Yes! Most places in Cape Town—restaurants, shops, Ubers, excursions—take major debit and credit cards. It's always good to carry a little cash for tips, markets, or small vendors, but you won't need to keep a full wallet of rand on you.
We get it—it’s not second nature if you're from the UK. But in Cape Town, tipping is part of the culture. At restaurants, 10–15% is standard (and usually not included in the bill). For Ubers, a small tip or rounding up is appreciated. Hotel staff, porters, and guides? A little thank-you goes a long way.
If you're coming from the UK, good news—you likely don’t need a visa for stays under 90 days. Same goes for our friends from the US. That said, entry rules can shift, so we highly recommend checking with your local South African embassy or consulate before you book those flights. Better safe than scrambling at the airport.
Definitely grab Uber for getting around the city easily. WhatsApp is used a lot in South Africa, even by tour companies and hotels. Google Maps is your best friend if you're exploring on foot or driving.
Uber is safe, affordable, and works really well in Cape Town. If you're planning to explore wine country or head to Aquila Safari, consider renting a car—they drive on the left, just like back home. Just maybe skip rush hour if you're not a fan of chaos.
Cape Town International Airport (CPT) is your best bet for flying in and out—it’s the main hub for the city and super easy to navigate. Bring a Type M travel adapter (South Africa has its own plug shape!) and note that the voltage is 230V—worth double-checking for things like hair tools. Tap water is generally safe to drink in the city, but bottled water is widely available if you prefer. The local currency is the South African rand (ZAR), and you can withdraw cash easily from ATMs. As for safety: Cape Town is warm and welcoming, but like any big city, keep your wits about you—avoid flashing valuables, stick to well-populated areas, and trust your gut. Oh, and people will say hi to you on the street—it’s just a thing here, we promise it’s nice.