What to do with Children in Tow
South African Museum and Planetarium The fossil gallery and the whale well are fascinating and contain skeletons dating back to over 300 million years ago. Children are bound to enjoy these exhibits.
South Africa
Cape Town
Cape Town is the cultural and political capital of South Africa. It is arguably the most important of the cities in South Africa. Today too, Cape Town’s natural beauty has been well preserved [Table Mountain, Cape Town’s many beaches, Kirstenbosch Gardens, Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve and Cape Point have been maintained beautifully] as well its architectural treasures [the Slave Lodge, Castle of Good Hope, Koopmans De Wet House etc]. It has become a tourist destination and the tourism industry has experienced a real growth in the last few years. Because of the revenue that it brings in it is probably the fastest growing city in South Afri
Search Cape Town
A CLOSER LOOK
Top places to visit
Castle of Good Hope
Dating back to the Portuguese occupation of this area in the mid 1600s, the castle was built from 1669 to 1679. Construction lasted about 13 years and the product was a massive pentagonal structure, a classic example of Portuguese defense measures. The construction material comprised of slate quarried from Robben Island but some features are distinctly European such as the bell at the entrance which came from Amsterdam. The Ramparts of the now headquarters of the South African Defense Force are swarming with visitors from the world over. The military museum is interesting especially for those curious about European colonization of this part of the world. The William Fehr Collection is even more spectacular and is home to a number of paintings and sketches depicting the transformation of this area under the supervision of the Portuguese. The paintings generally shed light on life under colonization.
The Slave Lodge
This lodge was built in 1670 during the period of colonization as an abode for the slaves of the Dutch East India Company. A great way to learn of the slave trade that occurred in Cape Town; this lodge now home to the South African Cultural History Museum gives an even better understanding of South African history. Paintings, sketches, drawings and photographs depicting Cape Town during the era of colonization are all on exhibit here. Timings: Daily 10 A.M- 4 30 P.M Admission: R 10 [Adults], R 5 [Children] Address: 49 Adderley Street Tel: 021-460-8200
South African Museum and Planetarium
This was built in the 1800s and houses some of the most interesting artifacts pertaining to South Africa. The san rock paintings are stunning as are the Lydenburg heads dating back some 1500 years. African symbols for numbers and alphabets are also on display here along with other interesting exhibits such as traditional medicines. The fossil gallery and the whale well are also fascinating and contain skeletons dating back to over 300 million years ago.
· Delville Wood Monument & Statue of General Lukin
This monument was erected to honor the soldiers and officers killed in the battle for Delville during the First World War sometime in 1916. Of the over 3000 soldiers who went into battle only 700 survived and of the 150 officers who went into battle only 5 survived. Lukin was the general who commanded the South Africans in WW I.
Gold of Africa Museum
African gold is celebrated in this museum which houses one of the most exquisite and beautiful gold collections the world over. This museum gives insight into the history of this gold and the evolution in design over the years. Artisans from all over the African continent from countries such as Ghana, the Ivory Coast, Mali and Senegal are paid tribute for their skills in carving and designing extraordinary gold pieces.
Koopmans De Wet House
This gorgeous late 18th century mansion was home to a famed socialite of Cape Town. Today it serves as a museum and on display is an even more gorgeous collection of carpets, antiques, paintings and porcelain. The exhibits are stunning and there is a guide book available containing details pertaining to every piece.
Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve
This is one of the most well known tourist hotspots in Cape Town. Visitors can spend much of the day picnicking and barbequing in addition to admiring and appreciating the scenic beauty of this reserve where the beaches and the cliffs are a sight to behold. Tourists can also appreciate the diversity of wildlife; with respect to the various species of animals and birds that inhabit the place. Zebras, baboons, ostriches, seagulls and red hartebeests prowl around the area. For the more adventurous, the Gifkommetjie and Platboom beaches are ideal for surfing whilst the Bordjiesdrif is ideal for swimming. This coast is famous for the numerous shipwrecks that have occurred here and the remains of one such still lie here.
Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens
This has to be one of the most stunning attractions in all of Cape Town. Another renowned tourist hot spot, these gardens are arguably amongst the top five most beautiful gardens in the world. Located on the slopes of Table Mountain, it is the ideal place for vacationers to unwind amidst this serene and beautiful setting. The different plant species that are grown here astonish visitors with the variety and color. A number of cafes and eateries dot the gardens and these gardens are often the venue of many a concert. Timings: Daily 8 A.M- 7 P.M [Sept-March], 8 A.M- 6 P.M [April-Aug] Admission: R 27 [Adults], R 5 Children Address: Rhodes Avenue, Newlands Tel: 021-799-8899 Website: www.nbi.ac.za
Boulders
This is a beautiful place where the natural beauty of the landscape is almost overwhelming. Amidst these boulders i.e. large granite blocks and bays roam gorgeous African penguins. This would constitute an outing for adults and children alike. The more adventurous can opt for a quick swim here in Foxy Beach. Timings: Daily 7 A.M- 7 30 P.M Admission: R 25 [Adults], R 5 [Children] Address: Simon’s Town Tel: 021-786-2329
Muslim travel planner
Full guidePlan a Muslim-friendly trip in Cape Town
THE LOCAL TABLE
Halal restaurants in Cape Town
Aubergine
The décor of this restaurant is chic and sophisticated. Timber and glass are the materials that have been used in decorating the interior. The place is luxuriant and quality food is to be expected. The sea food and vegetarian dishes are exceptionally good. The desserts are absolutely divine- the sorbets, crème brule and tartlets are all melt -in -your -mouth delicious. Cuisine: International Address: 39 Barnet Street, Cape Town Central Tel: 021-465-4909
African Cafe
The décor and the dishes are distinctly African and showcase cooking styles from all over the continent, from Kenya and Ethiopia to Angola and Zambia. Traditional spices are made use of and traditional ingredients used such as nuts and ostrich. The seafood and vegetarian dishes are particularly delectable. Cuisine: African Address: 108 Shortmarket Street, Heritage Square, Cape Town Central Tel: 021-422-0221
Buitenverwachting
The setting of this restaurant is beautiful. Located on a wine estate, tables look out onto the surrounding vineyard. This eatery is popular amongst fashionable locals. The interior is beautiful and luxuriant. The dishes are divine and at the same time both creative and eccentric. The menu has everything listed on it. The seafood, in particular the crayfish, the tempura and the shrimp is delicious. Magical best describes the ambience of this restaurant. Cuisine: International Address: Klein Constantia Road, Constantia Tel: 021-794-3522
Cape Colony Restaurant
This restaurant is located in the luxury Mount Nelson Hotel. The interior is extravagant and reminiscent of Colonial Cape Town. Live music is played in the back ground. Dishes served here are absolutely divine and there is a wide variety to choose from. A must stop although prices are exorbitant. Cuisine: International Address: Mount Nelson Hotel, 76 Orange Street, Cape Town Central Tel: 021-483-1000
Constantia Uitsig
The location of this restaurant is lovely and tables look out onto the surrounding mountains and vineyards. This restaurant provides outstanding service and offers a vast array of dishes to choose from. The pasta, vegetarian and seafood dishes are especially good. The chocolate mousse is to die for.
95 Keerom
Excellent quality ingredients are used to churn out excellent quality traditional Italian dishes. Traditional ingredients such as cherry tomatoes, olives, pasta, and parmesan are used in producing these delectable treats. The staff provides excellent service. Unpretentious best describes the ambience and the food served in this restaurant.
