12 Cheap Things to do in Cape Town 2022

If you’re looking for cheap things to do in Cape Town to save a little, there are several ways to experience Mother City cheaply. It is a fat myth that you need lots of money to enjoy Cape Town. As you will soon discover from our list of amazing cheap things to do in Cape Town.

Located in the southwestern part of South Africa, this port city is a popular destination for anyone in search of natural attractions and beautiful landscapes. The must-sees in Cape Town are Table Mountain National Park and Robben Island.

How Can I Enjoy Cape Town on a Budget?

While it’s nice to have a big budget for your holiday, there are many cheap things to do around the city that won’t cost you more than a few Rands.

Cape Town has a variety of activities to offer, from beautiful beaches and mountains to its popular harbor. Its natural attractions, along with the Mediterranean climate, make it one of the most popular cities to visit in South Africa and Africa‌ at large.

Are Things Cheap in Cape Town?

Surprisingly, Cape Town is pretty affordable. Eating out is fairly cheap, and many of the museums and smaller attractions charge only a few Rands. But if you’re aiming to save a little more, there are ways to experience the art, culture, and natural beauty of the city cheaply.

You should plan to spend around $80 per day, which is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors in Cape Town. Past travellers have spent, on average, $34 on meals for one day and $14 on local transportation.

What Can I Do for Free in Cape Town?

It’s unnecessary to splurge loads of money to enjoy a good time in the mother city. While this beautiful city has a lot of things to do for travellers in its treasure trove, it also has some interesting cheap things to do which require little or no money.

Everyone loves cheap things. It somehow increases the fun twice and so here are some cheap things to do in Cape Town. There are loads of things to see and do in South Africa’s most famous destination and you don’t have to break a bank!

1. Explore Green Point Urban Park

One of the best places to visit in Cape Town is Green Point Urban Park. It is an amazing place where nature thrives. The park is a perfect and spacious sphere of natural enclosure for you to know about the plant beauties around you.

Whether you’re interested in local flora, keeping fit, picnicking on the lawn, or clambering over a jungle gym, Green Point’s park can easily provide a half-day of gratis entertainment.

2. Hike Up Signal Hill or Table Mountain 

If you love hiking and other thrilling outdoor activities, Cape Town won’t disappoint on that front. There are two places where you can show off your trekking and hiking prowess- one is at Table Mountain and the other is at Signal Hill.

We would advise that you climb up before sunset to enjoy a picnic while admiring the beautiful scenic views of Cape Town and Camps Bay lying beneath under a cold and beautiful moon.

3. Visit the Aquarium

The Two Oceans Aquarium in Cape Town is a great place to spend any day at. There are many aquatic animals ready to take your breath away. The staff and the plenty of exhibits will provide more information on specific animals. Come and spend some time with the big guys who live under the water. Certainly, one of the best cheap things to do in Cape Town.

4. Sail to Robben Island

There’s no doubt Robben Island is one of the best cheap things to do in Cape Town. Robben Island is where they imprisoned Nelson Mandela for 18 years.

Explore the Robben Island Museum that tells the island’s history and its role in the Apartheid regime. A 4-hour tour costs just £20, which includes a boat ride over to the island, a bus tour around the island, and a tour of the prison, including Mandela’s cell.

You will enjoy an amazing view of Cape Town from the ocean on the way back and if you are lucky, you can glimpse at the dolphins, seals, and whales.

5. South African National Gallery

On Government Avenue, within the Company Gardens, you will find the South Africa National Art Gallery. Here, for R15 to R30, you can see some artworks from local and international artists.

Look out for legendary pieces like Jane Alexander’s Butcher Boys, and walk through the halls of modern and classic art. You will appreciate the massive talent found within South Africa.

6. Stroll the V&A Waterfront

Sure, it’s easy to spend a lot of money if you are going shopping or visiting expensive places. But, you won’t spend a thing to enjoy the Waterfront. Take a stroll along the waters, look out for seals and interesting boats, and cross over towards the Clock Tower. While you are there, you could as well take a free diamond tour at Shimansky. The fancy and most cheap touristy part of Cape Town, there’s no doubt the V&A Waterfront is worth a stroll and a snap.

7. Cape Point

Cape Point is the southernmost tip of Africa and is home to some of the most beautiful scenery in Cape Town. Cape Point is home to many hiking trails and the Cape Point Lighthouse. Visitors can also take a ride on the Flying Dutchman Funicular, to the top of a cliff for stunning views of the sea.

8. Hang with the Penguins in Simon’s Town

Come on, who wouldn’t love a day with the penguins? On a great day trip from Cape Town, you can see hundreds of African penguins nearby for below 152 Rand–definitely one of the cheap things to do in Cape Town!

Head to Simon’s Town using a train or an Uber and hit up Boulders Beach to walk among these amazing birds. Some areas are closed to human access so, follow the boardwalk, and stay in designated areas.

9. Stroll the Sea Point Promenade

Another exciting cheap thing to do in Cape Town is exploring the stunning Sea Point and its perfect promenade. On warm evenings, the wide promenade edging the Atlantic Ocean is alive with sun-gazers, dog-walkers, skateboarders, and kite-fliers.

If the ocean views don’t excite you, there are fascinating art installations and open-air gyms to explore. Join the locals for an amble along the seafront boulevard, or rent a bike and enjoy the cycle.

10. Take a Wine Tour in Constantia

Longing to try a wine-tasting tour in Cape Town, but you are low on funds? If you’re in the city already, it’s cheaper to head to Constantia. Pick your vineyard here and get a sample!

11. Drive Chapman’s Peak

The amazing drive marks the coastline between Hout Bay and Noordhoek. This toll road involves a small payment, but it’s more than worth it. The drive is one of the most spectacular stretches of the coastline. This road trip is ideal, with picnic spots and lookouts completing the picture. Combine it with a trip to Simon’s Town to make the trip as cheap as possible.

12. Go Surfing At Muizenberg Beach

The surfing culture At Muizenberg is alive and thriving for generations. This beautiful, little coastal community is full of hospitable people and chill vibes. The waves are amazing no matter the season. If you want to experience the beauty of this place, arrive early to beat the traffic jam and make the most out of your day.