Why Cape Town Should Be on Everyone’s Bucket List
If you’ve ever dreamed of a city that has beaches, mountains, penguins, world-class wine, and a food scene that will make your taste buds do a happy dance, welcome to Cape Town. This coastal gem is not just another stop in Africa; it’s a destination that deserves its own trip (or two).
I was privileged to lead a small group there in 2024, and it was unforgettable. One of the highlights was diving into the complex history of South Africa with local guides; walking tours through downtown Cape Town and colorful Bo-Kaap, learning about District Six and the people who lived there, and hearing stories that made the city come alive.
It was so impactful that I’m going back again with a group of West Coast Swing dancers in September 2026 before Safari Swing. Honestly, I’d love to take any group, any time. Seriously, give me any excuse to return to that beautiful city and I’m in.
The Views Alone Are Worth the Trip
Cape Town is one of those rare cities where no matter where you look, it feels like a postcard. You’ve got Table Mountain looming over the city like a watchful giant (don’t worry, we’ll take the cable car up…..or you can hike it if you choose), Lion’s Head and Signal Hill for epic sunrises and sunsets, and the Atlantic Ocean sparkling in the distance.
We spend time at Cape Point, where two oceans meet and the views stretch forever, and stop to see the adorable colony of penguins at Boulders Beach. Yes, you will take at least 97 penguin photos. Yes, it’s totally normal. I will have approximately 500 photos….again.
The Wine is Legendary
Controversial opinion: South African wine is some of the best in the world!!! Come explore the Cape Winelands and try it for yourself! This isn’t just wine tasting, this is wine country that can compete with Napa, Bordeaux, or Tuscany. We’ll visit carefully chosen estates (my friend Julia is a sommelier and curates the perfect day for us), sip South Africa’s signature Pinotage, and pair it with artisanal cheese, chocolate, or even biltong.
You Get to Dance with the Locals
Local WCS Teachers! Great Peeps!
Last year we met up with Cape Town locals for Salsa on Sunday at the famous Mojo Market, and we did a little West Coast Swing right there in the market! It was such a highlight that for our 2026 Cape Town Splendor trip, the local West Coast Swing community will be hosting a private dance event for us at Mojo Market, along with the chance to join their weekly social dance.
Getting to know the South African dance community is more than just fun, it’s a way to connect with the local culture and experience the authentic Cape Town. These shared moments are what transform a trip into a memory you’ll keep forever.
The Food Scene is Unreal
Cape Town’s restaurants are worth the trip alone. A few of my favorites:
Kloof Street House – A renovated Victorian home with decor as quirky and fascinating as its menu. Every room feels like a secret discovery, and the food is just as memorable.
The Codfather – Fresh seafood heaven. You pick your fish or shellfish from the ice, tell the chef how you want it cooked, and then enjoy it with a glass of wine overlooking the ocean.
Azure Restaurant at The 12 Apostles Hotel – Think luxury dining with the best sunset views in the city. The food is exquisite, the service top-notch, and the backdrop of the sun dipping into the Atlantic will take your breath away.
Adventure and Culture in Equal Measure
Beyond the food, wine, and dancing, Cape Town is full of experiences that let you dig deeper. Stroll through the colorful Bo-Kaap neighborhood, explore the V&A Waterfront, or take a day trip to Robben Island where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned, a sobering but powerful experience.
And if you like a little adrenaline, there’s shark cage diving, paragliding off Signal Hill, or simply cheering yourself on for making it to the top of Table Mountain!
Come With Me
Cape Town has everything — mountains, beaches, wine, wildlife, food, and history — and I can’t wait to share it all with you. My Cape Town Splendor trip is the perfect way to start your African adventure before Safari Swing in September 2026.
We’ll take care of every detail so you can just show up ready to explore, sip, taste, dance, and watch the sun set over the ocean.
✨ Want to experience Cape Town on your own schedule? I can curate a custom trip for you or your group anytime. Just give me a reason to go back to my favorite city!