Wamkelekile, Wamukelekile, Welkom, Avuxeni, Dumela, Welcome, Howzit!

Cape Town’s identity is intimately tied to its waters - the sea is in our blood. Once a key refuelling station for the Dutch East India Company, Cape Town’s history stretches back even further to the Khoekhoe and San Indigenous peoples, who lived as nomadic pastoralists and hunter-gatherers, relying on the land and sea for survival.

Cape Town’s deep connection to its coastline remains strong today.

Nearly every local seems to have a passion for outdoor activities, and it’s easy to see why.

In a single day, you can hike up the scenic Lion’s Head, surf the waves at Muizenberg Beach, and explore the kelp forests in False Bay by boat, snorkel or SCUBA.

As you prepare for the International Marine Conservation Congress (IMCC7), we’ve curated a list of activities and tours to enrich your stay, whether you're exploring local ecosystems or supporting communities.

Welcome to Cape Town..

If you’re looking for activities for marine conservation practitioners - guided by a marine biologist tour guide and a local fishing community member - then look no further!

Not only are our flagship tours available, we’ve created 3 amazing day tours specifically to support local communities for the days following the conference.

Beneath the Surface

Beyond the scenic views of Table Mountain lies a truly enchanting world - some, like us, call it magical. The kelp forests have become a central beacon for divers and adventurers alike, a refuge and a place of connection & healing. Join any of the facebook communities or Whatsapp groups and you’ll realise how many people live their lives centred around this enchanting forest.

The Great African Seaforest - home to the only giant bamboo kelp forest in existence - served as the backdrop for the acclaimed documentary My Octopus Teacher and the SeaChange movement it sparked.

As the Indian and Atlantic Oceans converge, they bring contrasting temperatures and nutrient flows, sustaining a high productivity and variety of species - you never really know what you’re going to find.

For those considering a dive, timing is crucial. Atlantic dive sites often offer clearer visibility during the summer months, particularly following strong southeasterly winds. Conversely, the False Bay sites reveal their treasures best during the winter. Whether you’re a seasoned diver or a curious novice, the range of sites, proximity to shore and shallow depth mean you’re very likely to find your sweet spot. This ocean is powerful, reach out if you’d like some recommendations on where to go, or who to contact to arrange a dive.

How to get Underwater

While booking your ticket and preparing for the conference, you may have noticed that IMCC has been promoting two exciting field excursions: the Cape RADD “Snorkel for Science” program and a visit to the Southern African Foundation for the Conservation of Coastal Birds (SANCCOB). For more information on the IMCC7 field trips, click here. Bookings may have closed but there are alternatives.

From the Mountains to the Ocean

Start your day with a stunning sunrise hike up Lion’s Head (find the trailhead here). Enjoy a healthy breakfast at Nourish’d, then head to Cozy Bay for a dip in the icy Atlantic. This hidden gem, nestled between giant boulders with the Twelve Apostles as a backdrop, is a local favorite. Look out for the Cape fur seal colony. Some of the stunning beaches in the area are Camps Bay and Clifton if the wind is Southely. Or Muizenberg, Kalk bay or Glencairn if Northerly.

After a day in the sun, wrap it up with a visit to the Oranjezicht Farmers Market, which takes place on Wednesday evenings and Saturday/Sunday mornings. Its fun, local and oh so tasty!

Learn South African History

For those intrigued by Cape Town’s rich culture, the city center is a treasure trove of historical significance. Start at the District Six Museum, where the story of a vibrant community displaced during apartheid unfolds. Wander through the colourful streets of Bo-Kaap, celebrated for its brightly coloured houses and Cape Malay heritage. Don’t miss the Castle of Good Hope, South Africa’s oldest colonial structure, where you can immerse yourself in the city’s military history. A visit to Robben Island—where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned—offers profound insights into the struggle for freedom at the Apartheid Museum.

As the day comes to a close, consider taking the cable car up Table Mountain for a stunning sunset, or embark on a short hike up Kloof Corner and back down on the last cable car. Check times here.

Explore the Cape Peninsula

At the southern tip of Cape Town, almost a world of its own, you’ll find Cape Point Nature Reserve. (We offer day tours with a marine biologist). Encounter local wildlife and experience the dramatic landscapes of the Cape of Good Hope. Stop along the way at Boulders Beach, home to the charming African penguin, take a dip at Windmill Beach or in one of the many tidal pools (Dalebrook is my favourite). Take an easy stroll through the vibrant fishing village of Kalk Bay and have lunch at one of the many restaurants along the strip (Salt, Olympia, Ohana, Brass Bell).

If you're feeling adventurous, rent a surfboard and wetsuit at Muizenberg - where every wave is a party wave. All the surf shops rent gear but perhaps check out Surf Emporium first. Finish the day with a scenic drive along Chapman’s Peak drive.

For Rainy (or Windy) Days 😳

Visit the bustling V&A Waterfront, where you can shop till you drop. Its also 2 minutes walk from the amzing the Two Oceans Aquarium (I’m may be biased, but it really is amazing).

