Dramatic peninsula is home to one of the world’s most scenic drives

Seven wonders of South Africa’s Cape Peninsula

There’s more to this dramatic stretch of land than a scenic stop at the Cape of Good Hope.

Seal the deal on a cruise to Seal Island

The marine mural splashed across Hout Bay’s public toilet block is the first clue that this coastal village is home to some serious sea life. The barks and growls of Cape fur seals coming from the jetty confirm it. Wander the harbour edge to watch these whiskery sea dogs lounging on the docks or swimming between fishing boats. Or better still, join a boat cruise to Seal Island (Duiker Island) to discover the pungent aroma of a 70,000-strong colony. See capetown.travel

Reach new heights on Chapman’s Peak Drive

Celebrated as one of the most scenic drives in the world, this nine-kilometre stretch between Hout Bay and Noordhoek winds through more than 100 curves (you might want to pop motion sickness meds before this ride). The views of rugged cliffs on one side and the Atlantic Ocean on the other are spectacular, but the engineering designed to prevent rock falls – cantilevered concrete canopies, catch fences and reinforced half-tunnels – is equally impressive. Call the drive “Chappies” and you’ll pass as a local. See chapmanspeakdrive.co.za

Be blown away by the Cape of Good Hope

Be honest. Procuring a snap in front of the “Cape of Good Hope, the most south-western point of the African continent” sign is why you are here. This location is often mistaken as the actual southern tip of Africa, but that honour goes to Cape Agulhas, 150 kilometres away. Smile for the photo, but take a moment to think about the thousands of shipwrecks that lie beneath these heaving waters. See sanparks.org

Hike to Cape Point Lighthouse

If you think the views from the Cape of Good Hope are pretty good, drive an extra five minutes to Cape Point, a cliff-hugging promontory that towers 200 metres above the ocean. From the car park it’s a 25-minute hike to the lighthouse, or take the Flying Dutchman funicular (R90/$8). Built in 1859, the original lighthouse was replaced in 1919 by one at a lower elevation. Turns out the old lighthouse was a beacon for disaster – too high, too foggy and too often obscured by clouds. See capepoint.co.za

Commune with baboons at Cape Point Nature Reserve

Cape Point Nature Reserve stretches across the southern tip of Table Mountain National Park and is an integral part of the UNESCO-listed Cape Floral Kingdom. While the diversity of plant species – all 9000 – is astounding, nothing prepares you for the moment you see a baboon scouting the beach for shellfish. Hike the Shipwreck Trail, swim at Buffels Bay or dine at the clifftop Two Oceans restaurant. See capepoint.co.za

Watch penguins parade on Boulder Beach

Of all the wild animals you may encounter in South Africa, a colony of penguins might just be the strangest. Especially when you see them waddling along a white sand beach. From two breeding pairs in 1982, the Boulder’s colony of endangered African penguins has grown to 3000, largely due to the conservation efforts of South African National Parks. Visit in the afternoon to watch the adults returning to their nests after a day of fishing. See sanparks.org

Dive into local life

The coastal route along False Bay is as laid-back as it is lovely. Just beyond the penguins of Simon’s Town, lies Glencairn with its family-friendly beach and troop of resident baboons. Fish Hoek is a great spot for a snorkel, while Kalk Bay is the bead-strung, bohemian heart of the peninsula. Make a final stop at Muizenberg for its colourful beach huts. See capetown.travel

The writer toured the Cape Peninsula on an optional excursion as part of Inspiring Vacations’ 10-day Highlights of South Africa premium small group tour. From $4595 a person, twin share. See inspiringvacations.com