Selene Brophy

Winter is in full swing in Cape Town - with snow-filled reports becoming more frequent.  A few weeks ago, parts of the Eastern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal experienced considerable snowfall in the past few days and could easily be mistaken for a wintery European countryside right now.  And the latest forecast shows snow fall could hit 10cm or more across the province. Snow in Cape Town? And while Cape Town’s winter is mild by Northern Hemisphere standards, flurries of snow along the surrounding mountains have become something to look forward to despite the chilliness. Even Table Mountain has been known to surprise Capetonians with a rare dusting of snow - usually after an icy cold front and only if you're up early enough to catch it before it melts.  Recorded snowfall on the mountain dates back to the early 1900s, and when it does happen, it’s a truly magical (and fleeting) winter moment.  However, for those who live for these brrracing winter weather moments, there are a few spots that offer you a good chance of chasing snowflakes without having to leave the Western Cape. Pack your boots, grab a flask, and let’s go snow hunting.   RECOMMENDED: ☕️ The best cafés and coffee shops in Cape Town 📍 The best day hikes in Cape Town 🥣 The best breakfast and brunch spots in Cape Town 🏨 The best hotels in Cape Town  

Forget sweaty Santa hats and limp summer salads. Christmas in July lets us do the holidays the “right” way. Who doesn't love a crackling fire, mulled wine, rich roasts, and all festive kitsch that just hits better in wool socks? And while half the city seems to have fled to Europe in search of overpriced Aperol and questionable summer tans, we get to lean into all the cosiness, local-style.  And these days, Christmas in July can be a full-on vibe: a chance to gather, indulge, and get festive at the exact time of year when we need a little sparkle. Whether you're here for themed markets, silly jumpers or traditional feast options, it's time for a bit of festive magic this winter.  Have a Christmas in July event to share? Get in touch via hello@timeoutsouthafrica.com or tag us on socials: Facebook, Instagram and TikTok.    RECOMMENDED: 😋 The best indoor activities for kids in Cape Town🍳 The best breakfast and brunch spots in Cape Town☕️ The best cafés and coffee shops in Cape Town📍 The best things to do in Cape Town  

 “Restaurants shouldn’t always have a concept. Sometimes, they should just have delicious food.”   That’s Bertus Basson - straight-talking, a proudly local Afrikaaner, and now officially on Cape Town turf with Ongetem as his first sit-down city restaurant. It’s not just a new chapter in his food empire - it’s a full-throttle, fire-cooked, hip-hop-soundtracked rally cry for locals who simply want to eat well, without the pretence (don't be surprised by the cowhide over your table). Located inside the new Hilton Canopy Hotel on Park Road in Gardens - Ongetem (Afrikaans for untamed) is gritty, playful, and living up to its name.  “There’s already enough fancy-smansy in Cape Town,” says Bertus. “We wanted to build something for South Africans — where you can grab a burger and a martini on a weeknight or bring your missus for date night.” He’s not exaggerating - it’s the kind of spot where you can rock up in boots or heels, stay for cocktails, or order a two-course including a cheese burger (R130) and soufflé (R140), and still afford rent. This is Basson's shot at building that ‘reasonable middle’ in Cape Town dining, the kind of place he believes locals should be happy to pop into at least twice a week. Selene BrophyOngetem in the Hilton Canopy in Cape Town. Fire and food that doesn’t F...(aff) around!  If you’ve eaten at any of Basson’s other restaurants - Eike, Spek & Bone, De Vrije Burger -  you’ll know he doesn’t repeat himself. “All of our restaurants are different. It

Don't Miss: Get your Coffee Rave on with Suga at the Time Out Market Cape Town on Wednesday, 25 June from 6 am to 9 am. For Suga, the essence of Cape Town is found not only in its views, flavours and nightlife - but in the voices that fill its streets.  “Want a master class in Cape Culture for only R10?” asks Suga.“Catch a taxi in the CBD and just listen to the music and commentary.”   That same sense of rhythm, storytelling and connection pulses through The Suga Rush, her daily show on Heart FM. “Cape Town raised me, radio shaped me, and I’m here to give that energy right back.”  Whether she’s sharing a memory, spinning a track, or spotlighting the city’s creatives, Suga’s mic is a mirror for the soul of the Mother City.  In this warm, wisdom-filled catch-up she opens up about career highlights, her go-to spots for recharging and why the city’s creative energy is unlike anywhere else.   View this post on Instagram A post shared by Suga (@sugafunk) Time Out Cape Town:  What’s one unforgettable on-air moment that still gives you goosebumps? Suga: Interviewing Rita Marley was huge for me—talk about music royalty. I’ve had the privilege of some incredible conversations over the years—Janet Jackson called in once (yes, the Janet), and one that still gives me chills: Charlize Theron right after her Oscar win.  Fun fact? I used to collect magazines as a teen and had one with her on the cover before she went abroad to become the star we kn

