Experience the local lifestyle

You are welcomed at Cape Town International Airport or collected from any address within close radius, and transported via shuttle to the 5-star Saltycrax Backpackers in Table View. Cape Town offers a diversity of cultures, cuisines, activities and landscapes. With the picturesque backdrop of of Table Mountain, the coastal city of Cape Town lies at the southern tip of South Africa. Also the gateway for most trips to South Africa, Cape Town, known as the Mother City, lives up to her name by being the mother of all holiday destinations. From history and culture to adventure and scenery all found within the city, you are sure to experience multiple breathtaking adventures here in the Motherland. Early arrivals can spend the day either relaxing on beach, enjoying picturesque views of Table Mountain, or sipping a cocktail at one of the many sea facing restaurants in the area. In the evening, meet at the hostel for a lekker (nice) homemade South African meal. A braai (Traditional South African BBQ) and potjiekos (Traditional South African stew) are usually prepared at least twice a week, and we highly recommend joining us on these nights. You will be automatically signed up for dinner on the first night of your package. Tasty homemade dinners are included for the rest of your package, but we know that the Cape is known for it's amazing cuisine with a vast variety of restaurants serving all kinds of foods, so be sure to sign up with reception at least one day in advance if you would like to have dinner at Saltycrax. Afterwards, you can roll down to the local bars and pubs where you can spend the rest of the night at leisure.

Know how it feels to be truly South African. From ancient human kind and world changing civil battles through joyful vuvuzelas and local braais. Expect hidden sites only to be known by locals. In depth and honest conversations with people we meet along the way. Sharing drinks and traditional food with our people in their turf, on their terms. "Back stage pass" to a small home grown wine farm, another's kitchen, as well as iconic sites. Guided transport to all sites. Local treats & drinks, lunch & wine tasting. A historical journey from our ancient heritage to where we are now. Done factually correct, raw and inspiring.

In the morning, help yourself to breakfast in the kitchen area. Your friendly Saltycrax staff member will teach you about the bus system so that you can head out to Cape Town city center. Once you get to the city, you have two options to choose from: Option 1: Walking Tour: Do a walking tour visiting historical sites like the Castle of Good Hope and the Grand Parade. Learn about life under apartheid in South Africa at the Parliament Buildings and the District Six Museum. Shop for African arts and crafts in Greenmarket Square and St George’s Mall. Option 2: The Hop On Hop Off bus tour: Board this topless bus that takes you to all the sites you need to see, such as Camps Bay, the V&A Waterfront and Table Mountain… all from the comfort of your seat! Cape Malay cooking class Get to know aspects of the cultural diversity that Cape Town has to offer on an interactive guided walk through the historical heart of the Bo-Kaap with a mini shopping safari. Learn about Cape Muslim people with their South-East Asian heritage, their culture, their community and their food. Stop at a local spice shop and halaal butcher which offers opportunities to interact with locals and to discover typical ingredients. The shop-keeper himself, when available, or our knowledgeable guide, will take you behind the counter to taste, smell and touch your way through typical ingredients. The highlight is to visit a local family’s home and participate in a hands-on cooking experience. In the evening head back on the local bus to Table View where you can start planning your next day and preparing for your next adventure. Arrange a night out with guests and locals at one of the restaurants or bars along the beachfront, or spend the evening relaxing at the hostel.

Start the morning with a pick up from a local guide for an elegant but relaxed tour through the Cape Winelands. The Western Cape of South Africa is home to more than 500 wineries and today we will visit between 3 - 5 of our favorites. The Winelands offer more than just wine though and there is also beautiful scenery and interesting history to enjoy along the way. The wine route tour is mellow and involves no exercise – other than lifting your wine glass. You'll visit any of the three regions of the Cape Winelands, either Stellenbosch, Franschhoek or Paarl. The day will be spent eating mouthwatering foods and treats and drinking some of the best bubbles and wines that South Africa has to offer. The wine farms offer a variety of white and red cultivars, as well as their own blends and styles. We allow enough time for each tasting to fully appreciate and enjoy the wine master’s art. The Cape Winelands is a haven of gracious, white-gabled farmsteads evoking a rich, elegant heritage. You will be dropped off at your accommodation in the late afternoon/evening to enjoy the night at leisure. Wine-not continue sipping wine with other fellow travellers around the bonfire?

Have breakfast and then grasp your last views of Table Mountain before heading onto your next adventure. Alternatively, ask us for some extra nights to extend your stay and continue the adventures.