Never thought you’d find cheap things to do in Cape Town? We hear you! Cape Town has a reputation for being expensive, but not every adventure needs to come with a hefty price tag. Whether you’re a local looking for something different to do this weekend or a visitor trying to stretch your travel budget, there are plenty of experiences that cost less than R100 and still deliver a memorable day out.
From wildlife encounters and scenic drives to mini golf and mountain walks, here are some of our favourite affordable things to do in Cape Town.
1. Play Putt-Putt in Sea Point – Cheap Things to do in Cape Town
One of Cape Town’s classic activities, Sea Point Putt-Putt offers two 18-hole courses right next to the ocean. It is simple, affordable and surprisingly competitive. We like pairing it with some coffee or dessert, depending on the weather.
Cost: R35–R45 per person
Best for: Dates, families, friends and school holiday outings
Tip: Visit around sunset for the best views.
2. Visit Giraffe House Wildlife Awareness Centre
Located just outside Cape Town, Giraffe House is home to giraffes, reptiles, antelope and other animals. It is both educational and entertaining, especially for younger children. You can hold a snake and feed giraffes too!
Cost: R75 for adults, R45 for children
Best for: Family outings and animal lovers
3. Have a Braai at Silvermine Nature Reserve
Few things beat a braai surrounded by mountains and fynbos. Silvermine offers designated braai areas near the dam, making it an excellent budget-friendly day out. This usually isn’t an option during high fire season, so just check first!
Cost: R36 per adult
Best for: Groups, couples and relaxed weekends
4. Visit Cheetah Outreach
Located in Somerset West, Cheetah Outreach focuses on conservation and education while giving visitors the opportunity to see cheetahs up close. The most exciting part is probably that you can watch the cheetahs be fed and then actually go up close to one!
Cost: R60–R100 per person
Best for: Wildlife enthusiasts
5. Drive Along Chapman’s Peak
Widely regarded as one of the world’s most scenic coastal drives, Chapman’s Peak offers incredible views for less than the cost of lunch. We thoroughly enjoy taking a picnic spread with us and enjoying the stunning sunset.
Cost: R54 toll fee
Best for: Scenic drives, dates and photography
6. Feed the Alpacas at Alpaca Loom
If you’ve never fed an alpaca before, this is your chance. Located in Paarl, the experience is wholesome, affordable and fun for all ages. It’s more ticklish than you’d expect too!
Cost: R20–R40 per person
Best for: Families, couples and animal lovers
7. Visit the District Six Museum
One of Cape Town’s most important cultural attractions, the District Six Museum tells the story of a community that was forcibly removed during apartheid. We recommend paying the little extra to get a tour because it will be given by a former resident, and that perspective is priceless.
Cost: R50 entry, R60 with a guided tour
Best for: History lovers and students
8. Go for a Forest Walk
Cape Town is filled with beautiful forest trails. Newlands Forest, Cecilia Forest and Tokai Forest are all excellent options when you need a break from the city. Just check for what’s near you, and how long you feel like walking – there are plenty options.
Cost: Free (parking fees may apply)
Best for: Walks, quiet reflection and dog owners
9. Join a Walking Tour
Walking tours are one of the best ways to learn more about Cape Town’s history, architecture and culture. Our favourites are definitely those by Cameron Peters (Cape Town Heritage Tours), because the level of detail he gives you is unmatched.
Cost: Tip-based (typically R50–R100)
Best for: Tourists, locals and solo travellers
10. Explore the Scratch Patch
A favourite childhood memory for many Capetonians, the Scratch Patch lets visitors search for and collect polished gemstones. And yes, this is fun even as an adult! They’ve got a lovely gift shop where you can buy ready made pieces as well.
Cost: R35–R95 depending on bag size
Best for: Families and collectors
11. Play Cave Golf
Located at the V&A Waterfront, Cave Golf offers an indoor mini-golf experience with quirky cave-themed obstacles. A warning, it gets super hot inside, so just be wary of that depending on when you go and what you wear.
Cost: R35 per person
Best for: Rainy days and date nights
12. Ride the Toboggan at Cool Runnings
Africa’s only toboggan track delivers a surprising adrenaline rush as you race down a winding metal course! It gets super busy during school holidays, but we’d recommend getting at least 3 rides. 1 doesn’t feel enough! You can also get discounts by booking online.
Cost: From R80 per ride
Best for: Teenagers, families and thrill seekers
13. Take a Seal and Harbour Cruise
Hop aboard a short harbour cruise at the V&A Waterfront and enjoy views of the harbour while spotting local seals. But also, this is lovely for when you just want some fresh ocean air without the price tag.
Cost: R70–R100 per person
Best for: Families and visitors to Cape Town
14. Ride a Pedal Boat at Battery Park
Paddle around the canal while enjoying views of the city and Table Mountain. A surprisingly fun activity, especially for bonding. You get to ride throughout the canal by yourself.
Cost: R50 per person
Best for: Couples, friends and quick outings
15. Watch a Throwback Thursday Movie
Ster-Kinekor’s Throwback Thursday screenings are a great way to catch classic films on the big screen without paying full cinema prices. They often show really cool movies, too. The first one we watched was the Dark Knight!
Cost: R50 per person
Best for: Movie lovers and midweek outings
16. Take the Train to the Beach
One of the cheapest adventures in Cape Town is hopping on a train to Muizenberg or Kalk Bay and spending the day by the ocean. You can get on at any train station near you onto the Southern Line. It’s a very pleasant way to travel.
Cost: R9 one way
Best for: Students, budget travellers and spontaneous beach days
Whether you’re exploring nature, learning about local history, meeting animals or simply enjoying the city’s scenery, there are plenty of ways to have a great day out without spending a fortune. Sometimes all you need is R100 and a free afternoon.
Bookmark this for your the next time you’re looking for something fun to do! Want more travel recommendations, both in and outside South Africa? Follow us @afor_adventures or subscribe to our food & travel blog – always honest, always helpful.