Cape Town’s historic naval port offers outstanding value for visitors through its compact selection of top-quality tours. The must-do excursion centers on Boulders Beach, where you’ll walk boardwalks among hundreds of African penguins in their natural habitat – it’s simply unforgettable. For history buffs, the naval heritage walking tours pack centuries of maritime stories into a fascinating two-hour stroll. The Cape Peninsula scenic drives combine dramatic coastal views with stops at key attractions, offering great bang for your buck.
I’m particularly fond of the small-group wildlife tours that pair penguin viewing with spotting baboons, seals, and seasonal whales. These intimate experiences typically include an expert local guide and convenient hotel pickup.
Check out these standout Simon’s Town tours that consistently earn my highest recommendations:
Key Points
- Simon’s Town is home to the Boulders Beach penguin colony, a highlight for many visitors looking to observe these endangered African penguins in their natural habitat.
- The Boulders Beach Penguin Colony Tour provides the opportunity to see the penguins up close and learn about their conservation efforts.
- The Cape Peninsula Tour is a popular option that combines visits to Simon’s Town, Boulders Beach, and other iconic landmarks like the Cape of Good Hope.
- Guided walking tours of Simon’s Town offer insights into the town’s rich naval history and charming colonial architecture.
- Private tours and custom itineraries allow for more personalized experiences and the flexibility to explore Simon’s Town and its surroundings at your own pace.
From Cape Town: Table Mountain City Tour and Boulders Beach
Departing from Cape Town, this comprehensive tour showcases the city’s iconic landmarks and the renowned Boulders Beach penguin colony. Priced at €128.35 per person, the 8-hour excursion provides a perfect balance of sightseeing and wildlife encounters.
Highlights include a cable car ride up Table Mountain for panoramic views, a visit to the vibrant Bo-Kaap neighborhood, and a scenic drive along the stunning Chapmans Peak.
The tour culminates with a 3-hour stop at Boulders Beach, where visitors can observe the charming African penguin colony up close.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later, this tour offers convenience and flexibility.
Accessible transportation, a live English-speaking guide, and included entrance fees make for a seamless and enjoyable experience.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this comprehensive tour is an excellent way to explore the best of Cape Town and its natural wonders.
Read our full review: From Cape Town: Table Mountain City Tour and Boulders Beach Review
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Private Cape of Good Hope and Penguins Full-Day Tour
This comprehensive 8-hour Private Cape of Good Hope and Penguins Full-Day Tour showcases the stunning natural wonders surrounding Cape Town.
Priced from $85.39 per person, this English-language tour includes pickup from 16 locations in the city.
Highlights include photo stops in Bo-Kaap and Camps Bay, an optional boat cruise to Duiker Island in Hout Bay, and the scenic Chapman’s Peak drive.
At Cape Point, visitors can choose to ride the funicular to the top.
The tour also visits the penguin colony at Boulders Beach, where an extra fee applies.
A local guide provides commentary throughout the day, and bottled water is included.
While the tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility, visual, or hearing impairments, it earns a stellar 5-star rating from past guests who praise the guide’s customization and organization.
Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance.
Read our full review: Private Cape of Good Hope and Penguins Full-Day Tour Review
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Table Mountain, Penguins & Cape of Good Hope Private Tour
Travelers looking to explore the stunning natural wonders surrounding Cape Town can embark on the comprehensive 9-hour Table Mountain, Penguins & Cape of Good Hope Private Tour. Priced at $106.73 per person, this private tour offers a flexible itinerary with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Highlights include a ride on the rotating cable car to the top of Table Mountain, a visit to the adorable African Penguin colony at Boulders Beach, and a journey to the iconic Cape of Good Hope. Along the way, guests may spot local wildlife such as ostriches, antelopes, and baboons.
Included amenities feature hotel pickup and drop-off, a live tour guide, transportation, and entry fees. Travelers can maximize their time with the reserve now and pay later option.
With an impressive 5/5 rating based on customer feedback, this tour is an excellent choice for those seeking an unforgettable experience on the Cape Peninsula.
Read our full review: Table Mountain, Penguins & Cape of Good Hope Private Tour Review
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Cape of Good Hope & Penguins Private Tour
Embarking on a comprehensive 6-hour private tour, guests can explore the stunning natural wonders of the Cape of Good Hope and the iconic Boulders Penguin Colony. Priced from Kč 3,001 per person, the tour offers free cancellation and flexible payment options, making it an accessible and convenient choice.
