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The 50 Most Instagrammable Spots in South Africa

The Big 7 Travel team has created a list of the Top 50 Most Instagrammable Countries in the World. South Africa made it into the top 5, taking 5th place. They used a thorough system to select the countries, with hashtag popularity plus votes from a panel of travel experts.

Our country’s excessive photogenic beauty inspired the team to compile an in-depth article with the most Instagram-worthy spots. Epic hiking terrain, serene beaches, vibey cosmopolitan cities… What more can we ask for?

Without further ado, the 50 Most Instagrammable Spots in South Africa.

#50 Kagga Kamma Nature Reserve (Cederberg)

Situated two and half hours from Cape Town, this rugged reserve is the perfect weekend escape from city life. During the day you will be mesmerized by the strange rock formations scattered across the desert-like terrain. At night you can enjoy the wonder of a night sky filled with stars.

Visit kaggakamma.co.za for more information.

#49 Umhlanga Lighthouse (Umhlanga)

#48 Nelson Mandela Bridge (Johannesburg)

#47 Four Seasons Hotel (The Westcliff)

#46 Knysna Elephant Park (Plettenberg Bay)

This one will be a bit of a longer road trip from the city, 6 hours on the coastal route and 7 hours inland if you want to drive there or back via Oudtshoorn. The expansive Western Cape reserve is home to rescued elephants.

Visit knysnaelephantpark.co.za for more information.

#45 Boulders Beach (Cape Town)

Situated on the False Bay side of the city, close to Simons Town, a visit to the home of cute penguins should definitely be on your to-do list. A unique South African Instagram experience. Read more about the beach’s adorable inhabitants.

#44 Babylonstoren (Stellenbosch)

Within an hour’s drive from the city, near Klapmuts, lies a historic farm that was transformed into a stylish hotel. The Cape Dutch architecture has Instagram-worthy written all over it. The grounds feature rustic gardens, a vineyard, as well as a spa. Read our post to find out more about it.

#43 Walter Sisulu National Botanical Garden (Roodepoort)

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#42 Moses Mabhida Stadium Durban (Durban)

#41 Hermanus Whale Watching (Overberg)

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It is the Whale Festival in Hermanus this weekend. Tag someone you would like to go and spot some whales with. Do you know what kind of whales visit us in Cape Town? Follow @secretcapetown for more and tag us or use #secretcapetown to be featured. Photo by @lifeofchristaylor . . . . . #capetown #cityofcapetown #amazingcapetown #seecapetown #visitcapetown #thisiscapetown #ig_capetown #southafrica #southafricaza #visitsouthafrica #africa #ig_southafrica #thisisafrica #capetownmag #instagramcapetown #weheartsa #capetowntourism #westerncape #capetownsouthafrica #meetcapetown #capetownetc #thisisafrica #southafrica #capetowntravel #explorecapetown #hermanus #whalefestival #whales #hermanuswhalefestival

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Less than two hours’ drive from the city, is the whale watching capital of the Western Cape. From June to December you can even spot the migrating whales from the shore including Southern Right whales, Humpback whales, and Bryde’s whales. Read our post 5 of the Best Ways to See Whales around Cape Town if you want to see whales closer to the city.

#40 Muizenberg (Cape Town)

Situated in False Bay, it’s a popular surfer spot, about 30 minutes’ drive from the CBD. The main Instagrammable feature is the cute little wooden colourful beach huts.

#39 Namaqualand in Spring (Cederberg & West Coast)

As winter turns into spring, the Western Cape celebrates with a kaleidoscope of colours. From the end of August till early October (weather dependent) brightly coloured flowers pop up everywhere. Read our post Where to See the Wildflowers in the Cape to plan your trip.

#38 The Richtersveld (Northern Cape)

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Something in-between mythology of dragons and modern day lizards. The Ouroboros is an ancient symbol depicting a serpent or dragon eating its own tail. Highly prized in the illicit black market trade in reptiles these animals are collected on a large scale with hugely negative effects on local populations. They stay in large family groups amongst rock cracks and boulders and can be totally wiped out by a single collector. Becoming locally extinct from a hillside. A classic defensive posture is to bite their tails and form an almost perfect circle which they can then roll off the rock outcrop and escape potential predators. Meet the Armadillo Lizard – Ouroborus cataphractus. . . . . .
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#37 The Silo Hotel (Cape Town)

Imagine a hotel in an old grain silo. Does it sound boring and ugly? You will be pleasantly surprised by this architectural feat. Pop in at the Zeitz MOCAA art museum as well to admire the innovative design.

Visit The Silo Hotel website for more information

#36 Elands River Falls (Waterval Boven/Emgwenya)

#35 Inanda Mountain (Durban)

#34 Otter Trail (Tsitsikamma Coastal National Park)

Another great excuse for a road trip! Travelling via the coast will take 6 and a half hours, inland it will take you 8 hours. The route is five days long in total, but you can do shorter sections if you don’t have the time or stamina for it. It is nature on steroids, with rugged shore scenery.

