Destination Guide

Cape Town, South Africa

Cape Town is a beautiful city in South Africa with a rich and diverse culture and an even more significant history. The city is best known for its tempestuous political movements, struggles for equality, and world famous leaders and advocates for worldwide racial equality.

Today, much of Cape Town's past still remains as an important part of its culture. But the city has also become a hub for food, wine, sports, outdoor adventure and other great attractions that can keep visitors busy for weeks. And with the beautiful ocean views and Table Mountain backdrop, tourists to Cape Town will never want to leave.

Getting in and around Cape Town

Cape Town Airport

Air travellers to Cape Town will fly into Cape Town International Airport. It is the second largest airport in South Africa, the largest being the OR Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg. Because of Cape Town's substantial tourism industry, most major airlines from Europe, the U.S. and Asia make regular trips into Cape Town.

If you're travelling from another city in Africa to Cape Town, you can also take a plane or you have other ground transportation options. The main train station is located in down town Cape Town and has daily incoming trips from Johannesburg and Kimberly. The Cape Town MetroRail also sees frequent trips from neighbouring cities. However, train travel has proven to be quite dangerous in Cape Town and it's best to not travel alone. Bus travel is also a great option and well-known companies, such as Greyhound, make regular routes.

Cape Town Transport

Unfortunately, Cape Town does not have a public transportation system that is very well established. Unless you are staying within walking distance of your desired destinations, you'll want to rent a car or take a taxi. Taxis are acknowledged to be quite reliable and relatively safe. However, metered taxis are recommended over minibus taxis, as minibus taxis can be crowded and dangerous.

Cape Town Car Hire

Because the roads and interstates in South Africa are in relatively good repair, driving is a more viable option for transportation than in other countries. Cape Town offers all of your major car companies.

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Cape Town accommodation

Luxury
  • The Bay Hotel is a five star establishment in beautiful Cape Town offering a wellness centre and fine dining.
  • Perfectly situated on Cape Town's bustling Victoria and Alfred Waterfront, Cape Grace offers luxurious accommodation with breathtaking views of Table Mountain and limitless access to dining and shopping.
Mid-range
Budget
  • Shambala Guest Lodge Guests enjoy breathtaking views and access to Cape Town's gorgeous beaches at this modest establishment.
  • Sitara Country Lodge is an ideal spot for those eager to explore the natural beauty of Cape Town's surrounding area.
Backpackers
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Things to do in Cape Town

There is so much to do in Cape Town from shopping and dining to hiking and diving. It's a fabulous travel destination for the well-rounded traveller that enjoys a wide variety of unique and adventurous activities.

  • The Castle of Good Hope. The Castle of Good Hope is a great place to explore South Africa's prominent military history and enjoy a good meal in a Cape Town landmark.
  • Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens. Gardeners and non-gardeners alike will enjoy exploring one of the most impressive botanical gardens in the world. Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens invites visitors to explore the diverse and incredible flora of Cape Town.
  • Rhodes Memorial. The Rhodes Memorial was built in remembrance of Cecil John Rhodes and his contributions which shaped modern day South Africa.
  • The Victoria and Alfred Waterfront. The Victoria and Alfred Waterfront is located on the beautiful and famous V&A harbour and offers luxury shopping and dining.
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    Day trips in and around Cape Town

  • Explore the oceans. For the truly adventurous, try out a wide variety of water sports, fishing, and whale watching. Tours and charter boats are available through numerous vendors.
  • Table Mountain Cable Car. Table Mountain dominates the skyline of Cape Town and is the most prominent and widely recognized feature of the city. If hiking isn't your thing, take a cable car to the mountain top for breathtaking views of the city and the vast ocean.
  • The Cape of Good Hope Trail. To explore the natural beauty of Cape Town and test our endurance, try the two day hike in Table Mountain National Park.
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