Haiku
This restaurant offers quality food. Dishes listed on the menu are diverse with everything being served from chicken, sea food and lamb to vegetarian delights. The food is spicy. The seafood dishes in particular are delicious especially the calamari and sushi as well as the caviar. Cuisine: Asian Address: 33 Burg Street, Cape Town Central Tel: 021-424-7000
Manolo
The dishes served here are of excellent quality and are very creative; seafood, vegetarian and meat dishes are all listed on the menu. The desserts in particular are scrumptious. Everything from the chocolate mousse, the ice cream to the Turkish delight and the marshmallow delights are to die for. Cuisine: Eclectic Address: 30 Kloof Street, Cape Town Central Tel: 021-422-4747
Black Marlin
Located in False Bay overlooking the Indian Ocean the setting is beautiful. Seafood is the specialty here. The crayfish, mussels and calamari in particular are delectable. Prices are reasonable too. They also do an excellent chocolate mousse. Cuisine: Seafood Address: Main Road, Millers Point, Simon’s Town Tel: 021-786-1621
Café Orca
This eatery looks out onto the surrounding beach. Whilst the interior is un-fussed and nothing special; the food is definitely to be looked forward to. The dishes listed on the menu are unpretentious and simple- from salads and sandwiches to burgers and seafood platters. The calamari, mussels, shrimp and crayfish are tasty. Cuisine: Seafood Address: 88 Beach Road, Melkbosstrand, Atlantic Coast Tel: 021-553-4120
Loading local prayer times…
Calculated times. Confirm congregation times with your local masjid.
Where to stay in Cape Town
The Westin Grand Arabella Quays
This hotel is arguably the best in town; it is both extravagant and luxurious. The location is excellent. Rooms and bathrooms are spacious and the décor is chic and sophisticated. The service is impeccable as are the facilities available here. In room facilities include a safe, a refrigerator and internet connection. Hotel facilities include 2 restaurants, room service, bars, a gym, a spa, laundry service, and an Internet terminal and free parking. Breakfast is included in the rates.
Bay Hotel
This hotel is close to the city centre and yet is secluded. It is located across one of Cape Town’s many white sand beaches. The rooms and bathrooms are spacious; the décor is simple yet chic with lots of sunlight streaming in through the windows. In room facilities include a safe, a refrigerator, internet connection and a DVD player. Hotel facilities include 2 restaurants, room service, a tennis court, bars, pools, a gym, a spa, laundry service, the beachfront, internet access and free parking. Address: 69 Victoria Road, Camps Bay Tel: 021-438-4444
Cape Grace
This is arguably the best of Cape Town’s luxury hotels. The location is picturesque- the waterfront allows for guests to catch glimpses of sea lions and various birds. Rooms offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains and the sea. Rooms and bathrooms are spacious. The décor is gorgeous, elegant and contemporary. In room facilities include a safe, a refrigerator and internet connection. Hotel facilities include restaurants, room service, bars, a library, a pool, a spa, laundry service, and an internet terminal and free parking. Breakfast is included in the rates.
Ellerman House
The ambience of this hotel is wonderful- the setting is Bantry Bay and the rooms offer a stunning view of the sea. The rooms and bathrooms are spacious. Even more inviting, however, is the service which is outstanding. It is personal and the staff caters to every request of the guest. In room facilities include a safe, a refrigerator and internet connection as well as a DVD player. Hotel facilities include restaurants, room service, a bar, a pool, a spa, laundry service and free parking. Breakfast is included in the rates.
Mount Nelson Hotel
Probably the most well known of Cape Town’s luxury hotels, this hotel dates back to the turn of the 20th century. Aristocratic best describes the ambience of this hotel where the customs of the early 1900s are still very much observed such as sipping tea to the tune of the piano. The décor is traditional as opposed to contemporary and the interior is adorned with antiques, carpets and paintings. The gardens are stunning as well. In room facilities include a safe, a refrigerator, internet connection and a DVD player. Hotel facilities include 2 restaurants, room service, tennis courts, bars, pools, a gym, a spa, laundry service, internet access and free parking. One facility not provided by other hotels is Children’s programs to keep the young ones busy.
