Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens

Kirstenbosch is an absolute must see for anyone visiting Cape Town. It is a beautiful public garden perfect for a quiet stroll or a picnic with friends and family.

here is some interesting info about Kistenbosch courtesy of Wikipedia:

The garden is one of eight National Botanical Gardens covering five of South Africa's six different biomes. When Kirstenbosch, the most famous of the gardens, was founded in 1913 to preserve the country's unique flora, it was the first botanical garden in the world with this ethos. Furthermore, what makes the Gardens so famous worldwide is that (with minor exceptions) only indigenous plants are cultivated.
The garden includes a large, indoor greenhouse exhibiting plants from a number of different regions, including savanna, fynbos, karoo and others. Outdoors, the focus moves to plants native to the Cape region, highlighted by the spectacular collections of proteas. Kirstenbosch enjoys great popularity with residents and visitors. From the gardens several trails lead off along and up the mountain slopes and these are much used by walkers and mountaineers. One of the trails, up a ravine called Skeleton Gorge, is an easy and popular route to the summit of Table Mountain. This route is also known as Smuts' Track after Prime Minister Jan Smuts who used this route regularly. On the slopes above the cultivated parts of the garden a contour path leads through forests to Constantia Nek to the south. The same contour path can be followed to the north for many kilometres and it will take the hiker past the Rhodes Memorial to the slopes of Devil's Peak and beyond.
Kirstenbosch regularly exhibits Zimbabwean stone sculptures in the gardens. Many of the artists are associated with Chapungu Sculpture Park in Zimbabwe.
In summer, a popular series of outdoor concerts are held in the gardens on Sunday evenings.

If you are interested in going on a guided tour of Kirstenbosch check out these Cape Town Tours

5 Different things to do in Cape Town

If you are tired of hearing suggestions to go to Kirstenbosch or the Waterfront while you are in Cape Town here are 5 alternative activities which you can do.

1). The Scratch Patch (mining for kids) in Simons Town
If you take a trip out to Simon’s Town or Cape Point, stop off at the Topstones Factory. At their world famous "Scratch Patch" you can rustle around among the thousands of tumble-polished gemstones that cover the floor and fill a small bag with stones to take home with you. You can also tour the Topstones factory and watch gemstones being tumble- polished and crafted into a wide variety of products. Where? Dido Valley Road in Simons Town. Telephone 021 786-2020. Open every day.
2). Stop off at the Brass Bell for a beer or meal.
The Brass Bell is a popular waterside pub with four restaurants and three bars built almost in the water (the sea spray splashes against the windows). The downstairs area can get pretty festive and rowdy, so if you are looking for something more restive, book a table upstairs. (magnificent views over the sea). Open daily for lunch and dinner. Where? Next to Kalk Bay Station, Main Road, Kalk Bay. Telephone: 021 788-5456.
3). Muizenberg Toy Museum
The Muizenberg Toy Museum has a fascinating collection of early toys dating from the turn of the last century. The museum contains a shop specialising in obsolete and current toys and models - a must for any collector. Situated opposite the Fun Park, this is an ideal opportunity to visit a freshwater swimming pool, with children's paddling pool, swings & slides, boating pool and Fun Golf - right on the beachfront. And for the more adventurous - a water slide. Where? Beach Road, Muizenberg. Opening hours: Daily from 10am - 4pm, Closed Mondays.
4). Indoor Karting in Kenilworth
The well designed, indoor circuit at Kenilworth Karting offers fun filled experience for young and old. On arrival you will be briefed on the cars and the racing rules. You then hit the starting grid and the racing action begins. Beginner or experienced, kart racing offers you a heart racing activity that is loads of fun. Compare lap times and race positions on the computer printout after the race. Where? Kenilworth Karting is located behind Access Park in Kenilworth, Cape Town. Open Mondays to Thursdays from 13:00 - 23:00. Fridays from 11:00 - 23:00. Telephone: 021 683-2670.
5). Visit the South African Rugby Museum in Newlands
A visit to the South African rugby museum has become a regular port of call for locals and tourists visiting the city of Cape Town. The museum is on the ground floor of the Sport Science Institute in Newlands, just a kick away from the Newlands stadium. The SA rugby museum is crammed full of activities, exhibitions and insights into the world of rugby. The museum features rotating exhibitions and special attractions, which will fascinate both local and international visitors whether they be players or supporters..

