Planning a trip to Cape Town, South Africa starts with finding the best flights to the Cape Town International Airport (CPT)—the gateway to the Mother City. Whether you’re traveling for adventure, business, or relocation, understanding flight options, airlines, and routes can help you save money and time.

Cape Town International is Africa’s third-busiest airport, serving millions of passengers annually. With direct connections to Europe, the Middle East, and across Africa, and convenient layover options for North America and Asia, it’s one of the most accessible destinations on the continent.

This guide breaks down everything you need to know about flights to Cape Town, including airlines, routes, booking tips, and what to expect when you land.

1. Cape Town International Airport (CPT) Overview

• Location: 20 km (12 miles) from Cape Town’s city center.
• Code: CPT
• Terminals: Domestic and International terminals connected by a central concourse.
• Awards: Consistently ranked among the best airports in Africa for efficiency and passenger experience.

👉 Tip: CPT is smaller and more traveler-friendly than Johannesburg’s OR Tambo International, making it a preferred entry point for many visitors.

2. Direct Flights to Cape Town

Cape Town offers direct international connections to major global cities, particularly in Europe, the Middle East, and Africa.

Europe

• London Heathrow (LHR) – British Airways and Virgin Atlantic operate direct flights year-round.
• Frankfurt (FRA) – Lufthansa offers nonstop flights.
• Amsterdam (AMS) – KLM connects Amsterdam and Cape Town daily.
• Paris (CDG) – Air France provides direct flights.
• Zurich (ZRH) – Swiss International Airlines offers seasonal service.

Middle East

• Doha (DOH) – Qatar Airways connects Cape Town to Asia and North America via Doha.
• Dubai (DXB) – Emirates operates daily flights.
• Istanbul (IST) – Turkish Airlines offers convenient Europe–Africa connections.

Africa

• Johannesburg (JNB) – Multiple daily domestic flights link Johannesburg to Cape Town.
• Nairobi (NBO) – Kenya Airways connects East Africa to Cape Town.
• Addis Ababa (ADD) – Ethiopian Airlines offers connections via its hub.
• Windhoek (WDH) – Namibia to Cape Town flights daily.

3. Flights from North America

Currently, there are no direct flights from the US or Canada to Cape Town. Most travelers connect via:

• Johannesburg (JNB) – Major gateway for North America arrivals. After landing in JNB, travelers take a 2-hour domestic flight to Cape Town.
• Doha (DOH) – Qatar Airways provides a one-stop option from New York, Los Angeles, and other US cities.
• Dubai (DXB) – Emirates connects major US hubs to Cape Town with one layover.
• Europe – Common routing via London, Amsterdam, Frankfurt, or Paris.

👉 Example: New York → Doha → Cape Town with Qatar Airways or Los Angeles → London → Cape Town with British Airways.

4. Flights from Asia & Australia

• Asia: Most travelers connect via Doha (Qatar Airways), Dubai (Emirates), or Istanbul (Turkish Airlines).
• India: Connections through Addis Ababa (Ethiopian Airlines) or Middle Eastern hubs.
• Australia: Qantas and South African Airways offer routes via Johannesburg. Emirates via Dubai is another popular choice.

5. Major Airlines Serving Cape Town

• British Airways
• Virgin Atlantic
• Lufthansa
• KLM Royal Dutch Airlines
• Air France
• Qatar Airways
• Emirates
• Turkish Airlines
• Ethiopian Airlines
• South African Airways (SAA)
• FlySafair & Airlink (domestic and regional connections)

6. Domestic Connections within South Africa

Even if your international flight doesn’t land in Cape Town, it’s easy to connect via Johannesburg or Durban.

• Johannesburg (JNB → CPT): Over 20 flights daily on airlines like FlySafair, Airlink, SAA, and British Airways Comair.
• Durban (DUR → CPT): 2-hour flight, multiple airlines daily.
• Smaller Cities: Port Elizabeth, East London, and George also connect frequently.

7. When to Book Flights to Cape Town

High Season (December – February)

• Summer in Cape Town. Demand is high, especially over Christmas and New Year.
• Book at least 4–6 months in advance.

Shoulder Season (March – May, September – November)

• Best time for deals and good weather.
• Flights are cheaper, and the city is less crowded.