Best Western Cape Suites Hotel
This hotel is close to the city centre and at the same time away from it. It is not plagued by the hustle and bustle of Cape Town and maintains its peaceful and serene ambience. Rooms and bathrooms are spacious with lovely furnishings, contemporary interiors and good views of the surrounding mountains and city. In room facilities include a safe, a refrigerator and a kitchen. Hotel facilities include 2 restaurants, bars, pool, laundry service, internet access and free parking.
Long Beach
This hotel is located along the Kommetjie Beach. This hotel comprises of rooms with superb views at more than reasonable rates. The rooms and bathrooms are more than comfortable and a major reason why this hotel is so attractive is its proximity to the beach. The hotel staff provides excellent service and care. In room facilities include a safe, a refrigerator, internet connection and a DVD player. Hotel facilities include room service, a pool, a bar, laundry service, the beachfront, internet access and free parking.
Cape Heritage Hotel
This boutique hotel was originally a mansion and it dates back to 1770. The interior is for this reason quite homely. Rooms are well decorated but not identical. Rooms and bathrooms are both more than comfortable. In room facilities include a safe, a refrigerator, internet connection and a DVD player. Hotel facilities include restaurants, room service, a bar, laundry service, internet access and free parking.
Town House Hotel
This is a lovely hotel with an excellent location. The ambience is down to earth, rooms and bathrooms are simple yet comfortable. In room facilities include a safe, a refrigerator and internet connection. Hotel facilities include restaurants, room service, bars, a gym, laundry service, an internet terminal and free parking. Breakfast is included in the rates.
Vineyard Hotel
This hotel is located in the Southern Suburbs along Liesbeek River. The gardens are beautiful and surround this mansion dating back to the 1700s. Rooms are comfortable and prices are reasonable. In room facilities include a safe, a refrigerator and internet connection. Hotel facilities include restaurants, room service, bars, a pool, a gym, a spa, laundry service, an Internet terminal and free parking and children’s programs. Breakfast is included in the rates.
History and today in Cape Town
General Visa Information
A valid passport is required by foreign nationals in order to enter Cape Town. The passport must be valid for the following six months at least and must contain a minimum of two blank pages. The visa required is a tourist visa [which may be single, double or mutliple entry]. The period for which the visa is valid is stamped on the passport.
When to go
The best times of the year to visit Cape Town are the months of March, April and May. The weather is wonderful in these months with cool days and nights; the wind too is not too strong. Winter months [June to August] get cold and it rains often. Summer months [November to February] get hot and extremely windy.
Fast Facts
Location:: Cape Town is located in the Northern part of the Cape Peninsula surrounded by a number of mountains including Table Mountain, Lion’s Head and the Devil’s Peak.; Area:: 2455 sq km Dialing code: +27 Area Code: 021 Emergency Numbers: Emergencies: 107 Fire: 021-535-1100/ 021-461-5555 Police: 10111 [flying squad]; 021-467-8000 Ambulance: 10177 Tourist Assistance [Police]: 021-418-2852 Lifeline: 021-461-1111 Sea Rescue: 021-405-3500 Vehicle Breakdown: 082-161-11 Telephone directory enquiry: 1023 [Local Numbers]; 1903 [International Numbers] Airport Enquiry: 021-934-0407 Railway Enquiry: 080-065-6463; Population:: 3 million approximately
Exchange Rates
The currency used in Cape Town is the South African Rand
Public Holidays
January 1: New Year's Day February 27: Constitution Day March 21: Human Right's Day March/April: Good Friday April 17: Family Day May 1: Labor Day June 16: Youth Day August 9: Women’s Day September 24: Heritage Day December 16: Day of Reconciliation December 25: Christmas Day December 26: Day of Goodwill
Annual Temperature
January: 1. High 26 °C 2. Low 16 °C; ..........b- February: 1. High 27 °C 2. Low 16 °C; ..........c- March: 1. High 25 °C 2. Low 14 °C
Cape Town today
Cape Town is the cultural and political capital of South Africa. It is arguably the most important of the cities in South Africa. Today too, Cape Town’s natural beauty has been well preserved [Table Mountain, Cape Town’s many beaches, Kirstenbosch Gardens, Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve and Cape Point have been maintained beautifully] as well its architectural treasures [the Slave Lodge, Castle of Good Hope, Koopmans De Wet House etc]. It has become a tourist destination and the tourism industry has experienced a real growth in the last few years. Because of the revenue that it brings in it is probably the fastest growing city in South Africa and because of the increasing number of tourists it has to cater to each year it is a city that is constantly on the move. In addition it makes a vast contribution to the GDP of South Africa by virtue of its ever increasing contribution to the agricultural and mining sectors.
