Getting around Cape Town
Planning to travel in Cape Town? Whether you’re a visitor or a resident, let this guide help you make the most of your Cape Town experience. Travel from the airport to a hotel using Uber and discover popular routes and destinations.
Ways to get around Cape Town
Walking
Walking in Cape Town can be a pleasant way to explore certain areas, particularly in well-maintained and pedestrian-friendly zones like the city center and waterfront. The city’s scenic beauty and mild weather often make short walks enjoyable. However, the feasibility of walking depends on the distance between destinations and the specific area, as some neighborhoods are more spread out or lack consistent pedestrian infrastructure. Safety considerations are also important, especially after dark or in less populated areas. While walking is suitable for exploring localized attractions, it may not always be practical for longer commutes.
Biking
Cycling in Cape Town offers some biking infrastructure, including dedicated bike lanes in certain areas, but the city’s layout and topography can make it challenging in some parts. The terrain varies, with flat sections in the city center and coastal areas, but hilly regions may require extra effort. Distances between key destinations can also be significant, which might not always be ideal for biking. Weather conditions are generally favorable for cycling, though strong winds can occasionally pose difficulties. Biking can be a practical option in select areas, but it may not always be the most convenient mode of transportation across the city.
Car
Driving in Cape Town can be a practical way to explore the city and its surroundings, as many areas are accessible by road. The city has an extensive road network, but traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can be a challenge in central areas. Parking is available in most parts of the city, though it may be limited or costly in busy urban zones. Road infrastructure is generally developed, but drivers should remain cautious of potential delays caused by traffic or construction. Cape Town’s weather typically supports safe driving conditions, though occasional rain may affect visibility and road grip.
Public Transit
Cape Town’s public transportation includes a bus rapid transit system that connects key areas, making it a practical option for reaching many parts of the city. Buses operate across a wide network, covering areas from the city center to suburbs like Hout Bay and Khayelitsha. While the system is generally accessible, some areas may require additional planning due to limited routes or connections. The city’s infrastructure supports public transit, but factors like distance between destinations and occasional congestion can influence travel times. Public transport can be a convenient choice for navigating Cape Town, especially for well-served routes.
Train
Train services in Cape Town, primarily operated by Metrorail, serve several routes, including the Southern Line, which connects central Cape Town to suburbs like Fish Hoek. While trains can be a cost-effective option, schedules may not always run reliably, and service frequency can vary, especially outside peak hours. The infrastructure on some routes may require caution, and not all areas are easily accessible by train. Travelers should consider the distance and connectivity of their destination when deciding if trains are the best option for their journey.
Popular destinations in Cape Town
Uber makes Cape Town travel easy. While riders can use Uber to request a ride to pretty much anywhere, some destinations are more popular than others. Uber riders getting around Cape Town request rides to Canal Walk Shopping Centre more than any other spot.
Here, you can explore popular routes requested by riders near you—with dropoff locations and average route prices.
Destination | Average price with UberX* |
|---|---|
Canal Walk Shopping Centre | R129 |
Virgin Active | R72 |
Camps Bay Beach | R112 |
Two Oceans Aquarium | R93 |
Table Mountain Aerial Cableway | R117 |
Reserve a ride in Cape Town with Uber
Arrange your car service needs in advance with Uber in Cape Town. Request a ride anytime up to 90 days ahead, whether you need transportation to Cape Town International Airport, you have plans to visit your favorite restaurant, or you’re going somewhere else.
Rideshare and other services in Cape Town, Western Cape
Getting around Cape Town without a car is easy with Uber. Find places to visit in the area, then request a ride on any day and at any time of the week. You can request a ride in real-time or request a ride in advance so your ride is ready when you are. Whether you’re traveling in a group or alone, you can use the app to find a ride option for your needs.
Open the Uber app and enter your destination to begin exploring Cape Town.
Cape Town-area airport car service
When your travel in Cape Town takes you to an airport from a neighborhood, or elsewhere, open the app and request a ride at any time of day. Tap below on the name of a nearby airport to learn how to use Uber to get car service to arrivals and departures. On the linked airport page, you’ll find out where to meet your driver for pickup, how much the trip will cost, and more.
Cape Town taxis and other ride options
Consider Uber as an alternative to taxis when you need to get around Cape Town. With Uber, you can trade flagging down cabs for requesting rides on demand, no matter the time of day. Whether you’re requesting a ride from the airport or to help you discover somewhere new, sign in online or open the app and enter a destination in Cape Town.
Frequently asked questions
- Is Uber available in Cape Town?
Yes. The Uber app gives you the power to request a ride to get around Cape Town anytime, 24/7.
- What’s the most affordable way to travel in Cape Town?
With Uber, you can choose the ride option that works best for your budget when you travel in Cape Town. To get an estimated cost, sign in online or open the app and input your destination in the “Where to?” box. The price estimate for each ride option will appear. Scroll to explore what’s currently available.
- Can I get around Cape Town without a car?
Yes. Sign in online or open your Uber app to request a ride in Cape Town, and let your driver take you where you want to go. (You might see other Cape Town transportation options available in your app, too.)
- How does Uber in Cape Town help keep riders safe?
Your safety when traveling in Cape Town is a top priority. In a few taps, you can access in-app features like the emergency assistance button to call authorities if you need help.
- Is Uber Eats available in Cape Town?
Yes. Uber Eats offers pickup or food delivery in Cape Town from your favorite restaurants. Browse lots of food delivery options, place your order, and track it by the minute.
Uber does not tolerate the use of alcohol or drugs by drivers using the Uber app. If you believe your driver may be under the influence of drugs or alcohol, please have the driver end the trip immediately.
Commercial vehicles may be subject to additional state government taxes, which would be over and above the toll.
*Sample rider prices are average UberX prices only and do not reflect variations due to geography, traffic delays, promotions, or other factors. Flat rates and minimum fees may apply. Actual prices for rides and scheduled rides may vary.
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