Source

If you are going to be visiting Cape Town check out these Cape Town Day Tours.

Cape Town City and Table Mountain - "The Mother City"

Explore Cape Town, one of the world's most beautiful and cosmopolitan cities, cradled in the amphitheatre formed by Table Mountain, Lion's Head and Devil's Peak.


Things to do in Cape Town:

Rising 1087 meters above the "Mother City", the grandeur of Table Mountain can be seen 200 kilometres away from sea, and for centuries provided a welcome site to the exhausted sailors who visited the "Taverns of the Seas" after spending an average of 6 months at sea. The sight of Table Mountain with its flat top must surely be the most well known landmark in the Southern hemisphere. Weather permitting, we undertake a cable car ride to reach the summit from where one has the perfect 360º view of the "fairest Cape in the world".

The Castle of Good Hope, oldest European structure in South Africa, was built to protect the early Dutch Settlers against possible attacks by other European powers. Walking through its formidable entrance one is transported back in time to the late 1600's on experiencing the cobblestone floors, sundials on the original walls and the beautiful balcony that was the stage from where the Governor made his important announcements. Aside from the Changing of the Guards ceremony that is still performed, the Castle today protects valuable collections of Chinese Porcelain, old Cape furniture, Artwork and Cape Silverware.

The Malay Quarter, also referred to as the Bo-Kaap (when translated meaning Upper-Cape) is an extremely colourful area situated on higher ground than Cape Town itself and reminds one of the Mother City's days gone by. It boasts a distinctive Muslim flavor with beautiful small mosques, as many of the people who live in the Bo-Kaap are direct descendants of the former slaves from far away places like Malaysia, Java, Indonesia and the various Portuguese Spice Islands.

The oldest garden in South Africa, the Dutch East India Company Gardens started as a fruit and vegetable garden to provide for the many sailors on their long journey from Europe to the Spice Islands in the East. The purpose was to reduce the number of people who suffered from scurvy. As the Cape developed and more farms was established, the Garden gradually changed into the botanical pleasure garden it is today, still frequented by many a Capetonian on their lunch breaks.

Cape Town's link with the sea, the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, is a result of reclaiming the historic waterfront of Cape Town, and reuniting the Capetonians with their heritage - the sparkle of the sea. The V&A Waterfront offers a wide variety of entertainment, present-day shops and restaurants to enjoy in Victorian style.

Suggested Lunch options are restaurants around the vibrant Green Market Square in the centre of Cape Town with its flea market and interesting mix of "characters" or the V&A Waterfront with its endless choice of restaurants.



Interested in taking a tour of Cape Town? Check out cape town tours

So What’s so Amazing About the Garden Route?

According to Webster's International Dictionary, the definition of amazing is ‘bewilderment arising from fear, surprise or wonder' and once you have visited the Garden Route, you too will be bewildered with wonder at its breath-taking natural beauty and shy, elusive inhabitants.

Magical, mystical land

It is a magical, mystical land where shadowy, near-extinct elephants browse undisturbed in an indigenous forest that, to this day, is still largely impenetrable and where some of the most distinctively coloured birds and butterflies ply their pollen.

It is a region where some of its occupants include the tiny Blue Duiker, a Bambi-like creature that measures only 35 centimetres at its highest point and weighs a miniscule 4 kg's, and the endangered Knysna Sea Horse that grows to 13 cm and is found exclusively in the lagoons of the area.

Diverse natural environments

It is a region that encompasses some of the most fertile arable land in the country yet at the same time is home to the Western Cape's semi-desert, the Little Karoo, where hardy succulents carve out an existence and Ostriches roam free.

