Hike up Table Mountain

Hike up Table Mountain for a decent exercise, an amazing view (if the weather cooperates), and bragging rights for having conquered one of the Seven New Wonders of the World. However, a walk-up Table Mountain should not be taken lightly. The weather is rapidly changing, and the ascent is difficult. Table Mountain, a 1085m (3560ft) natural monument of sandstone and granite, sits watch over Cape Town, adored for its stunning views from the top: sparkling Table Bay, ancient Robben Island, and all of Cape Town's City Bowl sprawl at your feet.

Several routes snake up the sides of Table Mountain, revealing valleys of fynbos (the indigenous floral kingdom), shady woodlands, and waterfalls. The most popular (and most frequented) is the Platteklip Gorge Trail, a 2.8km (1.8 mile) uphill climb that is nature's equivalent of the StairMaster, providing beautiful vista after spectacular view as you go.

Avoid the crowds by taking the 1.5km (0.9 mile) Kloof Corner hike, which rewards with spectacular views of Lion's Head, the 12 Apostles, and the Cape Town City Bowl. The tough 2.5km (1.5 mile) India Venster Trail climbs the mountain's frontal face beneath the aerial cable vehicle. Of course, you may use the cable car, which takes only five minutes to reach the summit. Many South African trails limit the number of hikers who may be on them at the same time, so plan ahead of time and hike with a group for safety (some lengthier routes really demand that you're not alone).