If you’re heading to the Mother City, the airport is your first stop. It sits about 20 km from downtown Cape Town, making it easy to reach whether you’re on a business trip or a vacation. Knowing the basics can save you time and stress, so let’s break down what you need to know before you land.
The most common ways to reach the terminal are by MyCiTi bus, Uber, or a rental car. The MyCiTi Route 108 runs every 15‑20 minutes and drops you off at the main arrivals hall – perfect if you’re on a budget. Taxis and rideshares cost about ZAR 250‑300 from the city centre; they’re quick but can surge during peak hours. If you prefer driving, there are several car‑hire desks in the arrival hall and plenty of short‑term parking spots just outside the terminal.
The airport hosts more than 30 airlines, including South African Airways, British Airways, and Emirates. Free Wi‑Fi covers the whole building, but it can get crowded during holidays – a paid upgrade gives you faster speeds for streaming or work. Look for the lounges if you have a long layover; many credit cards grant access. For smoother security checks, keep liquids under 100 ml, wear easy‑to‑remove shoes, and have your boarding pass ready on your phone.
When it comes to food, you’ll find local favorites like rooibos tea and biltong alongside international chains. If you’re travelling with kids, the play area near Gate 9 offers a brief distraction while you wait. Remember to check your flight’s terminal – most domestic flights use Terminal 1, while international departures leave from Terminal 2.
Planning a layover? The airport is close to several hotels such as the Protea Hotel and the Airport Lodge, both offering shuttle service. For a quick taste of Cape Town, hop on the MyCiTi bus and you’re in the city centre within half an hour – perfect for a short sightseeing sprint before your next flight.
Finally, keep an eye on weather updates; Cape Town can be windy, which sometimes leads to minor delays. Signing up for airline notifications or using apps like FlightRadar24 lets you react fast if anything changes. With these pointers in hand, you’ll glide through the airport and start enjoying the city sooner rather than later.
