🇿🇦 Cape Town Cruise Port Guide 🇿🇦
Shore Excursions & Things To Do

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💡Cape Town: Good to Know

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🛂 Visa: South Africa offers visa-free or visa-on-arrival entry to many nationalities, including the US, UK, EU, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand for stays up to 90 days. Always check the latest entry rules before travel.

 

✈️ Closest Airport: Cape Town International Airport (CPT) 

 

💬 Language: English is widely spoken. South Africa has 11 official languages, including Afrikaans and Xhosa, but tourists will find English used in all services.

 

🏷️ Price Level: Affordable to mid-range — Cape Town offers excellent value compared to Western Europe or North America.

 

🍔 Big Mac Index: US: US$5.69/ South Africa: US$2.46

 

💰 Currency: South African Rand (ZAR) | 1 USD ≈ 18–19 ZAR

 

☀️ Best Times to Visit: November to March – Warm, dry summer months; ideal for beaches, hiking, and vineyards.

 

🚘 Transportation: Taxis are expensive and often unreliable — use Uber or Bolt (ride-hailing apps). Walking is safe in certain areas like the V&A Waterfront, but avoid isolated streets at night. 

 

🔌 Adapter: South Africa uses Type M plugs (three round pins, 220V). Travelers from the US, UK, or EU will need an adapter.

 

🛜 WiFi: Free and fast WiFi is available in most hotels, cafes, and public areas like the Waterfront. 

 

🏧💰ATM and “Cash or Card”: Credit cards are widely accepted, but always carry some cash for markets, small shops, or tips. ATMs are common — use ones attached to banks for safety.

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💸 Tipping: A 10% tip in restaurants is acceptable for good service – or more if you consider the service to have been exceptional. 

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🚢 Cruise Terminal Address: Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, Cape Town, 8002, South Africa (docked)

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✈️ 🚇 🚕 Getting There and Around

 

🎟️ In Cape Town, getting around is fairly convenient with a mix of public transport, ride-hailing apps, and walking in key areas. The MyCiTi Bus is the most reliable public transport option, offering clean, safe, and affordable service between the airport, city center, Table Mountain, Camps Bay, and other major spots. You’ll need a MyCiTi card to ride, which can be purchased and topped up at stations. For more flexibility, Uber and Bolt are widely used and generally safer than local minibus taxis. In central areas like the V&A Waterfront or City Bowl, walking is a pleasant way to explore, especially during the day.

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✈️ Cape Town International Airport (CPT) is located about 20 km (12 miles) from the city center. The most convenient and reliable way to reach downtown is by Uber or Bolt, with fares typically ranging from ZAR 180–300 (US$10–16) depending on traffic and time of day. The ride takes around 20–30 minutes. Alternatively, the MyCiTi Airport Shuttle offers a safe and affordable public transport option. It runs between the airport and Civic Centre station in the city every 20–30 minutes, taking about 30 minutes and costing roughly ZAR 100 (US$5.50). Taxis are available but more expensive and less commonly used by locals.

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🚇 The Port of Cape Town is located close to the V&A Waterfront, one of the city's top attractions and a central hub for shopping, dining, and sightseeing. From the cruise terminal, it's just a 5–10 minute taxi or Uber ride to the city center and major landmarks like Long Street, Bo-Kaap, and Table Mountain's lower cable station. You can also walk to the V&A Waterfront in about 15–20 minutes, depending on your ship’s docking point. For comfort and convenience, especially in unfamiliar areas, ride-hailing is the recommended option.

 

🚌  City Sightseeing Cape Town operates two routes covering the immediate city as well as further destinations around town (more info here).

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 ⭐️ Top Sights in Cape Town​

"Cape Town is Home to Almost 7000 Endemic Plant Species."

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📸 Table Mountain: Cape Town’s most iconic natural landmark towers over the city and offers breathtaking panoramic views of the coastline, cityscape, and beyond. You can take the rotating cable car to the summit or hike up via several scenic trails like Platteklip Gorge or India Venster (more advanced). Try to visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and before the "tablecloth" (low-lying cloud cover) rolls over the peak — weather changes quickly!

 

📸 Robben Island: This UNESCO World Heritage Site was once a maximum-security prison where Nelson Mandela spent 18 of his 27 years in captivity. Ferries depart from the V&A Waterfront, and tours are led by former political prisoners who offer firsthand accounts of apartheid-era South Africa. It’s both powerful and humbling — a must-do for history buffs. It is recommended to reserve tickets as they sell out on a regular basis. 

