If you’re planning a trip to Cape Town and are on the hunt for some thrilling and unforgettable experiences, you’ve come to the right place. Cape Town is not just about its stunning landscapes and vibrant culture – it’s also a gateway to some of the best safari tours you can imagine. Whether you’re a solo traveler looking for excitement, a family wanting to create lasting memories, or just someone who loves nature and wildlife, Cape Town has a safari tour for you.

In this blog post, I’m going to share my personal experiences and insights into the best safari tours in Cape Town. From diving with great white sharks and soaring over the city in a helicopter to exploring the picturesque Garden Route and enjoying wine with penguins, there’s an adventure waiting for everyone. I’ll cover everything you need to know, including what to expect, why you’ll love each tour, and useful tips to make the most of your adventure.

So, buckle up and get ready to discover the top safari tours that will make your Cape Town trip absolutely epic! Let’s dive into these amazing experiences, starting with the Marine Big 5 Trip in Gansbaai.

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*Disclosure: This post contains a few affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission at no cost to you if you make a purchase through my link. Note that I only promote hotels or resources I’m personally using.*

Useful Resources Going Abroad

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Marine Big 5 Trip in Gansbaai

I just got back from the Marine Big 5 Trip in Gansbaai, and wow, what an experience! If you’re a fan of marine life, this is hands down one of the best safari tours in Cape Town you can take. I was so excited the whole time, and I can’t wait to share all the amazing details with you!

What to Expect:

• Whales: We saw southern right whales, and let me tell you, seeing these gentle giants up close was absolutely breathtaking. They were breaching and playing in the water – it was like watching a nature documentary in real life!

• Sharks: Gansbaai is famous for its great white sharks, and yes, we saw them too! Our boat got close enough to see their dorsal fins slicing through the water. For the brave souls on board, there was even an option to go cage diving and get face-to-face with these incredible predators. I did do this later on, but on a seperate tour specifically for cage-diving!

• Seals and Dolphins: Dolphins were jumping alongside our boat, and the seals were so playful and curious. We watched them swim and play, and they even came close to the boat to check us out.

• Penguins: The penguin colony at Dyer Island was the cutest thing ever! Watching these little guys waddle around and dive into the water was such a treat.

The guides on the boat were fantastic, sharing tons of fascinating facts about the marine life we were seeing. They explained the behaviors of the animals and why conservation is so important. It really added an educational aspect to the trip, making it even more special.

Useful Information:

• Duration: The trip lasted about 2-3 hours, which was perfect – enough time to see everything without feeling rushed.
• What to Bring: I recommend wearing comfortable clothing, bringing sunscreen, a hat, and definitely your camera. You won’t want to miss capturing these moments!
• Best Time to Visit: Whale watching is best from June to December, but you can see the Marine Big 5 all year round.

Trust me, you don’t want to miss out on this amazing experience. Ready to dive into this marine adventure? Click here to book your Marine Big 5 Trip in Gansbaai!

Full-Day Cape Peninsula Tour from Cape Town

Just when I thought Cape Town couldn’t get any better, I went on the Full-Day Cape Peninsula Tour, and it completely blew my mind! This tour is definitely one of the best safari tours in Cape Town, combining stunning scenery, amazing wildlife, and fascinating history. I was buzzing with excitement the entire day.

What to Expect:

1. Cape of Good Hope and Cape Point: Our first stop was the iconic Cape of Good Hope. Standing at the edge of the continent, with the waves crashing against the cliffs, was a surreal experience. Cape Point, with its historic lighthouse, offers breathtaking panoramic views. The hike up to the lighthouse was invigorating, and the vistas were totally worth it!

2. Chapman’s Peak Drive: Next, we drove along Chapman’s Peak Drive, one of the most scenic routes in the world. The winding road, carved into the cliffs, offers dramatic views of the Atlantic Ocean. We made several stops for photos, and each view was more stunning than the last.

3. Boulders Beach: The highlight of the tour was visiting Boulders Beach, home to a colony of adorable African penguins. Watching these little guys waddle around and swim in the clear waters was a joy. They’re so cute and photogenic – I couldn’t stop snapping pictures!

Why You’ll Love It:

• Spectacular Scenery: The Cape Peninsula is packed with some of the most beautiful landscapes you’ll ever see.
• Wildlife Encounters: From penguins to baboons, the wildlife sightings are incredible.
• Historical and Cultural Insights: The guides provide fascinating stories and history about each location, making the experience even richer.