It is also a burgeoning international tourist Mecca where luxurious five star hotels and lodges are commonplace and every activity under the sun has been harnessed for the intrepid traveller. Kloofing, blackwater tubing, kayaking and the tree-top canopy tour are but a handful of superior activities to enjoy whilst visiting the Garden Route.

It is an area that is effectively squeezed into a strip of land between the warm yet turbulent waters of the Indian Ocean and the lofty peaks of the Outeniqua Mountain range, so both beaches and mountain passes are within easy range.

Some of these mountain passes have been declared national monuments and the tales of their birth is hewn into the history books of the area. A quick sojourn from Oudtshoorn, the Ostrich capital of the world, over the awe-inspiring Swartberg Pass is a must for all visitors to the area. While near Oudtshoorn, pop into the Cango Caves where stalactites and stalagmites have been well-preserved for an eternity.

Robust economy

The Garden Route boasts a particularly robust economy and is the preferred holiday destination and full-time residence of the wealthy of South Africa. Well designed and managed golf estates abound, making this the avid golfers' Mecca while Plettenberg Bay is home to South Africa's polo players and ponies.

The area is also carefully managed and conservation is paramount. With the vast number of national parks, the Garden Route should retain its mystery and extraordinary beauty for many generations to come.

Source: www.articlesbase.com
Garden Route Tours & Safaris

Cape Town Tourist Information

Price of Tours

Prices are subject to change and are reviewed at the start of the next summer season starting 1 September 2003.

Seasons

Summer is approximately from September till March with the peak of summer during December / January / February with the average temperature around 27º C

Winter is from June - August with the average temperature around
17º C - therefore a mild winter compared to most countries around the globe. This is the secret season of the Cape where most tourism companies, including 34º South Tours, offer special winter packages.

Visa Requirements:

Those wishing to enter South Africa must be in possession of a valid passport and, where necessary, a visa. Inquiries can be directed to South African diplomatic representatives abroad or the Department of Home Affairs in Pretoria. If you intend traveling to South Africa's neighbouring countries and back into South Africa you are advised to apply for multiple entry visas. Tourists must satisfy immigration officers that they have the means to support themselves during their stay, and that they are in possession of return or onward air tickets.

Malaria:

Malaria does not occur in the Western Cape and none of the tours on this site enter Malaria areas

Immunizations:

No international immunization is needed when entering South Africa. The only inoculation requirement is a yellow fever vaccination certificate from travelers Who enter South Africa within six days of leaving an infected country.

Electricity:

220/230 volts AC at 50 cycles per second. Three pronged plugs are universal, so take an adapter. Most hotel rooms have 110 volt outlets for electric shavers and small appliances.

Currency:

One Rand 'R'= 100 cents 'c'. Notes issued R200, R100, R50, R20, R10; coins R5, R2, R1, 50c 20c, 10c and 5c. Currency exchange rates are available at banks and published daily in the press.

Traveler's Cheques:

Most international traveler's checks are accepted provided they are in an acceptable currency and may be cashed at most banks. Many hotels and shops also provide this service.

Driving:

Drive on the left and give way to traffic approaching from the right.

Tourist Information

South African Garden Route Wilderness Town Travel Information

The town of Wilderness is along the Garden Route in South Africa between Mossel Bay and Storms River, the Garden Route runs parallel to a coastline which features lakes, mountains, golden beaches, cliffs and dense indigenous forests.

The Garden Route has a well-developed tourist infrastructure, making the region popular all year round. The pont at Malgas is the only remaining pont in the country, ferrying vehicles and livestock across the Breede River. Whale watching attracts tourists at Witsand and Port Beaufort from June to November.

The climate is wonderful all year round, temperatures hardly ever dropping below 8°C. The average rainfall is around 700mm, spread all year round, meaning that the winters are as warm and sunny as the summertime. Back in the 1800's, Wilderness was already renowned for it's hospitality and the natural beauty of the surrounding area.

