

Ah, an icon of the Gordon’s Bay beachfront area! Almost anyone who has visited Gordon’s Bay will suggest a visit to Bikini Beach Books - a quirky bookshop absolutely brimming with secondhand books. From the curling letters of the store’s sign to the vintage Ford car sitting on the roof - this book shop is full of nostalgia! Bikini Beach Books has been operating for over 25 years and is definitely a must-visit in Gordon’s Bay. Take a walk through the various rooms and peruse the stacks of books. You can purchase bargains for as little at 50c or R1 and almost every genre seems to be covered, with foreign language books available too. It’s easy to get lost browsing through Bikini Beach Books for a few hours!

Gordon’s Bay Beach Front

Once you’ve had your fix of the beach and second-hand books, it’s time for a bite to eat. Stroll down the beach front area and choose any of the colourful and welcoming restaurants or cafes for a lunchtime meal. From pizza and pasta to ice cream and coffee, you’re sure to find a lovely spot! Alternatively, visit the Old Harbour and sit down at the Thirsty Oyster for delicious seafood. The quirkily-named restaurant offers fresh fish and seafood dishes and a fun-filled, welcoming vibe!

Scenic drive around the coastline

More beautiful views await when you set off on a scenic drive along the coastline. Take the Faure Marine road and R44 route towards Rooi Els, Pringle Bay and Betty’s Bay and enjoy the changing scenery. In Betty’s Bay, enjoy a visit to Stony Point Nature Reserve where you can see the colony of African penguins living in their natural habitat! It’s a lovely, less-frenquented version of Boulders Beach in Simon’s Town. There’s nothing quite like watching these cute and quirky birds go about their business!

Alternatively, from Gordon’s Bay side, head up! There is a viewpoint located at the entrance to the Steenbras Dam. From here, you can enjoy sweeping views of Gordon’s Bay, Strand, Somerset West and more of the Helderberg region.

Another great option is to drive over Sir Lowry’s Pass and enjoy a stop at the top for panoramic views of False Bay and beyond. Top tip: there is a lovely farm stall a few kilometers over the pass which is a fantastic option to fill hungry bellies!

Strand beach walk at sunset

Finally, end your day with a sunset stroll along Strand Beach. This 5km stretch of flat, white sand and shallow, lapping ocean waves is the perfect way to end a day in the Helderberg region. Enjoy a gorgeous sunset while you walk or take a dip in the water - the main beach “Melkbaai” is reportedly one of the safest swimming spots around! The beautiful sunset colours that fill the sky as dusk arrives will have you smiling well into your journey back to Cape Town.

More great day trip activities to enjoy in the Helderberg Region:

Crystal Pools Hike

Located in the Steenbras River Gorge, Crystal Pools offers stunning hiking trails complete with impressive boulders and natural swimming pools. This is a great option for anyone looking for outdoor adventures! Take note that the hiking trails are only open at certain times of the year and booking is necessary.

Hottentots Holland Nature Reserve

Travel over Sir Lowry’s Pass to get to the beautiful Hottentots Holland Nature Reserve. This stunning natural destination is a World Heritage Site and offers various outdoor activities. Enjoy hikes that range from easy to challenging or get your adrenaline pumping with a ziplining adventure!

Wine Farms

The Helderberg region is home to several excellent wine farms, making the Helderberg Wine Route a must for anyone on the hunt for a great day out filled with wonderful wine and beautiful scenery! You can visit Waterkloof Wine Estate, Lourensford Wine Estate, Vergelegen Wine Estate and more!

Spend a day discovering the delights of the Helderberg Region with the suggestions above. It’s a great way to enjoy a day or two outside of Cape Town! This destination deserves a spot on todo lists for locals and foreigners alike. Keep an eye on the dk villas blog for more Cape Town day trip inspiration in the future!

September is Heritage Month in South Africa. At this time of year, we get to celebrate all of the diverse cultures, traditions and history that make up South Africa. A hugely rich aspect of South African culture is literature. Our country has been blessed with incredible minds and writing talents, past and present! Walking into almost any bookshop across South Africa, you’ll no doubt come across bold and eye-catching displays dedicated to South African authors and books about the country.

To combine our love for great books and our home country, we have compiled a list of our top
South African books. Whether you’re in the mood for an autobiography, historical fiction, crime thrillers or contemporary fiction - you’re in luck! The list covers a variety of genres by authors from various backgrounds.

