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Getting Around Cape Town

Getting Around Cape Town

Cape Town Western Cape, South Africa Travel Guide

Public Transit Systems

MyCiTi Bus: Cape Town’s main public bus rapid transit (BRT) system. It is modern, efficient, and covers routes, including the city center, airport, V&A Waterfront, Sea Point, Camps Bay, and some southern suburbs. MyCiTi buses operate on dedicated lanes, making them a fast option.

Metrorail: This commuter rail system serves Cape Town and the surrounding region (Southern Line, Northern Line, Central Line). While extensive, Metrorail is often unreliable, subject to delays, and some routes and stations pose safety concerns. For these reasons, it is less recommended for tourists for general sightseeing.

Transit Info

  • No Trams or Metro/Subway System.
  • MyCiTi Hubs: Civic Centre, V&A Waterfront, Adderley Street.
  • MyCiTi Hours: Early morning (~05:00) to late evening (~22:00-23:00).
  • MyCiTi Accessibility: Generally wheelchair accessible with ramps and designated spaces.

MyCiTi Ticketing

A "MyCiTi MyConnect" card (approx. R35) is necessary. Acquire and load at stations or retailers. Fares are distance-based. Remember to tap in and tap out.

Metrorail Tickets

Purchase paper tickets at stations for one or return journeys. Fares are distance-based. Metrorail is less accessible due to older infrastructure.

Navigation Tips

Purchase a MyCiTi card upon arrival and load funds. Use navigation apps like Google Maps for real-time MyCiTi journeys. For Metrorail, consider using it exclusively for the Southern Line to safe destinations like Simon's Town during daylight hours.

MyCiTi Frequency & Reliability

MyCiTi Bus Frequency
  • Peak hours: Every 10-20 minutes.
  • Off-peak, weekends, public holidays: Less frequently.
  • Service frequency varies by route and time of day.
Metrorail Reliability
  • Often unreliable, subject to delays.
  • Safety concerns on some routes and stations.
  • Many travelers choose to avoid it for reliability and safety.

Important Considerations

Metrorail Safety

Exercise caution, especially outside of peak hours.

MyCiTi Card

Essential for bus travel, tap in and out.

Real-Time Apps

Use Google Maps or MyCiTi app for live updates.

Metrorail Avoidance

Many tourists opt for alternatives due to issues.

Hailing a Ride

Taxis and ride-sharing services have convenient, door-to-door transportation in Cape Town.

Licensed Taxis

  • Identification: Metered, official branding (often white or yellow with roof lights).
  • Hailing: On street in some areas (e.g., Long Street), safer to book or find at ranks (V&A Waterfront).
  • Fares: Vary, generally above ride-sharing (R50-R100 for short CBD trip). Many prefer cash.
  • Confirmation: Always confirm fare or ensure meter operates before starting.

Ride-Sharing Services

  • Recommended: Uber and Bolt (formerly Taxify) are widely used, reliable, and typically safer.
  • Benefits: Cashless payment, ride tracking, driver/passenger ratings for transparency and security.
  • Safety: Verify driver's name, vehicle model, and license plate. Share trip details with a trusted contact.
  • Minibus Taxis: Not recommended for tourists due to safety concerns, lack of insurance, and complex routes.

Airport/Station Taxi Arrangements

  • Airport: Designated taxi ranks outside terminal for official taxis.
  • Uber/Bolt: Specific pick-up zones, directed by the app.
  • Train Station: Taxi ranks outside Cape Town Station (exercise caution after dark).
  • Ride-sharing services are typically reliable and often more affordable.
  • For safety, always use reputable services and confirm details.
  • Avoid unlicensed taxis to prevent overcharging or security risks.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing: Safety At A Glance

Verify Driver

Match app details (driver photo, car model, license plate) with the automobile.

Share Trip

Utilize the in-app feature to share your journey with a trusted contact.

Avoid Unofficial Cabs

Stick to app-booked services or licensed taxis from official ranks.

Vehicle Rentals

Renting a vehicle offers flexibility for exploring Cape Town and the surrounding regions.

