Sports

The Western Cape is the perfect place for outdoor activities, be it swimming, walking, hiking, climbing, horse-riding, sailing, sail-boarding, surfing, diving, boating or fishing.

Visitors can experience the thrill of bungee jumping including the highest bungee-jump in the world at Bloukrans. Hiking is popular among the locals, and Table Mountain can get rather crowded on a Sunday. However you should always go climbing with an experienced person who knows the routes.

Surrounded by the clear oceans, water sports are extremely popular in the region. Some of the finest big game fishing in the world is available here - in particular Longfin and Yellowfin Tuna and Broadbilled Swordfish.

Scuba diving is one of the largest growing sports in Cape Town and there are many areas suitable for this exciting sport. Sail-boarding (windsurfing) is another favourite, with Blouberg beach being the main area. The Royal Cape Yacht Club is situated at the docks in Table Bay. Multihull sailing is popular at Fish Hoek and Hout Bay. Sailing on dams, lagoons and rivers is also possible. Surfing is popular in Cape Town and spectacular surfing competitions are held during the summer months.

Cricket has been played in Cape Town since the early days of British occupation. South Africa's cricket team is one of the best in the world and facilities at Newlands Cricket Grounds are outstanding. Visitors can attend provincial and international matches.

Cape Town is home to the famous Argus Cycle Tour of the Peninsula, which takes place in March every year. Horse racing in Cape Town takes place on two tracks - Kenilworth and Durbanville every Wednesday and Saturday afternoon.

Rugby is the favourite sport of South Africans and the Springbok team are national heroes. Tennis courts are to be found at most hotels and there are many sports clubs in and around the city which will accommodate visitors. Golf is a popular sport and South Africa offers some of the most famous golf courses around for the pleasure of visitors.