These are our favourite seven books written by South African authors:

1. Long Walk to Freedom, Nelson Mandela

Nelson Mandela’s autobiography is described as “moving and exhilarating” and is arguably one of the best-known memoirs in the world! In Long Walk to Freedom, Mandela recounts the story of his life and the struggle against apartheid and racial discrimination in South Africa.

The book was first released in 1994, following his historic Nobel Peace Prize win and shortly before he was inaugurated as the first democratically elected president of South Africa. The autobiography recounts his youth in the Eastern Cape, his days as a young law student in Johannesburg, his years in the ANC and the founding of its Youth League in the 50s, the notorious Rivonia Trial in the 60s and his 27 years spent in prison.

It’s a riveting read, written with elegant prose, that provides the “ultimate inside look” into the late former president’s life.

2. Born a Crime, Trevor Noah

Another fantastic memoir, Born a Crime illustrates the life and success of one of South Africa’s most famous talents - comedian Trevor Noah. Currently, Noah is the host of The Daily Show in the USA. The program allows him to flex his comedic skills, combined with social commentary and celebrity interviews on a regular basis. But Noah didn’t simply arrive in this famous position! The South African comedian has had a “colourful” life to say the least. Noah was literally born a crime, with a black isiXhosa mother and a white Swiss father, at a time when interracial unions such as that were punishable by prison time. He details his youth growing up during apartheids’ final years and shares stories peppered with hilarious moments and incredible insight into growing up as a mixed-race child in South Africa at that time. Ultimately, the book is a love letter to his formidable mother who was fearless in her determination to raise her son in a country where he wasn’t supposed to exist.

Crack open Born a Crime and learn more about this hilarious, sharp, insightful South African comedian.

3. Cry, the Beloved Country, Alan Paton

The first fiction addition to this list is the well-known Cry, the Beloved Country. This novel was published in 1948 and provided a portrait of a divided society in post-colonial South Africa (and was written in the build-up to the implementation of the apartheid regime). It has been studied in schools and universities in South Africa over many years and features on many lists when you search for “famous South African books”.

Cry, the Beloved Country is the story of Reverend Stephen Kumalo from the village of
Ndotsheni in Natal, who travels to Johannesburg at the request of a fellow priest to aid his sister who has fallen on tough times. Reverend Kumalo is also on the search for his son Absalom. The story also features James Jarvis - a white man who is the father of Arthur Jarvis, a white advocate for racial justice, who has been murdered. Reverend Kumalo and Jarvis cross paths, both in Johannesburg and in Ndotsheni. During the search, the book sheds light on the growing divisions and racial tensions brewing in South Africa as well as generational disparities in a country about to enter the most harrowing and turbulent era in its history.

Now a South African classic, Cry, the Beloved Country has come to be an essential read for South African and international readers alike.

4. The Promise, Damon Galgut

The Promise is the story of a dysfunctional (and oftentimes bigoted) white South African family living on a farm outside Pretoria. The story begins in the late 80s and spans three decades while following the Swart family as they deal with more than one failed promise. The acclaimed novel won the Booker Prize in 2021. Told from multiple points of view, the book is split into four sections, each centred around the funeral of a family member.

Galgut’s writing in this novel is often described as “swooping” as he shifts character perspectives from chapter to chapter, and even in between paragraphs and sentences. The omnipresent narrator also gets a say at times in the story. It’s bound to be an intriguing read, filled with observations of prejudice, historic events and South Africa’s changing social landscapes.

If you’re in the mood to dive into an award-winning novel, give The Promise a go.

5. Ways of Dying, Zakes Mda

Zakes Mda is an award-winning South African novelist, poet and playwright. His writing has brought South African stories to the page and the stage around the world.

Ways of Dying follows the tale of professional mourner Toloki who makes a living by attending funerals around his township. Toloki encounters a childhood friend who has recently suffered a loss and the two renew their friendship by recounting the harrowing events of their lives and, in the process, help each other to heal. Mda’s writing is often darkly humorous and illustrates the state of poverty, crime and violence in “the new” South Africa.

