Cape Town: Signal Hill Sunset Bus Tour with Open Top Ride

Summary

Atlantic coast drive to Signal Hill picnic spot at sunset

You’ll ride an open top bus along Cape Town’s Atlantic Seaboard, passing Sea Point and Camps Bay before reaching Signal Hill for a relaxed sunset picnic. Bring your own snacks or drinks and settle in as golden hour lights up the city and ocean below. With a local guide pointing out small details along the way, you’ll get more than just photos — you’ll feel part of Cape Town’s evening rhythm.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect the air along Sea Point to smell so much like salt and fried fish — it hit me as soon as we hopped on the open top bus. There was this mix of locals jogging, kids with ice creams, and the Atlantic just sort of glittering off to the side. Our driver, Sipho, pointed out a mural I’d never noticed before (he said it’s new, but who knows), and then we rolled past Camps Bay where the light started turning that soft gold everyone talks about. I tried to take a photo but honestly, it never looks quite right.

The climb up to Signal Hill felt slower than I thought it would — maybe because everyone was craning their necks to see Lion’s Head or just chatting about what they’d packed for their picnic. Someone behind us had brought samosas and the smell made my stomach growl (should’ve thought ahead). Sipho joked about how Capetonians always claim “this is the best view,” even though there are like five “best views” in town. He wasn’t wrong.

At the top, people spread out blankets and popped open bottles (you can bring your own stuff). The sun dipped lower and everything went quiet for a minute — except for one little kid who kept asking if the clouds were “eating the sun.” I still think about that view; it wasn’t just pretty, it felt like you could breathe deeper up there. We lingered longer than I expected before heading back down, kind of not wanting it to end yet.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Sunset tour along Atlantic Seaboard

• Pass along Sea Point Beachfront
• Pass through Camps Bay
• Enjoy picnic at Signal Hill
• Watch sunset over Atlantic Ocean
• Return to starting point

Top questions

Is transport included in the Cape Town sunset tour?

Yes, transport is provided on an open top bus throughout the tour.

Can I bring my own food or drinks on this Signal Hill tour?

Yes, guests are encouraged to bring their own picnic basket and drinks.

How long does the sunset tour last from departure to return?

The tour lasts approximately 3 hours from start to finish.

Is this tour wheelchair accessible?

Yes, all areas and transportation options are wheelchair accessible.

Are children allowed on this Cape Town sunset bus tour?

Yes, infants and small children can join; prams or strollers are welcome.

What’s included

Your evening includes round-trip transport on an open top bus with a local guide along Cape Town’s Atlantic Seaboard to Signal Hill. You’re free to bring your own picnic dinner and drinks to enjoy at the hilltop while watching sunset over the city and ocean before returning together after dark.