CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA 

Cape Point, at the southern tip of the Cape Peninsula, offers some of the most spectacular views in the world. The drive here is just as inspiring, passing steep mountains, secluded coves and sweeping beaches, as well as villages and fishing communities.

Our tour begins with a scenic drive along the Atlantic coast, passing through the cosmopolitan suburb of Sea Point and Camps Bay with its glorious views of the Twelve Apostles, part of the Table Mountain range. We’ll continue through the fishing village of Hout Bay to one of Cape Town’s best-kept secrets, the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve – over 17,300 acres of indigenous flora. Here a variety of wildlife may be spotted, including baboons, rhebok, Cape Mountain zebra, bontebok and the elusive eland. The reserve is also one of the world’s largest breeding grounds for tortoises. Birdwatchers, too, find many fine species to observe.

The majestic coastline offers drama worthy of being called ‘Nature’s Greatest Show’. At Cape Point we’ll be able to see the union of the Atlantic and Indian currents, and may even feel the brisk wind that is dubbed the ‘Cape Doctor’ for its supposed curative powers.

After leaving Cape Point we’ll follow the coastline along False Bay. We’ll return to Cape Town by way of the Simon’s Town naval base, Fishhoek fishing village and Muizenberg Mountain. We pause in Simons Town for lunch and visit the Penguin Colony at Boulders Beach Penguin Colony.

Our return journey will take us via Fishhoek fishing village and Muizenberg Mountain to Kirstenbosch Gardens. Here we will have some free time to enjoy these delightful gardens before returning to our awaiting ship.

There is some moderate walking involved in this tour: at Cape Point, from coach to the viewpoints, and to the funicular railway and back; at Boulder Beach, to its penguins. Please note that we cannot guarantee sightings of any particular species of wildlife at the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve. There are sometimes long queues at the funicular, which will take us to the top of Cape Point. Lunch will include tea and coffee. A bottle of mineral water will be supplied.

TEXT IS CORRECT AT THE TIME OF PUBLISHING