Visit www.tsitsikamma.info  for more information

#33 Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park (Upington)

#32 Cape of Good Hope (Cape Town)

The rocky headland brings together two oceans, the Atlantic and Indian. Its other name is “the Cape of Storms”. For centuries it has challenged the navigational skills of sailors. Finding a beautiful scene for an epic Instagram pic, won’t be a challenge.

Click here for more information.

#31 Hole in the Wall (Coffee Bay, Eastern Cape)

#30 Father Coffee (Braamfontein, Johannesburg)

#29 Drakensberg Mountains (KwaZulu-Natal)

#28 Buffels Bay (Garden Route)

If you feel the need to drive and soak up the Western Cape beauty, head here. It’s 5 and a half hours via the coast, 6 and a half inland. You can find an outstretched, clean beach closer to the city but there’s just something special about this one. And the little town is fun to explore as well.

#27 Robben Island (Cape Town)

The island is tainted with South Africa’s tumultuous political past. Visiting the former prison is a sombre experience. But this one is on the Instagrammable list because of its important role in the country’s history.

Visit robben-island.org.za for more information

#26 Union Buildings (Pretoria)

#25 Durban Natural Science Museum (Durban)

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Related: Cape Town’s Top 10 Most Instagram-Worthy Spots

#24 Nourish’d (Cape Town)

There are now two branches of this stylish sustainable café, one in Observatory and the other in Gardens. First you can feed your eyes and then your tummy! The restaurant has achieve zero waste level, quite impressive.

Visit nourishd.co.za for more information.

#23 Bloukrans Bridge (Nature’s Valley, Western Cape)

Just over 6 hours’ drive from the city, it’s a must to stop here while you are exploring the Garden Route. Whether you jump or just admire the view across the valley, you will most likely gasp either way. It’s the world’s highest commercial and natural bungy jump bridge, at 216m high.

Click here for directions.

#22 Hoyo Hoyo Safari Lodge (Kruger Park)

#21 Augrabies Falls National Park (Northern Cape)

#20 Diving Board, Table Mountain (Cape Town)

Of course Table Mountain is on the Instagrammable list! This rock created a natural diving board that hangs across the city. It has become one of the favourite mountain spots for an iconic Instagram shot. Just don’t venture out onto it on a windy day…

#19 Cape Vidal Beach (St. Lucia)

#18 Chapman’s Peak Drive (Cape Town)

You will search hard to find a more scenic drive. It’s rated at the top of scenic routes around the world. Imposing cliffs, outstretched ocean, and beautiful beaches. What more could you ask for? Stop at one of the vantage points for the ultimate Instagram shot! Read our post to find out more about this amazing route.

#17 Sodwana Bay (KwaZulu-Natal)

#16 Tsitsikamma National Park (Knysna)

#15 Bo-Kaap (Cape Town)

The suburb just off the city centre has Instagram painted all over it. The vividly coloured houses will challenge your compositional skills. Read more about the area.

#14 De Hoop Nature Reserve (Cape Agulhas)

Drive three hours from Cape Town to reach  to the most Southern point of Africa, in the Overberg region. Enjoy the whiter-than-white sand, which seems to stretch out as far as the eye can see.

Click here for more information.

#13 God’s Window (Blyde River Canyon)

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#12 Valley of Desolation (Camdeboo National Park)

#11 Mapungubwe (Limpopo)

#10 Sani Pass (KwaZulu-Natal)

#9 Lion’s Head (Cape Town)

You’ll have to work hard for the epic Instagram shot awaiting you. But when you reach the top of the mountain, you will forget about all the effort it took. A unique perspective on the city is guaranteed. Read our post What You Need To Know About Hiking Up Lion’s Head For The Full Moon for a monthly Instagram-worthy trek up the mountain.

View our Our Top 10 Pictures of Lion’s Head

#8 Stellenbosch (Western Cape)

Yup, the whole town and wine region surrounding it is Instagrammable! Old Cape Dutch buildings and majestic mountains, need we say more.

#7 Lion Sands Ivory Lodge (Mpumalanga)

#6 Blyde River Canyon (Mpumalanga)

#5 Orlando Towers (Johannesburg)

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✨ TODAY'S FEATURE FOR: #HPSAjourney ✨⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣ Photo By: @giuliabono9⁣ Orlando Towers in Soweto is a great location to do some adventurous sports and their bungee jump is a must try! It is a thrilling and unique experience for bungee jumpers and is also a great place for local food. ⁣ ⁣ Tag someone you'd like to be with here. 👇👇👇⁣ .⁣ .⁣ .⁣ JOIN OUR THIS WEEK'S HASHTAG PROJECT: #HPSAjourney 🙌⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣ The goal this week is to share your best photos/videos of a journey you’ve experienced in the last year. Maybe you travelled to the #Drakensberg or climbed #TableMountain for the first time. No matter what it was, we’d love to share your content⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣ .⁣ .⁣ .⁣ Discover Africa's best wonders, beautiful lifestyle and majestic wildlife by following us: @Instagram_SA⁣ .⁣ Tag us or use #instagram_sa for a chance to get featured.⁣ .⁣ .⁣ .⁣ .⁣ .⁣ #orlandotowers #johannesburg #soweto #bungeejump #bungeejumping #jump #heights #thisissouthafrica #exploresouthafrica #whattodoinsaouthafrica #discoversouthafrica #travelsouthafrica #adventure #outdoor #outdooractivities #sports #meetsouthafrica #wanderlust #visulasoflife #instagram_sa #southafrica #africa

