Cape Town walking tours are quite possibly the best way to explore the city. Before I moved here I would have scoffed at the idea of traversing the city on foot. Jeez, have you ever taken a look at Cape Town’s layout? The whole of the Mother City basically clings to the mountain, which means most of the streets amble along crazy inclines. Not the type of geography that makes for a delightful little stroll if you catch my drift.

But since I’ve been living within walking distance of my workplace I’ve changed my tune. Sure, making my way uphill every afternoon does involve a bit of calve cramping and some unladylike perspiration, but the experience makes up for it. Zipping through Cape Town in the air-conditioned comfort of a rental car or taxi cab means that you’ll never be able to truly immerse yourself in the city’s unique culture.

Since springtime has rolled around, my walk has become even more pleasant in the mornings. Every garden en route from my little house is in full bloom, sprouting blossoms in a way that makes you want to want to run up the nearest hill and burst into song akin to Julie Andrews. Charming little old ladies are out and about, watering hanging plants on their porches or returning from brisk Pilates sessions with their exercise mats gripped under their arms. Restaurants throw open their doors to early morning clientele and the smell of freshly brewed coffee wafts from behind the myriad of important looking newspapers which collared business men disappear behind as soon as they sit down.

Walk down Kloof Street and you’ll brush shoulders with tourists, flower sellers, a few long-legged models and a whole bunch of harassed-looking students scurrying to class at City Varsity, to name but a few. Sure you can hop aboard a bus and see all the sights in the matter of a morning, but I would really recommend taking the time to have a good walk around. This way you’ll smell the ocean air and you’ll be able to hear the mish-mash of languages that make up our diverse population. Whether you choose to go walking around the Seapoint promenade or explore Green Market Square or the Kompanjie Gardens, you won’t be disappointed. Just remember to pack sunscreen, a hat and some bottled water, as things do tend to hot up a bit.