Cape Town’s West Coast is one of those places that sneaks up on you with its rugged beauty and its wild unpretentiousness. Come spring, the fynbos explodes into riotous bloom, and the coastline swaps grey skies for golden afternoons.  The 'Weskus' certainly has some big drawcard energy: charming fishing villages, unspoilt beaches, salt-of-the-earth food and just enough off-the-grid magic to feel like a picture-perfect escape you’d want to take again and again.  Together with my family, I've honed this West Coast meander down to a mini-break fine art over the years. Let's hit the road and soak up all the laid-back wonder.

Capetonians love a cold plunge. Whether it’s a morning dip at Dalebrook, a Wim Hof-style session in a backyard pool, or a bracing Atlantic splash that doubles as bragging rights, we’ve made icy immersion our unofficial sport. But this June, there’s more than just endorphins and Insta-glory on the line.   The National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI) is calling on all cold-water warriors to take the plunge for a purpose this winter solstice - Saturday, 21 June. Whether you dive into a tidal pool, dunk in a dam, or take the ice bucket route, your frosty feat will help raise vital funds for the heroes who keep our coastlines safe come rain, shine, or full-blown southeaster.  These are the steps to plan your wintery support gathering:  Set a Date: Choose a date, a place and a time for your plunge. Create a Campaign: Visit GivenGain, search for the NSRI ‘Winter Solstice swim 2025’ page or click here Select ‘Start Fundraising,’ and follow the easy steps.  Share the Message: Encourage friends, family, and colleagues to get involved or make a donation. We’ve rounded up some of the most scenic, splash-worthy tidal pools around Cape Town to help you find your perfect plunge spot. Sure it's icy out there but remember, it's all for raising awareness around beach safety (and a great selfie).  

Winter’s creeping in, but the cold doesn’t stand a chance against these new bursts of flavour set to warm your belly at Time Out Market Cape Town. However, swapping out a seasonal menu isn’t just about keeping things fresh. It’s about dialling into what tastes right when the temperature drops. From soul-warming soups and slow-cooked comfort curries, the city’s best chefs are certainly turning up the heat. Think hearty, bold and satisfying. No fluff, just food that hits where it counts. The Time Out team pulled up a seat, grabbed a few forks and miso spoons, and tasted our way through the Market’s winter switch-up. Here’s what’s hot right now...

The City of Cape Town has completed long-awaited upgrades to the Sea Point Promenade and Granger Bay parking area, improving access to one of the city’s most popular coastal walkways.   After delays caused by a contractor switch mid-project, the area is once again fully open to the public, just in time for those bracing for winter walks and tidal pool dips. What’s been upgraded? Improved pedestrian walkways and coastal landscaping A revamped Granger Bay parking area with better surface treatments and layout New rock revetments and swales to help with coastal resilience and water drainage     City of Cape TownThe Sea Point Promenade READ: Take a dip in one of Cape Town's 11 best tidal pools   The only element still outstanding is the footway and coping at Rocklands Beach, which remains closed pending a structural assessment of the supporting concrete slab.   “We thank residents for their patience … Residents from across Cape Town can now enjoy the upgraded space,” said Deputy Mayor Eddie Andrews. The Promenade: Cape Town's space to move, meet and breathe  The Sea Point Promenade is more than a walkway. It’s one of Cape Town’s most loved public spaces. Stretching along the Atlantic Seaboard, it links beaches, rock pools, and open green spaces, drawing everyone from early morning joggers and dog walkers to ocean swimmers and sundown strollers. It's also home to Sea Point Pavilion - one of the city's most beautiful public pools. Upgrades to this space are a meaningful step in