Following its release in 1995, the book has become a hit in South Africa and has even been adapted into a jazz opera. The book is short yet packs a powerful punch making it a great option for anyone looking for an affecting read that has pages filled with honesty and tragedy but also offers moments of laughter. It’s a tribute to the resilience of the human spirit, even when the odds feel stacked against our protagonist.

6. Coconut, Kopano Matlwa

Coconut is the story of a black child growing up in a white world. Narrated from a young teenager’s point of view as she grows up, the novel deals with black youth growing up in white neighbourhoods in modern Johannesburg and looks at how the goal of fitting in can come at the cost of one’s identity and blackness.

Described as an “audacious, lyrical and compassionate tale” Coconut will surely keep you riveted. Matlwa’s acclaimed debut novel won many accolades including the Dinaane Debut Fiction Award and the Wole Soyinka Prize for Literature in Africa! This is another excellent award-winning South African addition to your bookshelf.

7. Various Books, Deon Meyer

Finally on the list, is Deon Meyer’s extensive collection of books. Meyer is a South African crime and thriller novelist whose name will no doubt be splashed across several shelves in any bookshop you walk into in South Africa! The plots of his stories centre around cops who are flawed but empathetic characters (several books follow the escapades of Detective Inspector Bennie Griessel) with the plots set in recognisable South African destinations including Cape Town, the Cape Winelands, the Karoo, Limpopo and more. Excitingly, his novel Trackers has recently been adapted into a TV series!

Meyer writes in Afrikaans with his books being published in English too. His novels, including
Devils’ Peak, Icarus, and The Dark Flood, have been translated and published in German, French and Dutch and many more languages in 40 countries around the world. His books are an excellent option for anyone looking for a riveting South African thriller to keep them captivated!

As South Africa’s Heritage Month comes to an end, we hope this list inspires you to read one of these page-turners written by acclaimed South African novelists. Happy reading!

Spring is a time of new beginnings. Flowers bloom, leaves sprout on trees, the days get longer and we all get ready for the arrival of summer. This time of year is especially beautiful in Cape Town! From September onwards, the city shakes off the chill of winter and welcomes a brand new season. It’s definitely one of the best times to visit Cape Town for a number of reasons!

Dk villas has put together a list of the top reasons to visit Cape Town in spring. Check them out below!

Firstly, what weather can you expect from a trip to Cape Town during spring?

Cape Town is located in the Southern hemisphere so spring generally takes place from September through to November. Cape Town and the Western Cape province enjoy a mild to moderate Mediterranean climate. During spring, the average temperature varies between 17 - 29°C and there are often 12 - 13 hours of sunlight per day. You can expect some rain during the spring months but luckily it is only a few days a month - not on the same level as the wet winters experienced here.

Wondering why this season is so great in Cape Town? Take a look at these fantastic reasons to visit Cape Town in spring:

It’s Flower Season!

We absolutely had to start this list with one of the biggest draws for travellers to Cape Town in the spring - the wildflowers! The West Coast bursts into colour as the wildflowers bloom. There are several spots to enjoy wildflower viewing including the West Coast National Park which is a just over an hour’s drive from the city centre, Darling and Paternoster amongst many more.

Flowers can begin blooming from around mid-August, making it the perfect winter-to-spring transitional activity! Find out everything you need to know with dk villas’s guide to the wildflower season in the Western Cape.

It’s a great time of year for whale watching!

Excitingly, the Western Cape is home to the marine Big 5 - South African fur seal, Southern Right whale, African penguin, great white shark, and bottlenose dolphin. While Cape Town is lucky enough to be home to seals, penguins, sharks and dolphins year-round, the whales visit seasonally. From June - November, you’ll have the chance to enjoy incredible whale-watching around the cape as southern right whales, humpback whales and Bryde’s whales visit these waters on their annual migration. Spring falls right in the heart of whale-watching season! So you can enjoy the combination of mild spring days with exciting whale watching opportunities!

Some of the best places to enjoy whale-watching include Hermanus, Cape Agulhas and the West Coast. You can admire these magnificent creatures from the coastline or on a thrilling whale-watching boat excursion.

Once you’ve seen a whale tail or two, don’t miss out on enjoying the rest of the Cape’s famous marine life at this time of year! Head to Boulder’s Beach in Simon’s Town to see African penguins in their natural habitat (and even take a dip with them swimming nearby!), keep an eye out for pods of dolphins on drives along the Atlantic coastline, head out to Gaansbaai to go on a shark cage diving eco tour and when in coastal towns like Hout Bay, you can embark on a seal snorkelling adventure!

