Free things to do in Cape Town this December

Doing things this December doesn’t have to mean spending the big bucks. Here a few free things you can do in Cape Town…

It’s the summer holidays and you’ve already as broke as can be. But do not fear, there’s loads to do in the Mother City that won’t cost you a dime.

TAKE A HIKE UP LION’S HEAD

You can’t call yourself a Capetonian if you haven’t climbed Lion’s Head. This landmark is situated between Table Mountain and Signal Hill, and is one of the most popular hikes in Cape Town.

Best of all, it’s free — and it boasts a wonderfully panoramic view of the city. The hike itself will take you less than two hours to complete and is easy to navigate, even for beginners.

Newlands Forest is another exhilarating but easy hike. The 7km loop is also dog-friendly and it will take you about two hours at a comfortable pace.

ALSO READ: Cape Winelands adventures: Six fun activities for kids

CATCH THE GOLDEN HOUR AND CAPE TOWN’S BEST VIEWS

Pack a picnic and watch the sun set at Chapman’s Peak or Signal Hill. They’re both free and arguably deliver the most scenic views you can get of the city.

If you enter the drive from Hout Bay side, you can access Chapmans Peak for free (during daylight hours) and navigate through 3km of raw beauty.

Signal Hill is also a great spot to enjoy a sunset and picnic. To ensure you get a good spot to sit, go at least 45 minutes before sunset.

GET A WORKOUT AT GREEN POINT URBAN PARK

It’s more than a picnic spot, it’s also considered an educational opportunity to learn more about the Western Cape biodiversity.

Enjoy a free workout and take advantage of the gym equipment in the park. Sit, back, relax and watch kids play on the slides while you enjoy a flask of coffee underneath the trees.

FEED THE SQUIRRELS: IT’S FUN AND FREE

Explore the architecture of the city and feed the squirrels at Company’s Garden. This free spot is home to dozens of species of birds, and a variety of flora and fauna.

Escape the bustle of the city and enjoy the stunning Ginko trees in what is known as “Cape Town’s lungs”.

SCORE BIRTHDAY FREEBIES IN DECEMBER

• Calories don’t count on your birthday, so enjoy a free slice of cake using the Mugg & Bean generosity application or redeem a dozen OGs of donuts from Krispy Kremes.
• If you’re more adventure-driven, you can get free entry to some of Cape Town’s best outdoor activities. These include the Two Oceans Aquarium and a free ride on the Cape Wheel at the V&A Waterfront.
• If your child is aged between five and 15 years, and celebrating a birthday in December, they are eligible for a free ride on the City Sightseeing Bus for themselves and two friends.
• Or take a ride to the top of Table Mountain, where patrons over 18 can get a free birthday return ticket from the Table Mountain Aerial Cableway.