Take advantage of a special occasion and turn it into a memorable date. Whether you’re celebrating your birthday or planning something thoughtful for your partner’s, South Africa is full of experiences that feel indulgent without the hefty price tag. From a cableway ride up Table Mountain to silver-screen magic under the stars, these birthday-friendly treats are perfect for celebrating love without blowing the budget.
Free things to do on your birthday across South Africa:
1. Table Mountain Aerial Cableway
Whether you’re a local or a visitor, ascending the Table Mountain Aerial Cableway is always a delightful experience. While it may not be budget-friendly for locals at R420 per adult for a morning departure, there’s a silver lining – once a year, you get to enjoy the ride for free.
During the entire calendar month of your birthday, you can present your proof of ID and receive a complimentary return ticket to the summit. The beauty of this offer is that you can use the free birthday ticket on any day within that month, even if it precedes your actual birthdate. Unfortunately, this birthday perk is exclusive to South Africans. Additionally, it’s important to note that children must accompany an adult when redeeming their birthday tickets, and the complimentary ticket is valid solely for the individual celebrating their birthday.
Address: Tafelberg Rd, Gardens, Cape Town, 8001
2. Harties Cableway
Why not savour breathtaking views from exhilarating heights at Harties Cableway on your birthday? Simply bring your ID to confirm your special day, and you’ll receive a complimentary cable car ride! It’s a delightful way to start your birthday on a high note. Once you reach the summit, you’ll discover a host of other adventures and attractions to ensure your visit is truly memorable.
Address: Plot 3, Melodie Melodie Agricultural Holdings, Hartbeespoort, 0260
3. Two Oceans Aquarium
Residents can enjoy special perks at the Two Oceans Aquarium in the V&A Waterfront, receiving complimentary admission on their birthday and the subsequent six days. Regrettably, this offer is exclusive to South African residents and is not extended to tourists.
To claim the free ticket, the birthday celebrant needs to visit the Aquarium’s ticket office, presenting valid proof of identification. This offer is applicable to individuals aged four and above. It’s important to note that tickets cannot be obtained in advance and must be utilised on the same day they are collected.
Address: Dock Rd, Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, Cape Town, 8002
4. Gold Reef City Theme Park
Celebrate your birthday at the always-popular and adventure-packed Gold Reef City Theme Park! Secure your group’s tickets online and bring proof of your birthday, such as your ID or driver’s license. Immerse yourself in the joy of over 50 thrilling rides and attractions on your special day.
In the event that your birthday coincides with a closed day for the theme park (currently Monday to Wednesday), take advantage of the free birthday entry offer by visiting on the closest Sunday to your birthdate. Please note that this offer is valid exclusively for the nearest Sunday. While no prior online booking is necessary for the birthday person, it is essential for family and friends accompanying you on the day.
Address: Northern Pkwy & Data Cres, Johannesburg, 2159
5. The Cape Wheel
Perched in its new position with a scenic backdrop of Granger Bay, the Cape Wheel offers mesmerizing vistas of the Waterfront, city center, and Table Mountain. Complete the straightforward online form, and upon your birthday, receive a complimentary ride voucher valid for the next 30 days. Just print out the voucher and, along with proof of ID, present it at the Cape Wheel ticket booth.
In case you miss the advance sign-up, fret not. On your actual birthday, you can effortlessly show up with proof of ID to redeem your free ride.
Address: The Lawns, Breakwater Blvd, Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, Cape Town, 8001
6. Bothongo Rhino and Lion Nature Reserve
On your special day, Bothongo Rhino and Lion Nature Reserve are offering you the present of adventure with a free Self-Drive experience at the reserve! The complimentary entry ticket is applicable solely on your birthday, so remember to bring your ID for ticket validation.
Address: 520 Kromdraai Road, Kromdraai, Krugersdorp, 1739
7. Ster-Kinekor Movie
While there’s a bit of administrative work involved, if you’re a movie enthusiast, the effort is worthwhile to snag your complimentary movie ticket at Ster-Kinekor Theatres. To get started, you’ll need to apply (at no cost) and become a member of the SK Club, which you can do here.