Useful Information:

• Duration: This is a full-day tour, typically around 9-10 hours, so be prepared for a full day of adventure.
• What to Bring: Comfortable walking shoes, a jacket (it can get windy), sunscreen, a hat, and your camera.
• Best Time to Visit: This tour is great year-round, but spring and summer offer the best weather and wildlife activity.

You’ve got to experience this for yourself! Ready to explore the stunning Cape Peninsula? Click here to book your Full-Day Cape Peninsula Tour from Cape Town!

Shark Cage Diving Experience in Gansbaai

If you’re looking for a heart-pounding adventure, then the Shark Cage Diving Experience in Gansbaai is one of the best safari tours in Cape Town. I just did this tour, and it was absolutely exhilarating! Facing a great white shark up close is an experience I’ll never forget.

What to Expect:

1. Thrilling Boat Ride: The adventure starts with an early morning boat ride out to the shark diving site. The excitement builds as you head out to sea, knowing that you’re about to come face-to-face with one of nature’s most formidable predators.

2. Safety Briefing and Gear: Before the dive, the crew provides a thorough safety briefing and equips you with all the necessary gear. The professional and friendly staff made sure everyone felt safe and ready for the dive.

3. The Cage Dive: Then comes the main event – the cage dive! You’ll be lowered into the water inside a sturdy cage, where you’ll have the chance to see great white sharks up close. Seeing these magnificent creatures swim just inches away is both thrilling and humbling. Their size and power are truly awe-inspiring.

4. Surface Viewing: If you prefer not to dive, you can still enjoy the action from the boat. The sharks often come close to the surface, giving everyone a great view. The guides are experts at attracting the sharks, ensuring that everyone gets to see these amazing animals in action.

Why You’ll Love It:

• Adrenaline Rush: This is a true adventure for thrill-seekers.
• Educational Experience: Learn about shark behavior and conservation efforts from knowledgeable guides.
• Memorable Encounters: Few experiences compare to the thrill of seeing a great white shark up close.

Useful Information:

• Duration: The tour typically lasts around 4-5 hours, including the boat ride and diving time.
• What to Bring: Swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and an underwater camera if you have one.
• Best Time to Visit: The best time for shark cage diving is from May to October, but sharks can be seen year-round.

Are you ready for the ultimate adrenaline rush? Click here to book your Shark Cage Diving Experience in Gansbaai!

Boulders Beach Penguins and Wine Tasting Full-Day Tour

I had an absolute blast on the Boulders Beach Penguins and Wine Tasting Full-Day Tour. This tour combines adorable wildlife with delicious wine, making it one of the best safari tours in Cape Town for a fun and relaxing day out.

What to Expect:

1. Boulders Beach Penguin Colony: The day started with a visit to Boulders Beach, where we got to see the famous African penguin colony. Watching these cute little penguins waddle around and swim in the clear waters was an absolute delight. They are incredibly photogenic, and it was fascinating to learn about their conservation.

2. Scenic Drive Along the Coast: After spending time with the penguins, we enjoyed a beautiful drive along the coast. The views were spectacular, with the ocean on one side and the mountains on the other. We made several stops along the way to take in the stunning scenery and snap some pictures.

3. Wine Tasting at Buitenverwachting: Next, we headed to the Buitenverwachting for some wine tasting. We visited a few different vineyards, each offering a unique selection of wines. The tastings were paired with delicious local cheeses and chocolates, making the experience even more enjoyable. The guides were knowledgeable and shared interesting facts about the wine-making process and the history of the region.

Why You’ll Love It:

• Adorable Penguins: Who doesn’t love watching cute penguins in their natural habitat?
• Scenic Beauty: The coastal drive offers some of the most breathtaking views in Cape Town.
• Delicious Wines: Enjoy tastings at top vineyards, paired with local delicacies.

Useful Information:

• Duration: This is a full-day tour, typically lasting around 8-9 hours.
• What to Bring: Comfortable clothing, a hat, sunscreen, and your camera.
• Best Time to Visit: The tour is great year-round, but spring and summer offer the best weather.

Want to enjoy a day of adorable penguins and delicious wine? Click here to book your Boulders Beach Penguins and Wine Tasting Full-Day Tour!

