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To some Cape winters have a reputation as being quite un-enjoyable, especially if you want to get outdoors. It's cold and it can be very rainy, but there is still plenty going on in the city and lots to be enjoyed indoors. And of course, in between we're spoilt with those beautiful crisp and sunny winter days. So if you're visiting Cape Town or just looking for something to do on one of those not-so-great days, here are a few ideas.
Explore a Museum
Cape Town has a number of interesting museums in and around town. Visit the South African Museum which houses more than one and a half million specimens of scientific importance. The museum was founded in 1825, and has served to provide a wealth of knowledge to the many visitors that have walked the halls. The museum is open daily from 10h00 to 17h00, and costs R20 for adults, R10 for students and SA Pensioners. Entry is free for those 18-years and under.
Another museum to visit is the Bo-Kaap Museum. With its vibrant Cape Malay community, the Bo-Kaap has a number of houses dating back to the 1750's. This area became home to many freed slaves after the abolition of slavery, and since then the history of the community has been well preserved and is now on show at the Bo-Kaap Museum. The museum is open from 10h00 to 17h00 from Monday to Saturday, and costs R10 for adults, R5 for pensioners and students, and is free for visitor's 18-years old and under.
Watch a film at the Labia
This independent cinema named after the Princess Labia of Italy, shows a variety of art-house and popular films, and is the oldest independent cinema in South Africa. The theatre has an old and simple feel to it, and is definitely a great stop for a night out. The Labia has got together with nearby restaurants to offer dinner and movie specials at the Labia during the week. Check www.labia.co.za for more details.
Visit the planetarium
No matter what the weather you can enjoy a magical experience indoors at the planetarium as the images are simply projections of the night sky - perfect for young and old. The planetarium is housed at the South African Museum building in the city centre. Shows run daily from Monday to Friday at 14h00; Tuesday evenings at 20h00; and Saturday and Sunday shows at 12h00, 13h00 and 14h30. Costs are R25 for adults and R10 for children, students, and SA pensioners. For more information call (021) 481 3900.
Go wine tasting
While it is often considered to be a summer activity, wine tasting in winter can be just as fun. There is something special about enjoying a glass of wine alongside a roaring fire, while you overlook a beautiful wine estate. The Constantia valley is home to a number of award winning estates, including Groot Constantia and Buitenverwachting, which are steeped in rich history, and produce top quality wine.
Go climbing at 'City Rock'
Winter can put quite a damper on rock climbing, but why not head indoors for some time on the climbing wall. If you're new to the sport you can go to one of the many introductory lessons. In fact if you are still learning to climb, the indoor climbing wall can be a great way to practice techniques and get ready for summer. The climbing gym is located in Observatory. For more information call (021) 447 1326.
Theatresports
Head out to enjoy Cape Town's longest running 'improv' comedy show. The show is performed by Improguise and has been running for nearly 20 years. Theatresports is improvisational comedy (think of the popular TV show Whose Line Is It Anyway) and everything is made up on the spot using audience suggestions. Enjoy the show on Monday nights at the Intimate Theatre in town, and on Tuesday nights at The Kalk Bay Theatre. For more information go to www.improguise.co.za.
Two Oceans Aquarium
At the aquarium you can enjoy nature all year round, and the Two Oceans Aquarium is a truly wonderful display of the marine life found off the Southern African coastline. Situated in the V&A Waterfront, the Aquarium invites visitors to explore below the water-level taking in displays of over 3000 marine creatures including large ragged-tooth sharks.
A visit to the Aquarium usually takes between 1.5 and 2 hours and visitors should be prepared to walk a fair distance if they wish to see all of the displays. The aquarium is open from 9h30 to 18h00 and costs R100 for adults, R78 for children (14-17), and R50 for children (4-13). Book online at www.aquarium.co.za/ for the lowest prices.
Go out for dinner
There is nothing better than going out to enjoy a nice meal, especially when you're warm and cosy alongside a warming fire while the rain comes down outside. There are literally hundreds of great places to eat out in Cape Town, and many of the restaurants offer wonderful winter specials.
Go to http://www.wininganddining.co.za/ to find the latest specials available.
Night at Mzoli's
For a turn of pace why not head out to Mzoli's Place in Gugulethu. Mzoli's was started in 2006 and has become somewhat of a landmark establishment which offers a taste of local culture, and a fun evening out. Buy meat from the on-site butchery and braai it on one of the many fires at Mzoli's, and afterwards settle down for a beer. You can bring your own drinks, or buy from the nearby liquor store.
Go watch a live gig
Cape Town has a great music scene, and has produced a number of top class musicians, many of whom still play in the town. Most live performances take place on vibrant Long Street in the city centre, and different venues will showcase a variety of music depending on the day.
If you're interested in jazz, there are a few venues such as the Mahogany Room on Buitenkant Street. If you enjoy acoustic music head to the Waiting Room on Long Street, or if you're more interested in indie rock then the Assembly on Harrington Street is the spot for you.