Cape Town History
Historically Cape Town has always been an important city. Due to its status as a port/harbor it attracted the Dutch East India Trading Company who established their posts here in the early 1650s to facilitate trade with India, the Far East and the rest of Africa. The same trading company brought a number of slaves to Cape Town to perform menial jobs. The mansions and buildings erected by the Dutch during this period survive even today.
Useful information
Shopping
Amulet Goldsmith
Buy a lovely piece of jewelry from this famous shop.
Everard Read Gallery
A wonderful selection of South African art is available here- although prices are exorbitant.
Louise Hennigs
This is the best store to buy leather products- the handbags are made using excellent quality leather; though pricey their quality is guaranteed.
N.C.M Fashions- African Pride
This shop is renowned for the beautiful traditional African attire which is its specialty. Wonderful skirts, wraps, dresses, scarves in colorful traditional fabrics and designs are sold here.
Waterfront Craft Market
This market consists of a number of stalls where jewelry, arts and crafts, pottery, glass and rugs and carpets are sold.
Green Point
This flea market sells everything you can possibly conceive of, from shoes and clothing to music and artifacts; you name it. It is only open every Sunday of the week.
Montebello Craft and Design Centre
This shop sells everything from jewelry and ceramics to handbags and lovely Mandela dolls.
Green Market Square
This market comprises of numerous stalls and many of the merchants are from countries other than South Africa, from all over the rest of the African continent. They sell everything from jewelry, ceramics, handbags and fabrics to shoes.
Heartworks
Lovely souvenirs can be bought from here. The ceramic pieces and the bead work are particularly wonderful. Trendy clothes too can be bought from here.
African Image
This shop is a great choice for those looking to take back home beautiful traditional and contemporary African masks, patterned textile from the region, beaded cloth, baskets and other distinctly African artifacts.
Signature sights in Cape Town
South African National Gallery
This gallery is small and elegant. Whilst there isn’t such a great collection of art on exhibit here due to lack of space; this is a must stop for those visiting Cape Town. It allows for visitors to have a much more critical and generally a deeper understanding of South Africa’s history and culture and the evolution this country has undergone. Fighting sticks and traditional African beadwork in addition to masks and other pieces of art are on display. This gallery plays host to many traveling exhibitions. Often there is a photography exhibition shedding light on the AIDS problem plaguing the country and the region that is both brilliant and tragic.
Table Mountain
The aerial cable cars take tourists around the table mountain, Cape Town’s most distinctive feature, at the bottom of which the city has been built. From these cable cars tourists are treated to some of the most fantastic and spectacular views of Cape Town.
Robben Island
This island is probably the most glorious of Cape Town’s attractions, all the more so because of its painful and turbulent history. It has served many a role since its colonization by the Dutch. These functions included being a prison for Henry the Hottentot imprisoned for opposing colonial rule and then Sobukwe [President of the Pan African Congress] since the 1960s and Sisulu [Secretary General of the African National Congress] two brave individuals who dared to speak out against the apartheid. Its most notable prisoner was Mandela who spent decades here. It also served as a colony for lepers, an asylum for the mad and as a base for the military.