3-Day Garden Route and Safari from Cape Town/Stellenbosch

If you’re looking for an extended adventure that combines breathtaking scenery and incredible wildlife, the 3-Day Garden Route and Safari from Cape Town/Stellenbosch is one of the best safari tours in Cape Town. I recently experienced this tour, and it was three days of non-stop wonder and excitement.

What to Expect:

1. Scenic Garden Route: The journey begins with a drive along the famous Garden Route, known for its stunning landscapes. From lush forests and dramatic coastlines to charming towns, every moment of the drive offers something beautiful to see. We stopped at various points to take in the views and capture some amazing photos.

2. Safari Game Drives: The highlight of this tour is the safari game drives. We stayed at a beautiful game lodge, where we went on multiple game drives to see the Big Five: lions, elephants, rhinos, buffalo, and leopards. The guides were incredibly knowledgeable and made sure we got the best sightings. Seeing these majestic animals in their natural habitat was an unforgettable experience.

3. Adventure Activities: Along the Garden Route, we had the chance to participate in various adventure activities. From canoeing on serene rivers to exploring stunning caves, there was never a dull moment. The Cango Caves were a particular highlight, with their impressive stalactites and stalagmites.

Why You’ll Love It:

• Diverse Landscapes: The Garden Route offers some of the most varied and beautiful scenery in South Africa.
• Big Five Safari: Experience the thrill of seeing Africa’s most iconic animals up close.
• Adventure and Relaxation: A perfect mix of adventure activities and relaxing moments in nature.

Useful Information:

• Duration: This tour lasts for three days and two nights.
• What to Bring: Comfortable clothing, walking shoes, a hat, sunscreen, and your camera.
• Best Time to Visit: The tour is fantastic year-round, but spring and summer offer the best weather and wildlife activity.

Ready for an unforgettable three-day adventure? Click here to book your 3-Day Garden Route and Safari from Cape Town/Stellenbosch!

For those short on time but eager to experience a safari, the Full-Day Aquila Wildlife Safari Tour is one of the best safari tours in Cape Town. I had an amazing time on this tour, and it’s perfect for anyone wanting a quick yet thrilling safari experience.

Or, if you 2 days to spare, the 2-Day Wildlife and Safari Tour from Cape Town/Stellenbosch is one of the best safari tours in Cape Town for immersing yourself in the wild. I recently experienced this tour, and it was two days filled with incredible wildlife sightings and beautiful scenery.

Cape Town Tandem Skydiving

If you’re an adrenaline junkie like me, you absolutely have to try the Cape Town Tandem Skydiving. It’s one of the best safari tours in Cape Town for those who crave excitement and want to see the city’s stunning landscapes from a whole new perspective. I just did this tour, and it was the thrill of a lifetime!

What to Expect:

1. Pre-Jump Briefing: The experience starts with a safety briefing where the professional instructors explain everything you need to know. They make sure you feel comfortable and ready for the jump, going over all the safety procedures and what to expect during the free fall and landing.

2. The Plane Ride: The excitement builds as you board the plane and ascend to the jump altitude. The views from the plane are spectacular – you can see Table Mountain, Robben Island, and the beautiful Cape coastline stretching out below.

3. The Jump: Then comes the main event – the jump! You’ll be securely attached to your instructor as you leap out of the plane at around 9,000 feet. The initial free fall is an incredible rush, with the wind roaring past and the ground far below. After about 30 seconds, the parachute opens, and you can take in the stunning views as you glide gently back to earth.

4. The Landing: The landing is smooth and controlled, thanks to your experienced instructor. Once you touch down, you’ll be buzzing with excitement and adrenaline, eager to share the experience with friends and family.

Why You’ll Love It:

• Unmatched Thrill: Nothing compares to the rush of free falling from thousands of feet in the air.
• Stunning Views: See Cape Town’s iconic landmarks from an incredible vantage point.
• Professional and Safe: The experienced instructors ensure a safe and exhilarating experience.

Useful Information:

• Duration: The entire experience, including briefing and the jump, takes about 3 hours.
• What to Bring: Comfortable clothing and a sense of adventure! Skydiving suits and goggles are provided.
• Best Time to Visit: Skydiving is weather-dependent, but the best time is usually during the warmer, drier months from October to April.

