Cape Town
Out of all the cities on the African continent, it is Cape Town that is most popular with tourists from around the globe. This city of 3.5 million people is in the country of South Africa, a former Dutch territory that mixes both European and African cultures to provide a truly unique experience for visitors that is rich in both history and culture. Cape Town is so named because it lies along the famed Cape of Good Hope which allows it to be home to a multitude of dazzling beaches, each with its own particular ambiance – something rarely found in a single city. Those who love outdoor activities will enjoy the tropical warmth of this seaside city, for it offers such amazing sights of interest to nature fans such as Table Mountain National Park, Signal Hill and the gorgeous Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden. Surfing here is incredible, with waves so impressive that the annual Red Bull Big Wave Africa surf competition is held right off the shores of Cape Town, drawing in pros from across the globe. Whale watching, too, is a major activity for visitors with local sea mammals including rare creatures like Dusky dolphins, Bryde’s Whales and even the notorious Killer Whales.
For those who prefer that their activities be of a more indoor nature, plenty of the pursuits one expect at any other world class tourist destination are available in Cape Town, as well. In the Port of Cape Town, a great many shops offer unique products and gift items found only in South Africa and here there are a huge range of restaurants from quaint cafes to top tier gourmet restaurants. The Klaapse Klopse minstrel carnival serves up uniquely South African entertainment and the Artscape Theatre Centre offers performances nearly year round. All this, along with wine tasting tours at some of the world’s most respected vineyards makes Cape Town a destination not to be missed.