5 reasons to visit the Mother City during the winter season
Winter will soon be all over the Capetonian skies.
Even without the bright sunshine, Cape Town still beams in the winter months.
It’s picturesque, a place you’ll fall in love with immediately.
This city has an extended list of exciting things to do.
The Mother City has a range of activities that are better to experience during the colder months of the year.
Do you tend to avoid Cape Town during winter? Scared that you might get blown away by the strong wind? Or perhaps have a fear that there’ll be nothing to do? Winter is the time when many keep themselves indoors, under a blanket and don’t even think about heading off on an adventure.
Although many locals aren’t fond of the winter weather in the Cape, it doesn’t mean national and international travellers won’t come to the Mother City. Winter can be a great time to visit Cape Town. It’s known as the green season because of its stunning scenery.
Here are some reasons why you should pay a visit to the city during the chilly season.
Holiday prices are cheaper
Not only will you be avoiding the crowds and many tourists but all the high prices fall away as well. Off-season specials mean you can stay for longer and experience more. Like most other destinations around the world, Cape Town has a low and high tourist season. The prices of Cape Town’s restaurants, accommodation and tour providers will drop during the low season. At this time of the year, there are self-catering accommodations and hotels in Cape Town at affordable prices. So accommodation won’t have to be one of your major problems. Despite the winter weather, the Mother City is still a holiday hotspot.
It’s the whale-watching season
The chilly months are the prime calving season for the whales. They’ll be out in a flurry. Whether you’re traveling alone or with the family, you can take a scenic drive along False Bay or to Hermanus and take in the beauty. You should be able to have a beautiful view from your car. But for the ultimate experience, hire out a boat or kayak to get up close. Several whale species will migrate to the coast. Then, the annual Hermanus Whale Festival takes place at the end of winter. Not only will you watch the whales but there’ll also be live performances and stores selling unique goods at this festival. Hermanus is just an hour’s drive from Cape Town and is widely regarded as the best land-based whale watching location in the world. The whales stay in the area for several months, so visitors will have plenty of time to schedule a trip to witness this magnificent species.
Perfect weather for hiking
Take in the beauty of the world around you with a breathtaking hike on a cool winter’s morning. Pack all the necessary clothing like pants and shorts, boots and socks, rain gear and hats. Wearing the right hiking clothes means knowing the type of trail you’ll be on, what the temperature and climate will be and how long you’ll be outdoors. A nature walk is a great way to clear the mind and inspire your imagination. And the colours, sounds and open areas are bound to make you happier and more attentive. For most places in Cape Town, winter is probably the best time to get some hiking done. The colder mornings and afternoons are ideal for hiking and walking in these natural environments as the temperatures are usually ideal.
Go for a spa-day
When you’re on holiday during winter and heavy rains are stopping you from outdoor adventures, why not visit a spa? If you want to experience Cape Town at its best during winter, then this might be your answer. Winter is the ideal season to take a day off from the rush to refresh, renew and revive your mind. Non-stop winter packages mean you get more spoil for your spend, whilst you get warm and relaxed inside a heated room.
Go on a wine tasting tour
When it’s cold or raining and you’re longing to get out of the hotel or guest house, then it might be time to head to one of Cape Town’s favourite wine farms. All year round, visiting the Mother City means you’ll be exposed to a variety of wine estates to indulge in a mind-blowing wine tasting session. A mouth-watering sip and swirl is just minutes away from the city. There are a variety of places to visit in and around Cape Town, from Constantia Glen to La Motte Wine Estate in Franschhoek. In Cape Town, the focus is on the smaller places where you can spend quality time with the people behind the bar and in the wine cellar.
Whether you’re a tourist or just a local trying to explore the beautiful city, you’re in for a treat. The Mother City is one of those cities you need to put on your bucket list for winter. Another thing that makes the city so marvellous is its fantastic line-up of events and festivals.