Ready to take the plunge and experience the thrill of skydiving? Click here to book your Cape Town Tandem Skydiving adventure!

Cape Town Hopper Helicopter Flight

I recently had the chance to take the Cape Town Hopper Helicopter Flight, and it was nothing short of spectacular! If you want to see Cape Town’s breathtaking beauty from above, this is one of the best safari tours in Cape Town. The views were absolutely stunning, and it gave me a whole new appreciation for the city’s unique landscapes.

What to Expect:

1. Pre-Flight Briefing: The experience begins with a quick safety briefing at the helipad. The professional crew explains what to expect during the flight and ensures everyone feels comfortable and excited for the journey ahead.

2. Takeoff: Taking off in a helicopter is an exhilarating experience. As we lifted off, the ground seemed to drop away, and the expansive views of Cape Town came into focus. It’s a smooth ascent, and before you know it, you’re soaring above the city.

3. Aerial Views of Iconic Landmarks: The helicopter flight offers unparalleled views of Cape Town’s most famous landmarks. We flew over Table Mountain, offering a unique perspective of this iconic peak. Seeing the Twelve Apostles mountain range, the sparkling waters of Camps Bay, and the bustling V&A Waterfront from above was truly magical.

4. Coastal Beauty: The flight also takes you along the stunning Cape coastline. The views of the rugged cliffs, pristine beaches, and turquoise waters are simply breathtaking. It’s amazing to see how the city and nature blend seamlessly together.

5. Return to the Helipad: The return flight gives you another chance to take in the stunning scenery before landing smoothly back at the helipad. The entire experience is both thrilling and serene, leaving you with lasting memories and a ton of amazing photos.

Why You’ll Love It:

• Unique Perspective: See Cape Town’s iconic landmarks and natural beauty from a whole new angle.
• Thrilling Experience: The sensation of flying in a helicopter is exhilarating.
• Perfect for Photos: Capture some of the best aerial photos you’ll ever take.

Useful Information:

• Duration: The flight lasts approximately 12-15 minutes, which is the perfect amount of time to see all the highlights.
• What to Bring: A camera to capture the stunning views, and sunglasses to reduce glare from the windows.
• Best Time to Visit: Helicopter flights are available year-round, but clear, sunny days offer the best visibility.

Ready to see Cape Town from the skies? Click here to book your Cape Town Hopper Helicopter Flight!

Where to Stay in Cape Town: Recommended Hotels

After experiencing the best safari tours in Cape Town, you’ll want a comfortable place to relax and unwind. Here are three top-rated hotels that offer excellent amenities and are perfect for both solo travelers and families.

1. The Table Bay Hotel:

• Overview: Located at the V&A Waterfront, this luxurious hotel offers stunning views of Table Mountain and the harbor.
• Features: Spacious rooms, an outdoor pool, a spa, and a fine dining restaurant.
• Why You’ll Love It: The central location makes it easy to explore Cape Town’s top attractions, and the service is exceptional.

2. The Twelve Apostles Hotel and Spa:

• Overview: Nestled between the Twelve Apostles mountain range and the Atlantic Ocean, this hotel offers a serene escape.
• Features: Elegant rooms, a world-class spa, multiple dining options, and two swimming pools.
• Why You’ll Love It: The stunning natural surroundings and luxurious amenities make for a perfect retreat after a day of adventure.

3. Cape Grace Hotel:

• Overview: Also located at the V&A Waterfront, Cape Grace offers elegant accommodations with a touch of classic Cape Town charm.
• Features: Beautifully appointed rooms, a luxury spa, a library, and a renowned restaurant.
• Why You’ll Love It: The personalized service and attention to detail ensure a memorable stay.

Conclusion Best Safari Tours In Cape Town

Cape Town offers a wide range of incredible safari tours that cater to every type of adventurer. From thrilling shark cage dives and skydiving experiences to relaxing wine tastings and scenic helicopter flights, there’s something for everyone. Each tour provides a unique way to explore the natural beauty and wildlife of this amazing region.

Whether you’re a solo traveler or planning a family vacation, these best safari tours in Cape Town will create unforgettable memories. Don’t wait – start planning your adventure today!

Ready to embark on your Cape Town adventure? Click on the links provided to book these amazing tours and experience the best that Cape Town has to offer!

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Cheers for reading my guide to the best Reykjavik tours. Let me know in the comments which tour you find the most interesting!