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#4 Mandela Capture Site (KwaZulu-Natal)

#3 Jacaranda Trees (Pretoria)

#2 Sabi Sands Private Game Reserve (Kruger National Park)

#1 Bloubergstrand (Cape Town)

When you say “South Africa” to some foreigners, this is the picture that pops up in their head. The mountain is now part of the world’s new 7 wonders of nature, so it would make sense that it is at the top of the 50 Most Instagrammable Spots in South Africa list.

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One destination, Six Unbelievable Experiences

Cape Town has been voted best city in the world six times in a row. Each year the Telegraph UK asks their travel readers to vote and pick their favourite cities in the world. We totally understand why the Mother City has claimed the top spot six times now!

It feels like the city is filled with endless adventure options. And these range from tame leisurely activities, to hard core challenging ones. The Cape Town Big 6 company has created a platform where you can conveniently book the top must-do experiences.

The following should be high on your holiday priority list. And if you live in Cape Town, make sure you put these on your bucket list.

#1 Table Mountain Cableway

The cableway has been operating since October the 4th, 1929. It is estimated that over the years the Table Mountain Cableway has carried more than 27-million people to the top of the world-famous mountain. Table Mountain is a World Heritage Site and has been included in the list of New 7 Wonders of Nature. Read our post about the Table Mountain Aerial Cableway to find out more about its history.

Each cable car carries up to 65 people, that’s approximately 800 people enjoying a scenic trip up the mountain every hour. That adds up to about 909 000 people every year. In 1997 the cable way was upgraded to state-of-the-art Rotairs that offer you 360° views while you make your way up and down the mountain. These nifty cable cars will carrier you to the top of the mountain in five minutes, travelling at 10m per second. Another handy feature of the Rotairs, is the water tank base. Each cable car can carry 3 000 liters. It serves a dual purpose, transporting fresh water for mountain visitors and a sturdy ballast during windy conditions. Click here to learn more about Table Mountain.

#2 V & A Waterfront

This unique shopping and entertainment hub draws about 24 million people each year. It’s rated as one of Africa’s most-visited destinations. It’s not hard to see why it is so popular. The place has a unique vibe. Buskers are scattered around beating out a tune on their guitar or xylophone. And it features the formidable Table Mountain as its backdrop across the ocean views in the harbour.

The V & A Waterfront stretched over 123 hectares. It’s a unique mixed-use development which revamped the old Victoria & Alfred basins which expanded the harbour capacity. The land was repurposed in 1990 to include commercial trading which included restaurants, speciality shopping, an arts and craft market, the V&A Hotel, a theatre, the National Maritime Museum, and more.

Now almost 30 years later, the V & A Waterfront is a firm fixture in the South African economy, bringing in millions of rands every year. Recent additions to the area include the expansion of the Silo district and the Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa (MOCAA). Read our post Top 10 Things To Do At The V&A Waterfront, you’ll be kept busy for hours (if not days)

#3 Kirstenbosch Gardens

It is one of the greatest botanical gardens of the world. Kirstenbosch nestles against Table Mountain’s eastern slopes, stretching over 5.28 km². The area dates back to ancient times, with Stone Age hand-axes and stone implements discovered in the Dell. This area was also home to two Khoikhoi clans, the Gorachouqua and Goringhaiqua. Click here to read more about the history. And make sure you view the historical Van Riebeeck’s hedge.

Kirstenbosch was officially founded in 1913. The main aim of the gardens was to preserve the country’s unique flora. This was a worldwide milestone, no other botanical garden had this ethos. Till this day, the botanical garden has a very strong focus on cultivating indigenous plants. The garden covers five out of the six South African biomes. Another unique feature of Kirstenbosch is the Boomslang walkway. It celebrates the centenary birthday of Kirstenbosch (2013). Read more about it here.

#4 Robben Island

The name means “seal island” in Dutch. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site as well as a South African National Heritage Site. Since the 17th century the island operated as a prison. The most famous prisoner was Nelson Mandela, former President of South Africa and Nobel Laureate. He spent 18 years of his 27 year sentence on the island.

After the end of Apartheid, the island transformed into a living museum, offering visitors a behind the scenes glimpse of prison life. The ferry leaves from the Waterfront, at the dock next to the Nelson Mandela Gateway to Robben Island Museum.

An interesting element incorporated into the experience, is that some of the tour guides are former Robben Island prisoners. This will give you priceless insight into life on the island. The tours to the island are very popular, so you need to book ahead of time, especially in peak season (December to February)

#5 Groot Constantia

It is the country’s oldest wine estate, established over 330 years ago. This world renowned estate formed the foundations of South Africa’s commercial wine industry. In Europe kings and emperors enjoyed the famous wines, including King Louis Phillipe of France and Frederick the Great of Prussia.