Low Season (June – August)

• Winter in Cape Town. Rainier weather, but whale-watching season.
• Cheapest time to fly, with airfare sometimes 30–40% lower.

8. Tips for Booking Affordable Flights

• Use Comparison Tools: Skyscanner, Google Flights, and Kayak help find deals.
• Flexible Dates: Flying midweek is often cheaper than weekends.
• Consider Layovers: Routes via Doha, Dubai, or Addis Ababa may be cheaper than direct European flights.
• Sign Up for Alerts: Airline newsletters and flight apps often highlight promotions.

👉 Insider Tip: Cape Town flights are often more expensive than Johannesburg. Some travelers book cheaper flights to Johannesburg and then take a budget domestic flight to CPT.

9. Airport Facilities at Cape Town International

• Wi-Fi: Free limited access with paid upgrades.
• Currency Exchange & ATMs: Available in arrivals.
• Restaurants & Cafés: From fast food to sit-down dining.
• Duty-Free Shopping: Souvenirs, wine, jewelry, and more.
• Car Rentals: All major companies located at the airport.
• Transport: MyCiTi Airport Shuttle, Uber/Bolt, and taxis.

10. Arrival Experience

As you approach Cape Town International, the first thing you’ll notice is the spectacular view of Table Mountain on a clear day—a breathtaking welcome to South Africa. Immigration is generally smooth, and within 30–40 minutes, you’ll be on your way into the city.

Final Thoughts

Flying into Cape Town International Airport is the beginning of an unforgettable journey. With direct connections to Europe, the Middle East, and Africa, plus convenient one-stop flights from North America and Asia, getting to the Mother City is easier than ever.

By booking early, choosing the right airlines, and understanding your layover options, you’ll arrive ready to explore Cape Town’s beaches, mountains, wine estates, and vibrant neighborhoods.

After a long flight to Cape Town International Airport (CPT), one of the first questions on your mind will be: “How do I get from the airport to my hotel or Airbnb?”

The good news is that Cape Town offers a variety of safe, convenient, and affordable airport transfer and transportation options for travelers. Whether you prefer the simplicity of Uber, the affordability of the MyCiTi Airport Shuttle, or the flexibility of a car rental for exploring the Cape Peninsula and Winelands, you’ll find a solution that suits your style and budget.

This guide covers all the ways to get around, complete with tips for making your arrival and stay in the Mother City smooth and stress-free.

1. Uber & Bolt: Affordable Ride-Hailing Apps

Best for: Convenience, door-to-door service, and solo travelers or small groups.

Apps like Uber and Bolt are the most popular way to get from Cape Town International Airport to your hotel.

• Pick-up Zone: Clearly marked areas just outside the arrivals hall.
• Cost: R200–R350 ($10–$20) to central Cape Town (20–30 minutes depending on traffic).
• Payment: Pay via the app using a credit card, debit card, or in some cases, cash.

Pros

• Affordable compared to private taxis.
• Safe, with driver tracking and reviews.
• Available 24/7.

Cons

• Surge pricing during peak times (e.g., Friday evenings).
• Requires mobile data (buy a SIM card at arrivals).

👉 Tip: Confirm your driver’s name, photo, and license plate before entering the vehicle.

2. Airport Shuttles: Group or Private Transfers

Best for: Families, larger groups, or those who prefer pre-arranged services.

Several companies offer airport shuttle services, with both shared and private transfer options.

• Shared Shuttle: Costs around R80–R150 per person. You’ll share with other travelers heading to nearby locations.
• Private Shuttle: R300–R600 for direct service to your hotel or Airbnb.

Pros

• Fixed rates, no surge pricing.
• Meet-and-greet service inside the terminal.
• Great for groups with lots of luggage.

Cons

• Shared transfers may involve waiting for other passengers.
• Private shuttles can be more expensive than Uber.

👉 Tip: Book in advance through reputable providers like City Shuttles Cape Town, Magic Transfers, or your hotel.

3. Car Rentals: Freedom to Explore

Best for: Day trips, Cape Peninsula road trips, or multi-day adventures.

If you’re planning to explore beyond the city—like the Cape Winelands, Cape Point, or Garden Route—renting a car is often the most practical choice.

• Location: Rental companies (Avis, Hertz, Europcar, Budget, Sixt) are based at the airport.
• Cost: From R400 ($22) per day for small cars; SUVs or premium models cost more.
• Requirements: Valid driver’s license (an International Driving Permit is recommended) and a credit card.
• Driving Side: Left-hand side of the road.

Pros

• Total flexibility for sightseeing.
• Affordable fuel compared to Europe or North America.
• Easy highway connections from the airport to the city.

Cons

• City traffic during rush hours.
• Parking fees in central Cape Town and at attractions.
• Extra caution required against break-ins—never leave valuables visible in the car.

👉 Tip: Car rentals are especially useful if you’re planning day trips to Cape Point, Stellenbosch, or Hermanus.

4. MyCiTi Airport Bus

Best for: Budget travelers and solo adventurers.

The MyCiTi Airport Shuttle is Cape Town’s official bus service linking the airport and Civic Centre in the city.

• Route: Airport ↔ Civic Centre (downtown Cape Town).
• Schedule: Every 20–30 minutes from 5 AM to 10 PM.
• Cost: Around R90 ($5).
• Payment: Requires a MyConnect card, which you can purchase at the airport kiosk.

Pros

• Cheapest transport option.
• Safe, clean, and reliable.
• Great for budget-conscious travelers.

Cons

• Only goes to the Civic Centre—additional transport (Uber or taxi) may be needed to reach hotels.
• Limited service hours (not ideal for late-night arrivals).

👉 Tip: Perfect if you’re staying in the CBD or near Long Street.

5. Taxis

Best for: Travelers who prefer traditional cabs (though not the most recommended).

Metered taxis are available outside the terminal, but they’re less common and more expensive than Uber or Bolt.

• Cost: Around R350–R450 ($18–$25) to the city center.
• Availability: 24/7, but haggling may be required.

Pros

• Convenient if you don’t use apps.
• No need for mobile data.

Cons

• More expensive than Uber.
• Not as regulated—safety varies.

👉 Tip: If you must take a taxi, use only those at official airport ranks.

6. Hotel Transfers

Many mid-range and luxury hotels in Cape Town offer private airport transfers.

• Cost: Usually R400–R800 depending on distance and hotel category.
• Convenience: Driver meets you inside the arrivals hall.
• Luxury: Some hotels include premium vehicles with refreshments.

👉 Tip: Great option for honeymooners or business travelers wanting a seamless arrival experience.

7. Transport Safety Tips

• Avoid Unofficial Offers: Do not accept rides from unlicensed drivers inside the terminal.
• Ride-Hailing: Always confirm your driver details in the app.
• At Night: Use Uber, Bolt, or a pre-booked shuttle—avoid walking or relying on public minibuses.
• Car Rentals: Keep doors locked, windows up, and valuables hidden.

8. Which Option Should You Choose?

• Solo Travelers / Budget: MyCiTi Bus or Uber.
• Families & Groups: Pre-booked shuttle or car rental.
• Luxury Travelers: Hotel transfer or private chauffeur.
• Explorers: Car rental for day trips and flexibility.

Final Thoughts

Getting from Cape Town International Airport to your hotel is easy, with options for every traveler. Whether you value affordability, convenience, or flexibility, you can choose between Uber, the MyCiTi bus, airport shuttles, or a car rental for longer adventures.

By planning ahead, you’ll ensure a smooth, stress-free start to your journey—so you can focus on enjoying Cape Town’s beaches, mountains, wine estates, and cultural attractions.

Exploring Cape Town means getting from Table Mountain to Camps Bay, from the V&A Waterfront to the Cape Winelands, and beyond. While many tourists rely on Uber, Bolt, or car rentals, Cape Town also has several public transport options.

This guide breaks down everything you need to know about MyCiTi Buses, trains, and taxis in Cape Town—what’s safe, what’s affordable, and what’s best avoided—so you can move around the Mother City with confidence.

1. MyCiTi Bus: Affordable & Reliable

The MyCiTi Bus system is Cape Town’s most reliable form of public transport, designed with both locals and tourists in mind.

Routes & Coverage

• Airport Shuttle: Runs between Cape Town International Airport and Civic Centre in the city.
• City Routes: Connects the CBD, V&A Waterfront, Sea Point, Table View, and Blouberg.
• Suburban Routes: Extends to areas like Atlantis, Hout Bay, and Mitchells Plain (limited routes).

Costs

• MyConnect Card: Required for travel; available at stations and kiosks.
• Fares: R10–R30 per trip depending on distance. The airport bus costs around R90.

Pros

• Safe, clean, and efficient.
• Affordable compared to private transport.
• Modern buses with air conditioning and accessibility for wheelchairs.

Cons

• Limited late-night service.
• Doesn’t cover all tourist areas (e.g., Constantia Winelands).

👉 Tip: Perfect for budget travelers, especially for airport transfers and routes along the Atlantic Seaboard.

2. Trains: Cheap but Caution Needed

Cape Town has an extensive Metrorail train network, historically one of the city’s most popular transport systems. However, due to underfunding, vandalism, and safety issues, it is no longer widely recommended for tourists.

Routes

• Southern Line: Runs from Cape Town to Muizenberg, Kalk Bay, and Simon’s Town (scenic route along False Bay).
• Northern Line & Central Line: Serve suburbs and townships but are less relevant for tourists.

Costs

• Incredibly cheap compared to other options (as little as R10–R20 per ride).

Pros

• Scenic views on the Southern Line—especially between Muizenberg and Kalk Bay.
• Cheapest way to reach coastal towns.

Cons

• Safety concerns (theft, vandalism, lack of security).
• Trains are often delayed or canceled.
• Infrastructure is unreliable.

👉 Tip: If you want to try the train, use the Southern Line Tourist Train (when operational), which offers a safer, guided experience. Otherwise, stick to Uber or MyCiTi buses.

3. Taxis: Limited Availability

Unlike cities such as London or New York, Cape Town does not have a large, regulated taxi system. Metered taxis exist but are limited and expensive.

Costs

• Around R350–R450 ($20–25) from the airport to central Cape Town.
• Fares within the city are usually higher than Uber or Bolt.

Pros

• Available 24/7.
• Convenient if you don’t use mobile apps.

Cons

• Harder to find outside tourist hubs.
• Not regulated—prices vary and can be high.
• Less safe than ride-hailing apps.

👉 Tip: Instead of flagging down a taxi, book one through your hotel or use Uber or Bolt.

4. Ride-Hailing Apps: The Preferred Option

While not traditional “public transport,” apps like Uber and Bolt are the most common way for both locals and tourists to get around Cape Town.

• Cost: R30–R60 for short trips in the city, R200–R350 from the airport.
• Safety: Safer than traditional taxis with driver ratings and GPS tracking.
• Convenience: Available almost everywhere, 24/7.

👉 Tip: Always check the driver’s name, photo, and license plate before entering the car.

5. Minibus Taxis: Local but Risky

You’ll see white minibus taxis crisscrossing Cape Town. These are the most common transport option for locals but not recommended for tourists.

• Pros: Extremely cheap, frequent.
• Cons: Overcrowded, little regulation, risky driving, and safety concerns.

👉 Traveler Advice: Avoid unless you’re traveling with a local who knows the system.

6. Comparing Transport Options

7. Transport Safety Tips in Cape Town

• Avoid night travel on buses and trains.
• Use Uber/Bolt for late-night rides.
• Keep valuables out of sight on buses and trains.
• Plan ahead: Cape Town doesn’t have a 24-hour metro system.
• Save emergency numbers: Police (10111), Ambulance (10177), General emergencies (112 from mobile).

Final Thoughts

Cape Town’s public transport system is a mix of modern buses, aging trains, and limited taxis. For tourists, the MyCiTi bus is the safest and most affordable option for major routes, while Uber and Bolt are the go-to choices for convenience and reliability.

While trains offer scenic coastal views, they are best avoided unless you’re joining a guided tourist service. Traditional metered taxis are limited and expensive, making ride-hailing apps and car rentals far more practical.

With a little planning, you can move around Cape Town safely, affordably, and efficiently—giving you more time to enjoy the city’s natural beauty, culture, and vibrant neighborhoods.