Cape Town Peninsula: Table Mountain, Penguins & Cape Point Tour

Summary

See Table Mountain, penguins at Boulders Beach, and Cape Point

You’ll wander through Bo-Kaap’s rainbow streets with a local guide, ride up Table Mountain for misty city views, cruise Chapman’s Peak Drive, and meet African penguins at Boulders Beach. Expect salty air at Cape Point and plenty of unscripted moments — this isn’t just sightseeing; it’s feeling Cape Town under your skin.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I remember is the way the colors in Bo-Kaap hit me — those houses really are as bright as everyone says, but it’s the little details that stick: a woman sweeping her stoop in a turquoise scarf, the smell of cardamom drifting from an open window. Our guide, Sipho, told us stories about the Cape Malay community while we wandered around. I tried to say “salaam” to one of the shopkeepers and probably butchered it, but she just grinned back.

Table Mountain came next — that cable car ride is quicker than you think, but my palms were still sweaty by the time we reached the top. The view over Cape Town was all mist and sunlight; I kept squinting at Robben Island in the distance. Sipho pointed out where Mandela had been held (I didn’t realize it was so close). We took our time up there, just leaning against the railing with wind in our faces. If you’re thinking about a day trip from Cape Town to Table Mountain and beyond, this is honestly the way to do it — no stress about tickets or parking.

The drive along Chapman’s Peak felt like something out of a movie — cliffs dropping straight into wild blue water. We stopped for photos (everyone does), but what I remember most is how quiet it got when we turned off the engine. Just wind and distant waves. There was an ostrich farm too; I’d never seen one up close before and they look even stranger in person — kind of prehistoric? My partner tried to get a selfie with one but chickened out last second.

Cape Point itself is wild — salty air, fynbos everywhere, baboons lurking near parked cars (don’t leave snacks out). We walked up to the old lighthouse instead of taking the funicular; my legs complained but it was worth it for that 360-degree view. Then Boulders Beach: penguins waddling between sunbathers like they owned the place. One stared right at me before flopping onto its belly — I still think about that moment when things get noisy back home.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Cape Town and Peninsula highlights

• Visit Bo-Kaap Malay Quarter
• Take cable car up Table Mountain
• Drive past Camps Bay and Atlantic seaboard
• Stop at Chapman's Peak Drive viewpoint
• Drive through Noordhoek and scenic coastal road
• Stop at Ostrich farm
• Visit Cape Point Nature Reserve and lighthouse
• Stop at Cape of Good Hope signboard
• Drive along False Bay coastline to Simon's Town
• See African Penguins at Boulders Beach
• Lunch stop at Simon's Town Waterfront
• Drive past Fishhoek and Kalk Bay to Muizenberg
• Stop at Muizenberg colored beach huts
• Drive past Tokai and Constantia vineyards back to hotel

Top questions

How long does this Table Mountain & Cape Point tour take?

The full day tour lasts approximately 8-9 hours including all stops and transfers.

Are Table Mountain cable car tickets included?

No, you’ll need to purchase your own cable car ticket online before the tour.

Is hotel pickup included in this Cape Town peninsula tour?

Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included in central Cape Town areas.

Can I see African penguins on this day trip?

Yes, you’ll visit Boulders Beach colony to see African penguins up close.

Is lunch provided on this private tour?

No, lunch is not included but there’s time to buy food in Simon’s Town.

Is this tour suitable for families or people with limited mobility?

Yes, vehicles are wheelchair accessible and infant seats are available if needed.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup and drop-off in an air-conditioned vehicle with a professional local guide. Bottled water is provided on board, along with all fuel surcharges and Chapman’s Peak Drive toll fees covered before returning you safely to your hotel at day’s end.