Jane Austen called it “a cure for a broken heart” in her novel Sense and Sensibility. And Charles Dickens claimed that a sip will lift your spirit in his novel The Mystery of Edwin Drood. Other famous drinkers included Napoleon Bonaparte, soothing his sorrows during his exile on Saint Helena Island.

The beauty of Groot Constantia, is that you don’t have to travel far to reach this little wine valley. It lies in the Southern Suburbs, just before you reach Hout Bay. You can also travel to it via the City Sightseeing bus, if you want to taste wine without worrying about the driving. Try one of the VoiceMap App Audio Walking Tours to enhance your experience.

#6 Cape Point

In 1488 the explorer Bartolomeu Dias gave it the nickname “The Cape of Storms”. In the daytime it’s a great navigational landmark. But at night when the fog descends, and when the ocean becomes tumultuous, it is not the sailors’ friend anymore.

By 1859 a lighthouse was erected to navigate more safely around this treacherous point. The first lighthouse still stands, towering at 238 metres above sea-level on the highest peak section. This lighthouse is also a centralised monitoring point for the surrounding lighthouses along the South African coastline. Use the Flying Dutchman funicular to travel up to it from the lower station (127 metres above sea-level)

The Cape Point is part of the Cape of Good Hope nature reserve, situated within the Table Mountain National Park. It is a World Heritage Site that is part of the Cape Floral Region. There’s a lot to explore in the reserve. You can create a little mini safari for yourself spotting zebras, bucks, baboons, and more while admiring the local fauna. And stop at one of the rugged beaches for a quick picnic.

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Visit ctbig6.co.za now for quick bookings.

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What Is the Best Time to Visit Cape Town?

Cape Town has been voted the best city in the world six times in a row by the Telegraph Travel Readers. And it’s not hard to see why. Beautiful beaches, magnificent mountains, endless things to do, a buzzing cosmopolitan vibe… And that’s just mentioning the bare minimum!

But there is a little challenging factor to a holiday in the fairest of Capes, as Sir Francis Drake called it. The city was also given the name “the Cape of Storms” by Bartolomeo Dias. Depending on your holiday needs, the tumultuous weather can be a pro or a con.

Weather in Cape Town

The best way to describe the weather in Cape Town? Four seasons in one day. It can be high summer and you will need a jersey. The best way to approach the weather in Cape Town, is to be prepared for anything. Carry a light jersey with you, even in the summer months, because the wind can suddenly get very chilly. During winter and the other in-between seasons, layer up, so you can layer down if need be. Even during the icy wet winter, an almost-summer day can make a quick appearance.

With its location next to the ocean, the climate has a Mediterranean-feel to it. In the hot summer months, the temperatures can soar up to 35°C (95°F) and then you will wish the infamous wind will make an appearance. In the winter it can rain for days on end, with the temperatures dropping below 10°C (50°F).

The wind is a constant companion of Capetonians. Mostly you will have a love/hate relationship with it. The Cape Doctor, the nickname of the South-Easter wind, blows during the spring months (August and September) to late summer (March and April). Some days it will be a gentle breeze ruffling your hair as you walk on the beach, breaking the extreme heat. Other days it will threaten to blow you off your feet. In Table Bay winds of up to 160km/h have been measured.

The wind also triggers the famous Table Cloth. It’s a mesmerizing weather phenomena, caused by the fluctuations in temperature surrounding the mountain. The False Bay air, full of warm moisture, is picked up by the wind and it’s pushed towards the eastern flank of Table Mountain. It’s lifted up against the Table Mountain slopes. Then all of a sudden it drops down and the clouds disappear into thin air.

Summer in Cape Town

The balmy summer months end and start the year, from December to mid-March. It’s the perfect end or start to your year! Another great aspect of Cape Town summers, is the fact that the sun sets around 8 o’clock. Morning temperatures range at about 15°C (59°F) and can reach 35°C (95°F) middle day in high summer.

If you are a big fan of lounging on the beach, summer months are the best time to visit Cape Town. With the prospect of the wind joining you on your holiday, it’s also a great time to indulge in fun water sports such as kite or wind surfing. Another activity complemented by the wind, is paragliding. Slowly hovering over the city from Lion’s Head or Signal Hill (or even Table Mountain) will be an unforgettable experience.

But beware, you will not be the only one thinking it’s a good idea to head to the beach on a beautiful summer’s day. Especially during December you will also have the local South African tourists to contend with. All of a sudden you will notice that half the cars on the road have GP number plates! We’ll give you the inside scoop, head over to one of the best secret beaches in the Cape to avoid the crowds.

Accommodation and flight prices are pushed up during the peak summer period. If you’re schedule is flexible, rather plan a trip in late-November or mid-March to soak up the African sun without being squashed on the beach and paying exorbitant prices.

