Cape Town FAQs

When is the best time to travel to Cape Town?

The summer time (and best time for the beach) is from late October through until March/April. The hottest months are from December to February when you can expect daytime temperatures averaging in the high 20°'s Celsius ( around 68° Fahrenheit) and low 30°'s Celsius ( around 86° Fahrenheit) . During this period rainfall is usually minimal.

During the colder months from May to September/October, expect a fair amount of rainfall and temperatures averaging between 12° and 20°.

When is the best time to go whale watching?

The whale season runs from June to November every year. During this time many Southern Right and Humpback whales visit the shores of Cape Town, the Whale Coast and the Garden Route, to breed.

What is public transport like in Cape Town? Can we use it?

Where possible, it is best to avoid using public transport altogether. Public transport is generally unreliable, and most of the routes serviced do not include many areas that as a tourist you will want to visit.

At night, public transport is irregular and is not always safe. If you don't want to drive , there are many reputable taxi companies you can use. Alternatively, either we or your hotel can easily arrange safe and reliable transport for you.

Rikki's cabs have become a reliable and cheap alternative to Cape Town taxis. You'll find them zipping around Cape Town at all hours. Rikkis can be called on 0861 745 547 and run Monday -Thursday (6.30am - 2am) and Friday - Sunday (6.30am to 2am).

Is it safe to self drive?

Yes! Cape Town has excellent roads and is very well sign posted. Self driving is warmly recommended.

Will I need an international drivers permit to drive in South Africa and Cape Town?

Yes. You will need to arrange this in your home country.

What side of the road do cars drive on?

The left hand side.

How far is the airport from the city?

From Cape Town International to the city centre it's about a 20-30 minute drive when there is no traffic. In traffic the journey can take up to an hour and 10 minutes.

How cold is the sea water in Cape Town?

This depends on which Cape Town beach you will be visiting. Cape Town is flanked by the warmer Indian Ocean on its east coast and by the cooler Atlantic on its west coast. Beaches on the eastern seaboard range in temperature between 12° and 17° (sometimes they can be warmer) and beaches on the western sea board are much colder, averaging between 10° and 14°.

What is customary to tip in restaurants?

Ten percent is customary; tip 15% for excellent service.

How can I be certain that my valuables will be safe where we are staying?

Most hotels will have safes for your valuables either in your room or at reception.

What is the standard of accommodation like in Cape Town?

The star ratings in Cape Town and South Africa in general are comparable to international standards in the UK and US. Cape Town accommodation ranges from basic, functional accommodation to luxury five star hotels and villas.

How much can I expect to pay for accommodation in Cape Town?

This depends entirely on which area you stay in and on the level of luxury you are looking for. Accommodation costs anything from about R400 per person per night sharing up to R5000 per person per night sharing. Some exclusive places will cost you even more.

What is normally included in the cost of my accommodation in Cape Town?

Most of the time accommodation in Cape Town is on a bed and breakfast basis. There are a few hotels which have options to include dinner as well, but very few hotels and guesthouses offer fully inclusive options in Cape Town.

What is a car guard?

In most parking areas in South Africa, either in the streets or in designated parking lots, you will see men (and less frequently women) dressed wearing bright orange, green, or yellow traffic bibs.

Car guards are there to watch your car while you go off shopping, to the beach or wherever else you are headed. These individuals are not paid a wage. It is customary to tip them a small amount of money when you return to your car, depending on how long you have been parked there for.

What is the best way to experience Table Mountain? Do we need to book?

It is not necessary to book trips up Table Mountain. Simply arrive, buy your ticket, wait in the cue if necessary, and you will soon find yourself in the cable car and on your way up Table Mountain. If you are relatively fit, hiking up the mountain makes for a wonderful day-trip. You can also do a walk up-cable car down combination.

Do we need to book in advance for Robben Island?

We recommend booking Robben Island tours in advance as there are a limited number of seats available per day. Booking is especially important if you are travelling in the busy season from October to March.

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