From Johannesburg to Cape Town
From Johannesburg to Cape Town
Fly with us to Johannesburg! We set off from Paris (always such a treat to use the private valet services at Roissy – they cost less than airport parking, and they pick up your car right at your departure terminal and bring it back to the exact same spot when you return! Just a word of caution: not all of them are reliable, so trust user reviews).
After admiring the incredible architecture of Terminal 1, we headed towards the boarding gates, where we found free PlayStation 5 consoles to keep even the grown-ups entertained while waiting!
Ten hours later… here we are in Joburg! Or Jozi, as the locals call it. No time to waste: we booked a Hop-on / Hop-off bus, those famous red double-deckers that take you around the city, stopping at all the must-see sights. Unfortunately, Joburg doesn’t really have a downtown you can stroll through on foot—safety concerns being what they are—so the “magic bus,” as we called it, is hands down the best option to explore the city comfortably and safely.
On to Cape Town
The trip had worn us out (though not jet lag—we got lucky, there’s none!), so we had dinner at our accommodation to recharge before setting off for Cape Town. We booked a domestic flight with FlySafair—worth noting that ALL liquids are allowed on board for domestic flights in South Africa, so yes, you can bring your aperitifs with you!
In Cape Town, we loved:
- Taking the funicular up to Table Mountain and soaking up the views over the city’s soccer stadium, Lion’s Head, and Robben Island.
- The Victoria & Alfred Waterfront with lazy seals, a kids’ playground, shops, restaurants, food court, and artisan market.
- The colorful Bo-Kaap district, perfect for a stroll.
- Observatory neighborhood, a charming street full of restaurants and boutiques.
- Kloof Street, especially Kloof Street House, with its beautiful terrace, garden, and unique interior.
- For teenagers: the iconic Deus Ex Machina store.
After sightseeing, it was time for a beach day at Clifton 4 beach with easy parking, rentals, and crab hunting along the breakwater. A coastal walk revealed more pristine beaches—absolutely breathtaking!
The next day, we visited the Old Biscuit Mill Market, full of local designers, food stalls, and a flea market atmosphere. By evening, we headed to Camps Bay to enjoy the sunset and dinner. Parking is fairly easy, but don’t forget to tip the attendants who watch your car.
Visiting the Penguins
One of the highlights: Boulders Beach and the Cape of Good Hope.
- Drive the scenic Chapman’s Peak Drive, one of the most spectacular coastal roads in the world. Between June and November, it’s also whale-watching season!
- Lunch at Imhoff Farm in Kommetjie—kid-friendly with a mini-farm, playground, and stunning vineyard views.
- Stay in a beachfront house in Scarborough—perfect for shell-hunting mornings and sundowner evenings.
- Watch kite surfers, a spectacular sight for kids and adults alike.
- See the penguins via the free beach path (official reserve entry: 215 rands adults, 105 rands children).
- Visit Cape Point Ostrich Farm for a guided tour and meal options.
Wine Country: Stellenbosch
Next stop: Stellenbosch, the heart of South Africa’s wine country.
- Stay at Vredenheim Wine Farm, with vineyards, a park, and a small zoo.
- Ride the Franschhoek Wine Tram, a charming way to hop between estates.
- Explore Babylonstoren, with its gardens, orchards, history tours, and farm shop.
- Stroll through Stellenbosch town and enjoy local wines on a terrace.
- Dine at one of the many Michelin-starred restaurants (note: many don’t allow children).
- Visit Peter Falke Wine Estate with its vast gardens, play area, and wine tastings.
Final Stop: Paternoster Beach
To end our trip, we relaxed at Paternoster, one of the oldest fishing villages on the west coast. We rented a small beachfront cottage and enjoyed fresh seafood straight from local fishermen.
Life slows down here: stroll along the beach, savor the laid-back atmosphere, and soak in pure bliss before heading home.