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.
