Cape Town Getting Around

Getting Around Cape Town - A pleasant city to explore on foot
There are a number of ways for getting around Cape Town by public and private transport, yet the most enjoyable is simply on foot. The city is both safe and compact enough to enjoy many sights and attractions by simply strolling around. Whether roaming the numerous curio shops and antique markets or a lazy afternoon along the picturesque waterfront, getting around Cape Town on foot is a pleasurable experience with so much to take in. There is an extensive public bus network that covers the entire city with services running from dawn until late into the evening. Fares are cheap and there is generally little traffic congestion on the roads outside the usual rush hour times.

Cape Town Getting Around - Cheap and frequent minibus services
There are a number of private tour companies that offer shuttle services to and from the airport and to select destinations within the city - primarily to the beach areas and the Table Mountain cable car station with less frequent itineraries to outlying destinations such as the winelands and False Bay. Another option is to take a scheduled minibus service which is the preferred mode of transport for South Africans and the most economical. Travelling to popular destinations and far flung towns and villages, it offers the perfect chance to witness everyday local life, but can be time consuming with often many stops en route.

Getting Around Cape Town - Hire a car and explore the picturesque countryside
Taxis are another option for getting around Cape Town and are the preferred means of travel at night. Taxis cannot be hailed on the street in Cape Town but there are numerous designated taxi ranks in town and they can be ordered by phone or through your hotel front desk. Taxi fares are a little expensive but are the quickest and most convenient way to travel. For visitors looking for total flexibility, car hire is available throughout the city with all the major global companies having a presence in Cape Town and at the airport.