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How to Get to Stellenbosch

How to Get to Stellenbosch

Stellenbosch South Africa Travel Guide

Airlines and Airport Facilities

International & Domestic Carriers

CPT hosts a wide array of international and domestic airlines. Major airlines presenting direct or connecting flights from global hubs include Lufthansa, Ba, KLM, Emirates, Qatar Airways, Ethiopian Airlines, Turkish Airlines, and Virgin Atlantic. Domestic companies like South African Airways, FlySafair, Lift, and Airlink supply frequent domestic connections from other South African cities like Johannesburg and Durban.

Flight Availability & Prices

  • Direct flights from London, Amsterdam, Frankfurt, Dubai, Doha.
  • Prices peak during high season (Dec-Feb); demand is highest, availability lessens.
  • Shoulder (Mar-May, Sep-Nov) & low season (Jun-Aug) present better value.

Cape Town International Airport CPT Facilities

CPT exhibits a comprehensive range of facilities to support travelers. These encompass duty-free shops, diverse restaurants, cafes, and fast-food outlets. Car rental agencies (all major international brands are present). Currency exchange services and ATMs. Airport lounges for various airline schemes or pay-per-use access. Free Wi-Fi.

Transfer Options from CPT

  • Rental Car: Most flexible option, desks at airport terminal. Drive is 35-45 mins.
  • Transfer Services: Private/shared shuttles to Stellenbosch accommodations. Pre-book advisable.
  • Taxi/Ride-sharing: Uber and Bolt widely available (R400-R700 est.).

Rental Car

Often the most flexible option for exploring Stellenbosch and the wider Winelands region.

Shuttle Services

Various private and shared shuttle services operate directly from CPT to Stellenbosch. Pre-booking is advisable.

Ride-Sharing

Uber and Bolt are widely available at CPT, with designated pick-up zones.

Public Transport Indirect

MyCiTi Bus

  • Connects CPT to Cape Town city center (Civic Centre).
  • Onward transport to Stellenbosch necessary from there.
  • Less direct option; not generally recommended for direct Stellenbosch travel.
  • Multiple transfers and potential inconvenience with luggage.

Considerations

  • Best for people who travel who want to explore Cape Town first.
  • Can be a more budget-friendly option if already in Cape Town.
  • Familiarity with local public transport system helps.
  • Verify routes and schedules.

Airport Facilities

Shopping & Dining

Duty-free shops, restaurants, cafes, and fast-food options for travelers.

Car Rentals & ATMs

Major international car rental agencies, currency exchange, and ATMs are present.

Lounges & Wi-Fi

Airport relaxation areas for various programs or pay-per-use access, plus free Wi-Fi.

Land Transportation

Train Connections

Train services to Stellenbosch are limited and generally not recommended for tourist travel. The Subwayrail commuter service connects Stellenbosch to Cape Town, but it frequently proves undependable and can pose safety concerns, notably for international visitors unknowledgeable about the system.

Train Information

  • Metrorail commuter service exists, but reliability is a concern.
  • Safety concerns exist, especially for unfamiliar international visitors.
  • No dedicated long-distance tourist train services stop directly in Stellenbosch.

Long-Distance Bus Options

Intercity bus lines, like Intercape and Greyhound, mainly serve major From South africa cities. Travelers would typically take a bus to Cape Town's central bus station and then arrange separate onward transport (e.g., ride-sharing, shuttle) to Stellenbosch.

Considerations for Bus Travel

  • Mainly serves major cities, not direct to Stellenbosch.
  • Requires onward transport from Cape Town's central bus station.
  • Can be a more budget-friendly option for inter-province travel.

Self-Driving Considerations

Self-driving offers immense flexibility for exploring the Winelands. Drive on the left side of the road. General speed limits are 120 km/h (75 mph) on highways, 100 km/h (62 mph) on main provincial roads, and 60 km/h (37 mph) in urban areas. Heed posted signs. You need an International Driving Permit (IDP) if your domestic license is not in English or is without a photograph.

Fuel and Road Conditions

  • Petrol and diesel are widely available; attendants fill your tank (tip R5-R10).
  • Main roads are well-maintained; some farm roads may be gravel.
  • Drive with caution on unpaved roads.

Self-Driving Safety

While less prevalent in Stellenbosch, carjacking can occur in larger urban areas or isolated spots, especially after dark. Always hold vehicle doors locked and windows up. Avoid stopping in deserted areas. Do not leave valuables visible in the vehicle when parked. Organize your routes, especially for night driving, and use reputable navigation apps.

Parking Information

  • Ample street parking (some metered) and paid parking lots exist.
  • Car guards operate in some areas; tip R5-R10 for their service.
  • Always ensure your vehicle is locked and valuables are out of sight when parked.

Sea/River Arrivals

  • Ferry Services and Cruise Ports are not applicable to Stellenbosch.
  • The closest major cruise port is South Africa Harbour.
  • River Transportation is not applicable; Eerste River is not navigable.
  • Immigration Procedures at Seaports are not applicable for direct arrival in Stellenbosch.
  • This section does not apply to Stellenbosch, as the town lies entirely within South Africa.
  • No international land borders to cross when arriving from within the country.

Departure Information

Exit Fees and Taxes

Exit fees or taxes for international flights from South Africa typically discover inclusion in your airfare. You generally do not need to pay an additional fee at the airport upon departure.

Departure Procedures & Timing

  • For international flights, attempt to arrive 2-3 hours before departure.
  • For domestic flights, 1.5-2 hours usually proves sufficient.
  • Factor in 45-60 minutes travel time from Stellenbosch to CPT.

Airport Facilities for Departing Travelers

CPT displays a range of facilities for departing travelers, including check-in counters, baggage drop, and efficient security screening. Retail shops for last-minute souvenirs, restaurants, cafes, and duty-free stores are available. Airport lounges offer unwinding or work before your flight. VAT Refund Offices are present for eligible purchases.

Facilities

  • Duty-free shops for tax-free purchases.
  • Wide selection of restaurants and cafes.
  • VAT Refund Administration office (present items for inspection).

Check-in & Security

Ample time for check-in, baggage drop, and security screening.

Retail & Dining

Numerous options for last-minute souvenir shopping or pre-flight meals.

Lounges & Services

Access to the airport lounges and free Wi-Fi for comfort and connectivity.

Departure Tips

Confirm Your Transfer

Confirm your airport transfer from Stellenbosch to CPT the day before your departure. This step secures a timely and stress-free journey to the airport.

How to Get to Stellenbosch. Flights, Transportation, Airlines