 

📸 V&A Waterfront: One of the city’s most popular areas for visitors, the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront is packed with restaurants, shops, museums, and lively street performers. It’s also the launch point for Robben Island tours and home to attractions like the Two Oceans Aquarium, Zeitz MOCAA (contemporary African art museum), and The Watershed (local crafts and design market).

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📸 Greenmarket Square: Greenmarket Square, one of Cape Town’s oldest public spaces, is a lively hub in the city center where history and culture meet. Surrounded by beautiful old buildings, the cobblestone square is famous for its bustling daily market, where vendors sell African crafts, artworks, jewelry, textiles, and curios. Street performers and musicians often add to the vibrant atmosphere, making it a favorite stop for both locals and visitors. 

 

📸 Bo-Kaap: A historic neighborhood known for its vibrant, colorful houses, cobbled streets, and rich Cape Malay heritage. Visit the Bo-Kaap Museum, try local dishes like bobotie or samoosas, and take a walking tour to learn about the community's roots and role in South African history. A feast for the eyes and the palate.

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📸 Cape Point & Cape of Good Hope (Day Trip): A must-do day trip from Cape Town, this journey along the Cape Peninsula offers some of South Africa’s most dramatic coastal scenery. Highlights often include Chapman’s Peak Drive, the quaint fishing village of Hout Bay, Boulders Beach to see African penguins, and the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve, where you can hike, spot wildlife, and stand at the edge of two oceans.

 

📸 Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden: Located on the eastern slopes of Table Mountain, this is one of the world’s great botanical gardens, showcasing South Africa’s unique fynbos vegetation. Wander through themed gardens, stroll the elevated Boomslang Canopy Walkway, and, if you're lucky, catch a sunset concert on the lawn.

 

📸 District Six Museum: A deeply moving museum documenting the forced removals of over 60,000 residents during apartheid. Through photographs, stories, and exhibits, it honors a once-thriving, multicultural community. Essential for those seeking to understand Cape Town’s complex past and the enduring effects of apartheid.

 

📸 Company’s Garden & Iziko Museums: This tranquil park in the heart of the city was originally a vegetable garden for Dutch settlers in the 1600s. Today, it’s surrounded by important institutions like the South African Museum, Iziko National Gallery, Parliament, and St. George’s Cathedral. Great for a cultural afternoon or relaxed picnic under the trees.

 

📸 Camps Bay & Clifton Beaches: Stunning, postcard-worthy beaches just minutes from the city. Clifton offers four small, sheltered coves ideal for sunbathing, while Camps Bay features a wide sandy beach backed by cafes, restaurants, and the Twelve Apostles mountains. Perfect for sunseekers, sunset lovers, or a cocktail hour with a view.

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🌄🛳️ 6-Hour DIY Cape Town Cruise Itinerary 🌊🏙️

 

08:00–09:00 — Walk or Shuttle to V&A Waterfront

Start your day at the V&A Waterfront, just 15–20 minutes from the cruise terminal. Browse shops, enjoy harbor views, and grab a coffee or light breakfast. This area is safe, lively, and very cruise-friendly, making it a perfect first stop.

 

09:30–11:00 — Table Mountain (Cable Car)

Head to Table Mountain for Cape Town’s most iconic experience. Take a taxi or Uber to the lower cableway station and ride the cable car to the top for panoramic views of the city and coastline. Go early to avoid queues and always check weather conditions, as strong winds can close the cableway.

 

11:30–12:30 — Lunch at the V&A Waterfront

Return to the Waterfront for lunch at one of its many restaurants. Popular options include fresh seafood, local dishes, or casual cafés overlooking the harbor. Service is generally efficient and well-timed for cruise schedules.

 

13:00–14:30 — Scenic Drive or City Highlights

Choose one of these easy afternoon options:

• Bo-Kaap: Colorful houses and photo stops (short visit)

• Camps Bay: Beach views and coastal scenery

• Signal Hill: Quick scenic lookout with great city views

All are reachable by taxi or Uber and fit well into a limited port stop.

 

Tip for Cruise Passengers: This itinerary works best in good weather and allows flexibility if Table Mountain is closed. Cape Town is easy to explore independently, and taxis or ride-sharing make moving between stops quick and affordable. This 6-hour DIY plan covers the city’s highlights without booking a cruise excursion.

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🍷🍇 8–10 Hour DIY Cape Winelands Cruise Itinerary (DIY)

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08:00–09:30 — Travel to Stellenbosch or Franschhoek

Depart early by private taxi, Uber, or pre-booked driver to the Cape Winelands. Stellenbosch is closer and more time-efficient, while Franschhoek offers dramatic scenery and a charming village atmosphere. Leaving early helps avoid traffic and allows more time at the estates.