Two Oceans Aquarium
This is a fantastic aquarium in South Africa and perhaps the world over. It will definitely be one of the most memorable experiences for adults and children alike. Some of the most stunning views of the most rare and beautiful species of fish and white sharks amidst the deep red coral reef are afforded by this aquarium. Over three thousand species of sea creatures are on display here. In addition to these exhibits are a number of simulations of a river eco system and tidal pools. Children will be thrilled by the touch pool where they will be able to touch star fish, shells and other such underwater creatures.
Festivals and events in Cape Town
· Shakespeare at Maynardville Open Air Theatre
This event takes place annually and lasts well into February. The venue is the Maynardville open air theatre. This tradition has been in place for many decades now, since the 1950s to be more specific. Shakespeare’s world famous plays are performed here by excellent actors.
Shakespeare at Maynardville Open Air Theatre
This event takes place annually and starting from January, lasts well into February. The venue is the Maynardville open air theatre. This tradition has been in place for many decades now, since the 1950s to be more specific. Shakespeare’s world famous plays are performed here by excellent actors.
Cape Argus Pick and Pay Cycle Tour
This event takes place annually every March and involves several thousand cyclists riding for over 100 kilometers around the Cape Peninsula. Participants from all over the world take part in this race, both amateurs and professionals. Various events and activities are held for families in the week leading up to the cycle tour.
Old Mutual Two Oceans Marathon
This event takes place annually in March and has become the most famous ultra-modern marathon in South Africa. Apart from being a tough challenge, this race is also a visual treat of nature at her best. It is probably the most magical of its kind because of the sheer beauty that the participants are able to soak in. The picturesque route of the marathon takes the participants on a tour of the Cape Peninsula, past both the Atlantic and Indian Oceans, hence its name. This 6 hour, 35 mile test of endurance is sponsored by Old Mutual, a large insurance company. A large crowd turns out to cheer the runners making this an exciting-fun filled event that is looked forward to each year.
My Coke Fest
This event takes place annually though there is no fixed date for it. It is a 12 hour long concert and performers from all over the world take part in it. Famous bands such as Kaiser Chiefs, Korn, Chris Cornell etc perform. One of the most popular festivals in Cape Town, it draws huge crowds. Free Coke is distributed during the concert which is what the festival takes its name after.
Cape Town tours and experiences
Atlas
These operators offer a variety of package deals that vary in terms of which sights will be visited and which vary as to the length of each tour. Usually tours last from anywhere between half a day and one whole day [i.e. 4 to 9 hours]. Prices range from R 300 to R 650. Sights visited include Cape Point, Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve, Simon’s Town, Boulders Beach, Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, Table Mountain; alternatively tours that cover more of Cape Town’s cultural monuments and museums as opposed to natural treasures can be opted for. Tel: 021-460-4700 Website: www.springbokatlas.co.za
African Eagle
This is an excellent tour operator. They arrange half day and full day trips and arrange for visitors to go sightseeing. Half day city tours involve visiting the South African Museum, Castle of Good Hope, Bo-Kaap, Green Market Square, Camps Bay and Clifton as well as Table Mountain. These cost R 295 per person and depart at 8 A.M. and 1 P.M lasting approximately four and a half hours. A registered tourist guide accompanies the group. Full day tours entail visits to False Bay, Simon’s Town, Cape of Good Hope Reserve, Cape Point, Clifton and Camps Bay, penguin colony as well as ostrich viewing. These cost R 610 per person; groups depart at 8 A.M and the tour lasts about nine and a half hours. A tourist guide accompanies the group.
