The Western Cape is by far the most beautiful province in the country. Yes, we may be a little biased; however, our immaculate beaches, awe-inspiring mountain ranges and stunning Winelands make it easy to see why. As the Summertime inches nearer, we believe now would be the best time to begin planning your Summer shoots. If you find yourself in the Western Cape for the Summer and want to plan a few location shoots but you’re not quite where to start, allow us to help.
As the leading photographic institution in the Province, perhaps even in the country, we’ve trekked to nearly every corner of our beautiful province, photographing its beauty and essence. If you’d like to do the same, carry on reading as we list some of the most stunning shoot locations in the Western Cape.
Kloof Corner
Kloof Corner is by far one of the most popular hiking trails in Cape Town. The trail has just over 200 steps and provides expansive views of Lion’s Head, the City Bowl and Camps Bay. Whether you’re looking for a stunning backdrop for your subjects or want to capture the breathtaking vistas of the Cape, you’ll easily find it at Kloof Corner.
Atlantis Dunes
If your goal is to capture a scene that looks totally out of this world, then the Atlantis Dunes is where you need to schedule your next shoot location. The rolling white dunes will immediately transport you to a new world. The Atlantis Dunes are located in Atlantis, just over 50 km outside Cape Town. The Dunes are part of the Witzands Aquifer Nature Reserve and are a protected natural landscape. A permit is required to enter the Dunes, with a range of pricing depending on what you plan on doing at the Dunes. You can purchase your permit at the entrance to the Dunes.
Wolfberg Arch
The Wolfberg Arch is located in the Cedarberg mountains and requires an 8-hour hike to get there. That might sound quite intense, but we can guarantee it is worth it. The Wolfberg Arch, along with the Wolfberg Cracks, is a stunning location for photographers wishing to be immersed in the beauty of the Cedarberg. The area is a popular spot among adventure, nature and astrophotographers. Before making the trek to the Wolfberg Arch, make sure to do all your research and complete a sufficient amount of training, as the trail is regarded as an advanced hike.
Signal Hill
Signal Hill is the perfect location if you’re looking for gorgeous shots of the sun setting over Cape Town. From its vantage point, you’ll get stunning images of Cape Town from nearly every direction, including mesmerising views of Table Mountain and the 12 Apostles. If you want that perfect sunset shot, make sure you head to Signal Hill a few hours before sunset, as it is quite a popular spot, and parking is limited.
Knysna Forest
The Knysna Forest is a magical forest that has inspired several South African mythologies. Located on the borders of the Western Cape, the forest was once home to large herds of elephants, antelopes, hippos and more. Today only one female elephant roams the area, along with small bushbucks, caracals and the like. The forest is an excellent location for photographers looking to capture the essence of nature. Whether photographing flora or fauna, you’re bound to find some beautiful gems in the heart of the Knysna Forest.
Cape Point Vineyards
Cape Point Vineyards is the perfect location if you’re planning an engagement, wedding or couple shoot. Set on the slopes of the iconic Chapmans Peak, the Cape Point Vineyard features a beautiful dam with a lookout pier, views of the gorgeous Noordhoek beach and a beautiful vineyard. The vineyard is a popular location for sunset picnics, artisanal markets and all wine connoisseurs.
Oudekraal
If you’re looking for a beautiful beach location without the crowds, look no further than Oudekraal. Oudekraal is a gorgeous stretch of beach where you can get some privacy away from the usual Summer tourist rush. Located just over 10km from the Cape Town city centre, the Oudekraal beach features crystal waters, giant bulking boulders, white sand and adorable picnic spots.
The Cango Caves
The Cango Caves were formed over 20 million years ago due to shifts and movements in the Earth’s crust. The caves consist of a thick layer of limestone and feature a series of chambers, some of which are harder to navigate than others. Located some 30km outside Oudtshoorn, the caves are an archaeological and historical highlight of the Klein Karoo. Its natural beauty can serve as a majestic backdrop for your photographs or a mesmerising subject itself.
Stark-Conde Wines
This picturesque wine farm is located in the town of Stellenbosch, just under 60km from Cape Town. The farm offers stunning views of the Jonkershoek Mountains, a beautiful garden landscape and world-class wines. Right in the centre of the farm is a vast lake, abundant with bird and marine life. The Stark Conde wine farm is the perfect location for all your wedding and engagement shoots.
Maiden’s Cove
If you’re looking for a beautiful seaside shoot with stunning vistas, then Maiden’s Cove is precisely where you need to head for your summer shoot. The area features a delightful tidal pool and a spectacular panorama of the 12 Apostles. It also offers visitors gorgeous sunset views. Maiden’s Cove is a popular spot during the summertime, so if you’d like to plan a shoot with minimal disturbances, make sure you go there early morning or during weekdays.