Spring is the perfect time for outdoor activities!

Speaking of adventure… spring is the perfect time for outdoor activities! The milder weather is great for enjoying outdoor activities such as long walks and hikes. While you most likely won’t be lying out in the sunshine on the beach (although, there are a fair few hot spring days where this is actually possible!), hikes and nature walks are super enjoyable at this time of year. The Western Cape is blessed with an abundance of beautiful walking and hiking trails that both locals and visitors to the area will enjoy.

Popular trails around Cape Town include Lion’s Head and Table Mountain - with trails starting around the city bowl and further south in Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden located in the Southern Suburbs. Seaside neighbourhood Hout Bay also boasts a number of incredible hikes in the area while venturing out to the Cape Winelands to destinations such as Jonkershoek will not disappoint!

Shoulder season in Cape Town is affordable and quieter

Another huge plus when visiting Cape Town in spring is that it is shoulder season. This is the period in between peak and off-peak travel seasons when destinations are generally quieter and more affordable, while still maintaining a great atmosphere! Springtime shoulder season in Cape Town is wonderful because you get to enjoy the city and its surrounds without the summer crowds and minus the chilly winter weather. There are shorter waiting times for popular attractions such as Table Mountain and Cape Point and you’re much more likely to get reservations at popular restaurants and bars. Many places may also be running specials at this time of year so be sure to keep an eye on social media to catch the best ones!

During September, you can make the most of low-season accommodation rates at dk villas while enjoying the fresh spring air at our properties in Hout Bay and along the West Coast!

Go local! Support spring markets and local spots

Finally, make the most of beautiful spring days by browsing a local market in a beautiful place! Local markets spring up (see what we did there?) in neighbourhoods all around the Western Cape! The best way to find one near you is to search Facebook or go old-school and keep an eye out for physical adverts that may be displayed in your area. A few of these markets are set up in support of charity so it’s a fantastic opportunity to browse the stalls for unique products while supporting a good cause! Fallen Angels Pet Rescue is hosting a charity market at their Melkbos location at the beginning of September. More spring markets should be announced soon!

Are you ready to spring into spring? Excellent! Be sure to experience Cape Town at this beautiful time of year, it’s sure to be bloomin’ unforgettable!

On 9 August, it’s the time of year when we get to celebrate the special women in our lives! National Women’s Day is an annual public holiday in South Africa. To make it extra special this year, dk villas has put together a list of wonderful ways to treat the women in your life this
Women’s Day in Cape Town.

A brief history of Women’s Day in South Africa:
National Women’s Day marks the anniversary of the 1956 women’s march to the Union Buildings during which approximately 20,000 South African women from all races protested the apartheid government’s Urban Areas Act and carrying of pass books which hugely impacted the lives and movements of black South Africans.

Decades later, the holiday gives South Africans a day to dedicate to the wonderful women who shape, impact and influence our lives. From wives, mothers, sisters, grandmothers and aunts to teachers, colleagues and friends!

Did you know? There is also an annual international Women’s Day which takes place on 8 March. This is a global day celebrating the various achievements of women around the world.

Below are a few ideas of wonderful ways to celebrate the women in your life:

Treat her to breakfast or brunch

Start the day off with a treat! A sumptuous breakfast or delectable brunch is sure to kick the day off on a high note. Does the special woman in your life have any foodie favourites? Find a spot that specialises in what she loves! Cape Town city centre is home to several incredible breakfast and brunch spots. Indulge at restaurants such as Jarryd’s, Kloof Street House, Jason Bakery, Coco Safar, and Butter. In the southern suburbs, Four & Twenty and Chardonnay Deli are perennial favourites. Alternatively, head to oceanside in neighbourhoods such as Hout Bay and Muizenberg and choose a cafe near the water for a Women’s Day meal with a view!

