CAPE TOWN TOURISM INFORMATION
Getting Around in Cape Town - Taxis, Busses, Trains, Walking Routes
There is much to see around Cape Town, from the spectacular Atlantic coastline, to the coastal villages of False Bay, the beautiful wine route and the rugged west coast. Since the peninsula spreads out over a vast area, (the distance from Simon's Town in the south, to Bloubergstrand in the north is close to 100 km), a car is probably essential for getting to the less accessible areas.
By Car
A valid driver's licence and minimum age of 21 or 25 are generally required in order to hire a car. All the major car rental companies have a presence in Cape Town, most will drop off and collect rental vehicles at your hotel. Car rentals are also available at the airport. For more information on rental cars we recommend that you visit our car hire partners
Public Transport
Public transport is available with a scheduled bus service covering most areas, and the city is linked by a comprehensive suburban rail network to the outlying suburbs. In fact the suburban line to Simons Town is possibly one of the most spectacular in the world, the track is so close to the sea in places that unsuspecting passengers occasionally get soaked by the spray of waves breaking on the rocks below.
Minibus Taxi
For exploring further afield you might hop onto a minibus taxi, South Africa's most used, and most economical, means of public transport, travelling to just about every area (and stopping just about anywhere, too!).
Taxi Cabs
Taxi cabs are another option, and are specially recommended at night. Although you can't hail a taxi New York-style on the streets of Cape Town, they can be hired at taxi ranks or ordered by phone through one of the many taxi companies. Not cheap, but definitely the safest bet, the average charge is about R4.50 per km.
Shuttle Services
Numerous tour and transport companies offer shuttle services to and from the airport, as well as to other destinations around the city. Although this means less responsibility than would be the case with a hired car, there is slightly less flexibility, but at least you won't have to be concerned with navigating your way around the city.
On Foot
In the city centre you'll find walking a most pleasant way to get around, roaming the many curio and antique markets, or strolling through the city's oak-lined Company Gardens, en route to the National Gallery or Natural History Museum, are popular with both visitors and residents. For those with energy, or whose schedules are not too hectic, Cape Town is best explored on foot. |
