Van life in and around Cape Town

There are many destinations for vacationers who enjoy road trips, van life and the great outdoors, but few offer as many possibilities as Cape Town. The city and its surroundings boast a long list of attractions for sightseers. Active vacationers are particularly appreciative of the South African seaport for its numerous hiking trails, pleasant climate and breathtaking coastal scenery. A campervan will whisk you from the city to idyllic vineyards, one of many surfing spots or the nearest safari park in no time at all. South Africa is also one of the most affordable long-haul destinations. The best time to visit Cape Town is during spring or fall in Europe when the temperatures are mild. Perfect for discovering the highlights of the region on foot or by campervan.

Explore Cape Town and its surroundings by van

A campervan is an excellent way to explore Cape Town and its immediate surroundings. Established car rental firms at the airport offer a range of vehicles from small cars to campervans, which can be hired by anyone aged 23 or over. You will need an internationally recognized driver's license and a credit card to do so. Bear in mind that they drive on the left in South Africa! Once you get the hang of it, there's nothing to stop you from embarking on a road trip.

Immerse yourself in van life

Van life has a great deal to offer you in Cape Town. You are certain to meet many like-minded people who enjoy living in a campervan in the great outdoors as much as you do. This type of travel keeps luggage, space and luxury to a minimum, but it is all the more enriching as you discover the vastness of South Africa. You can be outside for up to 24 hours and step back from the hectic life you lead at home.  

Table Mountain and the Cape of Good Hope

Table Mountain is the city's landmark, and climbing it is a must-do during a trip to Cape Town. It is famous for the shape of its summit, which is reminiscent of a gigantic table top. The 1086-meter (3563 feet) mountain on the Cape of Good Hope is a listed UNESCO World Heritage Site. It will take around an hour for hikers with average fitness levels to reach the top. It's worth the effort: panoramic views across the surrounding green valleys, the shimmering blue ocean and the entire city with its colorful houses, impressive football stadium and fantastic beaches. Alternatively, you can ride to the top of Table Mountain by cable car.

Hiking on Lion’s Head 

The aptly named Lion's Head peak is next to Table Mountain. It looks like a proud lion surveying the city and Table Bay on one side and the Atlantic coast on the other. Walkers can take a variety of routes up to the summit depending on their level of fitness. All the hiking trails start from the parking lot on Signal Hill Road, and it takes around 1.5 to 2.5 hours to climb up and back down. 

Road trip along Chapman’s Peak Drive

It is not far by van from the Cape of Good Hope to the coastal highway. It runs from Hout Bay over the pass on Chapman’s Peak to Noordhoek. The road winds through 114 curves along the Atlantic coast for nearly six miles and is one of the most spectacular coastal highways in the world. Numerous viewing platforms give you uninterrupted views across the sea and the surrounding mountain chain. This includes the 582-meter (1945 feet) Chapman’s Peak, which has a number of hiking trails leading to the summit. Ideal for stretching your legs in the fresh air during the trip!

Safety first: wild animals and theft

When you go hiking or park your campervan in town, you should always carry out safety checks: are all the windows closed? Are valuables on display in the vehicle? Have you locked all the doors? Petty crime (pickpocketing, car break-ins) is widespread in Cape Town. That’s why it is better to be safe than sorry.
When you are outdoors, you should always bear in mind that there are wild and, above all, poisonous animals in Cape Town and the surrounding area. Always look inside your shoes before putting them on and close the car doors so that uninvited companions stay outside.

Foodies go to Woodstock

Woodstock is one of the most fashionable districts in Cape Town and has become a creative hub with workshops, art galleries, co-working spaces, restaurants and breweries. With its many art galleries and shops, Albert Road constitutes the center of the district. Unique products, hand-made artworks and souvenirs are on sale at the popular Neighbourgoods Market, held in the marketplace every Saturday. Food lovers can find fresh paella and gluten-free brownies here. There is also a freshly brewed craft beer from the local region. 

Off to Hermanus for breakfast

Good food and delicious snacks are also available in the small fishing village of Hermanus, located around 1.5 hours south of Cape Town and lies on the wild Atlantic coast. It's worth the drive! Not only because this picturesque spot offers romantic walks along the beach, but also because The Gallery Café serves the best breakfast in the whole area. Townsfolk meet up here at the weekend to eat freshly backed croissants and enjoy organic coffee in the gorgeous courtyard. Anyone wishing to stay overnight or sleep outside of their campervan can book into the legendary Marine Hotel.

Work from a desk on the beach as a digital nomad

With its attractive co-working spaces, fabulous beaches and wealth of natural beauty, Cape Town has much to offer freelancers. Anyone able to work remotely will feel at home in the South African metropolis. The digital infrastructure has been and is being continuously upgraded, and there is no time difference to central Europe.

Along the Garden Route by campervan

The famous Garden Route is right at the top of the bucket list of most tourists in South Africa – and rightly so. The route runs through lush greenery with rolling hills and a series of vineyards. The tour heads eastward from Mossel Bay to Port Elizabeth and covers a distance of 230 miles as far as the Tsitsikamma mountains. Indigenous forests and secluded beaches provide countless opportunities for rest breaks and picnics along the way. Alternatively, you can find sustenance at one of the many padstals situated along the route. Local farmers use the original barns to offer regional specialties ranging from jam to dried biltong and baked goods such as melktert (milk tart).

A day safari to Botlierskop

Safari fans don't necessarily have to travel all the way to northeastern South Africa's Kruger National Park to admire the “Big Five”. Botlierskop Private Game Reserve is just 40 minutes by car from Cape Town and, with any luck, a day trip should allow you to see the “Big Five”: elephant, rhino, buffalo, lion and leopard. So make sure your camera is always within reach!