Information / Getting Around
Exploring around – Getting around
With so much to see and do, getting around in Cape Town worries the minds of many travelers. However, the city has a comprehensive system of transportation to take you around.
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On Foot
In the City Centre of Cape Town, you can easily walk around the major destinations. In fact, it wouldn’t be wrong to say that the beautifully painted houses of Bo-Kaap and Waterfront should be explored on foot. All you need is a detailed map as the signage can be confusing and street names might look inconsistent. It is also advisable to walk around only during the daytime as tourists can be a target of petty crimes at night.
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Metrorail
The commuter rail system of Cape Town services between the city center and many of the outlying suburbs and wine districts. Trains run from six in the morning to nine at night, depending on the route. Tickets can and should be purchased only from the designated machines as travelers often come across fraudulent ticket-sellers selling used tickets.
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Bus
The cheapest way to get around Cape Town is through the Golden Arrow Bus service. Depending on your destination, the tickets can be purchased for as low as $0.60. The buses, though run on a timetable, are often late. Besides, the route maps are not available on every depot thus making navigation difficult. Another problem people encounter while traveling on buses is that of pickpocketing which a common occurrence.
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Taxi
Taxis are the most efficient means of navigating the city which, however, comes at a cost of $1.60 per mile depending on the cab provider. It is advisable to call ahead as finding a taxi in a pinch can be difficult. Apart from the local options, the city also has the services of international brands like Uber. All you need is to download the app, book a cab, and off you go!
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Rikki
Many travelers prefer Rikki over regular cabs; they are London-style black cabs that provide door-to-door service and are available 24X7 at a fraction of the cost. They pick up passengers en route making their service cheaper. Scheduling a pick-up in advance will prove helpful and hassle-free.
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Bicycle
A fast and easy way to explore Cape Town is on a bicycle. There are several places where you can rent a good quality of city bike or even a mountain bike at reasonable prices. Or you can book a bike tour that usually leaves at ten in the morning from the V&A Waterfront Information Centre making the whole experience of exploring the city all the more fun.
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Car – Best way to see
The best way to see Cape Town is in your own wheels. Since public transport is unreliable and usually runs late, having your own ride can help you explore more without the fear of being stranded across the town. The only catch is the signage which comes in many languages and the streets that have more than one name. A detailed map of the city will save you a lot of trouble. Cars can be rented at the international airport or from agencies located downtown. It is easier to save money using a self-driven car by opting for a daily mileage limit which is usually too high to be crossed.