Art enthusiasts will appreciate the Zeitz MOCAA, dedicated to showcasing contemporary African art. For a touch of history, the Iziko South African Museum in the Company Gardens offers fascinating exhibits, and the Planetarium provides a mesmerising glimpse into the cosmos. After a day of exploration, indulge in delightful afternoon High Tea at the iconic Mount Nelson Hotel. If you’re in the mood for a film, wrap up your day with a movie at the quirky, independent, Labia Theatre next door, known for its unique atmosphere and screenings.

For wine lovers and explorers

No visit to Cape Town would be complete without a stroll through the enchanting Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens. Enjoy a leisurely picnic, try their famous scones, or hike up Skeleton Gorge for a more adventurous experience, returning via Nursery Ravine.

In the afternoon, make your way over to Constantia - the wine area, within the city, boasts some of the finest vineyards in the world. The Constantia Wine Route is one of the oldest wine producing areas in the country. The Glen Constantia or Beau Constantia are great for wine tastings and charcuterie boards.

If you’re looking to go further afield then the hour’s drive is well worth the WineTram in Franschhoek or drive along the famous wine route in Stellenbosch. I’m yet to find a bad wine farm but the Babylonstoren gardens are amazing, as is the Delaire Graff Estate, or book a tour and admire Dylan Lewis's captivating sculpture garden.

Further Afield - The Garden Route

If you're looking to discover more adventures along the Garden Route, reach out to us, and we'll happily provide you with an itinerary and contacts tailored to your interests.

What to eat

South Africa is often referred to as the Rainbow Nation due to its diverse and multicultural society, and that diversity is reflected not only in the many languages spoken but also in the variety of culinary options available.

If there’s a singular flavor that defines Cape Town, it is surely found in the kitchens of the city’s Cape Malay community. Incorporating both European and Asian influences—a blend borne from trade and colonialism—Cape Malay cuisine tells the story of the Cape’s colorful history.

Some iconic Cape Malay dishes include bobotie, a spiced minced meat dish topped with a savory egg custard; denning vleis, a slow-cooked lamb dish flavored with tamarind for a tangy twist; and samoosas, crispy pastry triangles filled with spiced meat or vegetables. For heartier fare, bredie, a traditional stew often made with tomatoes and lamb, is a must-try. And for a sweet finish, the Cape Malay version of koeksisters, spiced and less sugary than their Afrikaner counterpart, makes for the perfect treat.

Pair these delights with a glass of local wine, as the Cape Winelands (Constantia, Stellenbosch, Franschhoek) are renowned for producing some of the world’s best varieties.

In Cape Town, it's easy to feel overwhelmed by the myriad dining options available! But don’t worry; we’ve got you covered. One of the best ways to explore a variety of Cape Town's top restaurants in one spot is the recently opened Time Out Food Market. A must-try here is Barakat, where Cape Malay cuisine is given a thoroughly contemporary twist.

Another great and authentic option to indulge in Cape Malay cuisine is Bo-Kaap Kombuis. The dishes they prepare are a reflection of the surrounding Bo-Kaap neighborhood, its rich history, heritage, and the love for people of all races, religions, and creeds.

If you’re curious about trying sustainably sourced seafood, Galjoen is the perfect spot. Located at 99 Harrington St., they offer a tasting menu that showcases the best seafood South Africa has to offer. Their approach is simple: they only serve what is responsibly caught locally. If it's not from South Africa, it doesn’t make it onto the menu.

If you're a breakfast lover, there are a few hidden and trendy gems you won’t want to miss. Strangers Club, located in Green Point, offers a delicious breakfast and lunch menu, along with a charming shop at the back that sells antiques sourced from across Africa. One of the most unique spots for breakfast is Our Local. Imagine enjoying the perfect brunch in your botanist friend's greenhouse! Situated inside an antique store and nursery on Kloof Street, right in the city center, they serve a fantastic Shakshouka, and nearby, you'll find delightful boutiques and vintage shops to explore. Looking to support a plant-based and zero-waste café? Try Nourish’d! They offer delicious vegetarian and vegan juices, smoothies, sandwiches, and more, and if you want to learn more about their efforts to provide healthy plant-based food with a focus on sustainability and ethical practices, be sure to visit one of their locations.

Nestled on the peninsula is Kalk Bay, a charming yet vibrant fishing village. For a quick coffee or breakfast, stop by Chardonnay Deli or Ohana, and don’t miss Olympia Bakery for some of the best pastries around. After a day of exploring, Salt is the perfect dinner spot to unwind. Enjoy a glass of red wine by candlelight or share a tapas-style meal with friends, soaking in the relaxed atmosphere.

If you need a healthy snack between diving in the kelp forests and exploring the peninsula’s coastline, be sure to stop by Blended Health Café in Glencairn. With a fantastic plant-based menu and fresh juices, it’s the perfect spot to refuel and recharge.

Transport and Safety

For us, the rules are simple:

• Don’t walk around dark places at night, that goes for most places (Yes, we have uber).

• Don’t leave valuables visible in cars (put stuff in the trunk).

• Don’t be flashy - leave non-essentials that draw attention to you at home.

• Ask us if you have any questions: bookings@rockhopper.co.za. Seriously, just ask!

The IMCC7 website provides comprehensive information to help you navigate the city smoothly and safely.

You can read the Transport section for tips on getting around Cape Town: IMCC7 Transport Guide.

For an overview of Safety measures, including insights on staying secure during your visit, check out the detailed guidelines here: IMCC7 Safety Information.