Hylton Ross
This operator arranges half to full day tours. Many of the attractions are visited briefly or driven past, nonetheless the tours are good. The half day tour costs R 290 per person, lasts about four and a half hours and takes tourists to Table Mountain, the Waterfront, Sea Point, Castle of Good Hope, Company Gardens, the Slave Lodge, District Six and Green Market Square. Full day tours costs about R 520 and the tourist can opt either for the Cape Point and Table Mountain tour or the cultural tour of Robben Island which entails a ferry ride and careful exploration of the island. Full day tours last about ten hours. These operate daily except Sunday.
City Sightseeing Bus
These operators offer a variety of package deals that vary in terms of which sights will be visited [different sights are visited on the red and blue routes] and which vary as to the length of each tour. Usually tours last one day. The city’s main attractions are visited by buses which depart from outside the Two Oceans Aquarium at 9:30 A.M and every 30 minutes after that till about 3:30 P.M. It is a good way to become acquainted with the city’s sights and tourists can always re-visit these places to explore them more fully. The tour costs about R 100 per person.
Footsteps to Freedom
This walking tour is an excellent way of getting acquainted with Cape Town’s cultural treasures. This 3 hour long tour includes commentary given by knowledgeable guides about Cape Town’s various attractions. The tour departs outside Cape Town Tourism [Visitor Information Centre] at 10:30 A.M. daily except Sunday. The tour costs R 120 for adults and R 60 for children. Tourists are given a lesson in South African history and taken around the Slave Lodge, Slave Tree, Parliament, District Six, Green Market Square, and the Castle of Good Hope. These tours can be customized as well.
Cape Town masjids and Muslim travel
Masjid al Jamia
Address: Stegman Road, Claremont
Ashton Islamic Centre
Address: Uitspan & Voortrekker Roads, Ashton
Masjid Ghiedmatul Islam
Address: Taronga Road, Crawford
Masjid us Salaam
Address: St. Athens Road, Thornton, Athlone
The Jumu'a Mosque of Cape Town
Greys Pass, Cape Town, South Africa
Claremont Main Road Mosque
40 Main Rd, Cape Town, South Africa
Transportation
Buses
Taking the bus to get around Cape Town is a good idea since most of Cape Town’s attractions are covered by these buses. The Cape Town Explorer departs from the Two Oceans Aquarium and operates from 9:30 A.M – 3 :30 P.M. A good idea would be to head to the tourist bureau where shuttles leave frequently for the various tourist hotspots. Ticket prices vary depending on the distance travelled and can cost anything between R 50 and R 200.
Metrorail
The Cape Metro Rail runs 3 local metro lines.The train station is located on Adderley street. Service is not spectacular but is good enough for getting around Cape Town’s major neighborhoods, towns and areas. Ticket prices vary depending on whether passengers opt to travel first or third class. Tourists should keep in mind that the station and the trains themselves are swarming with pickpockets and so should be attentive.
Taxi
Taxis can hardly be seen on the roads of Cape Town as most of Cape Town’s residents do not use cabs as their prefered mode of transportation. Call one of the reliable taxi operators listed below and book a cab in advance. Alternatively, consult the management at the hotel at which you are staying. Rates vary depending on the time of the day [rates are significantly higher during rush hour and late at night] and the distance travelled. They generally cost between R 9-11 for each kilometer travelled.
Rent a Car
Renting a car will probably be the best thing to do to get around Cape Town. Cars are the most reliable mode of transportation as much of the public transportation winds up in the evening. Moreover, it is the quickest mode of transportation.
From the airport
From Cape Town International Airport:
Driving Tips
It is preferable to rent a car with a driver rather than drive by yourself. Whilst Cape Town’s road coverage is extensive the signs are often confusing since sometimes they are in Afrikaans and sometimes in English. Moreover, signs are often missing for long stretches of road. Driving oneself would be a hassle but if visitors still want to drive themselves they should make sure they carry an international driving license and the car documents on them at all times without fail. They must also have at least one year experience of driving.
Health and Safety
Health and Safety
Do not walk alone late at night. Cape Town has a relatively high crime rate. Stick to areas that are well lit.
