2024 Travel Noire Awards Winner: Vacation Of The Year – Travel Noire

Cape Town, South Africa, has been crowned the Vacay Of The Year in the 2024 Travel Noire Awards, and it’s not hard to see why. Sitting between stunning mountains and the vast Atlantic Ocean, this coastal city has it all. You can expect nice music, food from diverse cultures, and luxurious experiences, making it a top destination for travelers with varied tastes and needs.

The iconic Table Mountain, a flat-topped mountain that serves as the city’s backdrop, remains a must-visit attraction. Visitors can take a scenic cable car ride to the summit. Here, they’re rewarded with views of the city, coastline, and surrounding areas. The more daring can tackle the challenging but worthwhile Lion’s Head walk, which provides similarly incredible views, particularly at sunrise and dusk.

A Coastal Paradise And Cultural Melting Pot

The city’s coastline is a major draw for tourists. Camps Bay Beach’s white sand and turquoise waters are perfect for sunbathing and people-watching. The nearby Clifton Beaches offer a more secluded experience, with four coves protected from the wind and boasting crystal-clear waters. For nature enthusiasts, visiting Boulders Beach in Simon’s Town provides an opportunity to see African penguins up close in their natural habitat.

Cape Town’s cultural heritage is equally attractive, evident in its diverse neighborhoods. The colorful Bo-Kaap area’s colorful houses and cobblestone streets give insight into the city’s Cape Malay culture. Through guided tours, visitors can explore local markets, sample traditional cuisine, and learn about the area’s history.

The nearby Cape Winelands, including Stellenbosch and Franschhoek, contribute significantly to Cape Town’s appeal. These regions have world-class wine-tasting experiences, complete with one-of-a-kind mountain scenery. Guests enjoy wine tours, gourmet meals at award-winning restaurants, and picturesque drives through vineyards.

Moreover, the V&A Waterfront exemplifies Cape Town’s modern side. This bustling harbor area features high-end shopping, diverse dining options, and entertainment venues. The recently opened Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa (MOCAA) has put Cape Town on the global art map, showcasing an impressive collection of contemporary African art.

Cape Town’s Natural Wonders And Wildlife

A short drive from the city center, the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve has everything to amaze travelers. Some attractions that bring people here include the rugged cliffs and the opportunity to stand at the southwestern tip of Africa. Day visits to nearby game reserves also allow nature lovers another chance to see the “Big Five.”

Plus, Cape Town has many outdoor pursuits to partake in. This city is perfect for thrill seekers, with activities like paragliding from Signal Hill and shark cage diving in Gansbaai. The varied landscape of the city is also ideal for other popular sports like mountain biking, surfing, and kiteboarding.