Cape Town, South Africa's most popular tourist destination, is a place with something for everyone. From fine dining to budget-friendly options, this city caters to all travelers. Its diversity is what makes it stand out as a destination, and its currency's weakness compared to many others makes it an affordable option for many people. Below are some tips on how to make your money go further on a trip to Cape Town.
Take a stopover in Addis Ababa with Ethiopian Airlines.
Ethiopian Airlines offers affordable flights to Cape Town. While it may involve an overnight stay in Addis Ababa, think of it as an opportunity rather than a burden. The airline staff greets you at the airport and takes you to a free hotel, where Ethiopian food awaits before bed. You are then ferried back to the airport the next day, arriving in Cape Town fresh-faced after a restful sleep.
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| The Ethiopian Airline. |
Take Ubers instead of taxis.
Uber is a safer and more cost-effective transport option in Cape Town, especially when leaving the airport to head into the city. The app enables you to track your journey and share the details with friends, which is a bonus when traveling alone.
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| Uber |
Try the Gatsby.
The Gatsby is a Cape Town institution that has been feeding families on a budget since the 1970s. It's essentially a footlong sub that comes topped with salad, fries, and any number of meats, from sliced polony to masala steak. It can easily feed a family of four for the price of a single meal in an average restaurant.
Give public transport a chance.
While South Africa is generally not renowned for its comprehensive public transport network, there are options to save some rands when it comes to a Cape Town stay. The Metrorail train connects the city with the southern suburbs and the False Bay coast and is safe during daylight hours. The MyCiTi bus network joins the city with the Atlantic Seaboard all the way down to Hout Bay.
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| A beautiful woman taking a photo before entering a public means of transport |
Hike up Table Mountain.
The absolute must-do attraction in Cape Town can actually be tackled entirely for free if you hike up, pack a picnic, and hike back down again. If you prefer not to hike down, take the cable car back down to save half the fare.
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| Beautiful table mountains from a distance |
Join the locals on street party Thursdays.
On the first Thursday of each month, Cape Town becomes an open-air gallery and general street party. Art shops open their doors and host wine tastings, bars let their customers spill out onto the street, and the city heaves with revelers. You'll find drink specials, live bands, and free entrance to many of the city's galleries and museums.
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| Street walks on Thursdays |
Visit in winter for restaurant specials.
Cape Town's restaurants are already pretty affordable by international standards, but in the months of July and August, many of the city's top eateries offer special deals. This could be a reduction on the entire menu, a special set meal just for winter, or a specific deal, such as a burger and a beer or two courses for a cut-price cost. Local food blogs and sites like Eat Out often compile lists of the city's winter dining specials.
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| Beautiful restaurant interior |
Consider buying the Cape Town City Pass.
While it might seem like a sizable outlay at R1495/1995 for a two/five-day pass, if you're planning to cram in most of Cape Town's top sights, the City Pass is a good deal. It includes entry to major sights like the Zeitz MOCAA Museum, Two Oceans Aquarium, Cape Wheel, Groot Constantia wine tasting, and the cableway to the top of Table Mountain, plus a pass for the open-top sightseeing bus. There are lots of activities included as well,
Explore the free museums and galleries.
Cape Town is home to a number of free museums and galleries which offer a great insight into the city's history, culture, and art scene. The Iziko Museums of South Africa group includes the South African Museum, the Bo-Kaap Museum, and the Slave Lodge Museum, among others, which offer free entry on certain days of the week. The South African National Gallery and the Norval Foundation are also free to visit on certain days.
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| The slave museum, cape town |
opt for a hostel stay.
If you're traveling on a tight budget, hostels can be a great option for accommodation in Cape Town. There are a number of affordable and comfortable hostels located in popular areas like Green Point, Long Street, and Observatory. Many hostels also offer communal kitchens, free Wi-Fi, and organized activities and tours, making it a great way to meet fellow travelers and save money on meals and transport.
Visit the beaches.
Cape Town is famous for its stunning beaches, and the good news is that most of them are free to access. From the popular Clifton and Camps Bay beaches to the quieter Llandudno and Noordhoek beaches, there's a beach to suit every taste. Pack a picnic and spend the day soaking up the sun and surf or take a walk along the coast and enjoy the views.
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| The beast on the eastern cape |
In conclusion, Cape Town offers a great variety of activities and experiences for travelers on a budget. From affordable food options to free attractions and transport, there are plenty of ways to save money and still make the most of your trip. By planning ahead and seeking out local recommendations, you can make your rand go further and have an unforgettable experience in one of the most beautiful cities in the world.