The itinerary includes pickup from various locations in Cape Town, followed by a scenic drive along Chapmans Peak and the Atlantic Sea Board. Visitors will have the opportunity to visit the Cape Point Nature Reserve, where they can encounter indigenous wildlife, and the Cape of Good Hope, known for its rugged cliffs and breathtaking ocean views.
The highlight of the tour is the Boulders Penguin Colony, where guests can observe the iconic South African penguins in their natural habitat.
Optional activities, such as a boat trip to Seal Island and the Cape Point funicular, are also available for an additional fee.
With an exceptional 5/5 rating based on guest reviews, this private tour promises a well-rounded and personalized experience, showcasing the best of the Cape of Good Hope region.
Read our full review: Cape of Good Hope & Penguins Private Tour Review
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Cape Peninsula: Cycle & Drive Private Full Day Tour
Guests seeking an exhilarating and comprehensive exploration of the Cape Peninsula can embark on the Cape Peninsula: Cycle & Drive Private Full Day Tour. Priced from $235 per person and lasting 8 hours, this tour offers a perfect blend of cycling and sightseeing.
Key highlights include cycling along the iconic Chapmans Peak Drive, marveling at African Penguins at Boulders Beach, and exploring the Cape of Good Hope Reserve by bike. Participants can also hike to the old lighthouse at Cape Point and enjoy scenic views of the Atlantic Ocean and Twelve Apostles Mountain Range.
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a professional guide, water and snacks, a support vehicle, national park fees, and lunch. Guests are advised to wear comfortable shoes, bring a windbreaker and sunscreen, and be prepared for an active, educational, and bucket-list-filled day, rain or shine.
Read our full review: Cape Peninsula: Cycle & Drive Private Full Day Tour Review
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Cape Town and Cape Peninsula Private 3 Day Tour
A comprehensive 3-day private tour of Cape Town and the Cape Peninsula offers visitors an immersive exploration of the region’s diverse landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture.
The tour includes highlights like the iconic Table Mountain, the scenic Cape of Good Hope, and the charming Boulders Beach, home to a colony of African penguins. Travelers can expect a personalized experience with skip-the-line access and private transportation, allowing them to make the most of their time.
On the first day, the tour explores Cape Town’s top landmarks, including the colorful Bo-Kaap neighborhood and the vibrant V&A Waterfront.
Day two takes visitors to the Cape Peninsula, where they can witness the dramatic cliffs of the Cape of Good Hope and observe the adorable penguins at Boulders Beach.
The final day is dedicated to the stunning natural beauty of the region, with a visit to the iconic Table Mountain and a scenic drive along the coastline.
Read our full review: Cape Town and Cape Peninsula Private 3 Day Tour Review
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Cape Town: Peninsula, Penguins & Cape of Good Hope Day Tour
This comprehensive day tour of the Cape Peninsula offers visitors an in-depth exploration of the region’s iconic landmarks and natural wonders. Priced from $42 per person, the 10-hour tour covers key highlights like Maidens Cove, Hout Bay, the Cape of Good Hope, Cape Point, and the Boulders Penguin Colony.
Guests can enjoy scenic views, photo opportunities, and optional activities like a Seal Island boat trip.
The tour includes round-trip transportation in an air-conditioned minivan, guided commentary, and entry fees to the Cape of Good Hope and Boulders Beach.
With a 4.9/5 rating based on 71 reviews, the tour is praised for its knowledgeable guides, comfortable transportation, and excellent value.
Travelers can easily book the tour and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Whether you’re seeking stunning landscapes, wildlife encounters, or historic landmarks, this Cape Peninsula tour delivers an unforgettable experience.
Read our full review: Cape Town: Peninsula, Penguins & Cape of Good Hope Day Tour Review
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Luxury Cape of Good Hope & Penguin Tour
One of the premier tours in Simon’s Town is the Luxury Cape of Good Hope & Penguin Tour, priced from £151.21 per person.
This 7-hour small group tour (limited to 8 participants) takes you on a journey through Cape Town’s breathtaking scenery, known as one of the “World’s Best Scenic Drives.”
