Full-Day Cape Peninsula: Boulders Penguin Colony, Cape Point & Slangkop Lighthouse
Spend a full day around the Cape Peninsula—Bo-Kaap culture, Kirstenbosch’s fynbos, African penguins at Boulders Beach, Cape Point’s cliff-top views and Slangkop Lighthouse. This practical guide explains what to expect, how to prepare, and where to look for wildlife and great photos.
The Experience
Before You Go
Dress in layers
Wind off the Atlantic can be bitter even on sunny days—bring a windproof outer layer and base layers you can shed.
Bring card for entrance fees
Cape Point (approx R450) and Boulders (approx R220) accept debit/credit cards only for entry—carry a card to avoid delays.
Respect wildlife boundaries
Stay on boardwalks at Boulders and keep a safe distance from baboons and penguins to avoid stressing animals and prevent incidents.
Start early to beat crowds
Begin in Bo-Kaap or Kirstenbosch at first light; Chapman’s Peak and Cape Point are busiest in the afternoon and at sunset.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Dias Beach steps near Cape Point for a quieter beach access and dramatic coastal rock formations
- •Smitswinkel Bay viewpoint along the Cape Peninsula for a less-crowded ocean panorama
Wildlife
- •African penguin
- •Chacma baboon
Conservation Note
Cape Point and Boulders are managed to balance visitor access with habitat protection—staying on paths and paying park fees helps fund conservation and ongoing penguin recovery efforts.
The Cape has long been a maritime crossroads—Portuguese explorers rounded these headlands in the 15th century, leading to naming and navigational routes that shaped global trade.
What to Bring
Windproof jacketEssential
Protects against cold Atlantic gusts on exposed cliffs and viewpoints.
Sturdy walking shoesEssential
Support and grip for boardwalks, rocky paths, and uneven surfaces around Cape Point.
Sun protection (hat + SPF)Essential
High UV and reflective surfaces make sunscreen and a hat important even on cool days.
Binoculars or zoom lens
Helps you view penguins, seals, and seabirds from boardwalks and lookout points.
Common Questions
Are entrance fees included?
No—entrance to Cape Point and Boulders Beach is paid on-site (card payment typically required); the tour covers transport and guide services.
Is the trip wheelchair accessible?
Many tour elements and vehicles are accessible, but some viewpoints and the lighthouse path have steps and uneven ground—check with the operator about specific needs.
Can I see penguins up close at Boulders?
Yes—boardwalks allow close but non-intrusive viewing; avoid touching or feeding penguins and follow signage.
Is Seal Island included?
Seal Island stops are optional and depend on timing; they usually have a separate fee (approx R130–R150) if available that day.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
8 hours
Location
Cape Town, Western Cape
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Suitable for people with average fitness: mostly short walks, some stairs and one optional steep climb to the old lighthouse.
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