Good first-stop areas:

• Stellenbosch town & surrounding estates

• Franschhoek valley (slightly longer drive, more scenic)

 

09:30–12:00 — Wine Estate Visit & Tasting

Visit one or two wine estates for tastings and vineyard views. Many estates offer short, well-organized tastings that work perfectly for cruise schedules.

Recommended estates (cruise-friendly):

Stellenbosch

• Spier Wine Farm – Easy logistics, great gardens, quick tastings

• Delaire Graff Estate – Stunning views, art collection, premium wines

• Tokara – Excellent whites and reds with mountain views

Franschhoek

• Haute Cabrière – Known for Cap Classique (sparkling wine)

• Boschendal – Beautiful grounds, casual tastings, great for non-drinkers

• Rickety Bridge – Scenic, relaxed, and close to town

Non-drinkers can enjoy cafés, gardens, and mountain scenery at all of these estates.

 

12:00–13:30 — Lunch at a Wine Estate

Enjoy lunch at a winery restaurant or bistro, many of which are experienced with time-sensitive travelers.

Good lunch options:

• Spier Farm Kitchen – Farm-to-table, efficient service

• Tokara Restaurant – Refined but well-timed for cruise visitors

• Boschendal Werf Restaurant – Relaxed setting with scenic views

Aim for a single main course rather than a long tasting menu to stay on schedule.

 

14:00–16:00 — Return to Cape Town via Scenic Route

Head back to Cape Town with optional photo stops along the way. The drive offers vineyard landscapes and mountain views, making the return journey part of the experience. Aim to arrive back near the port with plenty of buffer time.

 

Winelands Tip for Cruise Passengers

The Cape Winelands are best explored with a private driver or small-group tour, especially if visiting more than one estate. This option is ideal if you enjoy food and wine and prefer a relaxed, unhurried cruise day without worrying about navigation or timing.

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🌊🦭 8–10 Hour DIY Cape Peninsula Cruise Itinerary ​

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08:00–09:30 — Drive Along the Atlantic Seaboard

Travel via Camps Bay and Hout Bay, stopping for photos along the coastline. This route offers some of the best scenery in South Africa.

 

09:30–10:30 — Chapman’s Peak Drive

Drive one of the world’s most scenic coastal roads. Short stops allow time for photos without delaying your schedule.

 

11:00–12:00 — Cape Point & Cape of Good Hope

Explore Cape Point Nature Reserve, including the Cape of Good Hope and scenic viewpoints. Allow time to walk, take photos, and enjoy the dramatic landscapes.

 

12:30–13:30 — Lunch in Simon’s Town

Stop in Simon’s Town for lunch near the harbor. Choose a quick, sit-down meal to stay on schedule.

 

13:45–14:30 — Boulders Beach Penguins

Visit Boulders Beach to see the famous African penguin colony. The boardwalk is easy and well-maintained, making this a cruise-friendly stop.

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15:00–16:00 — Return to Cape Town

Return to the cruise port with time to spare.

 

Peninsula Tip for Cruise Passengers

This itinerary covers long distances, so a guided tour or private driver is strongly recommended. It’s ideal for first-time visitors wanting Cape Town’s most iconic sights in one day.

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🍽️😋 Regional Specialties

 

Cape Town is a true culinary melting pot, where African, Malay, Indian, Dutch, and British influences converge to create one of the most diverse food scenes in the world. Thanks to its long and layered history, the city’s cuisine reflects both indigenous traditions and colonial legacies, with strong flavors, bold spices, and comforting textures at its core. You’ll find everything from Cape Malay curries and Indian street food to Afrikaans-style baking and British-influenced roasts. Local food is often best enjoyed in informal settings — whether it’s a street-side takeaway, a bustling food market, or a family-style braai (barbecue).

 

🍽️ Bobotie: A Cape Malay classic — spiced minced meat baked with an egg custard topping, often served with yellow rice, chutney, and sambals. It's South Africa’s unofficial national dish, blending sweet and savory elements in a comforting, home-cooked style.

 

🍽️ Bunny Chow: Originally from Durban’s Indian community, but now popular across South Africa. A hollowed-out loaf of white bread filled with fragrant, spicy curry — messy and delicious. It’s a beloved street food that’s as filling as it is flavorful, and often eaten with your hands.

 

🍽️ Gatsby: Cape Town’s ultimate street food indulgence. This giant sandwich is usually stuffed with steak or chicken, slap chips (soggy fries), sauces, and salad. Every neighborhood has its own favorite spot for a Gatsby, and locals love debating which one reigns supreme.

 

🍽️ Braai (BBQ): More than a meal — it’s a cultural ritual. Meats like boerewors (sausage), lamb chops, chicken, and snoek are grilled over wood or charcoal, often accompanied by pap (maize porridge), chakalaka, and salads. A braai is about community and togetherness, and you'll find locals hosting one on weekends and public holidays.

