Tokai Forest
A beloved natural escape in Cape Town, perfect for braais, picnics, and cycling amidst scenic beauty.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Enjoy a classic braai day
Tokai Forest
Best Time
Enjoy a classic braai day
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A beloved natural escape in Cape Town, perfect for braais, picnics, and cycling amidst scenic beauty.
"Well managed picnic/area with most braais and tables on good condition. "
🐒 Baboon Safety First
Secure all food and drinks from baboons. Report any issues to rangers for assistance.
🧺 Pack It In, Pack It Out
Help keep Tokai Forest pristine by taking all your litter with you.
Quick Facts
Hours
Rating
4.3 · 324 reviews
Type
Picnic Ground
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Braai & Picnic Spots
Designated braai areas
Enjoy a classic South African braai with family and friends amidst nature. Well-maintained spots with tables.
Cycling Trails
Various paths
Explore scenic routes suitable for cycling, from beginner to more experienced riders. A safe space to enjoy the outdoors.
Nostalgic Escape
Throughout the forest
Relive memories in this cherished natural spot, offering a peaceful retreat for reflection and relaxation.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Baboon Alert!
Pack for a Picnic
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Picnic Location Suggestion
Hey all Where in Cape Town can I go to have a nice picnic get together with about 5 - 10 people that meets the following requirements. - pretty easy to get to (Uber accessible) - a decent amount of privacy (not sitting next to tones of other families) - near trees and nature…
🐒 Baboon Safety First
Secure all food and drinks from baboons. Report any issues to rangers for assistance.
🧺 Pack It In, Pack It Out
Help keep Tokai Forest pristine by taking all your litter with you.
Braai Spot Cape Town
Hi guys Could anyone please refer me to a outdoor braaispot in Cape Town where alcohol is allowed? We're a Team at work looking for a place to chill, braai and have a couple drinks. I've heard about Oudekraal however everything on the internet suggests that there isn't any…
Places to (take my own) braai in CBD?
Sup guys, So, pretty much the title. Moved into a new place with a balcony and thought, awesome, time to buy my own braai. Went pretty crazy with it until I got a letter from body corporate saying it's against the rules. Fuck! I live pretty close to De Waal Park, anyone know…
🎲 Bring Entertainment
Pack games and balls for kids as play areas are limited.
🚗 Easy Parking Access
Convenient parking is available right near the braai areas.
Parks to gather at
Hey everyone! I want to organise a get together with many of my friends, about 50. I thought of organising it at Kirstenbosch, but they don't allow tables and chairs. Are there any other parks we could go to? I'd like to set up a few tables with finger food and chairs for…
Tips
from all over the internet
🐒 Baboon Safety First
Secure all food and drinks from baboons. Report any issues to rangers for assistance.
🧺 Pack It In, Pack It Out
Help keep Tokai Forest pristine by taking all your litter with you.
🎲 Bring Entertainment
Pack games and balls for kids as play areas are limited.
🚗 Easy Parking Access
Convenient parking is available right near the braai areas.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Tokai Forest is cherished for its natural beauty and excellent braai facilities, offering a nostalgic escape for many. Visitors appreciate the well-maintained picnic areas and the opportunity for cycling. However, the lack of children's play areas and the persistent issue with baboons are noted drawbacks.
"Good for nostalgia. Was a good idea to go on Heritage Day, free with ID. Place is way smaller than it was 15-20 years ago. A steep R42 entrance fee and still not child-friendly. No park. 1 bathroom, 2 cubicles. Baboons. R42 to braai and enjoy your drink discreetly."
Jovonne Sherry
"Make sure to bring your board games and a ball for the kids. When the adults are braaing and chilling there's nothing really for kids to do. I am not sure why in all these years there still is no park/play area for kids. It should be encouraged to leave with your litter as the baboons raid the bins, thank goodness for the baboon rangers who assist with control."
Marisa Fortune
"Well managed picnic/area with most braais and tables on good condition. Toilets are relatively clean. Overall a good place for family and friends."
Alan Manshon
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Tokai Forest is accessible by car, located in the southern suburbs of Cape Town. There are designated parking areas, often close to the braai spots. Public transport options are limited, so driving is generally recommended.
Yes, parking is available and conveniently located near the braai and picnic areas, making it easy to unload your supplies.
While possible, it's a significant distance for many. The forest itself offers excellent cycling paths once you arrive.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, there is an entrance fee, which was R42 per person at the time of review. It's advisable to check the latest fees before your visit.
Generally, braai spots are first-come, first-served. Arriving early, especially on weekends or public holidays, is recommended to secure a good spot.
The forest is typically open during daylight hours. It's best to confirm specific times with Cape Nature or local authorities before planning your visit.
It has been free on Heritage Day in the past, but this is subject to change. Always verify current access policies.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Tokai Forest is ideal for picnics, braais, cycling, and enjoying nature walks. It's a great spot for a relaxed day out with family and friends.
Unfortunately, there are no dedicated playgrounds or parks for children, so bringing your own entertainment like games or balls is advised.
Baboons are present and can be a nuisance. Keep all food and drinks securely stored, avoid feeding them, and report any aggressive behavior to the baboon rangers on site.
Yes, there are toilets available, though they are basic with a limited number of cubicles. They are generally kept relatively clean.
Alcohol is generally permitted for responsible consumption at the braai spots. It's advised to enjoy your drinks discreetly.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Absolutely! Tokai Forest has numerous well-maintained braai areas, making it a popular spot for barbecues.
No, there are no restaurants or cafes within Tokai Forest. It's a natural area, so you'll need to bring all your own food and drinks.
Classic braai items like boerewors, chops, chicken, and salads are popular. Don't forget charcoal, braai tools, and any drinks you'd like.
📸 📸 Photography
The forest offers beautiful natural scenery, including trees, trails, and picnic spots. Capture the serene atmosphere and any wildlife you encounter (from a safe distance!).
Yes, the lush greenery and dappled sunlight create lovely scenes for landscape photography, especially during golden hour.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit