By foot
Unless you are staying within walking distance of the beach in Camps Bay (or some other area where everything you want is close by) then you will find it very frustrating not to have your own transport. Even short distance walks (like from V&A Harbour to the Castle of Good Hope) are problematic by foot, in a city with dividing motorways, and little or no signage or facilities for pedestrians away from the shopping precincts.
By car
There are numerous car rental companies located at the airport and throughout town. Remember that you drive on the left here which may take some getting used to if you’ve never done it. Uber and Taxify are now ubiquitous, safe and relatively inexpensive around Cape Town. If you are going a longer distance, you can arrange for the same car to pick you up for an extra fee. Cape Town also has a number of luxury and classic car chauffeur companies available that perform various services such as airport transfers, transport to corporate events as well as VIP bodyguards.
By metered taxi
Metered taxis are widely available throughout Cape Town, though more so in more affluent or tourist-visited areas. Metered taxis can be identified by the typical yellow sign on the roof of the car, and by clearly stated information printed on the side of the vehicle stating the fare and the rights of the passengers. Be sure to take only those metered taxis that are marked in this way, but be aware that quality between different vehicles, even those with the same operator, can vary.
By minibus taxi
The network of minibus taxis is the most extensive public transport system in Cape Town, and primarily used by workers as transport to and from home. A growing number of expats and tourists are now using them as well but the main challenge using the system, is that there’s no route map. You normally have to ask around a bit, and learn it over time. The main minibus station is located in the city centre, next to the train station. There you will find several platforms, each with the final destination indicated.
By bus
There are two bus systems that run in parallel in Cape Town. The older, slower and more extensive Golden Arrow network offers cheap connections connecting most of the city. These are not recommended for tourists due to security concerns. They run mostly during the day. It is better to ask the driver where the bus is going, to make sure you won’t end up somewhere else. The newer MyCiti Bus Rapid Transport System started operating in 2010. The central hub for the system is the Civic Centre on the city centre foreshore. Note that in order to use the MyCiti network you’ll need to use a MyCiti cash card which can be purchased at their stations or participating outlets. You can purchase one at the MyCiti station at the airport and use it to get into the city. Once you’ve loaded cash onto the card you can also use it as a debit card for small purchases.
By scooter or cycle
You can also hire a scooter or a small motorbike. A number of places in the city offer this service and it is a great way to be mobile and save over hiring a car; however, unless you love the pain of cycling up and down mountains while dodging city traffic on narrow streets, cycling for transportation is not recommended.
By train
There is a system of public train transport, although it is mainly used by locals. Operator Metrorail has done a lot to increase safety and comfort on board the trains, but they still do not live up to European standards. So make sure to buy a first-class ticket. Cape Town station is situated in the city centre on the corner of Adderley Street and Strand Street and there is a reasonable suburban network of lines with more than 80 stations. A nice scenic ride can be done south to Simon’s Town, all along the east coast of the Cape Peninsula. Stick to the Simon’s Town line and make sure you are not on the train after 6:30 PM or when it is dark.
