Cape Town and the surrounding area isn’t all culture, beaches, and sophisticated city life. There’s a wild side here that’s just waiting to be explored! Whether you’re an animal lover, an art enthusiast, or simply someone looking for a unique experience, Cape Town has some unforgettable animal encounters to add to your itinerary. From meeting a painting pig with a taste for fine art to hanging out with penguins in their natural habitat, these experiences let you get up close and personal with the wilder side of the Cape.
1. Pigcasso
Ready to meet Cape Town’s most creative resident? At Farm Sanctuary SA in Franschhoek, you’ll find Pigcasso, the world’s first painting pig. Yes, this talented pig was rescued from a slaughterhouse and quickly discovered a love for painting. Using her snout to hold a paintbrush, she creates colourful abstract masterpieces that have made waves around the world.
Visitors to Farm Sanctuary SA can explore the OINK Gallery, where Pigcasso’s art is on display. If you’re in the mood to bring home something truly unique, you can even buy one of her original paintings! The sanctuary is also home to a range of other rescued animals and has a wonderful petting zoo area where you can interact with friendly farm animals.
And it’s not just about animals—this sanctuary sits in the stunning Franschhoek wine valley, so you can enjoy a bit of wine tasting while you’re there. The decor is rustic and charming, with art pieces that add a quirky touch to the sanctuary’s warm and welcoming vibe. Pigcasso’s unique story and art are worth the trip alone, but the sanctuary’s other offerings make it a full day of fun and relaxation. Plus, every visit supports animal welfare and conservation!
2. Horseback Safari
Dreaming of a classic safari experience with a twist? Aquila Private Game Reserve offers a horseback safari that lets you see South Africa’s wildlife in a way that feels both adventurous and serene. Located about two hours from Cape Town, Aquila is home to the Big Five—lion, leopard, rhino, elephant, and buffalo. But instead of viewing them from the back of a vehicle, you’ll be on horseback, blending more naturally into the environment and getting a closer look at the animals without disturbing them.
Guided by experienced rangers, you’ll ride through the bush, spotting animals in their natural habitat while learning fascinating facts about the ecosystem and the role each animal plays within it. There’s something about seeing a massive elephant from the back of a horse that feels so much more intimate and awe-inspiring than through a window.
Regardless of what you’ve seen in the movies, horseback riding can be tiring. Fortunately, the experience includes welcome drinks, buffet breakfast and lunch, and access to an outdoor infinity pool to cool down. Is there a better way to get close to wild animals?
3. Penguin Colony at Boulders Beach
Boulders Beach in Simon’s Town is home to Cape Town’s most adorable residents—a colony of African penguins! This beach is one of the only places in the world where you can see these charming, endangered penguins up close in their natural habitat. Watching them waddle along the sand, nest, and swim in the clear, turquoise waters is a memory you won’t soon forget.
To protect the penguins, visitors are kept to dedicated viewing platforms where you can watch the birds without disturbing them. But if you’re feeling adventurous, head down to the nearby sheltered cove where you can swim in the same waters as the penguins. They’re known to be curious, so don’t be surprised if a few of them come a little closer to check you out!
The scenery at Boulders Beach is also worth mentioning. Picture a white sandy beach, framed by giant boulders and crystal-clear water. It’s not just a unique animal encounter; it’s one of the most scenic spots around Cape Town. So bring your camera, and be ready to capture some seriously Instagram-worthy moments. The combination of beautiful scenery and these delightful birds makes it a must-visit spot for any animal lover exploring Cape Town.
Conclusion
After a day spent on horseback with the Big Five, bonding with farm animals, or splashing in the rock pools alongside penguins, you’ll have had your fill of Cape Town’s wild side. And when it’s time to unwind, there’s no better place to return to than the luxury and comfort of O’Two Hotel. Sink into the plush surroundings, recharge in style, and share the unforgettable stories from your adventures—all while feeling right at home.
