Fun things to do in Cape Town

Cape Town, also known as The Mother City, is known globally for its natural beauty and rich history. This is South Africa's legislative capital, a coastal city in the Western Cape and now the new home of Rosebank College, an educational brand of The Independent Institute of Education (The IIE).

With the December holidays upon us, why not a consider a sho't left to Cape Town. If you enjoy the outdoors and exploring new places, then try out our list of fun things to do.

Hike Lion's Head: Looming above Cape Town and the surrounding ocean like a sentinel, Lion's Head is an iconic part of the city. Lion's Head offers panoramic views of the city, Table Bay and the Atlantic Ocean, which is why it is so popular with hiking enthusiasts. Though Lion's Head is a relatively short and easy hike, it is not to be underestimated.

Picnic at Kirstenbosch Gardens: If you would like to enjoy the great outdoors, have a picnic at the flowery meadows of Kirstenbosch and take a leisurely stroll through the magnificent garden. This is the perfect spot to observe nature at its best. Every year between November and March, Kirstenbosch hosts the ever-popular Summer Sunset Concerts, where a mixed line-up of international and local talent takes to the stage every Sunday to entertain the crowds amid the lush gardens.

Sunset yoga class on Clifton Beach: Cape Town has so many beaches to choose from. Clifton is an affluent suburb of Cape Town, with sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean. Clifton Beach was rated as one of the Top Ten Beaches by the Discovery Travel Channel in 2003 and 2004. In 2005 and 2006, it was rated by Forbes.com at number eight in the Top 10 Topless Beaches in the world. Do a sunset yoga class on Clifton Beach to unwind and release tension.

Take a trip up the Table Mountain Cableway: The Table Mountain National Park is a World Heritage Site. Whether you are a tourist or a local, visiting the Table Mountain National Park has got to be on your to-do list when visiting the Mother City. The park spans all the way from the iconic Table Mountain right across to the cliffs at Cape Point. You can either backpack and hike up one of the many hiking trails or take a breezy trip up on the Table Mountain Aerial Cableway.

Ferry to Robben Island: Ferries depart for Robben Island from the Nelson Mandela Gateway at the V&A Waterfront at 9am, 11am and 1pm daily, depending on the weather. The trips to and from the island last about three-and-a-half hours. Gates close 10 minutes prior to boarding, so it's best to arrive early.

Take a stroll along Bloubergstrand Beach: Dig your heels into the whitewashed sand of Bloubergstrand (Blue Mountain Beach). Take in the iconic view of Table Mountain, while you take a dip in the blue Atlantic Ocean.

Wine tasting at a wine farm: Get on board the wine tram in Franschhoek. The quaint, small village of Franschhoek is the perfect place to move away from the busy city to enjoy 8.5 hours touring around one of the most serene wine valleys in South Africa. With various lines to choose from, immerse yourself in an entire day of world-class wine tasting at a selection of over 22 award-winning vineyards. Be led by an experienced guide who will elaborate on the history of Franschhoek, as well as the farms you will be visiting.

A night out on Long Street: Cape Town has a buzzing nightlife with a variety of great restaurants to choose from. Whether it be bohemian-hipster-style gatherings or out of the ordinary club scenes, Long Street's nightlife is nothing short of awesome. Be sure to try out what Cape Town's nightlife has to offer.Written by Karabo Keepile