Western Cape

Along the southwestern coast of South Africa, this region boasts a landscape that ranges from rugged mountains to pristine beaches with breathtaking ocean views, lush vineyards, and a semi-desert region called the Karoo.

With its rich history, warm hospitality, and stunning scenery, the Western Cape promises an unforgettable experience for all who visit. Browse these Western Cape hotels and guesthouses to start planning your trip. Happy days!

Find select properties below or view all accommodation in the Western Cape.

The Karoo

This rugged semi-desert region offers a unique glimpse into the heart of South Africa’s incredible natural and cultural diversity.

Spanning across the Western Cape and the Eastern Cape, The Karoo with it’s stark beauty, rich fossil heritage, and quaint towns like Graaff-Reinet, Nieu-Bethesda, and Prince Albert draw visitors seeking to experience the vast open spaces, clear starry skies, and a pace of life reminiscent of bygone years.

Unique Attractions in The Karoo

• The Karoo Desert National Botanical Garden:
  This incredible garden in Worcester showcases the remarkably adapted plant life of the semi-arid Karoo region. Visitors can wander through replica Karoo landscapes and see plant species like the thick-stemmed noors, otherworldly halfmens, and the iconic quiver tree.
• Camdeboo National Park
  A striking geological formation near Graaff-Reinet, the Valley of Desolation consists of towering dolomite pillars that have been carved over millions of years. Hiking amongst these monolithic sculptures provides an almost lunar experience. Yes, you can camp in the Park. Whether you choose a tented camp, or the camp site.
• Nieu-Bethesda Owl House
  Built by a reclusive local woman, Helen Martins, this unusual house covered inside and out with dark cement sculptures and glass is a celebrated example of outsider art. The owls, camels, and religious figures that adorn every surface are bizarre yet fascinating.
• Gamkaskloof “Die Hel”
  A remote valley only accessible through a winding footpath, the isolated village of Gamkaskloof was home to a community cut off from the outside world for over 150 years until the 1960s. Visitors can explore the old houses and mills of this “Green Hell.” Great scenery, affordable tariffs. Yes, you can camp here too!
• Karoo Lion Park
  One of only a handful of free-range lion parks, this conservation area near Beaufort West allows visitors to get surprisingly close to lions, other big cats like cheetahs, and an array of other African wildlife via guided game drives and walking tours.

About Cape Town

Cape Town for example, is the provincial capital of the Western Cape, and is an urban, cosmopolitan city that seamlessly blends modern amenities with historic charm. Recently dubbed the second-best city globally to live and visit by Time Out, Cape Town, also affectionately known as “The Mother City”, radiates grace and charm that captivates all who visit her shores.

From the iconic Table Mountain, also known as Tafelberg, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to the lively V&A Waterfront. This world-class city offers a perfect blend of urban sophistication and natural splendour.

Unique Attractions in Cape Town

• Boulders Beach Penguin Colony:
  Nestled between granite boulders, this charming colony of African penguins offers an up-close encounter with these adorable flightless birds as they go about their daily routines, waddling along the sandy beaches and diving into the cool Atlantic waters.
• Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden:
  A verdant oasis perched on the eastern slopes of Table Mountain, Kirstenbosch is a living tapestry of indigenous flora, featuring over 7,000 plant species meticulously curated across its sprawling 528 hectares. The garden’s tree canopy walk offers a unique perspective of this floral wonderland.
• Robben Island:
  A reminder of South Africa’s turbulent past, this infamous island served as a prison for many years, housing political activists and dissidents, including Nelson Mandela. A ferry ride across the choppy waters transports visitors to this haunting site, where former inmates lead poignant tours. Click here to experience Robben Island.
• Cape Point:
  At the southwestern tip of the Cape Peninsula, Cape Point offers breathtaking vistas where the Atlantic and Indian Oceans converge in a dramatic collision of currents. A funicular railway whisks visitors to the top of this iconic promontory, where they can hike along the cliff paths and spot diverse marine wildlife.
• Bo-Kaap:
  A vibrant neighbourhood awash in a kaleidoscope of bright colors, Bo-Kaap is a testament to the resilience of Cape Town’s Cape Malay community. Cobblestone streets lined with vividly painted houses lead to the iconic Bo-Kaap Museum, where visitors can immerse themselves in the rich cultural traditions of this historic enclave.
  

Iron Man House

We even have the house known as the Iron Man House in Clifton, Cape Town. In the video below @EnesYilmazer and @AyersWorld is happy to give us a tour of the property.

Going Beyond Cape Town

Beyond Cape Town, is the Western Cape which has a few charming towns and villages, each with its unique character and attractions. Stellenbosch, for instance, is a picturesque university town known for its world-class wineries and Cape Dutch architecture, while Hermanus is a popular destination for whale watching.

Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventures, cultural immersion, or culinary delights, the Western Cape has something to offer every traveler.

You can also hike through the stunning Cederberg Mountains, explore the diverse flora and fauna of the Cape Floral Region, or indulge in the region’s renowned wines and gourmet cuisine.