World Tourism Day 2015 | Western Cape Government

World Tourism Day 2015

Every year in September we celebrate World Tourism Month, and the 2015 theme is “1 Billion tourists, 1 billion opportunities”. Both World Tourism Month and World Tourism Day, which is celebrated on 27 September, is aimed at fostering understanding and awareness that tourism is a big economic sector, where developing countries in particular stand to benefit. 

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Top tourist destinations in the Western Cape

The Western Cape is a leading tourism destination for leisure and business travel in the world, and some of its tourism routes are known to draw visitors from around the globe. 

We want to invite you to explore our beautiful province with your family and friends. Visit some of these wonderful spots, the big 6 and tourist attractions we have in the province: 

1. Table Mountain

Table Mountain is ideal for anyone who wants to view the Mother City from above. It’s advised that when you want to visit this flat-topped mountain that you first check the weather forecast, as panoramic views are best when the sky is clear with little to no wind.

2. Groot Constantia 

This fully operational farm which is one of the most visited tourist attractions in the Western Cape is situated on the Cape Peninsula and overlooks False Bay. The area has a maritime climate due to the ocean surrounding the Cape Peninsula, and has an annual average rainfall of +/- 1,100 mm per annum combined with cool southern slopes and deep mountain soil which provides the ideal setting for the making of top quality wines. Other attractions include restaurants & museums. A visit to Groot Constantia will be an unforgettable experience. 

Waterfront3. V&A Waterfront 

If you’re  looking to indulge in some entertainment and shopping, then the V&A Waterfront is the perfect place for you. Here you’ll find hundreds of speciality and craft shops, a choice of cinemas, helicopter rides and trips on board a sophisticated ferry service across to the Robben Island Museum to visit Nelson Mandela’s prison cell.
A convenient information centre is also available to those looking for something specific in and around the V&A. It’s situated on Dock Road (alongside Ferryman's Pub).The Waterfront Information Kiosk in Victoria Wharf might also come in handy to those who are unfamiliar with the area.

4. Robben Island

This historical island is located in Table Bay, on the west coast of Bloubergstrand and it’s where Nelson Mandela was arrested for18 years as a political prisoner. You’ll need to get a ferry at V& A Waterfront which will take you straight to the spot and be shown the prison cell Mandela spent the time.
 

5. Cape of Good Hope (Cape Point)
For those of us who are outdoor enthusiasts, the Cape of Good Hope is where you should be heading. Hiking, surfing, angling, picnicking, beaching and cycling opportunities are scattered all over this nature reserve, which forms part of Table Mountain National Park.  The spectacular backdrop of mountains and coastline of the Cape Peninsula will leave you with a unique perspective on nature. Free guided walks are offered at Cape Point on selected Sunday mornings throughout the year. 

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6. Kirstenbosch

Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden in Cape Town is a World Heritage Site where you can spend the day and explore the breath-taking botanical gardens maintained by over 100 gardeners. This beautiful garden was the first botanical garden in the world to be included within a national heritage site.

7. Harold Porter Botanical Garden

Ideal for a tourist who wishes to take a walk and breathe fresh air because it’s in between a mountain and a sea, this garden is situated on the coastal fynbos and is open for a visit any time of the year.

8. Bontebok National Park

To experience simplistic beauty and peaceful charm, visit this smallest national park under the South African National Park stable which can be found in the town of Swellendam, on the banks of Breede River.

9. Agulhas National Park

Situated in the L'Agulhas, this park is for someone who loves extreme outdoor activities; diving into the depths, reaching poles and sailing around the tips of the continents are just some of the activities you can experience  when  you visit this coastal park.

10. De Mond
It will take you about 26km from Bredasdorp, between Arniston and Struisbaai to reach this nature reserve which is a popular spot for people who love nature and enjoy hiking. If fishing is your thing, you’re not left out because in this place you can enjoy prime freshwater and marine fishing spots and even have a nice picnic under the shady trees along the banks of the river.

11. De Hoop

You know you love cycling, bird watching and whale watching, this nature reserve which is 3 hours away from Cape Town in the Overberg is an ideal spot for you. It’s referred to as one of the largest natural areas managed by CapeNature.

cango-cave12. Cango Caves

The Cango Caves are regarded to be the only and largest show cave in Africa. It's situated 29 km from Oudtshoorn and some of the activities they offer include a 60 minute moderate walk.

13. Tsitsikamma National Park

The Tsitsikamma National Park is a coastal reserve which is located on the stunning Garden Route. A visit to this park is ideal for someone who enjoys Scuba diving, mountain biking, forest excursions, hiking& nature walks and water activities.

14. Wilderness National Park

The Wilderness National Park is also in the Garden Route and is a combination of rivers, lakes, estuaries and beaches and some of the activities you can enjoy when at this park include birding and 4x4 trail driving.

15. Boulders

This beach is situated in Simons Town, it’s one of the few in the world and has become a popular international tourist destination spot. Ideal for children, in this beach you enjoy penguin viewing and boardwalks.

The content on this page was last updated on 2 October 2015