Boyes Drive, Cape Town - a white car parked on the side of a road
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Boyes Drive Cape Town

4.6
·491k reviews·Cape Town, South Africa

A breathtaking scenic drive in Cape Town offering panoramic coastal vistas and access to unique natural attractions like Boomslang Cave.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Sunrise & Sunset

Golden hour magic

CrowdMedium
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Boyes Drive, Cape Town - a white car parked on the side of a road

Boyes Drive Cape Town

Best Time

Sunrise & Sunset

Golden hour magic

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A breathtaking scenic drive in Cape Town offering panoramic coastal vistas and access to unique natural attractions like Boomslang Cave.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"Absolutely breathtaking views that will leave you speechless!"

Vertical photo
TIP

Drive on the Left!

Remember to drive on the left side of the road and sit on the right. Manual transmissions are common! :steering_wheel:

Sunrise Spectacle

Catching the sunrise from Boyes Drive offers incredible views of Muizenberg and surfers. :sunrise:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Panoramic Coastal Vistas

Panoramic Coastal Vistas

Along the entire stretch of Boyes Drive

Breathtaking views of the Atlantic coastline, cliffs, and False Bay. A photographer's dream!

Boomslang Cave Adventure

Boomslang Cave Adventure

Echo Valley trail, accessible from Boyes Drive

Explore this unique cave system for an adventurous detour with fascinating rock formations.

Sunrise Over Muizenberg

Sunrise Over Muizenberg

Viewpoints along Boyes Drive overlooking Muizenberg

Witness the sky ignite with color as the sun rises over the iconic Muizenberg beach and surfers.

Planning Your Visit

Navigating Boyes Drive

Boyes Drive offers stunning coastal views, but be prepared for winding roads and driving on the left. If you're not used to it, consider hiring a driver or taking guided tours. Always check road conditions, especially after rain, as parts can be prone to landslides.

Best Views & Times

For the most dramatic scenery, aim for sunrise or sunset. The light is magical, and you might catch surfers at Muizenberg. Weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends, allowing for a more relaxed experience.

Best Times

When
Sunrise & Sunset
Why
Golden hour magic
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, better photos
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

🇿🇦 South Africa is undoubtedly one of my most favorite countries ever and one of the reasons is because of its breathtaking natural landscapes, Chapmans Peak being one. 🌄Chapman’s Peak is a scenic mountain road located in Cape Town, South Africa. It stretches along the Atlantic coastline, offering breathtaking views of the ocean, cliffs, and surrounding landscapes. The road is known for its impres...
@carissamonyce
92.8K likes • 531.4K views

Drive on the Left!

Remember to drive on the left side of the road and sit on the right. Manual transmissions are common! :steering_wheel:

Sunrise Spectacle

Catching the sunrise from Boyes Drive offers incredible views of Muizenberg and surfers. :sunrise:

here are #tips for Americans who want to drive in #southafrica #kakpraat #garage #roundabout #gasstation
@petersontoscano
76.5K likes • 951.5K views
Boomslang Cave🐍 The hike started at the Echo Valley trail on Boyes Drive. Exploring the cave was so much fun! Will definitely be back to visit the locals again.🦇🦇🦇😄 #boomslangcave #kalkbaycaves #kalkbay #cave #caving #hiking #hike #mountains #nature #scenery #creepy #dark #darkness #adventure #bats #capetown #southafrica
adie_a_
24 likes • 316 views

Explore Boomslang Cave

Don't miss the hike to Boomslang Cave for a unique adventure and cool rock formations. :rock:

Scenic Driving Route

Boyes Drive is part of a stunning scenic route, perfect for road trip enthusiasts. :car:

Save the spots in Cape Town if you love driving✨⬇️ 📍Chapman‘s Peak Drive 📍Clarence Drive 📍Victoria Road 📍Cape Point 📍Boyes Drive 📍Signal Hill Those drives will give you amazing views ✨💖 #capetown #kapstadt #southafrica #travel #destinationsouthafrica #visitcapetown #chapmanspeak #chapmanspeakdrive #clarencedrive
alica.olsson
1.3K likes • 32K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Drive on the Left!

Remember to drive on the left side of the road and sit on the right. Manual transmissions are common! :steering_wheel:

Sunrise Spectacle

Catching the sunrise from Boyes Drive offers incredible views of Muizenberg and surfers. :sunrise:

Explore Boomslang Cave

Don't miss the hike to Boomslang Cave for a unique adventure and cool rock formations. :rock:

Scenic Driving Route

Boyes Drive is part of a stunning scenic route, perfect for road trip enthusiasts. :car:

Check Road Conditions

Be aware of potential landslides after heavy rain. Stay informed about local road closures. :warning:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the absolutely breathtaking coastal views along Boyes Drive, calling it a must-see for its scenic beauty, especially during sunrise and sunset. The drive itself is exhilarating, though some find navigating on the left and manual transmissions challenging. The nearby Boomslang Cave offers an adventurous addition for those seeking more exploration.

