The COVID-19 pandemic has changed how almost everything is done. With fluctuating levels of infections, governments all over the world have had to make decisions to curb the spread, oftentimes putting strict regulations in place.
Cape Town has been no different. Lockdown has required us to stay indoors as much as possible and when going out, to engage in ‘safe’ activities. A Curiocity, we believe that everyone needs a bit of sunshine and fresh air from time to time. For this reason, we have decided to spark some inspiration with a few ideas of COVID-friendly endeavours for you to enjoy!
South Africa’s lockdown levels
Before planning any activities in Cape Town, it’s a good idea to check the COVID-19 regulations set by the South African government, depending on the lockdown level the country is in. South Africa has 5 lockdown alert levels. From level 1 to 5, the regulations become increasingly strict. We are currently in lockdown level 1- everyone is required to wear a mask in public at all times and going into shared spaces (restaurants etc. masks can only be removed for eating and drinking) and sanitise upon entering all shops.
The rules differ slightly with each level, which makes it key to stay updated on what is and isn’t allowed at a certain time.
COVID friendly activities in Cape Town
1. Explore Cape Town’s hikes
Being in nature is a healthy and rejuvenating thing to do, especially when having to spend a large majority of the day inside. Most nature reserves and hiking trails are open even during lockdown level 4. The main thing that changes is the size of groups permitted on walks. Take a moment to check this before heading outdoors.
A couple of beautiful hikes to try out include:
– Lion’s Head: This one is at the top of the list for many locals and tourists, because of the breath-taking 360 views it offers at the top after a relatively minimal effort. Starting on Signal Hill Drive, at the base of Lion’s Head, the trail spirals up the mountain for about 2km and takes roughly an hour to walk up. Chains right at the top pose the main challenge of the hike, but even these are quite simple to scale.
– The Pipe Track Walk: Another popular hike, The Pipe Track follows the path of the original pipeline that was constructed to carry water from Disa Gorge all the way down to the Molteno Reservoir in Oranjezicht. The hike is about 6km one-way and can take up to 4hr30 to complete. Make sure you take lots of water with you, especially in summer. The trail is quite exposed to the sun, so it’s best to walk early in the mornings on warmer days.
– Devil’s Peak Contour Circuit: This 8.5km loop is a rewarding hike for those who love a challenge! Featuring a beautiful range of Table Mountain’s endemic wild flowers along the way, the Devil’s Peak Contour Circuit offers a wonderful experience for those needing a good bit of time in nature. The weather on Devil’s Peak can change quite suddenly, so it’s a good idea to take some warm clothing along.
– Chapman’s Peak: Chappies is a dynamic hike with amazing views of Fish Hoek, the whole Noordhoek Valley and Hout Bay. It is a well-maintained path along which you can spot proteas, a variety of ericas, and indigenous trees. You may even catch a glimpse of a black eagle or a fish eagle! The overall walk is just over 5km and is stunning all year round (although spring is particularly special because of the explosion of flora!)
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2. Take a scenic drive
Something you can enjoy from the comfort and safety of your car, is a drive. Cape Town is one of the most scenic places in South Africa with views ranging from the ocean, to vineyards, to forests.
A few top picks for you to choose from:
– Chapman’s Peak Drive: Just as beautiful as the hike, is the actual drive along Chapman’s Peak. This is considered one of the world’s most scenic coastal drives, winding along the Atlantic. Take a few snacks and make some stops at the lookout points (which are especially incredible at sunset!). One thing to note is that Chapman’s Peak Drive is sometimes closed due to the danger of rockfall. Be sure to check the website for updates before going.
– Victoria Road: Another stunner along the Atlantic coastline is Victoria Road, which runs from Sea Point, through to Hout Bay. The drive boasts awesome views of the Twelve Apostles and is a joy to go along because of its safe design.
– Signal Hill: This is a popular drive, which passes the start of the Lion’s Head hike and offers panoramic views of the City Bowl and Table Bay. Bring some coffee and park along Signal Hill Road while the city goes about its day.
3. Pick something fresh!
A great way to be safe, yet spend time outside and bring some of its colour back home with you, is by picking fresh fruits, vegetables, or flowers! Nothing beats a bunch of flowers or a bowl of fruit straight from the garden.
– Rose-picking at the Chart Farm: Located in Wynberg, the Chart Farm is open for rose-picking from mid-October to the end of May. You are geared with a bucket and secateurs, after which you can choose from a rainbow of almost 6000 bushes! Wander through the garden, enjoy the lush view, and drink in the smell of these wonderful flowers.
– Hoogwater Fruit Experience: Take a scenic drive to Hoogwater Farm, situated in the Witzenberg Valley, and fill your fruit bowl with fresh nectarines, peaches, or figs! When in the orchards, you are allowed to eat as much fruit as your heart desires (and your stomach can take!) Check their website for seasonal picking dates.
– Polkadraai Farm Strawberry Picking: Polkadraai offers visitors the opportunity to fill a bucket size of choice with ruby red, sweet tasting strawberries. The season is open in spring/summer, from September to January. Bring along a hat, some sunscreen and a mask.
– Klondyke Cherry Farm: Cherries are a special treat. At Klondyke, you can eat as many cherries as you like, while spending the day filling your own box to take home. The farm grows all kinds of cherries, ranging from deep red to blushed yellow, perfect for eating just like that, or using in desserts and jams (which will give you something else to get busy with at home!)
4. Watch a movie under the stars
The Galileo Open Air Cinema has pioneered the revival of the classic drive-in movie theatre! Galileo invites people to come out to one of their four venues – Rondebosch, Constantia, Tamboerskloof, and Durbanville – to enjoy a movie, some snacks, and a nostalgic atmosphere while safely ‘socially distancing’.
This has been an innovative way of offering the feeling of a night-out, without compromising lockdown regulations. Keep an eye on the schedule to catch your favourite movies!
Conclusion
While being locked down can feel frustrating, isolating, and mundane, Cape Town is a city that knows how to cheer up the soul in unique ways. Enjoy its beauty and creativity while staying safe with our list of COVID-friendly activities!
If you are needing to self-isolate in Cape Town and are not sure where to go, Curiocity offers short and long-term rentals for self-isolation apartments and hotels. Check out our offers and book your stay! We take all the necessary precautions to ensure that our spaces are clean and safe for isolation.
