Why We Love Cape Town: A Travel Guide for Active Explorers
Cape Town is one of our all-time favorite destinations — and for good reason. From dramatic coastal drives to rich cultural heritage, it’s a city that stirs the soul and redefines what travel can be. This year, FIT is thrilled to announce our inaugural Cape Town Marathon experience, and we can’t wait to share the magic of this place with our community.
Whether you're heading there to run the Cape Town Marathon or just to soak in its beauty, here’s a look at why Cape Town has captured our hearts.
An aerial view of Cape Town, framed by Table Mountain and Lion’s Head along the Atlantic coast. Photo by Tobias Reich on Unsplash
Explore the Cape: Penguins, Peaks & Coastal Magic
Cape of Good Hope & Boulders Beach Penguins
A drive down the Cape Peninsula offers jaw-dropping views and a chance to visit two must-see spots: the dramatic Cape of Good Hope and Boulders Beach, home to a lively colony of African penguins — yes, penguins in Africa!
African penguins gather along the shores of Boulders Beach — a uniquely charming wildlife experience just outside Cape Town. Photo by Casey Allen on Unsplash
Robben Island & the Legacy of Nelson Mandela
A powerful and humbling journey. Touring Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela spent 18 of his 27 years in prison, is a reminder of South Africa’s resilience and history.
The entrance gate to Robben Island, a powerful symbol of South Africa’s journey through injustice, resilience, and transformation. Photo by Moheen Reeyad on Unsplash
Hikers exploring the rocky summit of Table Mountain with panoramic coastal views in Cape Town, South Africa. Photo by find me under the palms on Unsplash
Victoria & Alfred Waterfront
The Victoria & Alfred Waterfront is one of Cape Town’s most iconic destinations — a vibrant mix of restaurants, boutiques, galleries, and harbor views, all set beneath the backdrop of Table Mountain. It’s a beautiful place to stroll, enjoy a great meal, or simply enjoy the lively atmosphere along the water.
Boats docked at the V&A Waterfront with Table Mountain in the background in Cape Town, South Africa. Photo by Anna Sullivan on Unsplash
Camps Bay & Hout Bay
Golden beaches, seaside cafés, and unforgettable sunsets. Camps Bay is the perfect spot for a post-race lunch, while Hout Bay offers a quieter, more local vibe just a little further afield.
Hout Bay’s harbor at sunset — a quieter coastal escape just beyond the buzz of central Cape Town. Photo by Mick Haupt on Unsplash
Culture, Art & Energy
Cape Town lives and breathes creativity. From colorful Bo-Kaap to contemporary galleries and local artisan markets, the city offers an immersive cultural experience at every turn. It’s a place where stories are told through murals, music, and every handcrafted piece.
Luxury Safari: Extend the Adventure
For those looking to make the most of their time in South Africa, a luxury safari experience is within reach. Game parks and reserves offer the chance to spot elephants, lions, rhinos, and more — all from the comfort of stunning, world-class lodges.
Zebras crossing a quiet reserve road — one of many serene encounters on safari in South Africa.
Wineries in Stellenbosch
The rolling vineyards of Stellenbosch are just a short drive away. Taste bold reds and crisp whites in serene surroundings — a beautiful way to relax after your marathon accomplishment or as a stand-alone indulgence.
The rolling vineyards of Stellenbosch offer a peaceful post-race escape, where world-class wines meet breathtaking mountain scenery. Photo by Nenad Gataric on Unsplash
Nature’s Ice Bath: The Benguela Current
One of our favorite natural recovery tools? The Atlantic Ocean. Cape Town sits along the Benguela Current, where cold waters rise from the depths due to ocean upwelling. With sea temps between 10–15°C (50–59°F), it’s a refreshingly bracing post-race plunge — and a perfect natural ice bath for tired legs.
Waves crash against rocky tide pools near Cape Town, with Table Mountain in the distance under a cloudy sky.
FIT’s Cape Town Highlights
As we gear up for our first FIT Cape Town experience, here are a few personal moments that have made this city unforgettable:
Running beneath Table Mountain on the Boardwalk route, as we’ll do during the Cape Town Marathon. The scenery alone is worth the miles.
A deeply restorative massage at Life Day Spa Waterfront — ideal for post-run recovery with serene views all around.
Touring the coastline in an open-air Jeep adventure.
Taking in the colors, sounds, and flavors of Cape Town — a city that inspires movement and reflection in equal measure.
Cape Town is more than a destination. It’s an experience that lingers long after you’ve left. We’re beyond excited to share this incredible city with our FIT travelers this year. Whether chasing a personal best or simply seeking the joy of discovery, Cape Town is ready to welcome you.
Join FIT in Cape Town!
Be part of history in the making — the Cape Town Marathon is en route to becoming one of the Abbott World Marathon Majors.
Run with FIT and get guaranteed entry in October 2025, the final fall edition before the race transitions to a new spring schedule in 2026. Explore our 2025 travel package here.
Looking ahead to May 2026? The marathon is moving to its new date — sign up for the interest list to be the first to receive updates.
Runners make their way through Cape Town, with Table Mountain rising behind — a course, and a city, that stays with you long after the finish line.