What People Like

Stunning coastal views
Sunrise/sunset magic
Scenic driving experience

What People Dislike

Driving on the left
Manual transmission cars

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Boyes Drive is easily accessible by car from Cape Town. It's a scenic route that connects Muizenberg to Kalk Bay. If you're not comfortable driving on the left or with manual transmissions, consider hiring a driver or joining a guided tour. TikTok

Generally, yes, but be cautious. The road is winding and can be prone to landslides after heavy rain. Always check local conditions before you go. Reddit

While there isn't direct public transport on Boyes Drive itself, you can take a train to Muizenberg or Kalk Bay and then arrange a taxi or ride-share to access the drive. TikTok

Driving is on the left side of the road, and most rental cars are manual transmissions operated with the left hand. This can be a significant adjustment for visitors from countries that drive on the right. TikTok

Yes, Boyes Drive is often part of scenic drives around the Cape Peninsula, alongside routes like Chapman's Peak Drive and Victoria Road, offering incredible coastal views. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Boyes Drive is a public road and does not have an entrance fee. You can drive and stop at viewpoints freely. Instagram

As a public road, Boyes Drive is accessible 24/7. However, it's best to visit during daylight hours for safety and the best views. Instagram

Weekends and public holidays can be busier. For a more peaceful experience and better photo opportunities, consider visiting on a weekday morning. Reddit

No, access to Boomslang Cave via the Echo Valley trail is free. It's an adventure hike, so wear appropriate footwear. Instagram

Yes, there are designated pull-off areas and viewpoints where you can safely park your car to enjoy the scenery and take photos. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

Almost every turn offers a stunning vista! Key spots include viewpoints overlooking Muizenberg, False Bay, and the general coastline. Sunrise and sunset provide the most dramatic light. InstagramReddit

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive coastal landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for spotting whales or distant boats. Don't forget a tripod for low-light conditions during sunrise/sunset. :camera:

The main challenge can be the changing light conditions and potential for strong winds. Be prepared for bright sun or dramatic cloud formations. Instagram

Drone regulations in South Africa can be strict. Always check the latest rules and obtain necessary permits before flying a drone in this area. :drone:

The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset offer the most beautiful light for photography, casting a warm glow over the landscape. InstagramReddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Boyes Drive offers a visually engaging experience for families, with plenty of opportunities to point out the ocean, boats, and the coastline. The drive itself can be exciting, but ensure children are safely secured in car seats. For a more interactive experience, consider a short, easy hike to a viewpoint or a picnic at one of the designated pull-off spots. The nearby Muizenberg beach is also a great family-friendly destination for a stop. Instagram

🚗 Road Trip Enthusiasts

Boyes Drive is a must-do for anyone who loves scenic drives. It's often included in longer road trip itineraries around the Cape Peninsula, offering stunning ocean vistas and dramatic cliffside views. Instagram Combine it with Chapman's Peak Drive and Victoria Road for an unforgettable coastal journey. Remember to factor in time for frequent stops to capture the incredible scenery. Instagram

📸 Photographers

This drive is a photographer's paradise. The panoramic views, especially during sunrise and sunset, provide incredible opportunities for landscape shots. InstagramReddit Bring your wide-angle lens to capture the vastness of the ocean and coastline. The Boomslang Cave also offers unique, albeit darker, photographic subjects. Instagram Be prepared for changing weather conditions and varying light. :camerawithflash:

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Driving Experience on Boyes Drive

Boyes Drive is a celebrated scenic route in Cape Town, offering unparalleled views of the Atlantic coastline and False Bay. The drive itself is an experience, with its winding nature and dramatic drops. However, visitors from countries that drive on the right side of the road will need to adjust to driving on the left, with the steering wheel on the right side of the vehicle. Many rental cars are manual transmission, operated with the left hand, which can be a challenge for those unfamiliar with stick shifts. TikTok It's advisable to familiarize yourself with these differences before embarking on the drive, or consider hiring a local driver for a more relaxed experience. TikTok

Beyond the driving itself, the road is a popular spot for photographers and sightseers. There are numerous pull-off points that allow you to safely stop and soak in the breathtaking scenery. The drive connects the vibrant coastal towns of Muizenberg and Kalk Bay, making it a convenient and picturesque way to travel between them. Instagram Always be mindful of the road's condition, especially after heavy rainfall, as sections can be susceptible to landslides. Reddit

Exploring Boomslang Cave

For the adventurous, a detour to Boomslang Cave is a must. The hike to the cave begins on the Echo Valley trail, accessible from Boyes Drive. This offers a unique opportunity to explore a natural cave system, marveling at its formations and experiencing a different kind of adventure. Instagram The cave is known for its somewhat eerie, dark atmosphere, adding to the thrill of exploration. Instagram

While the cave itself is fascinating, the hike to get there is also rewarding, offering more stunning views of the surrounding landscape. It's recommended to wear sturdy hiking shoes and bring a flashlight, as the cave can be dark and uneven. Instagram Remember to be respectful of the natural environment and leave no trace. The cave is also home to bats, so be mindful of their presence. Instagram

Sunrise and Sunset Spectacles

Boyes Drive is renowned for its spectacular sunrise and sunset views, particularly over Muizenberg and False Bay. The 'golden hours' paint the sky with vibrant colors, creating a truly magical atmosphere. InstagramReddit Photographers flock to these viewpoints to capture the breathtaking light as it illuminates the coastline, the surfers catching the early waves, and the distant mountains. Reddit

Visiting during these times offers a serene experience, often with fewer crowds than during the day, allowing for quiet contemplation of the natural beauty. Reddit The sight of the sun rising above the clouds, casting a warm glow over the ocean, is a memory that stays with visitors long after they leave. Instagram It's a perfect way to start or end your day exploring the Cape Peninsula. :sunrise: :sunset:

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