The tour includes a photo stop and guided tour at Chapmans Peak, sightseeing and wildlife viewing at the Cape of Good Hope, and a visit to the Boulders Penguin Colony.
Optionally, you can enjoy a break and lunch in Simons Town, a photo stop in Hout Bay, and add-on activities like craft gin tasting and a Cape Point photo stop.
The tour is wheelchair accessible and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
With a live English-speaking guide, hotel pickup and drop-off, and all entry tickets included, this tour provides a tailored experience to discover hidden spots known only by locals.
Read our full review: Luxury Cape of Good Hope & Penguin Tour Review
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Penguin Half-Day Tour With Ticket Included (Join a Group)
Although less comprehensive than the Luxury Cape of Good Hope & Penguin Tour, the Penguin Half-Day Tour with Ticket Included offers an affordable and efficient way to visit the Boulders Penguin Colony. Priced from $53.37 per person, this 5-hour tour includes transportation, Chapmans Peak Drive toll fee, and admission to the penguin colony.
Highlights include photo stops in Bo-Kaap, Camps Bay, and Chapmans Peak Drive, as well as a guided tour and free time at the Boulders Penguin Colony. Travelers can expect air-conditioned transportation, bottled water, and a multi-lingual experience in English and French.
With a cancellation policy allowing free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this tour provides a hassle-free way to observe the iconic African penguins. However, restrictions on luggage, alcohol, and feeding animals must be observed.
Read our full review: Penguin Half-Day Tour With Ticket Included (Join a Group) Review
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Cape Peninsula Tour
Why not explore the stunning Cape Peninsula on a comprehensive tour? The Cape Point & Boulders Beach tour is a popular choice, offering an 8-hour or 10-hour option with pickup available.
These tours take visitors to the iconic Cape Point, where they can enjoy the dramatic coastal scenery, and then head to Boulders Beach to see the adorable African penguins. With a 4.7 or 4.8 rating based on over 1,600 reviews, these tours seem to be a hit with travelers.
Alternatively, the Cape of Good Hope & Penguins tour provides a 9-hour experience that includes skip-the-line access and pickup.
This tour combines the natural beauty of the Cape of Good Hope with the chance to see the penguin colony at Boulders Beach, all while maintaining a high 4.7 rating from 210 reviews.
For those seeking a more condensed experience, the 5-hour Cape Point & Boulders Beach tour offers a skip-the-line option and pickup, with a 4.7 rating from 66 reviews.
Read our full review: Cape Peninsula Tour Review
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From Cape Town: Table Mountain Penguins & Cape Point Tour
Explore Cape Town’s top attractions on a comprehensive small group tour that showcases the city’s natural wonders. Priced from €59.68 per person, this 8-hour experience covers Table Mountain, Boulders Beach penguins, the Cape of Good Hope, and Cape Point.
Enjoy guided tours, scenic drives, and photo stops along the way. The tour includes pickup from your Cape Town city center hotel and transportation in a shared luxury air-conditioned vehicle. A group tour guide/driver accompanies you throughout the day, providing insights and managing the itinerary.
Bottled water and the Chapmans Peak drive toll fee are included, but entry tickets to attractions must be purchased separately. Notable optional costs include the Table Mountain cable car (R430/adult), Boulders Penguin Colony (R220/adult), and the Flying Dutchman Funicular at Cape Point (R95/adult).
Lunch and drinks aren’t included, but stops are available for meals. This tour isn’t suitable for children under 2 or babies under 1 year old.
Read our full review: From Cape Town: Table Mountain Penguins & Cape Point Tour Review
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Cape Town Food Tour (Includes All Food) 3hrs
Travelers can delight in a 3-hour Cape Town Food Tour that includes all food for a price starting from €77.32 per person.
The tour lasts 2 hours and is led by a live tour guide available in Estonian and English. Guests can reserve their spot without upfront payment and enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
The experience highlights a scenic tour around Cape Town, allowing participants to taste different foods and learn about the city’s history through its culinary offerings.
Booking details, including starting times and a Google Maps link to the meeting point, are available.
This tour provides an excellent opportunity for visitors to enjoy the local food culture and explore the vibrant city of Cape Town.