A full-blown winter wonderland is on the cards for this weekend, as much of South Africa is expected to experience considerable snowfall, with snow already reported in parts of the Western Cape, reaching depths of more than 10cm. According to Snow Report SA, eight out of nine provinces (yes, Limpopo, we’re looking at you) can expect a dramatic drop in temperatures and the possibility of snow between 3 and 7 July. Chasing snow near Cape Town? Just two hours away, Matroosberg is your best bet. This winter favourite often gets a generous dusting during strong cold fronts, with snow lingering on the slopes, especially higher up if you’ve got a 4x4.  READ: Where to snow hunt this winter near Cape Town  Just remember: pack smart, drive safe, and dress for the freeze. This one's going to be a cold one.    View this post on Instagram A post shared by Kierran Allen (@kierranallen) Snow is also expected to fall across, Eastern Cape, Northern Cape, Free State, KwaZulu-Natal, North West, Mpumalanga and even Gauteng. Neighbouring Lesotho – often dubbed our 'beauty spot' as a landlocked country within SA - is also in for a snow spell. This is exciting as it’s home to one of Southern Africa’s two ski resorts, namely Afriski. The other being Tiffindell in the Eastern Cape).    Stay warm and safe folks! 

Cape Town is set to host the first-ever global MMA event on African soil as the Professional Fighters League (PFL) lands at the Grand Arena, GrandWest this July. If you’re into high-stakes sport, bone-rattling takedowns, or simply being part of a seismic moment in African sports history, this one’s for you. The night marks the official launch of PFL Africa, a new tournament series spotlighting rising African talent, with first-round heavyweight and bantamweight clashes.  Then the energy turns up several notches with the PFL Champions Series, headlined by a serious lineup of elite fighting talent. Who will you see in the cage? Topping the card is undefeated middleweight champ Johnny “Pressure” Eblen, defending his title against Spain’s Costello “The Spaniard” van Steenis. You’ll also catch former Bellator featherweight king AJ “Mercenary” McKee facing off with Russia’s Akhmed Magomedov, and fan favourite Corey Anderson moving up in weight to challenge 2024 heavyweight champ Denis Goltsov. On the women’s side, undefeated flyweight phenom Dakota Ditcheva will meet Hawaii’s Sumiko “Lady Samurai” Inaba in what promises to be a fiery co-main event. Key details: Where: Grand Arena, GrandWest When: Saturday, 19 July Start time: 4.30 pm (PFL Africa) | 8.30 pm (Champions Series) Tickets: via Ticketpro  This is Cape Town’s chance to see world-class MMA up close and support local fighters staking their claim on the global stage. Don’t miss it.    

As South Africans, we know the default association most people make with us globally is either rugby or Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela.  Now more than ever, Tata Madiba continues to rest in power, with his legacy celebrated through calls to action each year on Mandela Day.   Every year on July 18, people around the world dedicate 67 minutes to service in honour of the 67 years that South Africa's first democratically elected president spent fighting for justice, freedom, and human rights.  The idea is simple: small acts, when multiplied, can make a big difference.  Mandela Day, inspired during Nelson Mandela’s 90th birthday in 2008, was officially declared by the United Nations in 2009 and first celebrated globally in 2010.  “This year’s theme is both a challenge and a call for solidarity. We are inviting the world to respond with action, to tackle poverty, fight inequity, and build a society grounded in dignity, justice, and shared humanity,” said Nelson Mandela Foundation CEO Dr. Mbongiseni Buthelezi.   Cape Town never holds back when it comes to community spirit, and Mandela Day is no exception.  Whether you’re packing food parcels, joining a city-wide clean-up, or crafting toys for kids in need, here’s how you can get involved this year—with options for all ages, interests, and time commitments. National Events Mandela Day Walk & Run 2025 (with Virtual Mandela Day Walk & Run option) Lace-up for the annual Mandela Day Walk & Run taking place on Saturday, 19 July 2025, with 5km,

Cape Town’s property market has long outpaced Johannesburg’s in price – with the running joke being the price you pay for a mansion in Jozi only really gets you a shoe box in the Mother City - but at best you'll have a mountain or sea view to go with it.  With the city’s new R76.4 billion budget approved this week, residents can expect increased fixed charges for water, sanitation, and a city-wide cleaning levy, all tied to property value. While the changes sparked public backlash, Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis states that the updated tariffs will help unlock "more funding" for infrastructure, public spaces, and essential services – all of which play a role in shaping a more liveable and attractive city.  But as the city courts global investment and luxury developments, the question remains: will Cape Town stay liveable for the people who already call it home, or just for those who can afford to visit?  Cape Town Tourism CEO Enver Duminy recently unpacked this timely question in Billionaires' Burg analysis as a precursor to the release of the tourism body's CTT Futures Report 2039. It explores a chilling possibility of a future where tourism booms but only benefits the super-rich - as European cities weighed the impact of "more and more" tourists.  Yet there is no denying high-profile hospitality, retail and lifestyle projects continue to reshape not only the city’s skyline, but ultimately, its overall appeal for visitors and locals alike.  Let's take a look at some of the most ex

