Top places to catch Pokémon in Cape Town

05 October 2016

Pokémon Go launched in South Africa today! Need to “catch 'em all”? Have no fear, just hop on a City Sightseeing red bus and go directly to all the Pokémon Go hotspots – and even enjoy a walk in some beautiful areas at the same time. Here are our top places to catch Pokémon in Cape Town:

Hop on a red bus to "catch 'em all" in Cape Town. (Image: City Sightseeing South Africa)

1. Hunt for Psyduck at the V&A Waterfront

One of the most popular attractions in Cape Town, the V&A Waterfront is home to the harbour, a mall, a food market, a craft market and loads of restaurants. Here you can walk many miles while meeting lots of fellow Pokémon Go players. Be sure to stop at the food market right beside Nobel Square for a freshly squeezed juice or snack.

How to get there: Hop off at the V&A Waterfront and make your way through the harbour to the Clock Tower to move on to your next adventure.

2. Try to catch a coveted Magikarp in Camps Bay

Have a fun day at one of the most pristine beaches in South Africa – Camps Bay. It’s popular year-round, and you’ll be sure to find many other Pokémon hunters between swims in the Atlantic. Don’t forget to bring your towel and some cash for an ice cream on the beach!

How to get there: Hop off at Camps Bay to enjoy the beach as well as the long strip of oceanfront stores and restaurants.

3. Search for Flying, Bug and Grass Pokémon in the leafy Company’s Garden

The oldest park in South Africa, the Company’s Garden actually began life as a vegetable patch for Cape Town founder and coloniser Jan van Riebeeck in 1652. For an extra challenge, be sure to hunt for the world’s oldest cultivated pear tree as well as the famous albino squirrel.

How to get there: Hop off at St George's Cathedral at the bottom of the garden and make your way to the top at the Mount Nelson Hotel to make the most of the journey.

4. Look for Tentacool and Caterpie in Green Point Urban Park

Situated right next to the famous Cape Town Stadium, built for the 2010 FIFA World Cup, the park features walking paths, fountains and even an outdoor gym. Be sure to bring sunscreen and a hat and, for an extra challenge, why not try to find all the hidden animal sculptures alongside your Pokémon?

How to get there: Hop off in Green Point right at the entrance to the park. Don’t forget to also take a stroll on the promenade and enjoy the beautiful ocean views – and maybe even catch a few more sneaky Pokémon?

5. Find Weedle and Spearow Pokémon hiding out in Kirstenbosch

Regarded as one of the most beautiful botanical gardens in the world, you will definitely enjoy spending a few hours running along the paths and lush green lawns of the Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden on your Pokémon hunt. Be sure to also look out for small animals such as dassies and turtles, and the large birds that roam the area.

How to get there: Enjoy the beautiful drive through the Constantia Valley and hop off at the Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden.

Top Pokémon Go tips for Cape Town

  • Flying, Bug and Grass types like Caterpie, Weedle, Bellsprout and Spearow are more likely to appear in grassy areas such as parks
  • Water and Psychic types like Psyduck, Tentacool, Staryu and Magikarp generally favour beachside areas
  • Pidgey, Rattata and Doduo are the most common Pokémon and are likely to be found in cities and populous areas, like malls or CBDs

Buy your tickets here for a City Sightseeing red bus tour – the best way to catch Pokémon in Cape Town!