Related: 5 Off The Beaten Track Festivals

Autumn and Spring in Cape Town

The in-between seasons can be the best time to visit Cape Town. During these months the weather is less extreme, and the city is not as crowded as during peak season. You can score great accommodation and flight deals if you plan ahead. Just keep an eye on the Easter weekend dates, prices are pushed up for this popular holiday break.

From late-March the mornings become chillier, and slowly the sun starts rising later in the morning, and setting earlier at night. During the day temperatures range in the early 20’s (68°F) and in the afternoon it will start dropping lower again.

Spring arrives from the end of August, with the sun rising around 07:00 in the morning and setting at 18:30. Daytime temperatures start climbing into the higher 20’s (68°F). But mornings and evenings are still chilly. Read our post Where to See the Wildflowers in the Cape for a truly magical experience which transforms the landscape every year.

With the extreme summer heat subdued, both autumn and spring are great seasons to explore the outdoors in the middle of the day, instead of worrying about the potent summer midday sun. Cape Town is an outdoor fanatic’s paradise, with almost-endless hiking and mountain bike trails. Read our post Top 5 Hiking Routes up Table Mountain.

Winter in Cape Town

Some would argue that winter is the best time to visit Cape Town, but it all depends on what kind of holiday experience you are looking for. Winter is whale-watching season, read our post 5 of the Best Ways to See Whales around Cape Town to plan your holiday around these fascinating gentle giants of the ocean.

The winter period is from late-June to mid-September. Morning temperatures can drop below 10°C (50°F) and will hover in the teens throughout the day. Along with the chilly weather, long stints of rain ascend on the city. All of a sudden the tip of Africa will be transformed into a London-like atmosphere, with soft drizzle falling relentlessly for days on end.

If you are sensitive to long periods of overcast weather, you might want to rather plan your trip at the beginning or end of winter to avoid the gloominess. Even though the outdoor activities mostly come to a halt, you can still indulge in the indoor fun. Read our post about 10 Restaurants with Fireplaces in Cape Town to counter the chill.

Another great indoor activity for the winter months, is exploring the Iziko Museum Mile. You’ll be kept busy for hours hopping from one heritage museum to the next. These include the Bo-Kaap museum, Planetarium, Rust en Vreugd, Slave Lodge, South African Museum, South African National Gallery, and the William Fehr Collection at The Castle of Good Hope. End off your exploration at one of the Harrington Street Restaurants and Cafés.

Daylight Hours

In the summer months, it almost feels like there’s endless sunshine available. You can get up to 14 sunlight hours per day, from 05h30 to 20h00. During the in-between seasons of spring and autumn, it goes down to about 12 hours, from 06h30 to 18h45. And in winter there is around 10 hours of sunlight, from 07h45 to 17h50.

How much are flights to Cape Town?

Peak Season (mid-December to January)

A lot of people will tell you this is the best time to visit Cape Town to experience the ultimate summer holiday. But because it’s so popular, it’s very busy and very pricey. Flight tickets can be pushed up by as much as 50% from mid-December to January. If you do want to visit the Mother City during the epic height of summer, you will have to book your accommodation and flights at least three months ahead.

Shoulder Seasons (March to May; September to November)

Planning your visit a little bit away from the peak season can be the best time to visit Cape Town if you want to still experience the summer fun, but not have excessive travel costs. You can save up to 30% when travelling in this gap period.

Off-Peak Season (June to August)

People might tell you it’s not the best time to visit Cape Town. And you will save up to 40% because of this believe. But because of the winter rain, the Western Cape transforms into lush green rolling hills.

So What Is The Best Time To Visit Cape Town?

Well, according to us the best time to visit Cape Town, is every day of the year! Each season in the Mother City has its own special charm. From the balmy summer days, to the cold winter nights perfect for snuggling next to a fireplace.

We hope that you find your favourite season in the Mother City and return every year to come and soak up the awesomeness! Remember to share your epic Instagram pics with us! Tag @secretcapetown or use #secretcapetown to be featured with our #guesswhere.

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How to Get From the Cape Town International Airport to Your Hotel

How To Get From The Cape Town International Airport To Your Hotel South Africa

The Cape Town International Airport is located 20 kilometres to the west of the Cape Town CBD. It lies in the Matroosfontein district. Conveniently located next to the N2 highway, you can easily travel to the various sides of the city from the airport.

Transport Options from Cape Town International Airport

There are a variety of ways to travel to your hotel from the Cape Town International Airport. These include the MyCiti bus transport system, shuttle services and metered taxis, car rentals, and Uber.

Your choice of transport will depend on the distance you have to travel, as well as the direction. For short distances from the airport, an Uber ride will be sufficient. If you are staying in the city centre, on the Atlantic seaboard, or towards the West Coast –  consider using the MyCiti bus.

If you prefer to travel speedily and directly to your hotel, you can consider using a shuttle service or metered taxi. Alternatively, if you will be travelling a lot during your stay in Cape Town, hiring your own car could be the best option. Read our post about the Best Car Rental Companies in Cape Town.

