Explore Cape Town

Explore our city

What To Do In Cape Town

Looking to get the most out of your Cape Town experience? You have come to the right place! Cape Town has so many activities, eatery’s and excursions around, you just need to know where to look and where to go.

At 91 Loop we have some cool recommendations of things to do and places to see that won’t cost a cent, hiking trails, beautiful beaches, local markets, walking tours and cultural events. For everything else, why not go to our in house travel experts, they will help you book some amazing tours at the best rates in SA! What are you waiting for? Get out there!

Ask at reception, or email: tours@91loop.co.za to book.

Some fabulous options...

Our Top picks!

1. Adventure

2. Culture

3. Food & Wine

4. Shopping

5. The Jol
(Party)

6. Book at
91 Loop

Cape Town has it all!

Explore our City

Cape Town is a city that’s full of surprises and offers visitors a unique and diverse experience. Nestled between the iconic Table Mountain and the beautiful coastline, the city boasts a rich cultural heritage and a thriving arts scene. You can expect to be greeted by friendly locals and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. The city is known for its beautiful architecture, vibrant nightlife, and delicious cuisine. Visitors can explore the city’s many museums and galleries, or simply soak up the sun on one of its pristine beaches.

1. Adventure

For adventurous guests, Cape Town is an absolute paradise. This vibrant city is surrounded by a stunning natural landscape, offering a range of outdoor activities that are sure to get your adrenaline pumping. From hiking and mountain biking in the rugged mountains that surround the city, to surfing and kiteboarding on its world-class beaches, there’s something for everyone in Cape Town. Thrill-seekers can also try their hand at paragliding, skydiving, or bungee jumping from one of the city’s many scenic spots.

Shark Cage Diving
Experience the thrill of coming face-to-face with sharks on a shark cage diving excursion with Marine Dynamics in Gansbaai. With the safety of a sturdy cage, you’ll observe these magnificent creatures up close and learn about their behavior from experienced guides. An unforgettable adventure that will leave you with memories to last a lifetime. If you want to see what sharks and other animals they have been seeing lately, go have a look at their daily blog. https://sharkwatchsa.com/en/blog/

Seal Snorkeling
Embark on an unforgettable adventure and swim with playful Cape fur seals on a seal snorkeling trip in Cape Town. Accompanied by a knowledgeable guide, you’ll don a wetsuit and snorkeling gear before diving into the chilly Atlantic waters to swim among these friendly creatures. With the seals known for their curious nature, it’s a unique and interactive experience that’s perfect for nature lovers and thrill-seekers alike. https://www.animalocean.co.za/

Paragliding
Cape Town’s stunning natural landscape, with its dramatic mountain ranges, rugged coastlines, and pristine beaches, provides the perfect setting for paragliding. With experienced pilots and state-of-the-art equipment, adventurers can soar high above the city and enjoy the thrill of flight. Whether you’re a seasoned paragliding enthusiast or a first-time flyer, Cape Town offers an exhilarating and unforgettable paragliding experience.
https://hi5paragliding.co.za/

Hiking
Cape Town is a hiker’s paradise, offering a range of trails with stunning natural beauty and breathtaking views.
Always remember to have adequate protection from the sun and plenty of water, it’s also recommended to go in groups of 3 or more for safety and security reasons.
Here are our top 4 hiking spots that are fairly close to the hostel, along with a brief description of each hike:

  • Table Mountain – One of the most iconic hikes in Cape Town, Table Mountain offers a range of trails to suit all levels of hikers. The Platteklip Gorge trail is the most direct and popular route to the summit, while the India Venster and Skeleton Gorge trails offer more challenging and scenic routes.
  • Lion’s Head – A short but steep hike, Lion’s Head is a popular spot for both locals and tourists. The trail offers panoramic views of the city, Table Mountain, and the Atlantic Ocean. Hikers can also opt for the slightly more challenging alternative route that offers more challenging scrambling and climbing.
  • The Pipe Track – An easy and scenic hike that offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean, the Pipe Track is a must-do for nature lovers. The trail follows the route of an old pipeline that was used to supply water to the city, and hikers can expect to see a variety of flora and fauna along the way.
  • Devil’s Peak – Located to the east of Table Mountain, Devil’s Peak offers stunning views of the city and Table Bay. The hike is a bit more challenging than Lions Head and the Pipe Track, but the views from the top make it well worth the effort.