Car Rental Information

  • Requirements: Age 21-23+, valid driver's license, IDP (if needed), major credit card for deposit.
  • Major Companies: Avis, Hertz, Europcar, Budget, Thrifty, Sixt. Compare rates via DiscoverCars.com.
  • Booking: In advance, especially in high season, for preferred vehicles and better rates.
  • Driving Laws: Left-hand side of the road. Seatbelts mandatory. No cell phone use without hands-free kit.

Motorcycle, Scooter, & Bicycle Rentals

  • Motorcycle/Scooter: Specialist companies offer rentals. Valid motorcycle license and higher age restrictions apply.
  • Safety: Traffic can be congested. Helmets are mandatory for two-wheelers.
  • Bicycle: Formal bike-sharing is limited. Rentals available from various shops (V&A Waterfront, Sea Point).
  • Specialty Vehicles: No tuk-tuks, jeepneys, or similar for general public transit.

Driving Laws & Parking

Speed Limits

Generally 60 km/h in urban areas, 100 km/h on open roads, 120 km/h on highways.

Observe all marked limits.

Road Conditions

Major routes and urban areas have good roads. Rural roads vary.

Exercise vigilance on urban roads.

Parking

Street parking (car guards/attendants), parking garages (CBD, V&A Waterfront) for safer longer stays.

Tip car guards R5-R20.

Driving Safety Tips

Vehicle Security
  • Keep car doors locked and windows closed at traffic lights.
  • Do not leave valuables visible in your parked car.
  • Avoid driving at night in unfamiliar or high-risk areas.
On the Road
  • Plan your route, especially for great distances.
  • Take regular breaks to avoid driving fatigued.
  • Watch out for wild animals on rural roads, especially at dawn/dusk.

Unsafe Driving Practices

  • Ignoring solid white lines for overtaking.
  • Using a cell phone while driving without a hands-free kit.
  • Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
  • Driving in townships or known high-crime neighborhoods after dark.
  • Confronting car guards or aggressive drivers.
  • Driving a poorly maintained rental vehicle.
  • Ignoring traffic signs and signals, especially stop signs.
  • Engaging in road rage or reckless driving behavior.

Foot & Cycle Exploration

Exploring Cape Town on foot or by bicycle offers unique perspectives and access to charming areas.

Pedestrian-Friendly Areas

  • Cape Town City Bowl: Long Street, Bree Street, Kloof Street, Bo-Kaap, Company's Garden.
  • V&A Waterfront: Very pedestrian-friendly boardwalks and promenades.
  • Sea Point Promenade: Popular for walking, jogging, and cycling by the coast.
  • Walking Tours: Numerous guided and self-guided historical, cultural, and food walking tours.

Bicycle Infrastructure & Safety

  • Dedicated Cycle Lanes: In some areas like Sea Point Promenade and Green Point Park.
  • Main Roads: Cycling may be tough due to traffic.
  • Safety: Always wear a Helmet, use lights, and ensure visibility. Be aware of traffic and hazards.
  • No-Go Areas: Avoid walking or cycling alone in deserted areas, especially after dark, or areas with high crime rates.

Tour Buses

City Sightseeing Cape Town offers hop-on-hop-off buses covering major attractions like V&A Waterfront, Table Mountain, Kirstenbosch, and Constantia Winelands.

Water Transport

V&A Waterfront Canal Cruises, Robben Island Ferry, and various boat tours (coastal, sunset, seal island, whale watching) are available.

Cable Cars

The iconic Table Mountain Aerial Cableway provides access to the summit. Operations are weather-dependent.

Accessibility Services

Inclusive Travel
  • MyCiTi Bus System: Generally accessible for mobility needs.
  • Table Mountain Aerial Cableway: Wheelchair-friendly facilities.
  • Many newer attractions and hotels offer accessible facilities.
Specialized Support
  • Specialized tour operators can arrange accessible transport.
  • They also assist with tours to ensure a comfortable experience for all travelers.
  • South Africa aims for an inclusive travel environment.

Choose Your Path

From efficient public buses going to convenient ride-sharing and unique cable car adventures, Cape Town offers diverse ways to discover. Select the mode of transport that best suits your itinerary and comfort.

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