After a few simple clicks, you can then login online or drop by your nearest Ster-Kinekor box office to claim a free 2D or 3D birthday movie ticket. Keep in mind that the ticket is only valid for movies released a week before and up to seven days after your birthday.
Address: Branches across South Africa
8. SKY-HI Ride
Conquer a 35-meter tall tower! Experience a free-fall at nearly 100 km/h. Endure 4Gs of force on your body. If these numbers don’t deter you from the exhilarating SKY-HI Ride atop the Hotel Sky in downtown Cape Town, then seize the opportunity to claim your complimentary birthday ticket for this unique ride, the only one of its kind in Africa.
To secure your free ticket, make an online reservation using this link. Fortunately, the ticket is valid for any day throughout the month of your birthday.
Address: 28th Floor, Hotel Sky, 9 Lower Long St, Cape Town City Centre, Cape Town, 8001
9. Galileo Open-Air Cinema
This outdoor cinematic experience, widely embraced throughout Cape Town, features screenings at selected venues in the city and across the Cape Winelands.
During the Galileo summer season, spanning from November to April, you can avail yourself of the Galileo Birthday Special within your birthday week, commencing on a Monday and concluding on a Sunday. Simply present proof of ID or birth during your Birthday Week at the entrance to enjoy complimentary entry, a backrest, and a blanket.
Even if a show is sold out, Galileo ensures accommodation for the birthday person. However, individuals accompanying the celebrant are advised to pre-book tickets to avoid disappointment, as no on-site sales are permitted when a show is sold out.
Check out their venues here.
ALSO SEE: A romantic Valentine’s Day at Brookdale Estate
Written by Maegan-Leigh Jacobs for Food&Home.
Feature image: Jonathan Borba/Unsplash
Singer, businesswoman and media personality Amor Vittone is engaged. The star shared the happy news on social media on 28 January, posting a photo of her elegant engagement…
“James Edgar Murdock came to South Africa from England in 1896 and decided to set up a jewellery business. In 1897 he opened the first Murdock’s Watchmakers and Jewellers in a small shop on the corner of Parliament and Longmarket Streets in Cape Town. Through the years, eminent customers of Murdocks have included Cecil John Rhodes, King George and Queen Frederika of Greece.
The classic contemporary Murdocks store now situated in the heart of the renowned V&A Waterfront, offers a variety of enchanting fine jewellery pieces as well as a range of prestigious international watch brands adding to the glamour and sparkle.
A diamond is a gift that will last forever, a universal symbol of love. The best of South Africa and Africa’s mineral wealth has been used to create pieces of rare beauty, with diamonds set into the finest precious metals such as gold or platinum.
There is a fine tradition of service that is offered at Murdocks which adds to the value of the brand. Murdocks will happily collect and return you to your hotel anywhere within the Cape Town area. The friendly staff will ensure your experience is as it should be indulgent, enjoyable and most of all memorable.”
MURDOCKS
Shop No 122, Lower Level, Victoria Wharf, V & A Waterfront, Cape Town
+27 21 419 0302
IG: https://www.instagram.com/murdocksjewellers/
FB: https://www.facebook.com/MurdocksEst1897/
6 Unique engagement rings that will wow your soon-to-be fiancé!
Calling the family and posting on the Gram? Duh! But what else should you do after he’s popped the question? 1 CELEBRATE! This doesn’t have to be a…
While Beyonce might not agree, there are smarter ways to show ‘you like it’ than with a pricey engagement ring
As much as many of us may long for the sparkle of a diamond ring and the iconic ‘I said yes!’ Instagram reveal picture, the reality of it is that with the ongoing increases in the cost of living and the added expenses of a wedding looming, a huge engagement ring isn’t always very practical. But budget constraints need not to cramp your bridal bliss, especially if you change your thinking.
I’m a big believer of choosing an affordable ring, as I don’t think couples should start out their life together in debt
Ring in a new life
For Tamlyn Jacobus, the ability to afford an enjoyable life together far outweighed the need for an engagement ring.
‘If I were to follow societal traditions and has asked for a 1-2 carat, colourless princess cut, it would have set us back for the lifestyle we choose to live. Exploring eateries and travelling to different places in our region is something we enjoy doing regularly. Knowing spending money on a huge ring and that a big wedding wasn’t on the cards allowed us to go away on a few mini-escapes before saying I do.’