The Beach
91 Loop hostel is located in the heart of Cape Town’s city centre, which is not immediately near the coast. However, there are several beaches within a short driving distance that visitors can explore. Here are three of the closest and best beaches:

  • Camps Bay Beach – Located about 10 minute’s drive from the 91 Loop hostel, Camps Bay Beach is a picturesque white sand beach with clear blue water, surrounded by stunning mountains. It’s a popular spot for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports, as well as enjoying a meal or a cocktail at one of the beachside restaurants and bars.
  • Clifton Beaches – A little further along the coast from Camps Bay, visitors will find the Clifton Beaches – a series of four sheltered coves with pristine white sand and turquoise waters. Each of the four beaches has its own unique atmosphere, ranging from family-friendly to trendy and exclusive.
  • Muizenberg Beach – Located about 30 minutes drive from the city centre, Muizenberg Beach is a favourite among surfers, known for its consistent waves and colourful beach huts. It’s a great spot for a day trip, with plenty of restaurants and cafes nearby, as well as opportunities for kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding, and other water sports.

2. Culture

Cape Town is a vibrant city in South Africa that’s rich in culture and history. From its colonial past to its modern-day diversity, Cape Town is a city that offers a unique blend of cultures, traditions, and influences. Here are a few of our top cultural points of interest in Cape Town that you won’t want to miss:

  • Robben Island: This UNESCO World Heritage Site was once a political prison where Nelson Mandela was held for 18 years. Today, it serves as a powerful reminder of South Africa’s struggle for freedom and democracy. https://www.robben-island.org.za/
  • District Six Museum: Located in the heart of Cape Town, this museum is dedicated to preserving the memories of the people who were forcibly removed from the area during apartheid. It’s a must-visit for anyone interested in South Africa’s history and culture. https://www.districtsix.co.za/
  • Bo-Kaap: This neighborhood in Cape Town is known for its brightly colored houses and rich Muslim heritage. Take a stroll through the streets and sample some of the local cuisine for an authentic cultural experience. Be sure to do a guided tour as there are certain areas in and around the Bo-Kaap which is considered unsafe.
  • Castle of Good Hope: Built by the Dutch East India Company in the 17th century, this historic fort is the oldest surviving building in South Africa. It’s a fascinating glimpse into the city’s colonial past. https://www.castleofgoodhope.co.za/
  • Zeitz MOCAA: This contemporary art museum located in a repurposed grain silo at the V&A Waterfront is the largest museum of contemporary African art in the world. Its stunning architecture and thought-provoking exhibits make it a must-visit for art lovers and cultural enthusiasts alike. https://zeitzmocaa.museum/

Our Friends at FreeWalkingtours Cape Town start their daily walking tours a short 4 min walk from the hostel. They offer three different tours, a historic city tour, a Bo-Kaap tour and an Apartheid to freedom tour. We recommend trying at least one of these tours during your stay with us as they provide the safest, most friendly tour through the city on foot.

  • Daily times : 11am ; 14:00 ; 16:20
  • Meeting point : Motherland Coffee St Georges Mall

3. Food and Wine

Cape Town’s food and wine scene is a fusion of cultures and flavours, offering a diverse culinary experience for visitors. The city is home to a plethora of world-class restaurants, showcasing everything from traditional Cape Malay cuisine to innovative fusion dishes. The Cape Winelands region, just a short drive from the city, boasts some of the world’s best wine estates, offering breathtaking scenery and delicious wine tastings. From artisanal markets to fine dining establishments, Cape Town’s food and wine scene is a must-try for any foodie or wine enthusiast.

Some restaurants that we would recommend close to 91 Loop:

  • Hacienda (Fancy mexican)
  • Iron Steak and Bar Restaurant (Steakhouse)
  • Clarks (breakfast to dinner; best burger in town)
  • Tjing Tjing Tory (Hip Asian Izakaya)
  • PokeCo (fast and healthy)
  • Nish Nush (Vegan friendly)
  • Spur (Affordable , value, family)
  • Pedros (Chicken, Take away, value)
  • Marcos (African experience)

Wine Farms
We can arrange a wine tour for you with one of the tour companies or suggest a self-guided route, depending on your preferences and if you have a car to use. Some popular wineries close to Cape Town include Stellenbosch, Franschhoek, and Constantia. Each region has its unique charm, but all offer world-class wines, beautiful landscapes, and historic architecture.