 

🍽️ Snoek: A local oily fish that’s commonly smoked or grilled at markets and braais. Best enjoyed with apricot jam glaze or garlic butter. It’s especially popular during the snoek fishing season and is known for its rich, slightly salty flavor.

 

🍽️ Malva Pudding: A sweet, sticky, caramelized sponge dessert made with apricot jam and served hot with custard or ice cream. It’s a staple on many South African restaurant menus, particularly in the winter months.

 

🥤 Rooibos Tea: A naturally caffeine-free red herbal tea grown only in South Africa’s Cederberg region. Earthy, smooth, and often enjoyed with milk or honey. It’s also praised for its health benefits, being rich in antioxidants and gentle on the stomach.🎟️

 

🥤 South African Wine: Cape Town is surrounded by world-renowned wine regions like Stellenbosch, Franschhoek, and Constantia — all easy day trips from the city. Don’t miss local varietals like Pinotage, Chenin Blanc, and MCC (Méthode Cap Classique), South Africa’s version of sparkling wine. Many wine estates also offer gourmet dining and scenic views.

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📍🗺️  Maps, Apps & Links

 

🌐 Public Transport Map 

🌐 Free Walking Tours

🌐 Hop On Hop Off Bus

 

🎟️  Tickets for Robben Island

🎟️ Tickets for Table Mountain Cableway 

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🚕 Uber

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💎🔍🗺️ What else?

 

🌈 Discover the Flavors & Stories of Bo-Kaap, Cape Town 🍛✨
Perched on the slopes of Signal Hill, Bo-Kaap is one of Cape Town’s most vibrant and historic neighbourhoods. With its rainbow-painted houses, cobblestone streets, and the irresistible aroma of Cape Malay spices drifting from every kitchen, Bo-Kaap is more than a postcard—it’s a living celebration of heritage, resilience, and flavour.

Once known as the Malay Quarter, Bo-Kaap has roots stretching back to the 1760s, when enslaved people and free artisans from Indonesia, Malaysia, and East Africa brought their cultures, faith, and food traditions to the Cape. Over centuries, these influences blended into something beautifully unique: Cape Malay cuisine—a fusion of spice, soul, and storytelling.

 

🍴 Must-Try Dishes in Bo-Kaap
🥘 Bobotie – South Africa’s national dish, a fragrant baked curry of spiced minced meat topped with a golden egg custard. Sweet, savoury, and utterly comforting.
🍛 Cape Malay Curry – Gentle on heat but rich in depth, with notes of turmeric, cinnamon, and cardamom that fill the air (and your heart).
🥟 Samoosas – Crispy, triangular pockets of spiced joy, perfect for a quick snack as you wander the colourful streets.
🍞 Koeksisters – Sticky, syrupy, and delightfully sweet—these twisted pastries are the perfect finish to a Bo-Kaap feast.

📍 Where to Taste & Experience It
🍴 Bo-Kaap Kombuis – Family-run with panoramic Table Mountain views and generations-old recipes that taste like home.
🍴 Faeeza’s Home Kitchen – A warm, intimate spot offering cooking classes where you’ll learn to fold samoosas and blend your own masala.
🍴 Biesmiellah – A beloved local institution serving authentic Cape Malay dishes since the 1970s.

 

🏡 A Living Heritage
Every pastel house in Bo-Kaap tells a story. Once rented out to enslaved people, these homes were painted in joyful colours when residents were finally allowed to buy them—an act of freedom and pride that still defines the area today.

As you wander through the narrow streets, the call to prayer echoing between the hills and the scent of curry and cardamom in the air, you’ll feel Bo-Kaap’s spirit—a beautiful blend of culture, community, and creativity. 🌈❤️

 

💡 Tip: Visit around midday for the best light and photos, then stay for lunch at a local café. Don’t rush—Bo-Kaap is best savored slowly, one story and one bite at a time. 📸☕

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Interested in cooking  traditional Cape Malay food? Here are two companies that offer cooking classes: 

Bo Kaap Cooking Tour

Faeeza's Home Kitchen

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The Atlas Trading Company (104 Wale St) makes for a great stop to shop for spices used during the cooking class or take some flavors of South Africa home.

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🤔 💡❓ FAQs ❓💡🤔

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Is Cape Town safe for cruise passengers?

Yes, Cape Town is generally safe for cruise passengers, especially in well-touristed areas like the V&A Waterfront, city center, and major attractions. As with any large city, it’s best to stay aware of your surroundings, avoid isolated areas, and use taxis or ride-sharing services rather than walking long distances.