The 5 Must Do Things At V&A Waterfront In Cape Town (+ Map)

We love traveling and experiencing faraway places through the eyes of locals. This includes the places to eat and shop, which we will cover in this article.

Embark on a journey to Robben Island, a UNESCO World Heritage Site infamous for its former political prison, where Nelson Mandela was incarcerated. Explore the island’s historical significance and gain insights into South Africa’s apartheid history through guided tours led by former political prisoners.

Karibu, a hidden gem that beckons food enthusiasts with the promise of an unforgettable culinary experience. With its warm ambiance, attentive service, and tantalizing array of authentic African dishes, Karibu embodies the spirit of South African hospitality and culinary heritage.

Stepping into Karibu is akin to entering a cozy African retreat, where rustic charm meets contemporary elegance. The restaurant’s interior is adorned with earthy tones, wooden furnishings, and subtle African-inspired décor, creating a welcoming atmosphere that invites guests to unwind and savor the moment. Whether you choose to dine indoors surrounded by the inviting glow of lanterns or al fresco overlooking the waterfront, every seat offers a picturesque backdrop for an unforgettable dining experience.

Karibu’s menu is a celebration of Africa’s diverse culinary landscape, featuring a tantalizing selection of dishes inspired by traditional recipes and local ingredients. From hearty stews and flavorful curries to succulent grilled meats and fresh seafood, each dish is crafted with care and attention to detail, promising a symphony of flavors that dance on the palate.

Bobotie: A beloved South African classic, Karibu’s bobotie is a tantalizing combination of spiced minced meat, fragrant rice, and creamy egg custard, baked to perfection and served with a side of chutney and savory yellow rice.

Grilled Game Meat Platter: For the adventurous diner, Karibu offers a selection of grilled game meats, including kudu, ostrich, and springbok, expertly seasoned and cooked to juicy perfection, accompanied by a medley of roasted vegetables and homemade chakalaka sauce.

Cape Malay Curry: Experience the rich and aromatic flavors of Cape Malay cuisine with Karibu’s tantalizing curry, featuring tender chunks of meat or vegetables simmered in a fragrant blend of spices, coconut milk, and fresh herbs, served with fluffy basmati rice and traditional sambals.

The Watershed is a vibrant marketplace located within the iconic V&A Waterfront in Cape Town, South Africa. It stands out as a hub for local creativity and craftsmanship, showcasing a diverse range of South African design, art, and crafts. Let’s dive into why this is a must visit spot:

Artisanal Goods: The Watershed is home to over 150 tenants, offering a curated selection of handcrafted products that reflect the rich cultural tapestry of South Africa. Visitors can explore a wide variety of items, including jewelry, fashion accessories, home décor, ceramics, textiles, and more, all crafted by local artisans and designers. Each piece tells a story, drawing inspiration from the country’s natural beauty, vibrant traditions, and diverse heritage.

Supporting Local Talent: One of the defining features of The Watershed is its commitment to supporting emerging and established South African artists and entrepreneurs. By providing a platform for local talent to showcase their creations, The Watershed plays a crucial role in fostering creativity, entrepreneurship, and economic empowerment within the community. Visitors have the opportunity to directly support these artisans and contribute to the growth of South Africa’s creative industries.

Cultural Experience: Beyond shopping, The Watershed offers visitors a unique cultural experience, allowing them to immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of South African culture. The marketplace often hosts live music performances, art exhibitions, craft workshops, and interactive demonstrations, providing a dynamic and engaging environment for both locals and tourists alike. Visitors can gain insight into the diverse traditions, artistic expressions, and craftsmanship that define South Africa’s cultural identity.

Scenic Location: Situated within the picturesque V&A Waterfront, The Watershed enjoys a stunning waterfront location with breathtaking views of Table Mountain and the bustling harbor. Its airy, light-filled space creates an inviting atmosphere for leisurely browsing and exploration, while outdoor seating areas offer the perfect spot to relax and soak in the surroundings. Whether shopping for unique souvenirs, enjoying a leisurely stroll, or simply taking in the sights, The Watershed offers a memorable experience against the backdrop of Cape Town’s iconic waterfront.

Situated at the southern tip of Africa, where the Indian and Atlantic Oceans meet, the Two Oceans Aquarium offers you a unique opportunity to explore the diverse marine ecosystems found in these two vast bodies of water. Its location at the V&A Waterfront makes it easily accessible, providing a captivating glimpse into the underwater world right in the heart of Cape Town.

The aquarium boasts a wide array of exhibits showcasing the rich marine biodiversity of the Indian and Atlantic Oceans. You can marvel at colorful tropical fish, majestic sharks, playful penguins, graceful rays, and a host of other fascinating marine creatures. Highlights include the Predator Exhibit, Kelp Forest Exhibit, and I&J Ocean Exhibit, each offering a glimpse into a different aspect of ocean life.

As a leading marine education center, the Two Oceans Aquarium is dedicated to promoting awareness and understanding of the marine environment. It offers a range of educational programs and interactive experiences for visitors of all ages, including guided tours, marine-themed workshops, and school outreach programs. Through these initiatives, the aquarium aims to inspire conservation action and foster a deeper appreciation for the oceans and their inhabitants.

Beyond its educational and conservation efforts, the Two Oceans Aquarium offers visitors a memorable and immersive experience. In addition to exploring the various exhibits, you can enjoy feeding demonstrations which take place once an hour, dive shows, and behind-the-scenes tours to learn more about the aquarium’s operations and marine conservation work.

Local food stores often carry a variety of regional specialties, traditional dishes, and artisanal products that provide a genuine taste of the local cuisine. Sampling these authentic foods allows you to experience the true flavors and culinary traditions of the destination, offering a more immersive travel experience.

Check out our top 2 Food Stores at the map below.