4. Shopping

Cape Town is every shoppers dream, offering a diverse range of shopping experiences that cater to all tastes and budgets. Whether you’re looking for luxury boutiques, artisanal crafts, or unique souvenirs, Cape Town has it all.

A few places that we would recommend would be: 

The V&A Waterfront

The number one tourist destination in South Africa, more than just a mall, the V&A has crafts and boutiques as well as some of the best restaurants in South Africa. A one stop shop for the entire family.

Canal Walk Shopping Centre

This centre features over 400 stores, restaurants, and entertainment options, making it a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. A little bit further out to reach but definitely worth the drive. 

Markets

  • Greenmarket Square: This vibrant market is a short 2-minute walk from the hostel and is considered the center point of the CBD. It’s the perfect place to find a wide range of curios and gifts to take home. Just be prepared to haggle on the price.
  • The Old Biscuit Mill: Located in the trendy neighborhood of Woodstock, The Old Biscuit Mill is a popular market that showcases local designers, artists, and artisans. It features an array of stalls selling unique clothing, accessories, crafts, and delicious food. The Neighbourgoods Market, held every Saturday and Sunday, is a highlight where you can explore a variety of gourmet food and drink options.
  • Oranjezicht Farmers Market: Held every Saturday and Sunday at Granger Bay(nextto the V&A Waterfront), the Oranjezicht Farmers Market is a great place to experience the vibrant local food scene. You can find a wide selection of fresh, organic produce, artisanal products, homemade treats, and more. Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the market while soaking in the beautiful ocean views.

5. The Jol
(Or “party” for the un-initiated)

Cape Town’s nightlife is renowned for its diverse range of experiences, catering to all tastes and preferences. From rooftop bars to underground clubs, live music venues to comedy clubs, the city offers a lively and exciting atmosphere after dark. Whether you want to dance the night away, enjoy a few drinks with friends, or simply take in the city’s energy, Cape Town’s vibrant nightlife is sure to leave you with unforgettable memories.

  • The Gin Bar (trendy cocktail bar)
  • The village Idiot (late night bar)
  • Hanks (Cosy whisky bar)
  • House of Machines(vintage industrial bar)
  • Tjing Tjing Rooftop bar (Cocktails)
  • The Power and the Glory (hip local spot)
  • Modular (late night club)

Long street
Long Street is a popular destination for nightlife and entertainment with loads of restaurants and bars. This is walking distance from the hostel, however, always be cautious of pickpockets and keep a close eye on their belongings while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of this bustling street.

6. Book at 91 Loop

Be sure to check out our recommended tours. To ensure a hassle-free experience, we suggests booking tours 2-3 days in advance directly at the hostel. This is especially important during certain seasons when weather conditions can affect tour availability.

African Eagle
African Eagle is a leading tour company in Cape Town offering customized and guided tours that showcase the beauty and diversity of South Africa. Their top tours include the Cape Point and Peninsula tour, Cape Winelands, City and Township tours and Cape Safari. Expert guides provide an unforgettable experience.
https://daytours.co.za/en

Red City Bus
Red City Bus Tours in Cape Town provide an exciting and convenient way to explore the city’s major attractions. The hop-on, hop-off bus tours operate on three different lines – the Blue Mini Peninsula Tour, the Red City Tour, and the Yellow Downtown Tour. Each line covers different landmarks and neighborhoods, and visitors can enjoy the informative commentary, panoramic views, and unlimited rides.
https://www.citysightseeing.co.za/en/cape-town

Baz Bus
Baz Bus is a unique hop-on, hop-off backpacker bus service in South Africa. It caters to independent travelers and offers flexible, safe, and affordable transportation between over 200 hostels in 40 different towns. With friendly drivers, onboard Wi-Fi, and the ability to book and change routes easily, Baz Bus is a great option for those seeking an adventurous and stress-free way to travel. Baz Bus also offers a great Peninsula tour that picks guests up directly from the hostel.
https://bazbus.com