Back in those days, a small stone farmhouse was the only form of lodging and it was through this that the legend of Wilderness hospitality and goodwill was established. A seaside-boarding house was established in the old farmstead, which was later to become the Karos Wilderness Hotel.

Wilderness is set between the Kaaimans River and the Goukama Nature Reserve, whilst being bordered by the Outeniqua Mountains. Renowned for it tranquil sea and beaches which stretch on forever, Wilderness has become a Internationally sought after holiday resort.

Wilderness is also surrounded by many rivers and natural lakes and lagoons. This makes it a great spot for water sport enthusiasts, who flock there regularly. There is 2500 ha National Park with five rivers, five lakes, two estuaries and 18km of coastline. Wilderness sports many types of wildlife, in particular birds.

Many types of water birds breed here and this makes it ideal for bird-watchers. The many other types of recreation include hiking, dolphin and whale-watching, hang-gliding, paragliding, horse riding, mountain-biking, scenic drives, Wilderness Lakes Art Route, day tours, ferry cruises, angling, boating and other water sports.

Wilderness also has a great number of craftsmen and women in the area. There work is often for sale and the tourist can pick up many bargains at the monthly craft markets, held in the middle and end of the month.

This and many other interesting aspects of the town add to it's rustic charm. A place that must be visited by any tourist in the Garden Route, it truly is a place of timeless beauty. There are many things to do and see in this small village. The famous "Map of Africa Viewpoint" offers fantastic view of the Kaaimans River Valley and an ocean vista rivaled by few. Another great viewpoint is Dolphin Point which gives a magnificent view of the ocean for miles.

Source: Ezine Articles
Cape Town Tours

Families love to visit the Cape Winelands - South Africa

And you'll love the Cape Winelands too, if you

- enjoy being out in the open, surrounded by beautiful scenery

- have a family that will enjoy doing things together.

There is so much more to the Winelands than wine! Most visitors (our family included!) are not wine connoisseurs, so don't feel left out if you don't know a Chardonnay from a Chenin Blanc...

Where exactly IS the Cape Winelands ?

The original vineyards of the Cape were planted at Groot Constantia. Constantia wines were famous even in Jane Austen's time! The vineyards at Stellenbosch, Paarl and Franschhoek were not far behind as these were also established in the Cape Colony era.

These days the vineyards stretch far and wide. (Wellington, Robertson, Montagu and on up the Route 62 as far as Calitzdorp in fact.)

It's up to you to decide how far you want to go! But unless you're looking for exhaustive (exhausting?!) regional wine tastings, there's more than enough to enjoy within an hour's drive of Cape Town.

Which wine route?

The Stellenbosch wine route alone is made up of 5 sub-routes and 130 wine farms. And the Paarl and Franschhoek wine routes are nearby too - think you can visit them all? Nope? So how do you choose?

This is what we do.

Generally our trips encompass some Paarl and some Stellenbosch wine farms, partly because it allows for an easy circular drive: out on the N1, across on the R44 and back via the N2. We meander along map in hand (opens in new window), pick out farms we want to visit, picnic or lunch somewhere, then meander some more before finally heading for home.

The key is to soak up the ambience along with the wine. You may have to designate one adult as driver to be sure all that vino doesn't stop you getting safely home :-).

We love the Franschhoek valley for its beauty as well as its wine, so we'd certainly recommend you do an exceptionally scenic drive through it and of course stop anywhere that takes your fancy!

What else is there?

Aside from the fruits of the vine, the Cape winelands can provide a fair few days of entertainment. What's worth doing? Let's see -

visit Stellenbosch itself with its quaint and picturesque town centre

great hikes in Jonkershoek Nature Reserve (but don't bank on the picnic site there!)

- strawberry picking in summer

- a crocodile farm

- a butterfly farm

- trout fishing

- hot air ballooning (if you have the budget!)

And that's not all:

Stellenbosch Tourism is about to launch their 'children's route'! This is so hot off the press that when I asked at their offices on the weekend they told me it was Classified Info -- Top Secret -- I would have to wait for the "Official Launch"!

Source: Article Base
Cape Town Tours