Enjoy a spa day

A spa day is a classic treat! Make it a super relaxing Women’s Day by spoiling the special ladies in your life with a spa day. Many Cape Town hotels have incredible spas on site. These include the One&Only, the Mount Nelson, the Twelve Apostles, the Cellars-Hohenort Hotel, the Cape Grace and the Radisson Blu, among others. Another great option is to travel outside of the city! The Cape Winelands is home to several amazing spas and wellness centres. Destinations to take a look at include the Babylonstoren Garden Spa, Lanzerac Spa and Leeu Spa by Healing Earth. Mangwanani African Spa also has a location in the winelands and offers a number of specials throughout winter and the rest of the year.

Indulge in a High Tea

This next suggestion is another classic. A high tea is the chance to spoil yourself with delicately crafted savoury and sweet treats. Luckily for those of us living in and around Cape Town, there are plenty of wonderful high teas on offer! Fabulous destinations for high tea include the Mount Nelson in Cape Town, La Residence in Franschhoek and the One&Only plus many more. Take a look at our pick of the best high teas around Cape Town here.

Get active!

Women’s Day 2022 is your chance to get active! Lace up your running shoes as the Mother City will be hosting the Totalsports Women’s Race Cape Town 2022. The event proudly supports the Pink Drive which is a non-profit dedicated to raising awareness about breast cancer. Expect to see a “sea of pink” as thousands of participants descend on the city for the 10km and 5km races. You’re able to run or walk the routes. Look forward to making your way through the city centre, from Darling Street to the Grand Parade as you go!

Please note that race entries close on 3 August. Entry fees range between R100 - R130.

Visit a wine farm with unique spin

Another classic Cape Town activity is a wine farm visit! The Cape Winelands are world-famous and we are absolutely spoiled for choice when it comes to the selection of world-class wine estates to visit. Venues across Stellenbosch, Franschhoek, Paarl and Constantia offer excellent options for tastings, breakfasts, lunch and dinner.

This Women’s Day, why not treat your favourite lady to a wine farm visit and wine tasting with a unique twist? You could enjoy a traditional russian tea ceremony at Hazendal Wine Estate, embark on a Biltong and Droewors adventure at Stellenbosch Hills, a nougat pairing at J.C. Le Roux or a fynbos cupcake pairing at Delheim.

Watch a show

Love watching a good show? There are some great Women’s Day productions in the line up! Enjoy ‘An Ode to Women 3’ at Grand West, during which South African crooners Craig Lucas and Robin Pieters will perform a selection of power ballads, toe-tapping classics and recent hits honouring strong women. Be prepared to sing along and dance the night away! Tickets are available here and the event takes place on 8 August at 8pm at the Grand West Arena.

For an evening of entertainment, head to “Wonder Women! A Women’s Day Special” hosted by
Tracey Lange and friends. The radio and TV presenter will be joined by Marc Lottering, Katlego Maboe, Jamali and more. “Wonder Women!” takes place on 6 August at 8om and looks set to be a night of fun! Tickets are available here.

More Cape Town Women’s Day Events in 2022

Take a look at a few more quirky, cool and exciting Women’s Day events taking place in Cape Town and the Western Cape this year:

Doek On Fleek Women’s Month All White Picnic at the Castle of Good Hope

Get ready for a day that’s all about women! Doek on Fleek is a women’s only picnic that has the aim of connecting women and offering some well-deserved down-time for attendees - all in a beautiful setting! The theme is “all white” and sneakers and a doek are on the “what to wear” list. Bring along a picnic, some chairs and a smile! The Doek on Fleek picnic will take place on 7 August at the Castle of Good Hope and tickets are available here.

Women’s Day Floral Workshop at Benguela Cove

Travel further along the coast of False Bay to Benguela Cove in Walker Bay (between Cape Town and Hermanus) for a Women’s Day Floral Painting workshop. During the workshop, you’ll learn about the basics of painting while creating your own art piece to take home!

Women’s Day Swing Night at Truth Coffee Company

Put on your dancing shoes and celebrate women’s power with a night full of swinging jazz! The Blues Shoes Swingtet will perform and the event is hosted in support of Vintage with Love - bring along a bag of “gently worn” clothing to donate and enjoy R50 off the ticket price. The Swing Night takes place on 9 August at 7pm at Truth Coffee in the Cape Town city centre.

Please note: Due to the Women’s Day 2022 public holiday falling on a Tuesday, some of the events listed above take place over the weekend before Women’s Day.

By now, you should be buzzing with Women’s Day activity ideas! Keep an eye on social media for more Women’s Day events taking place in your area.