Cape Town

Cape Town Map

Maps are essential when navigating the city. They show you directions and provide you with information on popular tourist attractions and activities that take around the place. We have provided you with the Cape Town Map with all the necessary information.

Alternatively, you can also ask for maps and guides from your hotels and guest houses. They will give you a variety of travel guides and maps for the city. Another option is to visit the Cape Town Information Center, situated in the city centre; it offers a wide range of guides and maps for tourists.

Getting To Cape Town

Following are some of the different options available to reach the tourist hotspot Cape Town.

By Air 

The easiest and most convenient way to Get to Cape Town is by air. Cape Town International Airport is the primary getaway to the city and is well-connected to major cities around the world.

It is served by international flights and domestic flights. Many airlines such as South African Airways, British Airways, Emirates, KLM, Ethiopian Airlines, Singapore Airlines, and Qatar Airways offer direct flights to Cape Town. 

Once you arrive at Cape Town International Airport, you can use airport shuttles, taxis, or car rentals to reach your accommodation.

Key Note: British Airways connects direct flights from the UK to Cape Town. For the US, no direct flights are operating to Cape Town. But you can travel to Cape Town via Johannesburg (South African Airways) or Dubai (Emirates).

By Road

If you prefer a more adventurous and scenic journey to Cape Town, consider driving. South Africa boasts a well-maintained network of highways that connects Cape Town with other major cities, like Johannesburg and Durban.

Three operational routes for Getting to Cape Town.

• N1 Highway- From Johannesburg, the route passes via the picturesque Winelands of Paarl and Franschhoek.
• N2 Highway -From the airport, take the coastal route which offers breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean and takes you through the renowned Garden Route.
• N7 Highway- From Namibia, the route takes down the west coast.

Key Note:  Keep in mind that driving during the South Africa Trip requires a valid driver's license from your home country, accompanied by an International Driving Permit. Also, remember that South Africans drive on the left side of the road.

BY RAIL:

For those who have time to spare and enjoy slow travel, taking a train to Cape Town can be a memorable experience.

The South African rail network connects Cape Town to other major cities, offering a comfortable and leisurely journey through the diverse landscapes of the country.

The luxurious Blue Train and Rovos Rail offer premium train journeys from Pretoria to Cape Town, with world-class service, fine dining, and comfortable accommodations.

These trains take around 27 hours to cover the distance and provide a unique, unforgettable travel experience.

Alternatively, you can opt for the more budget-friendly Shosholoza Meyl train, which connects Johannesburg and Cape Town.

This train journey takes around 26 hours and offers a comfortable if less opulent, travel experience.

BY BUS

Bus travel is an affordable option for Getting to Cape Town on a budget.

Several bus companies, such as Intercape, Greyhound, and Eldo Coaches, offer daily services connecting Cape Town with other South African cities.

The buses are comfortable and equipped with air conditioning, reclining seats, and onboard entertainment.

The journey from Johannesburg to Cape Town by bus takes around 18 to 20 hours, with brief stops along the way for meals and rest.

Booking your bus tickets in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons.

Cape Town Weather And Climate

Cape Town enjoys a Mediterranean climate characterized by warm, dry summers and cool, wet winters. The city experiences four distinct seasons, each with its unique characteristics.

With its location at the southern tip of Africa, Cape Town's weather can be unpredictable, and it's not uncommon to experience all four seasons in one day.

Key Note: As Cape Town is located in the Southern Hemisphere, keep in mind that its seasons are exactly opposite to that of the Northern Hemisphere (Europe and North America). So, remember to flip your mental calendar, when planning for Cape Town Safari Tours.

Best Time to Visit Cape Town

The Best time to visit Cape Town is the shoulder season months extending from March to May and September to October. Want to know why? Let’s read further to understand the reasons behind it.

• Though the peak season for holidays in Cape Town is the mid-summer months (December through February), it’s not the best time.
• The temperatures peak during this time and Cape Town’s south-easterly winds which are known for their fierce speeds blow during this time. So, not a great time to visit Cape Town.
• So, if we consider all these factors, often the shoulder months, autumn and spring are regarded as the Best Time To Visit Cape Town as they offer the best of both worlds.
• On one hand, the weather conditions are appropriate, on the other tourist destinations and beaches have fewer crowds and lower prices, making them ideal for a visit.

Seasons Of Cape Town

Cape Town experiences four seasons. We will discuss about them one by one.

Summer (November to February)

Summer in Cape Town brings warm temperatures, sunny skies, and long daylight hours, making it an ideal time to explore the city's beautiful beaches, outdoor attractions, and vibrant nightlife.

Autumn in Cape Town (March to May)

Autumn in Cape Town is a magical time, with mild temperatures, fewer tourists, and the changing colours of the city's flora. The weather is more stable with crystal clear days through April.  Hint of rains start in April, and by May you will need a rainproof jacket.

Winter in Cape Town (June to August)

Winter in Cape Town is marked by cooler temperatures, rainfall, and occasional snow on the surrounding mountains. Despite the colder weather, Cape Town remains an attractive destination, offering unique experiences and indoor activities.