The Western Cape is one of the most biodiverse places on Earth! Just ask the Chelsea Flower Show judges who awarded SA’s fynbos gold. It is home to more plant species than the entire British Isles and CapeNature is the team helping protect it. They've just released the latest State of Conservation Report, and it's a big one: over 13,000 hectares of wild and wonderful land were added to the Western Cape’s conservation estate this past year – that’s more space for fynbos, frogs and future generations to flourish. With just over a million hectares (1,095,428) now under protection, the province is making significant strides in preserving biodiversity. Guided by strategic planning tools like the newly adopted 2023 Biodiversity Spatial Plan, it's not just about locking down land – CapeNature is actively battling climate pressures, habitat loss, and invasive species by tracking ecosystem health and putting data-driven decisions into action. CapeNature’s new Species Prioritisation Tool means even the tiniest tortoise gets the attention it deserves. This year’s report also spotlights some recent remarkable field discoveries: scientists confirmed a brand-new endemic frog (Cacosternum cederbergense) in the Cederberg mountains, a once-extinct shrub (Psoralea cataracta) making a triumphant comeback and a never-before-described flower species, Ixia ebrahimii, blooming quietly in Wolseley. Ismail Ebrahim | FacebookRare species from the Wolsely area.   This reminds us that the Cape’s bio

The Mother City is in the grip of a cold front, which means we're bringing you the heat with winter warmer events packed with energy.  The weather, in a nutshell? Cold and Wet! You know the drill, layer up.   The headline event this weekend is the Rugby, taking place at the DHL Cape Town Stadium. But it's the perfect time to immerse yourself in some of South Africa's most inspiring documentaries at the old-school favourite, the Labia Theatre, toast the fabulous wines from our region at the Time Out Market, or get your groove going at Athletics Social Club if you're looking for something a bit more spicy - local radio darling Suga swears by it as her go-to nightlife option.  Whatever you choose to do this weekend, tag us on socials: Facebook, Instagram and TikTok. Enjoy!  CBD Encounters South African International Documentary Festival Until 29 June, from 6:30pm Tickets R90 at The Labia.co.za Celebrating the power of documentary film to inform, challenge, and inspire, Encounters showcases compelling stories that spark dialogue and deepen understanding. Don’t miss this inspiring festival at the Labia Theatre.   Food, Wine, DJs & More – All Under One Roof  Saturday 28 June - Winter Wine series - advanced booking advised Time Out Market Cape Town  The Time Out Market Cape Town is always a riot of fun over weekends, based at the city’s most visited tourist attraction the V&A Waterfront. And with the City of Cape Town’s official Food Guide just launched, celebrating its cuis

Visa applications! If you’ve ever had to deal with this onerous, often paper-centric process before your trip, pull up a chair.  Travellers to our shores from the Middle East, Nigeria, India and China in particular know what we mean. Long forms, consulate queues, and the awkward limbo of “pending approval” have long been part of the package for visiting South Africa.   However, we’re optimistic that this is all about to change.   This September, South Africa will officially launch a fully digital Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system - a slick, AI-powered visa alternative that promises to shake up how the world gets into the country.  And if all goes according to plan, it might just spark a new wave of travel to Cape Town and beyond. So, what is the ETA? Think of it as the visa equivalent of tapping your phone to board a flight. The ETA is a smartphone-based authorisation for short-term stays (under 90 days), processed online with advanced AI risk screening and biometric verification (yes, even a selfie might be involved).  It’s paperless, painless, and promises approval in hours - not weeks. The ETA will first apply to travellers arriving at South Africa’s major international airports, according to Minister of Home Affairs Leon Schreiber. This would include Cape Town International, OR Tambo International in Johannesburg and King Shaka Airport in Durban.   “The ETA will include world-class cybersecurity systems and live monitoring by AI-powered risk engines,” according

