introduction

The Western Cape is a province, located in the south-western part of South Africa. The total area is 129,370 km². The capital and the largest city of the province is Cape Town.
Prior to 1994, Western Cape was part of Cape Province and together was called Cape Colony. Now, Western Cape covers most of South Africa's tourist destinatoins and attractioins. The West Coast would be the least crowded region.

surfing

Centred around Cape Town, the Cape Peninsula is a 20 kilometre toungue of land that lances south into the mighty Atlantic, offering excellent surfing options year round with mighty SW swell trains pounding the coast from April to September. You could spend an entire surfing vacation just on this peninsula, and many people do. The Peninsula terminates in the Cape of Good Hope, not quite the southernmost point of Africa but the next stop south of here is Antartica nether the less.

travel

All the ways of getting around South Africa are available in the country. You can fly with domestic airlines (the infrastructure is well established), or travel by car. Hiring a car is quite easy, just note that you will have to drive on the left-hand side of the road in South Africa. The roads are very good and all the large fuel companies have rest stops every 200km to 300km along the highways. So you can full up, eat, shop and rest (restrooms are well maintained and clean). Some rest stops have ATM’s as well. Note that fuel cannot be bought on a normal credit card, only special Garage Cards issued by a South African bank are accepted at petrol stations. One serious thing you should consider is the fact of car jacking, which usually happens on the traffic lights and at night.
Get an offroad vehicle if you want to wander off the beaten path. And just one warning, South Africa has a high rate of traffic fatalities, so try to avoid driving at night except in urban areas.

Another option, which gives you even more freedom, is a motor home. They are becoming more and more popular now, so you may want to consider this as well. If you prefer not to drive yourself, take a bus. There are scheduled bus services between Cape Town, Johannesburg, Durban and other cities, plus connections to neighbouring countries. Check out Translux, SA Roadlink, Intercape Mainliner and Greyhound.

Train services are also available in both budget passenger services and Premier Class.
Less responsibilities? Book a tour, there are plenty of operators that will offer you tours from one day tour to overland safaris.

And the last too things about hitchhiking and travelling by bicycle. Hitchhiking is ok and not that hard, just be aware of the fact that drivers can be potential criminal hitchhikers, so don’t hitchhike at night. Cycling can be considered a bit dangerous as well, but if you use your common sense you should be ok. And thinking about the beautiful views and opportunity to mingle with the locals, you should really consider this way to experience the country.

where to stay

Accommodation in Cape Town ranges from hostels to luxury accommodation. Actually, there are so many hotels, B&Bs and guest houses that it can be really difficult to decide where to stay.

It is normally much quieter and there is less traffic in the suburbs than in Central Cape Town. The suburbs in the south, like Camps Bay or Simon's Town, may offer better quality in accommodation for a lower cost.

Many guest houses and backpacker's accommodation are on Long Street. However, rates change quickly so it is necessary to check before checking in.

• African Train Lodge- Sleep in tastefully restored train carriages right in the centre of town, adjacent to the main train station. From R80 per person.
• Amblers Backpackers- From R70 in the dorm to R240 for a double ensuite cottage.
• Ashanti Lodge- A perennial favourite amongst travellers, camping also permitted. From R110 per person, or R60 per person for camping.
• Carnival Court Backpackers- Dorms and private rooms at reasonable rates. From R70 in the dorm to R250 for a double room.
• Castle Inn Backpackers- Directly opposite the Castle of Good Hope and 5 minutes walk from the train station. From R75 per person.
• Long Street Backpackers- Offers dorms as well as private accommodation and a good range of travel-services. R90 in a dorm to R140 for a private room.

• An African Villa- Luxurious bed and breakfast, excellent service, has a 'dipping pool' in the back. R445 per person sharing.
• Bayflowers Guest House- in central location and walking distance to Waterfront, beach and city centre. Helpful staff, clean rooms and tastefully equipped. R390 for a single room, R320 pps for a double.
• Cactusberry Lodge- 200 metres from the Gardens Shopping Centre, is comfortable, central and quiet, very good value for money, excellent breakfast, very helpful in all itinerary planning. R250.
• Constantiaberg Villa- Self catering 2 bedroom apartment. Beautiful secure complex, with views of Table Mountain, pool and leisure facilities.

• Daddy Long Legs Boutique Hotel & Self-Catering Apartments- Located in the heart of the city centre on one of Cape Town's most celebrated streets - a hotel with a difference, focusing on good value accommodation and a hotel experience you'll never forget. From R450 a double/twin (Hotel) & R550 a one bedroomed apartment.
• Grapevine Cottage Guesthouse- Great view over the Durbanville winelands. Surrounded by wine estates, excellent restaurants nearby. Self catering accommodation and Bed and breakfast; garden and pool invite you to relax. R650 per unit, max 4 people. 

• Shambala Guest Lodge- Set in a lush and tranquil garden on the sunny slopes of Little Lion’s Head mountain, overlooking the valley of Hout Bay. Offers a selection of one and two bedroom self-catering suites. Breathtaking views and beach access close by. From R250pppn.
• Sitara Country Lodge- In the south of the Cape Peninsula. Ideal base for exploring the natural beauty of the Cape Town area. Own transport required. From R325 for single room, from R450 for a double.

• Tudor Hotel- In the city centre, near the Waterfront, Parliament, Gardens or the Malay Quarter Boo-Kap. R520 for single room, R740 for a double.

what to pack

Most of the province is considered to have a Mediterranean climate with cool, wet winters and warm, dry summers, so pack accordingly. You'll need short sleeved t-shirts, shorts and long trousers (pants) and probably a light jacket or pullover for the more blustery days and evenings and sun cream for days out on the water. In winter bring long trousers (pants), warm pullovers, warm waterproof coats, scarves, hat and gloves!!

Better take your medicines with you (esp. anti histamine tablets), as the brands can be unfamiliar and cost more. By the way, getting medical insurance would be a good idea too.

And take a good protection for your camera from the sand.

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