Read our full review: Cape Town Food Tour (Includes All Food) 3hrs Review
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Cape Town: Penguins & Cape of Good Hope Half-Day Tour
Visitors can embark on a 4-hour Cape Town: Penguins & Cape of Good Hope Half-Day Tour, priced from $36.00 per person. The tour offers pickup and drop-off at various locations, including The Westin Cape Town, Green Point, and Cape Town City Centre.
The highlights include a photo stop in Muizenberg, a visit to the Boulders Beach penguin colony, and scenic drives along the False Bay coastline.
At the Cape of Good Hope and Cape Point Nature Reserve, participants can enjoy coffee tastings and guided tours, with additional fees.
The tour includes a guide/driver, roundtrip transportation, bottled water, and entrance fees to the Cape of Good Hope and Boulders Penguin Colony.
With an overall rating of 4.5/5 based on 184 reviews, the tour is praised for its friendly guides, personal experience, and value for money.
Travelers can enjoy close encounters with approximately 3,000 endangered African penguins and explore the diverse flora and fauna of the region.
Read our full review: Cape Town: Penguins & Cape of Good Hope Half-Day Tour Review
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Full Day Private Cape Peninsula and Boulders Beach Tour
For those seeking a comprehensive Cape Peninsula experience, the Full Day Private Cape Peninsula and Boulders Beach Tour offers an exceptional opportunity. Priced from Kč 2,555 per person, this full-day private tour provides a personalized exploration of the region’s dramatic landscapes and exotic wildlife.
Highlights include visits to iconic attractions like Table Mountain, Cape Point Nature Reserve, and the Boulders Penguin Colony, as well as scenic drives along Chapmans Peak Drive. The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, bottled water, entry fees, and a knowledgeable local guide who ensures a smooth experience.
Visitors can expect to encounter a variety of wildlife, including ostriches, baboons, and antelope. The tour’s flexible itinerary allows for optional stops at Hout Bay and the Cape of Good Hope.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later, this tour provides a hassle-free way to experience the best of the Cape Peninsula.
Read our full review: Full Day Private Cape Peninsula and Boulders Beach Tour Review
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Private Multi-Day Tour to Table Mountain and Robben Island F
Embarking on a private multi-day tour to explore Table Mountain and Robben Island, visitors enjoy the rich history and natural wonders of Cape Town. This comprehensive tour offers a flexible itinerary, allowing travelers to customize their experience.
At Table Mountain, guests can marvel at the iconic flat-topped peak and enjoy panoramic views of the city and surrounding landscapes.
The tour also includes a visit to Robben Island, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that served as a prison for decades, housing notable figures like Nelson Mandela. Visitors can explore the island’s prison facilities, learning about its significant role in South Africa’s history.
The private nature of the tour ensures a personalized and exclusive experience, with options for small groups or individual travelers.
Pickup and transportation are provided, adding to the convenience and accessibility of the tour.
With a focus on both history and natural beauty, this multi-day excursion offers an immersive and unforgettable glimpse into the wonders of Cape Town.
Read our full review: Private Multi-Day Tour to Table Mountain and Robben Island F Review
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Though encompassing numerous highlights, the Table Mountain, Cape of Good Hope & Penguins Shared Tour offers visitors an efficient and well-rounded experience of Cape Town’s iconic natural wonders.
Priced at an affordable $52 per person, the 9-hour tour includes a cable car ride up the legendary Table Mountain, a scenic drive along Chapmans Peak, and explorations of the Cape of Good Hope and Boulders Beach, home to African penguins.
Travelers can expect a comfortable ride in a private vehicle with a knowledgeable guide, as well as complimentary bottled water.
While entrance fees to the attractions aren’t included, the tour’s overall structure allows guests to make the most of their time in the area.
With a perfect 5/5 rating based on 7 reviews, this shared tour is highly recommended for those seeking to maximize their Cape Town sightseeing within a single day.
Read our full review: Table Mountain, Cape of Good Hope & Penguins Shared Tour Review
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The Sum Up
Simon’s Town offers a wide variety of tours showcasing its stunning natural beauty. From exploring the iconic Table Mountain and Boulders Beach to embarking on private tours of the Cape Peninsula, visitors can choose from an array of options to suit their interests and preferences. Whether seeking a shared or private experience, these tours provide an opportunity to discover the charm and wonder of this captivating destination.