CAPE TOWN
Nestled between the iconic Table Mountain and the vast Atlantic Ocean, Cape Town is a city of breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture. As the host city for the 2025 Gender Conference, Cape Town offers international visitors a unique blend of natural beauty, world-class cuisine, and diverse experiences.
TOP HIGHLIGHTS FOR VISITORS
Table Mountain & Cableway – Take a scenic ride to the summit for panoramic views of the city and coastline.
Robben Island – Visit the historic site where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned, a must-see for those interested in South Africa’s journey to democracy.
Cape Winelands – Explore award-winning vineyards in Stellenbosch and Franschhoek, just a short drive from the city.
Cape of Good Hope & Boulders Beach – Witness stunning coastal scenery and meet the famous African penguins.
V&A Waterfront – A lively harbor with restaurants, shops, and cultural attractions, perfect for an afternoon stroll.
Bo-Kaap – Discover Cape Town’s colorful Malay Quarter, known for its vibrant streets and rich culinary heritage.
ESSENTIAL TRAVEL INFORMATION
Climate & Weather
Cape Town in October is springtime, offering pleasant temperatures ranging between 15°C and 25°C (59°F - 77°F). Expect sunny days with occasional breezes, making it perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Mornings and evenings can be cool, so packing a light jacket is recommended.
Getting to Cape Town
Cape Town International Airport (CPT) is South Africa’s second-largest airport and serves as a hub for international and domestic flights.
Direct flights are available from major cities like London, Amsterdam, Frankfurt, New York, Dubai, and more.
If flying via Johannesburg (O.R. Tambo International Airport), a 2-hour domestic flight will bring you to Cape Town.
Airport Transfers
Cape Town International Airport (CPT) is South Africa’s second-largest airport and serves as a hub for international and domestic flights.
Ride-hailing apps (Uber/Bolt) operate from the airport.
MK Travel & Tours/Cape Town DMC are the recommended shuttle service for airport & private transfers. Bookings can be done directly on the following link: https://www.capetowndmc.co.za/booking/
MyCiTi Bus Service offers an affordable option with direct routes to the city center.
Getting Around Cape Town
Cape Town is a walkable city in certain areas, but for longer distances, reliable transport options include:
Uber & Bolt – Safe, convenient, and widely available.
MyCiTi Bus – Affordable and efficient public transport, especially for routes to Table Mountain, the Waterfront, and the airport.
Car Rentals – Ideal for exploring beyond the city (e.g., Cape Winelands or Cape of Good Hope).
Taxis & Minibuses – Metered taxis are limited and pricier; avoid informal minibus taxis unless traveling with a local.
Tip: If renting a car, remember that South Africans drive on the left side of the road.
Currency & Payments
The local currency is the South African Rand (ZAR).
Credit & Debit Cards (Visa, Mastercard, Amex) are widely accepted.
Contactless payments (Apple Pay, Google Pay) are available at many locations.
ATMs are readily available—use those inside banks or shopping malls for added security.
Tip: Some small vendors and markets may prefer cash, so carrying some local currency is useful.
Safety & Travel Tips
Cape Town is a fantastic destination, but as in any major city, staying aware and taking precautions is important.
Avoid displaying valuables openly (e.g., cameras, phones, jewelry).
Use reputable transport services like Uber or hotel-arranged taxis at night.
Stick to well-lit and busy areas when walking after dark.
Be mindful of strong coastal currents when swimming at beaches.
Food and Dining
Cape Town is a food lover’s paradise, offering a mix of African, Cape Malay, and international cuisine.
Must-try dishes include Cape Malay curry, fresh seafood, and traditional braai (BBQ).
The V&A Waterfront, Long Street, and Bree Street offer fantastic dining options.
Tap water in Cape Town is safe to drink, but bottled water is also widely available.
Connectivity & SIM Cards
Cape Town is a fantastic destination, but as in any major city, staying aware and taking precautions is important.
Wi-Fi is widely available in hotels, cafés, and conference venues.
For local mobile data, get a prepaid SIM card from MTN, Vodacom, or Telkom at the airport or shopping malls.
eSIM options are available for international travelers.
Tip: Use WhatsApp for messaging and calls—it’s the most commonly used app in South Africa.