South Africans have long known that our cities are cultural crossroads - a mix of traditions, identities, languages and lived experiences that shape everything from our food to our festivals. Now, the world agrees. In Time Out’s annual global city survey of over 18,000 people across 50 cities, Cape Town and Johannesburg have been jointly ranked ninth on the list of the world’s most diverse and inclusive cities, according to locals.  The list, topped by London, celebrates cities where people feel welcomed, represented and free to be themselves - and we're proud to be a beacon of belonging in the Global South. These are the most diverse and inclusive cities in the world London, UK Melbourne, Australia Brighton, UK = New York, USA Los Angeles, USA Chicago, USA Madrid, Spain Barcelona, Spain Bangkok, Thailand Johannesburg, South Africa= Cape Town, South Africa Montreal, Canada= Medellin, Colombia= Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia= San Francisco, USA   What Makes Cape Town a Standout? Cape Town’s inclusion on the list is a testament to its layered identity - beautiful and complex, shaped by centuries of cultural collision, resistance and reinvention.  Here are three ways the Mother City is embodying a more inclusive spirit: 1. A Living Archive of Resistance and Representation From Robben Island to District Six, Cape Town’s historical landmarks are not just tourist stops, but powerful reminders of struggle, displacement and the fight for dignity.  Today, this legacy lives on in grassroot

Grab your mittens and scarves folks. The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has warned that an intense cold front is expected to affect the Western Cape and the Namakwa District of the Northern Cape from Wednesday to Friday this week. The cold front's impact across most of the south-western parts of South Africa will bring a significant shift in weather conditions, including the following possible scenarios:   Heavy rainfall with a risk of localised flooding is expected over the western parts of the Western Cape, particularly in low-lying and poorly drained areas, from Wednesday into Thursday. Wet and slippery roads can lead to hazardous driving conditions. Motorists should exercise caution and adhere to safety measures. Strong and gusty winds over the interior may cause localised damage to structures and uproot trees. Cold to very cold conditions can be expected, along with possible snowfall over the western mountain ranges of the Western Cape, spreading into the south-western interior of the Northern Cape. Gale-force winds and very rough seas, with wave heights between 5.5 and 7.5 metres, along the coastlines of the Northern Cape and Western Cape will lead to disruptions to fishing and port operations, an increased risk of vessels capsizing, accidents at sea, and hazardous shoreline conditions.  Coastal residents and beachgoers are also urged to exercise caution, as conditions are expected to continue into the weekend.  "As the system progresses eastwards, it will affec

The Southern Suburbs community can rest easy following the news that a rogue Cape baboon, who had authorities on their toes last Friday, is now safely back on his home turf. Cape of Good Hope SPCA Communications Manager Belinda Abraham confirmed the successful rescue endeavour over the weekend after a "tense day of tracking and multiple evasions." "We’re relieved to share a positive outcome for the young dispersing male baboon spotted in Claremont and surrounding areas. Our team, working alongside the Cape Baboon Partnership and a wildlife veterinarian, returned to the area where he had slept the previous night. The baboon was successfully darted, given a full health assessment, and is en route to be safely released into his natural roaming territory." "This outcome gives him the best chance to continue his natural dispersal without facing the many dangers posed by urban environments.Baboons do not belong in residential areas. Urban spaces are filled with threats: roads, fences, domestic pets, and people. While sightings may seem exciting, these moments are stressful and dangerous for wildlife," said Abraham. "A heartfelt thank you to the community for your cooperation and care, and to every member of the response team who worked tirelessly to ensure his safety.If you see a wild animal in distress, please contact the SPCA at 021 700 4158/9. Baboons remain protected under the Nature Conservation Ordinance 19 of 1974. It is illegal to harm, harass, or interfere with them," she

Come rediscover parts of our culture that don’t always make the brochure, as told from the inside, out. Have a story to share? Drop us a mail at hello@timeoutsouthafrica.com  “I like your ‘Om’ shirt - can you tell me about the 2,500-year history behind it?”  It’s the kind of question that would probably stop most people in their Lululemon-clad tracks. But it’s one we should be asking - especially on a day like International Yoga Day.  Cape Town is my home city. It’s often described in travel as a “melting pot of cultures.” It sounds poetic, doesn’t it? But as a coloured South African, I’ve found that metaphor somewhat flawed. A “melting pot” implies that heritage blends harmoniously into one smooth stew. But in South Africa - and especially in Cape Town - many of us carry cultures that were never allowed to flourish freely. Some parts were erased, others repackaged, and many still go unacknowledged.  And there couldn't be a more opportune time to stir this pot for deeper context than on #InternationalYogaDay. What is cultural appropriation, really? Cultural appropriation isn’t just about wearing “someone else’s stuff.” It’s about power. As The Conversation explains,  appropriation happens when members of a dominant culture take elements from a marginalised culture without understanding or respecting the original meaning, especially when that culture has been historically oppressed. In simpler terms, it’s picking what looks cool or marketable from another tradition and l