Tamlyn and Camilo eloped – and used the cash they saved to buy a home of their own. Tamlyn now wears a dainty white-gold band to signify their marriage.
Up, up and away
With a new generation redefining cultural and societal norms, we’re seeing new trends grow in popularity and with more and more people aspiring to travel, it’s no surprise that honeymoons are getting all the love.
‘My husband didn’t get a ring. He got me a simple engagement ring, but no wedding ring. I rarely wear the engagement ring. Instead of spending on the wedding or on rings, we travelled for weeks through South East Asia and put a deposit down on a townhouse,’ says Wendy van Eyck.
Soon-to-be-bride Kerri Davis agrees:
‘My ring has an amethyst stone and cost about R400. We saved for a two-week honeymoon to Thailand.’
Less ka-ching, more bling
‘I’m a big believer of choosing an affordable ring, as I don’t think couples should start out their life together in debt,’ says Tiffany Marx – Inspired Jewellery. It’s possible to have a beautiful engagement ring without breaking the bank. Here are Tiffany’s top tips for budget-friendly ring-buying:
Choose an alternative stone
Slightly tinted diamonds (like Champagne and salt-and-pepper diamonds) have become very popular. They are so different and much more affordable than whiter diamonds. Moissanite is also great options.
Buy a mount
These are cast rings that one can set the central stone-stones into. Although I would personally always suggest a handmade ring, choosing a mount tends to be a less expensive exercise as the ring is not a bespoke, handmade item.
Work with a jeweller
Many retail shops will only offer you traditional rings as that is what they sell. Try and find a jeweller whose style you like and is willing to work with whatever budget you have. At the end of the day, you can create a really beautiful ring regardless of the materials that are used if you have a good design.
ALSO SEE: Busted! 5 Common engagement ring myths debunked
Feature image: Unsplash
Article written by Bianca Hartel for the Summer 2019 print issue.
Everyone loves a rose, a hydrangea, stargazer lilies or orchids in their wedding bouquets. These exquisite flowers are staples in many a flower arrangement but dare we say,…
The art of paper folding often associated with Japanese culture has long fascinated Westerners – and for good reason. The intricate designs that result look gorgeous and are often a talking point.
Which is why, inspired by one of the real weddings featured in Issue 1-2017, we found four easy origami napkin styles to wow your guests.
What you’ll need
• Square napkins in the colour of your choice
How to do it
For the windmill:
1 Fold all the corners into the centre of the napkin.
2 Fold the bottom of the napkin upwards to meet the middle then do the same for the top.
3 Fold the left side to the middle and repeat this on the right, ensuring both sides are equal.
4 Turn the napkin over nd pull out the corners from the inside until all four corners are exposed. Repeat for as many napkins as required.
For the heart:
1 Fold both sides into the middle, ensuring they are equal. Then fold in half lengthways.
2 Fold the top of the napkin down towards the bottom. The take the top and fold it sideways, creating a 90-degree line. Repeat on the opposite side by folding the bottom towards the top.
3 Turn the napkin over then take the top right corner and tuck it in. Repeat this on the left then turn over to see the end result. Repeat for as many napkins as required.
For the three-fold:
1 Fold the napkin in half from side to side, then fold from top to bottom to create a smaller square.
2 Using the top piece of fabric, roll the right corner into a tube. Do the same with the next two pieces of fabric on the right.
3 Turn the napkin so the tubes of fabric are horizontal then turn over the napkin and fold the right and left corners into the middle until they meet. Turn over once more to see the end result. Repeat for as many napkins as required.
For the sitting fan:
1 Fold the napkin in half then fold the bottom about 1 cm upwards.
2 Fold the same section for 1 cm towards the alternate side of the napkin. Continue folding for 1 cm on alternate sides until you have about 3 cm left.
3 Fold the napkin in half with the folded pieces horizontal. Then fold the leftover fabric into the centre and pull out all the folds into a fan. Repeat for as many napkins as required.
ALSO SEE: The wedding colour trend that quietly won us over in 2025
Text Robyn Lane
Styling Francoise Jeanne de Villiers
Photography Kendall-Leigh Nash/HMimages.co.za