Cape Town is a modern, diverse city surrounded by nature. Centered around Table Mountain, the "Mother City" is known for its beautiful beaches, magnificent biodiversity, award-winning food and wine, and sheer variety of experiences on offer.

The Two Oceans Aquarium is centrally located at Cape Town’s bustling and vibrant V&A Waterfront, an iconic 123-hectare mixed use development which caters to both local and international visitors. Between the hotels, retail districts, extensive dining, and entertainment options to the various heritage sites and tourism landmarks that call the V&A Waterfront home, there’s truly something for everyone to explore.

The V&A Waterfront sits at the foot of Table Mountain, offering spectacular views of this iconic landmark. Visited by 26 million people each year, the Waterfront is not only a tourist destination, but also an innovation hub for sustainability, inclusivity and opportunity. It seeks to drive positive social, environmental and economic change to the benefit of all South Africans.

Wildlife Experiences

Boulders Beach Penguin Colony
Visit Boulders Beach near Simon's Town for a delightful close encounter with the local African penguin colony. These beautiful seabirds are an endangered species, and Boulders is home to one of only two mainland colonies in South Africa. The protected boardwalks allow visitors to observe these charming creatures in their natural habitat whilst ensuring their safety and conservation.
More information: www.sanparks.org

Cape Point National Park
Cape Point, part of the Table Mountain National Park, is located at the tip of the Cape Peninsula, 60 kilometres southwest of Cape Town. This UNESCO World Heritage site offers spectacular views, hiking trails, and pristine beaches. Home to a tapestry of endemic plants, antelope, baboons, and more than 250 bird species, Cape Point combines natural beauty with rich maritime history. Bartolomeu Dias named it the Cape of Storms for good reason – the point's violent storms and dangerous rocks have claimed many ships, with wrecks scattered along the rugged coastline.
More information: capepoint.co.za

Cape RADD (Research and Diver Development)
Cape RADD offers unique underwater research expeditions that combine diving adventure with citizen science, offering participants the opportunity to contribute to ongoing studies of South Africa's marine ecosystems. Their expeditions focus on understanding ocean changes through detailed observations of marine life, from tiny nudibranchs to larger marine species. Perfect for conference attendees interested in hands-on marine research and contributing to ocean conservation whilst exploring Cape Town's underwater world.
More information: www.caperadd.com

Marine Dynamics Shark Cage Diving
Come face-to-face with the ocean's apex predators on a world-class shark cage diving adventure in Gansbaai, approximately 2 hours from Cape Town. Marine Dynamics offers encounters with great white sharks, bronze whaler sharks, and broadnose sevengill sharks in their natural habitat. Using custom-built boats and experienced crews, this Fair Trade Tourism certified operator provides exceptional value whilst contributing directly to conservation through the Dyer Island Conservation Trust.
More information: www.sharkwatchsa.com

Animal Ocean Safari
Experience Cape Town's marine environment from above and below the surface with Animal Ocean's coastal adventures. Operating since 2009, this eco-friendly tour operator offers unique ocean safaris that provide in-depth encounters with Cape Town's marine life, including playful seals, elusive sunfish, and seasonal marine visitors. These tours blend adventure with marine conservation education, making them ideal for ocean enthusiasts seeking to understand Cape Town's marine ecosystem.
More information: www.animalocean.co.za

Cultural & Historical Sites

Robben Island UNESCO World Heritage Site
Take a ferry to Robben Island to learn about the dismal circumstances under which Nelson Mandela and many prominent anti-apartheid struggle heroes were incarcerated. Most tours are led by former prisoners, whose powerful stories will move you to tears and occasional laughter. UNESCO designated Robben Island as a World Heritage Site in 1999, recognising its significance in South Africa's journey to democracy.
More information: www.robben-island.org.za

Zeitz Museum of Contemporary African Art (MOCAA)
Located in the V&A Waterfront, this architectural marvel is housed in a former grain silo that was once the tallest building in Sub-Saharan Africa. Designed by British architect Thomas Heatherwick, the museum features more than one hundred galleries spread over nine floors. Allow plenty of time to explore this wonderland of contemporary African art and culture.
More information: zeitzmocaa.museum

Natural Wonders

Table Mountain – New 7 Wonders of Nature
Table Mountain stands tall and proud as an iconic natural wonder in the heart of Cape Town. With its breathtaking views, diverse flora and fauna, and historical significance, it has captured the hearts of millions of visitors worldwide. Take the cable car to the summit or challenge yourself with one of the many hiking routes to experience panoramic views of the city, coastline, and surrounding mountains.

More information: www.tablemountain.net

Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden
Labelled as one of the most beautiful gardens in the world, this World Heritage site is home to over 22 000 different plant species, offering visitors the chance to see some of the rarest and most beautiful flowers on Earth. Kirstenbosch serves as a conservation hotspot, dedicated to protecting and propagating endangered plant species. The gardens are also a haven for bird enthusiasts, with more than 200 different species recorded in the park.
More information:  www.sanbi.org/gardens/kirstenbosch

Culinary Experiences

World-class dining scene
Cape Town boasts an internationally acclaimed food and wine scene that reflects the city's diverse cultural heritage. From traditional South African braai (barbecue) and Cape Malay curry dishes to innovative fine dining restaurants, the city offers culinary experiences to suit every palate and budget.

Local specialities to try:

• Bobotie – South Africa's national dish featuring spiced mince topped with egg custard
• Biltong and droëwors – Traditional dried meats, perfect as snacks
• Cape Malay curry – Aromatic curries reflecting the city's Malaysian heritage
• Koeksisters – Sweet, syrupy plaited pastries
• Fresh seafood – From snoek and kingklip to West Coast mussels

Wine Routes & Tastings
The nearby Cape Winelands, including Stellenbosch, Franschhoek, and Paarl, are easily accessible for day trips. These regions produce world-renowned wines and offer spectacular vineyard settings with mountain backdrops. Many estates provide wine tastings paired with local cuisine, making for memorable afternoon excursions.

V&A Waterfront Food Markets
The nearby Watershed and various food markets at the V&A Waterfront offer artisanal products, local delicacies, and international cuisine in a vibrant, accessible setting perfect for conference attendees with limited time.