What to do around town

There’s more than enough to do in and around Cape Town so that you don’t get bored, so keep this handy go-to guide nearby.

The Mother City is known for its picturesque beaches and scenic hiking trails. But that’s not all the city has to offer. If you’re new to Cape Town, we’ve put together a list of things to do around the city that won’t break the bank. Have fun!

Know your history – Visit one (or all) of the Iziko Museums to learn more about our country’s rich cultural and historical background and pay half the usual price. The South African National Art Gallery in the Company’s Garden and The Slave Lodge in Wale Street are just two museums on Iziko’s list.

Lekker in Langa – Visit Cape Town’s oldest township, Langa, with City Sightseeing Cape Town. You’ll also get to visit Gugulethu on this hop-on and hop-off walk and cycle tour. City Sightseeing also has many more tours on offer so be sure to get in contact.

Street Art – If an open-air gallery is new to you then consider visiting the trendy suburb of Woodstock (just a stone’s throw from campus) to admire the murals on building walls and fences – all day every day. Don’t forget your camera.

The Baxter Theatre – Many productions at UCT’s Baxter Theatre Centre offer student discounts. Call the bookings office to find out what’s showing and have your student card ready when you buy tickets. The Baxter’s in-house restaurant also offers wholesome meals at reduced rates for students.

First Thursdays – The first Thursday of every month is when Cape Town’s hottest spots open their doors for fun after sunset. Gather your besties and visit Cape Town’s trendiest dining spots and art galleries or check out one of the many cultural events showcasing the incredible talent the city has to offer. There’s no structured tour and no schedule to follow; it’s all up to you.

Out in nature – Spend the day at Kirstenbosch Gardens and enjoy the wonders of nature, or just take it easy on the rolling lawns. Students pay only R15 (R35 less than adults) to enter.

Table Mountain – For a trip up Table Mountain in the cable car, the Table Mountain Aerial Cableway has slashed rates for students. You’ll pay only R220 for a return ticket or hike up and pay just R100 to get back down.

Take a hike – Since we’re almost entirely surrounded by mountains, there’s no shortage of options when it comes to hiking trails. You can choose from one of the many routes to the top of Table Mountain, climb up Lion’s Head to enjoy the sunset over Camps Bay, or explore the trails around Constantia Nek and Rhodes Memorial. If you’re looking for something a bit more chilled, hike the contour paths in Newlands Forest — there’s even a stream along the way for those who want to dip in.

A garden stroll – The Company’s Garden is one of Cape Town’s famous attractions and is situated in the heart of the city. Enjoy a leisurely afternoon stroll between the flora and feed the city’s pigeons and squirrels while you’re there.

Hey hippos! – Visit Rondevlei just outside Grassy Park to spot hippos, eland and plenty of birds. For next to nothing (R12) you’ll also see over 250 species of indigenous plants, a museum and other animals, like porcupines and the Cape Clawless Otter.

Save our seabirds – There’s plenty of ways to help seabirds with the Southern African Foundation for the Conservation of Coastal Birds. You can take a tour of their Table View facility (R60 per adult), volunteer or adopt a penguin.

Beach bums – The Mother City is home to some of the world’s most beautiful beaches. From Camps Bay to Clifton and Muizenberg to Fish Hoek, we’re spoilt for choice. Get a group of friends together and head on down to catch some Vitamin Sea.

On the prom – Sea Point’s famous promenade gives you ample opportunity for free fun. You can stroll, jog, rollerblade, skateboard or cycle along the 11 km promenade. Or you can pack a picnic, find a spot on the grass and take in the ocean breeze, try out the outdoor gym, kick a ball around or befriend one of the many four-legged visitors.