9 key insights for traveling to Cape Town

When I relocated to Cape Town over ten years ago, I intended to stay for just one year.

We soon discovered that a year was far too short. There's an undeniable charm to this city, much of which is attributed to its stunning landscape. Table Mountain stands majestically, encircled by forests, lakes, and eventually, golden beaches, while its varied terrain sets the stage for countless outdoor adventures, including hiking, climbing, abseiling, surfing, paragliding, and mountain biking.

Yet, Cape Town caters not only to the adventurous. The city boasts a vibrant art scene and shopping options for every taste and budget. It's a paradise for food and drink enthusiasts as well. Though it grapples with challenges like a significant wealth gap and increasing crime rates, the positives far outweigh the negatives.

The relaxed lifestyle in Cape Town, combined with its vast array of attractions, keeps visitors lingering longer than they initially planned. I can attest to this—after 12 years, I still feel like I've only scratched the surface of what this incredible city has to offer.

No matter how long you plan to stay, it will never feel sufficient

Most visitors allocate four or five days in Cape Town, which is enough time to hike up Table Mountain, visit the penguins, and perhaps try surfing or take a Cape Malay cooking class. You should also have time to shop, savor delicious meals, enjoy some wine, and appreciate the beauty of Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden.

A week would undoubtedly be ideal. However, even a month would still feel too short. Unfortunately, most people can’t spare that much time. With just four or five days – ideally a week – you can hit all the main attractions (weather permitting), select the perfect restaurant (book ahead for popular fine dining spots), and truly grasp the city’s vibrant spirit.

You can always save the rest for your next trip, because once you’ve explored the city, you’ll definitely want to return.

2. Take an Uber from the airport to the city

Buses no longer operate from Cape Town International Airport, which limits your options for getting to the city center. If you plan to rent a car during your stay, you’re in luck, as most major rental companies have counters at the airport.

If you're not renting a car, there are approved taxi companies with desks in the arrivals area. Alternatively, follow the locals’ lead and request an Uber after you’ve collected your bags. This option is not only the most economical but is also regarded as a safe choice. Be wary of the touts outside the airport who may offer taxi or Uber services; while some might be legitimate, it’s wise to be cautious.

3. Always bring a change of clothes when you head out

Locals often say that Cape Town experiences four seasons in a single day. While visitors from the Northern Hemisphere might chuckle at a Capetonian's concept of winter, the weather truly is unpredictable.

In spring and autumn, you might begin your day in a sweater and long pants, only to need sunscreen and hats by lunchtime, and then be shopping for umbrellas by mid-afternoon.

Winters are mostly rainy, but there are still days when sunblock is necessary. Summer afternoons can get quite windy, prompting you to reach for a jacket. To be prepared, toss sunscreen, sunglasses, and a light layer into your day bag.

4. Inquire about any areas to avoid

Most visits to Cape Town are trouble-free, but it's wise to ask your host about areas to steer clear of. The city center is usually safe, but it's best not to wander alone after dark. Sundays and Monday evenings tend to be quite calm, so remain vigilant if the streets are empty.

Locals may advise you to steer clear of the Cape Flats, yet you can enjoy many restaurants and attractions there during daylight hours without issues. The Flats also has a vibrant nightlife. Consider staying in one of its guesthouses or homestays for a more immersive experience. To explore these neighborhoods thoroughly, it's advisable to go with a local guide.

5. Keep in mind: Table Mountain is still a mountain

Towering over nearly every part of the city, Cape Town’s iconic flat-topped mountain is a symbol of pride for the South African capital. It's a must-visit spot, but don’t be deceived by its closeness to the city center. Even on bright sunny days, the weather at the summit can be cool and windy, so avoid heading up in just your beach attire without layers.

If you choose to hike instead of taking the cable car, remember the basics: don’t go solo; always inform someone of your destination; stick to designated paths; and plan your route in advance. Every year, stories emerge of hikers who get lost on the mountain and require local search and rescue teams to find their way back. Take local guidance on which trails to pursue; some are safe, while others are best tackled in larger groups or with an experienced guide.

6. Keep your food hidden from baboons

Baboons are a common sight in the Cape Peninsula. While most visitors tend to avoid these large-toothed primates, others find the allure of seeing a monkey on the beach or wandering through a parking lot irresistible.

Feeding the baboons is strictly forbidden (though the baboons aren’t aware of this). They will eagerly jump into an open car of an unsuspecting tourist to snatch a picnic from their hands, or they might rummage through unattended bags on the beaches of Cape Point while their owners watch in disbelief from the ocean. If you spot baboons nearby, make sure to roll up the windows and hide your snacks.

7. The tap water is safe to drink

While many restaurants will ask if you prefer still or sparkling water, the tap water in Cape Town is completely safe to drink. If you venture outside the city to smaller towns, check locally about the water’s potability, but generally, the water in the Western Cape is safe to consume.

8. You can shop at the traffic lights

English is one of South Africa's 11 official languages, and it comes with its own quirks. For instance, 'robots' doesn’t refer to mechanical beings, but is the local term for traffic lights. More than just a stop sign (though some drivers might disregard the red light), these intersections become bustling hubs of activity. You’ll often encounter beggars and vendors selling everything from sunglasses to reindeer antlers.

At the traffic lights, you can pick up a sunhat, shop for souvenirs, grab fresh produce, or replace that phone charger you left behind at your last accommodation—all from the comfort of your car. First-time visitors may feel a bit uneasy rolling down their windows at the lights, but if you're in the suburbs and spot a vendor with something appealing, it's all part of local life. To master the art of quick shopping, keep cash handy. Capetonians aren’t the most patient drivers; if you linger too long after the lights turn green, expect a chorus of honking.

9. Remember to tip

While the expected amounts aren’t as high as in North America, South Africa has a tipping culture, and many service workers anticipate a little extra on the bill. In restaurants and bars, a tip of 10% is fine, but 12-15% is preferable. For petrol attendants (you can’t pump your own gas in South Africa), consider tipping R5-10, and the same goes for informal parking attendants, depending on how much service they provide—some barely look at your car, while others will help you maneuver in and out of tight spots.