MyCiti Bus Airport Transport Service

You can take the MyCiti bus from the airport to the Civic Centre. This is the main station where you can effortlessly switch to other routes travelling throughout the city. The busses travel throughout the city centre, the Atlantic Seaboard, as well as towards Century City and Melkbos Strand.  Click here to view the MyCiti routes.

My City Bus Cape Town - Get From The Cape Town International Airport to Your Hotel In Cape Town

The busses run between 5:30 am and 9:30 pm. To reach the MyCiti bus station, head out the main airport entrance and turn to your left. You will see the Public Transport Plaza opposite the Central Terminal Building entrance. Travelling into the city will take about 30 minutes, depending on traffic. You can buy your MyCiti card at the airport bus station. The card costs R35 and is valid for five years. Fares to the city cost between R60 and R100, depending on when you travel.  Read more about the MyCiti airport service.

Uber

Uber Cape Town International Airport - Get From The Cape Town International Airport to Your Hotel In Cape Town

The airport has created a designated area where you can book your Uber from. The official pick up is from parkade 1. As you head out of the airport, turn to your right towards the separate parking building. Ubers are constantly heading in and out of the airport, so it will not take long to book a car. If you can’t find your Uber, you can contact the driver via the app.

The following are pricing estimates to a few popular destinations near Cape Town:

  • Waterfront, from R 177
  • Camps Bay, from R 190
  • Stellenbosch, from R 254
  • Simonstown, from R 316

Uber Cape Town International Airport - Getting From Cape Town International Airport To Hotel

Car Rentals

Hiring a private car to use during your Cape Town holiday is a great way to explore the city and surrounding areas at your own leisure. Before making a booking, make sure that your licence is valid and accepted in South Africa. It is recommend that you pre-book your rental car before arriving at the airport. This especially important during high season from December to February. Click here to compare car rental prices.

Cape Town International Airport Car Rental

The car rental agencies are situated at the Transport Plaza and the Central Terminal Building. You can access the plaza via two subways, located on the sides of the terminal building. Currently there are 9 car rental agencies providing services from the Cape Town airport:

  • Avis
  • Europcar
  • First Car Rental
  • Bidvest Car Rental
  • Hertz
  • Tempest Car Hire
  • Woodford
  • Dollar / Thrifty Car Rental
  • Capital Car Hire

Cape Town Airport Shuttle Services

As you walk out of the domestic arrivals terminal or international inner lane, you will be greeted by a variety of friendly shuttle service operators. Depending on how far you will be travelling, as well as how many people will be travelling together, a shuttle service can be a very good transport option.

The add-on benefit of a shuttle service, is that they often also offer tour options that you could consider. Make sure that you compare travelling prices to ensure that you pick the most affordable transport method. Sometimes you also need to pre-book a shuttle. Click here for the 10 Best Cape Town Taxis and Shuttles.

Cape Town Airport Metered Taxis

The Cape Town International Airport has an accredited metered taxi service, the Touchdown Taxi Association. Their contact number is +27 (0)83 652 0786. Find the metered taxis at the Transport Plaza. You can access it via two pedestrian subways from the passenger terminal’s main entrance.

Alternative Travel Option

When booking your stay at a local hotel or bed and breakfast, you can check if they offer collection options from the airport. This is a good solution to save yourself the trouble of finding your accommodation if you are worried about navigating your way through the city.

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Cape Town Car Rental Companies
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Best Car Rental Companies in Cape Town

Although the public transport system in Cape Town is of high quality, the freedom to move around on your own schedule, is very appealing. To truly experience Cape Town, you must drive to the outskirts to enjoy the vast difference between areas.

From the outstretched beaches of the Atlantic coast, to the forest-like feel of the Southern Suburbs, to the rocky mountains near Muizenberg. Each little hub of Cape Town has its own unique vibe. And cruising around in your own rental car, will offer you a much more holistic picture of the city.

We’ve found the best car hire Cape Town has to offer. Some names are well-known across the country, and world. Others are local companies, passionate about offering you a reliable way of exploring the Mother City.

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Cape Town as A Solo Traveler: Part 2
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Cape Town as A Solo Traveller: Part 2

Written by Kalee LaPointe, a student from San Angelo, Texas, United States. She is currently studying English Literature at Goucher College in Towson, Maryland. She has been doing an internship in Cape Town during her Summer break, and the following is her accounts. Follow her journey on Instagram @kaleefromtexas

Traveling Solo

As I sit here writing this, I honestly cannot believe my time in Cape Town is coming to an end. I know people told me 4-weeks would go by fast, but I just can’t believe how fast they really did.
When I think of my time here, I remember what it was like the first time I traveled alone. It was when I moved off to college, over 1,600 miles (2,600 kilometers) away from everyone and everything I knew. I was terrified to be quite honest. But I’d honestly never been so exited or felt so exhilarated in my life. A year later, I took off again to study abroad in Greece for four months. Now that was over 6,400 miles (10,000 km) and an ocean away, but I wasn’t as terrified so much as nervous.

