Affordable Adventures for Seniors Who Love to Wander
Cape Town is a city that truly has it all – breathtaking scenery, rich culture, and countless things to do. The best part? You don’t have to spend a fortune to enjoy it. Whether you’re a local pensioner looking to rediscover your city or visiting from another part of South Africa, there are plenty of ways to explore Cape Town for less.
All you need to do is ask!
Below are some smart, budget-friendly ideas to make your next outing special -without breaking the bank.
EXPLORE CULTURE AND HISTORY, ATTRACTIONS AND ENTERTAINMENT
Cape Town is bursting with art, culture, and stories waiting to be discovered – many of which are accessible on a budget.
- Visit the South African National Gallery or the Iziko Museum on free or discount days.
- Also visit the Iziko Planetarium next door and take a relaxing stroll through the Company Gardens.
- Take a self-guided walking tour through the Bo-Kaap, with its vibrant houses and fascinating history.
- Browse local markets like the Oranjezicht City Farm Market or Bay Harbour Market – great places to soak in the atmosphere without spending much.
- Kirstenbosch National Botanical Gardens:
Enjoy peaceful walks among lush greenery and colourful blooms at a discounted pensioners’ rate on certain days. Pack a picnic or catch one of the seasonal open-air concerts for a relaxing and affordable day out. Free for pensioners on Tuesdays (except public holidays. Free for pensioners on Tuesdays (except public holidays).
Breathtaking views, a gentle ride and memories you’ll treasure without stretching your budget. Take advantage of the special rates for pensioners return that for R110 and you also get to ride the cable car for free on your birthday
Step back in time with a guided tour of Robben Island, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that tells the story of South Africa’s resilience and hope. Pensioners receive discounted rates, making this historic experience both meaningful and accessible. Pensioner price is R250 on Mondays and Wednesdays.
Visit South Africa’s oldest surviving colonial building and uncover centuries of history at the Castle of Good Hope. Pensioners can enjoy guided tours, exhibitions, and a step into Cape Town’s early heritage – all at a reduced rate of R25.
Offers a ‘Neighbourhood Icons’ seniors’ program with various discounts and perks. They offer Free Parking for pensioners: Monday to Friday, 9 am to 2 pm.
Attractions:
Cape Wheel – Take in panoramic views of the city, mountain and harbour aboard the Cape Wheel. Pensioners can enjoy discounted ticks and a ride that’s both scenic and serene – R95 per ride.
Harbour Cruise – Hop aboard the Canal or Harbour Cruise to see Cape Town from a fresh perspective. These short, scenic trips offer senior-friendly fares and easy boarding – ideal for a relaxing outing. Price – R40 for pensioners
City Sightseeing – Hop on the open top red bus and enjoy the sights of Cape Town – from Table Mountain to the V&A Waterfront, from Camps Bay to Kirstenbosch. R100 off the 1-day bus ticket. Pensioner price is R175
Two Oceans Aquarium – Discover the wonders of marine life at the V&A Waterfront. Seniors enjoy R60 off the regular ticket price and R125 off the annual membership. And visiting is completely free on your birthday.
Explore South Africa’s natural beauty at one of CapeNature’s many reserves, where pensioners get discounted entry and accommodation. Whether you prefer hiking, birdwatching, or just quiet time in nature, there’s a spot waiting for you.
You can get 30% discount on self-catering and camping facilities for those 60+ (Monday–Sunday, excluding long weekends and December school holidays).
Catch the latest films or timeless classics with Ster-Kinekor’s pensioners’ discounts. It’s the perfect way to enjoy an afternoon of entertainment without spending too much. Ster-Kinekor movie tickets (22% off)
RETAIL & SHOPPING
- Makro
Over 60s get 10% off general purchases and 5% off food purchases with a pensioner card.
- Game
Over 60s can get 10% off purchases up to R3,000.
- Food Lover’s Market
Some stores offer a pensioner discount on a specific day of the week; contact your local store for details.
- Spur Steak Ranches
Have a Seniors’ menu valid from Monday to Thursday.
TRANSPORTATION
Free train rides for pensioners on Tuesdays during off-peak times (9 am–2 pm) within the metropole. You get 40% off train fares but must be 60 years or older and have a valid South African ID.
A special pensioner smart card is available for purchase and be loaded with journeys at a reduced price. The product is valid Monday to Friday between 8 am and 4 pm (off-peak hours) and can be used anytime on weekends and public holidays. Eligibility: Must be 60 years or older
There is no specific, generally available pensioner discount on MyCiTi buses. MyCiTi’s pricing is based on distance, and special offers may vary depending on route and time of day.
Offers a pensioner discount on its 2-day ticket. (R175 for pensioners)
DISCOVER NATURE’S BEAUTY
You don’t have to spend a cent to enjoy Cape Town’s natural wonders:
- Walk along the Sea Point Promenade, Muizenberg Beach and Bloubergstrand Beach for fresh air and ocean views – for free
- Visit Silvermine, Newlands Forest, or Tokai Forest for gentle walks and birdwatching – for free
- Pack a picnic and enjoy the peaceful surrounds of Green Point Urban Park also for free
All the above outings are perfect for seniors who enjoy staying active while connecting with nature.
ENJOY SENIOR-FRIENDLY DINING SPECIALS
Many restaurants and coffee shops offer pensioner deals during the week.
- Look out for breakfast specials at local cafés or two-for-one lunch deals at your favourite spot.
- Some Spur and Ocean Basket branches have dedicated senior menus at reduced prices. Spur have a Seniors’ menu valid from Monday to Thursday.
Enjoying a meal out doesn’t have to be a splurge – just choose the right day and time.
JOIN LOCAL SENIOR CLUBS AND COMMUNITY GROUPS
Joining a community group not only gives you access to planned activities and outings at discounted rates but also helps you meet like-minded people.
Check your local community centre, library, or church for social clubs offering day trips, hobby sessions, or walking groups.
Bonus Tip: Plan and Budget for Fun
Even small outings can add up, so set aside a little monthly “fun fund.”
With proper planning, you can enjoy Cape Town’s beauty and culture all year long without financial strain.
Final Thoughts
Many attractions and transport options across Cape Town offer reduced rates for seniors – all you need to do is ask!
Cape Town offers endless opportunities for seniors to enjoy life – whether it’s a stroll through a park, a scenic drive along Chapman’s Peak, or a quiet cup of coffee overlooking the ocean. With a bit of planning and awareness of available discounts, you can explore, relax, and make new memories – affordably.
- Verify requirements: Carry your ID or your pensioner’s card to prove eligibility for senior discounts
- Confirm availability: Check the days and times the special is valid, as some are weekday-only or have specific hours.
- Plan outings with friends or family to make the experience even more enjoyable!
Something personal – My husband and myself are both January babies – “three days apart” and we visit Table Mountain every year and make sure we take advantage of all the specials that Cape Town has to offer on our birthdays.
Prices and discounts mentioned in this blog post are subject to change and were accurate at the time of writing on 16 October 2025.