Top 10 Tourist Traps to Avoid in Cape Town (And What to Do Instead)

Cape Town is one of the most beautiful cities in the world, from Table Mountain to pristine beaches and vibey nightlife. But with that beauty comes a wave of overpriced attractions, underwhelming experiences, and… well, let’s be honest, full-on tourist traps.

If you want a trip filled with meaning (and not regret), here’s what to skip... and what to do instead.

1. Long Street at Night

Why skip it: Overhyped, overpriced, and increasingly sketchy after dark. Petty crime is common, and it’s more drunken chaos than authentic fun.

Try instead: Head to Kloof Street for more curated spots, or even better, link up with locals for unique pop up events and intimate experiences.

2. The V&A Waterfront Ferris Wheel

Why skip it: R230+ for a short spin? You’ll see the same view from the top of Table Mountain or Signal Hill, for free or better value.

Try instead: Hike Lion’s Head for a 360° view at sunrise or sunset. Free, unforgettable, and totally Instagrammable.

3. Tour Bus Hop-On-Hop-Off Traps

Why skip it: They're convenient, yes — but they give you a generic experience of a city known for its soul.

Try instead: Take a guided walking tour through Woodstock, Bo-Kaap, or Langa. You’ll actually meet locals and hear real stories.

4. Overrated Wine Tasting Farms

Why skip it: Some wine farms are built to milk tourists...overpriced tastings, rigid tours, and barely any charm.

Try instead: Head to smaller, lesser known gems like Reyneke or Silvermist for biodynamic, organic wines and intimate stories.

5. Shark Cage Diving (Gansbaai edition)

Why skip it: It’s a major bucket-list item, but let’s be real, it’s expensive, time consuming, and ethically questionable.

Try instead: Kayak with penguins in Simon’s Town or snorkel in rock pools at Dalebrook.

6. Tourist Markets in Greenmarket Square

Why skip it: Expect inflated prices, imported goods (yes, really), and aggressive sales pitches.

Try instead: Visit the Oranjezicht City Farm Market on weekends for real food, local design, and actual Capetonian culture.

7. Overcrowded Table Mountain Cableway During Peak Season

Why skip it: Two hour lines to go up a mountain… when hiking it takes just an hour and is 10x more satisfying?

Try instead: Hike Skeleton Gorge or Platteklip in the morning, it’s safe, scenic, and you’ll feel like a superhero at the top.

8. Seal Island Cruises

Why skip it: Sea sickness for a blurry view of seals you could see way closer at Hout Bay harbour...for free.

Try instead: Explore the Cape Fur Seal colony at Duiker Island by kayak or simply stroll Hout Bay Harbour with fish & chips in hand.

9. Tourist-Focused Township Tours

Why skip it: Some are respectful, but many are exploitative and voyeuristic — showing off poverty for photos.

Try instead: Support actual township creatives and local entrepreneurs.

10. Forgetting to Book a Meaningful, Hands On Experience

Most tourists leave Cape Town with fridge magnets and photos. But how many leave with an actual piece of their love story...or better yet, a sculpture they made with their own hands, preserving the memory of their visit to Cape Town?

That’s where 2handsy comes in.

We’re not your average tour stop. We’re a local, immersive casting experience where couples, friends, or even solo travelers create lasting hand sculptures...guided by a warm, local host (yes, with jokes). You'll laugh, connect, and leave with a one of a kind piece to remember your trip by. Our most asked questions from visitors is: Can I take my 2handsy hand sculpture through airport security or on a plane?  The answer is yes, absolutely! Our hand sculptures are made from solid, non-toxic casting materials that are completely airport-safe.

→ Book an experience you won’t find in any guidebook

Visuals courtesy of FreePik, & 2handsy