Cape Town as A Solo Traveler: Part 2
Fast forward another year and I was jetting off here to Cape Town—over 8,900 miles (14,000 km) and 2 oceans away. While each experience has taught me something new (including how to break the news to my supportive but ever worrying mom) and my anxiety and nerves have definitely gone down – something about Cape Town just felt different. And it has been.

This experience has opened my eyes in ways I never expected; perhaps it’s the time in my life where the future is such a daunting idea, maybe it’s the way I started this journey completely on my own, or perhaps it’s just Cape Town. Perhaps it’s just…everything. Regardless of the reason, I’ve learned how to be myself because of it.

That’s the thing about traveling solo. While some people find it intimidating and others might think it’s scary, it can definitely be both, you truly learn more about yourself than you ever even imagined was possible. If you’re even the slightest bit interested in traveling to Cape Town on your own, I have just two words for you…DO IT! You will be so glad you did.

When in Cape Town

Like everyone I spoke to beforehand, I had some preconceived ideas of what Cape Town would be like. Every single one has been wrong except for one— “I’ll have some new adventures.” Which I most definitely have! Although they haven’t all been good or exciting, like the time my phone suddenly malfunctioned and I had to walk up and down Signal Hill to try and get a signal (and yes, my friends thought this was ironically hilarious), they have all taught me something valuable.

At times I was worried, like when I went zip lining for the first time in my life or climbed through caves, but every day I kept repeating my ever-standing mantra— “when in Cape Town!” It has been the most welcoming, friendly, and honestly most amazing place I’ve ever been. I’m beyond thankful I have had such an incredible experience here. I’m so grateful to all of the amazing people I’ve met along the way who have helped me to make memories I’ll never forget.

Cape Town as A Solo Traveler: Part 2

While traveling solo means you start off on your own (completely and utterly alone), it really frees you to meet new people. Not saying that traveling with people is in any way a bad thing, but I do think it’s a completely different experience. When you’re on your own, you’re just that—on your own. Free to go at your own pace, explore on your own schedule. This allows you the opportunities to really bond with other people, especially those who are in the exact same situation.

Most of the time it’s people you wouldn’t have otherwise even talked to, much less, in my case, built strong connections with. As a solo traveler, you get to meet people from all walks of life. And if you’re in Cape Town, you get to meet the most diverse, fun, adventurous range of people.

Well, This Is It

From last-minute adventures around the city to late nights out on Long Street and weeknights at Stones, Cape Town has been somewhere I’m proud to call my home away from home. It’s a funny thing, the word home. Everywhere I’ve travelled and lived, even school, I’ve always been reluctant to call it home. Home was San Angelo, Texas.  A grey-blue house with a white door and 2-windows. It was my mom, my dog and cat, my family. Home was…is…a feeling, I think. I don’t know what it is, but from the first few days I arrived here, I’ve just felt so at home in Cape Town. I’m honestly so sad to be leaving; I feel like I’m really leaving home.

Cape Town as A Solo Traveler: Part 2

I truly made the best decision of my life coming to Cape Town. It was never a grand plan of mine to come here, but now it’s my main plan to come back some day (probably in summer for all of you telling how much better it is then, although I honestly don’t know how it could be any better than it already is).
Traveling alone is so many things (you can choose which words you’d like to use), but traveling solo to Cape Town is something I think everyone should do. It’s amazing, so beautiful, fantastic—all of the words you might find as an exaggeration. But here, they’re just the plain truth. As I leave Cape Town, I’ll always treasure not only the experiences I’ve had here, but also the person I am in this very moment, and all of the adventures that have led me here.

So, I guess this is it. Thank you for the seemingly never-ending sunsets. Thanks for the breath-taking mountain views. And thank you for the bright lights and lively vibes. Goodbye, Cape Town. Adiós. Αντίο. Sala Kakuhle!

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Guide To Getting A SIm Card In South Africa
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Guide To Getting A South African SIM Card and Using Your Cell Phone While Traveling In South Africa

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Boulders Beach Instagram
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Boulders Beach Cape Town

Boulders Beach

Photo Caption: Tag a friend who needs a hug! 🤗
Did you know that Penguins 🐧 mate for life?

Amazing photo by @emmett_sparling

View in Instagram ⇒

Known as the penguin paradise of Cape Town, Boulders Beach is home to a colony of African penguins. Boulders is located in False Bay just outside of Simon’s Town, this sheltered beach is among the most visited beaches in Cape Town. However there are a few secrets to know to get the best experiences as well as the best photos for Instagram.

Did you know there are two sides to Boulders Beach, Cape Town?

Yes there are. One side ( The north side or Foxy Beach ) allows you to walk along three wheelchair-friendly boardwalks with informational boards and ends at one of two viewing platforms positioned above the main Boulders beach penguin colony. This is where you can find the largest concentration of penguins.

The penguins and people are kept separate here allowing the penguins to socialise, pair up, mate and breed without being disturbed by visitors. It is a great spot to see the penguins going about their activities undisturbed and has the best access for those with disabilities or who struggle walking far on uneven terrain.

