Quick Guide

December – February

This marks summer in the Southern Hemisphere, which means warm weather and summer-centric events in Cape Town. It’s also peak season, so expect crowds and higher prices.

June – August

Winter months tend to be cooler and wet, but it’s also an ideal time to spot whales off the coast.

Visas

All travelers entering South Africa must show a passport valid for at least 6 months that contains at least one blank page for endorsements. U.S. citizens only need show a return ticket for a 90-day stay in South Africa. Visit South Africa’s Department of Home Affairs website for the most up-to-date entry and exit requirements.

Money

Local currency is the South African rand. ATMs are widely available. The SnapScan app has become popular for paying for goods at local markets.

Travel Health

Check with the South African Government website for the latest health safety information, including travel protocols and requirements like negative COVID-19 tests, quarantines, mask mandates and more in connection with COVID-19. Before traveling, research and prepare for what to do if you get sick while away.

Getting Here

Cape Town is served by Cape Town International Airport (CPT). Organize your airport transfer to your hotel in advance of arrival.

Getting Around

Shared and nonshared taxis are available, as are ride share services, though much of Cape Town’s city center is compact enough to explore on foot. Cape Metrorail trains are cheap but aren’t the most reliable. Rent a car or join a tour to visit places further afield, like wine country.

Local Lingo

Cape Town has 11 official languages, but English, Afrikaans and Xhosa remain the most widely spoken languages. Learn a few local words and phrases before hitting the Cape. Aweh: Hey, hello. Lekker: Good, great, tasty. Ayoba: Even better than lekker, the best. Howzit: How’s it going. Ja / Ne: Yes / No.

Must-Have App

The Official Guide to Cape Town; VoiceMap; SnapScan

Insider Tips

A visit to Table Mountain is an absolute must-do. Book your tickets in advance of your trip, and time your visit in the morning when it’s least likely to be windy.

December – February

This marks summer in the Southern Hemisphere, which means warm weather and summer-centric events in Cape Town. It’s also peak season, so expect crowds and higher prices.

June – August

Winter months tend to be cooler and wet, but it’s also an ideal time to spot whales off the coast.

Visas

All travelers entering South Africa must show a passport valid for at least 6 months that contains at least one blank page for endorsements. U.S. citizens only need show a return ticket for a 90-day stay in South Africa. Visit South Africa’s Department of Home Affairs website for the most up-to-date entry and exit requirements.

Money

Local currency is the South African rand. ATMs are widely available. The SnapScan app has become popular for paying for goods at local markets.

Travel Health

Check with the South African Government website for the latest health safety information, including travel protocols and requirements like negative COVID-19 tests, quarantines, mask mandates and more in connection with COVID-19. Before traveling, research and prepare for what to do if you get sick while away.

Getting Here

Cape Town is served by Cape Town International Airport (CPT). Organize your airport transfer to your hotel in advance of arrival.

Getting Around

Shared and nonshared taxis are available, as are ride share services, though much of Cape Town’s city center is compact enough to explore on foot. Cape Metrorail trains are cheap but aren’t the most reliable. Rent a car or join a tour to visit places further afield, like wine country.

Local Lingo

Cape Town has 11 official languages, but English, Afrikaans and Xhosa remain the most widely spoken languages. Learn a few local words and phrases before hitting the Cape. Aweh: Hey, hello. Lekker: Good, great, tasty. Ayoba: Even better than lekker, the best. Howzit: How’s it going. Ja / Ne: Yes / No.

Must-Have App

The Official Guide to Cape Town; VoiceMap; SnapScan

Insider Tips

A visit to Table Mountain is an absolute must-do. Book your tickets in advance of your trip, and time your visit in the morning when it’s least likely to be windy.