Cape Town Travel Checklist
Essentials
- Passport and Visa (Verify visa requirements)
- Flight Tickets (Round-trip suggested)
- Travel Insurance (Health and theft coverage)
- Local Currency (ZAR – South African Rand) or Credit/Debit Card
- International Driver’s License (If you plan to rent a car)
- Emergency Contacts (Embassy, local contacts, accommodation)
Packing List
- Clothing (Cape Town has diverse weather – pack layers)
- Comfortable Walking Shoes (For hiking and exploration)
- Swimwear and Beachwear (For beaches and pools)
- Light Rain Jacket (Especially in winter: June to August)
- Sunscreen and Sunglasses (The sun can be intense)
- Hat and Scarf (For sun protection and cool evenings)
- Camera / GoPro (For capturing stunning landscapes)
- Power Adapter (Type M plug)
- Reusable Water Bottle (Stay hydrated)
- Backpack / Day Bag (For everyday adventures)
Must-Visit Attractions
- Table Mountain (Hike or ride the cable car)
- Cape of Good Hope (Scenic drive and nature reserve)
- Boulders Beach (See the penguins)
- V&A Waterfront (Shopping, dining, and boat tours)
- Robben Island (Nelson Mandela’s former prison)
- Bo-Kaap (Colorful houses and rich culture)
- Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens (Ideal for picnics)
- Wine Tasting in Stellenbosch and Franschhoek
- Chapman’s Peak Drive (One of the world’s most scenic routes)
Must-Try Food and Drinks
- Bunny Chow (Hollowed-out bread filled with curry)
- Braai (Barbecue) (A South African must-have)
- Bobotie (Spiced minced meat with an egg-based topping)
- Cape Malay Curry (Fragrant and flavorful)
- Gatsby (A massive, delicious local sandwich)
- Rooibos Tea (A caffeine-free South African specialty)
- South African Wine (World-renowned vineyards)
Transportation and Safety Tips
- Uber/Bolt (Safer and more convenient than taxis)
- Car Rental (If you’re exploring outside Cape Town)
- Public Transport Warning (Avoid minibus taxis)
- Safety Awareness (Keep valuables secure and stay away from isolated areas at night)
- Tap Water is Safe (But bottled water is also available)
Extra Experiences
- Shark Cage Diving (Gansbaai or False Bay)
- Surfing in Muizenberg (Beginner-friendly waves)
- Helicopter Ride Over Cape Town (Breathtaking views)
- Paragliding from Signal Hill (For adventure enthusiasts)
Whale Watching in Hermanus (June – November)