Spring (September to November)

Spring in Cape Town sees the city awakening with blooming wildflowers that are bursting with colours, increasing temperatures, and longer days. Daytime temperatures increase and offer a pleasant outdoor and sightseeing climate.

Cape Town Attractions And Experiences

Below are a few landmarks and interesting regions and activities, that guests coming on Cape Town Tours are going to explore. Let’s look at some of the city's highlights that make it a traveller’s favourite.

Iconic Table Mountain

The city is nestled beneath the dramatic Table Mountain, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a must-visit attraction. The flat-topped mountain offers panoramic views of the city and can be reached by hiking or taking a cable car ride on Cape Town Day Tours.

Robben Island history

Just off the coast of Cape Town is Robben Island, a UNESCO World Heritage site and former prison where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned for 18 years. The island now serves as a poignant museum and a symbol of the struggle against apartheid and a must-visit on Cape Town Private Tours.

Breathtaking beaches

Cape Town is home to numerous stunning beaches, such as Clifton, Camps Bay, and Muizenberg. These Cape Town Beaches offer crystal-clear waters, white sands, and a range of watersports, including surfing, kiteboarding, and stand-up paddleboarding.

Cape Floral Region

The city is part of the Cape Floral Kingdom, one of the six floral kingdoms in the world, and is recognized for its rich biodiversity. The Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden showcases the region's unique flora and is a perfect spot for picnics and leisurely walks on the South Africa Tour Holidays.

Award-winning wine estates

The Cape Winelands, just a short drive from the city, are home to world-renowned wine estates, such as Stellenbosch, Franschhoek, and Paarl. Visitors can enjoy wine tasting, fine dining, and picturesque vineyard views on Cape Winelands Tours.

Rich marine life

The waters surrounding Cape Town are teeming with marine life, including African penguins at Boulders Beach, Cape fur seals at Seal Island, and the seasonal migration of Southern right whales. The city is also a popular destination for cage diving with great white sharks.

The cultural and culinary scene

Cape Town offers a thriving arts scene, with numerous galleries, theatres, and festivals. The city's culinary scene is equally impressive, featuring a blend of African, European, and Asian influences, with a wide variety of restaurants, food markets, and street food options.

Colourful Bo-Kaap district

The historic and colourful Bo-Kaap district is known for its brightly painted houses and cobbled streets. It is the cultural heart of Cape Town's Cape Malay community and offers visitors an insight into the area's rich history and traditions.

Adventure opportunities

Cape Town is an adventurer's paradise, offering activities such as hiking, mountain biking, paragliding, and shark cage diving. The city's natural beauty and mild climate make it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts on South African Excursions.

Where To Eat In Cape Town?

Cape Town's food scene is a vibrant mix of flavours, cultures, and experiences, making it a top destination for foodies. Here's a guide to what makes Cape Town Food Tours memorable:

• Coffee Shops: Cape Town’s vibrant coffee culture is reflected in spots like Truth Coffee and Bootlegger, perfect for starting your day or a mid-day break.
• Breakfast & Brunch: Enjoy the most important meal of the day at places like Clark’s and Jason’s Bakery, known for their hearty and delectable options.
• Markets: Don’t miss out on Mojo Market and The Old Biscuit Mill for a mix of food, crafts, and live music.
• Dinner: For a tasty dinner, The Test Kitchen and Kloof Street House offer innovative dishes in unique settings.
• Asian Cuisine: Get a taste of authentic flavours at Tjing Tjing for Japanese delights or Hesheng for Chinese dishes.
• Sushi & Seafood: Fresh seafood and sushi await at Obi and Cod Father, showcasing the best of Cape Town’s ocean bounty.
• Drinks & Nightlife: Cap off your day at The Stack for happy hour or The Silo Hotel Bar for stunning sunset views.

Each of these spots adds to the rich experience of Cape Town Travel, making every meal an exploration of the city's diverse culinary landscape. If you're on a South Africa Tour Holiday or a local food lover, Cape Town's dining scene is sure to impress.

Things to Do in Cape Town

There is so much to enjoy and experience around Cape Town, which makes this a perfect destination to explore. Following is a quick guide on some of the Things to Do in Cape Town that everybody will love:

• Have a Blast with outdoor activities such as surfing, participating in a hiking tour of Lion’s Head, or even paragliding if you fancy a little more adrenaline.
• Hit The Road with a scenic drive along to Cape Point, which includes colourful beach huts, and beaches filled with penguins.
• The food scene in Cape Town is beyond amazing. Visit the Winelands for food and wine tasting and experience local cuisine.
• Walk around the Bo-Kaap in your free time and witness vibrant houses or attend a Kirstenbosch Botanic Gardens concert.
• Relax over the captivating beaches of Cape Town. Don’t forget to check the Clifton Beach.
• Visit the Woodstock district to admire unique street art, or discover new information in their many museums and galleries.
• Go on a safari drive for nearby wildlife spotting, or visit the Atlantis Sand Dunes to explore their unique landscapes.

Irrespective of the reason, you are visiting Cape Town, one thing is for sure you are going to love it all.