At the visitor centre you can find all the information you need about the penguins or you could enquire about a guide.

Boulders Beach Cape Town Boardwalk
The board walk leading down to the viewing platform on Boulders Beach.
Boulders Beach Cape Town Deck View
The view from the viewing platform on the north side of Boulders Beach

If you want to get up close and personal with the Penguins and grab some fantastic photos f you and the Penguins then head over to the south side f Boulders Beach where you can enjoy amazing swimming , sunbathing and penguins. This is the side where the best Instagram photos of builders beach comes from.

Boulders Beach Cape Town Connecting Walkway
The boardwalk behind the beach leading from Foxy beach to Boulders Beach.

To get there exit Foxy Beach through the visitor centre and walk along the road and boardwalk behind the dunes and forest. This is shown by the green dotted line in the map.

There is another parking lot and entrance gate on this side of Boulders Beach. On the map it is indicated by Boulders Beach Standbad.

This beach has a number of facilities such as toilets and a double gate to keep the penguins safe and away from the road.

Boulders Beach Penguins Path Walkway
image taken by @throughbrianseyes

Finding the Best Spots on Boulders Beach

The first beach you will encounter is the largest beach area and where most people sunbath and swim and do not explore much further. It is a good spot set up your umbrella and lay down your towel.

Looking for some instagram inspiration? Check out our post on our favourite Boulders Beach Instagram photos.

There are usually a few penguins around but most of them are behind a small barrier on a rock to the East.

We suggest that you go exploring a bit further. If you walk around the beach to the left you will come to some large boulders which seems like it is the end of the road. However if you crutch down you will see a small tunnel between the rocks that you can duck/crawl through. On the other side you will need to scramble over a few rocks and maybe get your feet wet.

Once though these rocks you will find a more secluded beach with a lot more penguins and some beautiful rocks. This is the best place to get close to the penguins and take some great photographs.

Boulders Beach Cape Town Couple
Boulders Beach Cape Town Penguins and People

Be careful not to get to close as the penguins can give a nasty bite.

If you keep exploring you will find some beautiful spots to relax as well as more penguins.

Boulders Beach Instagram Cape Town Beautiful Spots

Eventually you will reach a sign that says no entry, which is on the far side of Foxy beach and the beginning of the penguins protected area. Don’t go further than this.

Boulders Beach Cape Town Foxy Beach View
The end of the road and the view back towards Foxy Beach and the main penguin colony.

Note: There is no way round here, so you will have to head back the way you came to get back to your car or to Foxy beach.

Tip: If you go around high tide you will be able to stand in the shallow water between the rocks and have the penguins dart and dive all around you.

Boulders Beach Cape Town Penguins Swimming
African Penguins swimming around visitors at Boulders Beach

For Kids

Boulders Beach is the perfect place to spend time with kids as there is lots of fun to be had on the beach. The water is warmer than on the Atlantic seaboard side and it is usually calm between the rocks which makes it perfect for swimming.

African “Jackass” Penguins

Boulders Beach is famous for its resident African Penguins. These African Penguins are widely known as “jackass” penguins for their loud, donkey-like bray. They are believed to be one of the first penguin species to be discovered by humans. These animals have a distinct, sharply pointed beak and black feet. An array of black, white, and gray dense, waterproof feathers covers them and keeps them dry and warm. Another distinctive feature is the small pink gland above each eye, which helps them cope with high temperatures. They can also hold their breaths for over 2 minutes and dive over 400 feet deep. The African penguins are monogamous and both the male and female penguins share parenting duties.

Boulders Beach African Penguins

Over the years, their population has declined due to pollution, over-fishing, habitat destruction, and irresponsible tourism activities. There is, however, no shortage of these aquatic flightless birds on Boulders Beach. The safe and clean environment protects the cute waddling birds. It is only here where you can have a close encounter with these penguins. The special built boardwalks facilitate safe penguin viewing on the beach.

How to get to there:

By Car.

The easiest way to get to Boulders Beach, Cape Town is by car if you have one or are renting one. Head to Simon’s Town along the M3 towards Muizenberg and then continue on the M4 ( Main Road ) through Fish Hoek to Simon’s Town.

Just on the other side of Simon’s Town there will be signs to Boulders Beach. If you see the golf course on your left you will have gone to far.

By Train.

Take the Train from Cape Town to Simon’s Town. Boulders is about two kilometres from the Simons Town station. This is the last stop on the scenic Southern Line.

Boulders Beach, Simon’s Town Telephone Number

+27 (0)21 786 2329

Opening times:

December – January: 7am – 7.30pm
February – March: 8am – 6.30pm
April – September: 8am – 5pm
October – November: 8am – 6.30pm

Fees:

1 November 2018 to 31 October 2019
South African Citizens and Residents (with ID): R39 per adult per day
R20 per child, per day
SADC Nationals (with passport): R76 per adult per day
R39 per child, per day
Standard Conservation Fee (Foreign Visitors): R152 per adult per day
R76 per child, per day

GPS Co-ordinates:

S 34° 7′ 55″ E 18° 26′ 53″

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