So, where next?
Cape Town travel guide
Welcome to the Mother City. Brimming with culture and adventure, Cape Town is a paradise for anyone desiring exploration or relaxation. Foodies will rejoice at the plentiful dining options that Cape Town has to offer and sun seekers need not worry, with beaches such as Clifton and Camps Bay right on your doorstep.
Getting around the Cape
Our direct overnight flights with Virgin Atlantic land you in the vibrant and diverse city of Cape Town. With only an hours time difference from home, you'll be fresh from the moment you step foot off the plane. Getting around couldn't be easier too, be it by foot or taxi, there's plenty of transport options available for you to explore all the Mother City has to offer.
The Virgin Way...
Where to stay
Local vibes
Shopping
Restaurants
Bars & nightlife
The Winelands
Sip back and relax...
The Cape Town know-how
Geography
- Cape Town is the 2nd largest city in South Africa
- The landscape is surrounded by vast mountain ranges and stretches of Atlantic Ocean
- Cape Town has multiple neighbourhoods, each with unique characteristics
Cape Town flights
- It takes about 11 hours to fly to Cape Town from London Heathrow with Virgin Atlantic
- Flights depart daily on an overnight service
- Cape Town is an hour ahead of the UK so there’s no jet lag when you land
Getting around
- Cars drive on the left-hand side of the road, just like home
- Hiring a car allows you to visit local regions such as Franschhoek and Stellenbosch
- If planning to stay in Cape Town, use Uber to travel as they are affordable and reliable
- Cape Town is extremely walkable so no need to rely solely on transportation
Weather
- Cape Town enjoys a warm Mediterranean climate in the summer months
- Their seasons are opposite, making Cape Town the perfect winter getaway
- November- March is generally the warmest time of year to visit Cape Town
Money and entry visas
- There are no visa requirements when entering Cape Town from the UK
- Your passport must be valid for a minimum period of 30 days from the date you depart South Africa
- The official currency is the South African Rand
WiFi and electricity
- WiFi is reliable and fast across Cape Town, both in hotels and restaurants
- Power cuts can occur during periods of loadshedding
Health
- If you suffer from Hayfever, ensure you take medication with you as it may be triggered in Cape Town
- Public healthcare services are available to tourists but may not be to the same standard as in the UK
- Private healthcare is of a high standard but can be expensive so ensure you have the appropriate travel health insurance
Eating out and tipping
- A 10% tip when eating out is standard in Cape Town
- We recommend an evening meal at The Lawns for great food and sunset views
- For a sugary snack, be sure to try a Koeksister, a readily available South African treat
Out and about
- Take a hike up Table Mountain for incredible views of the city and coast
- Head for the ocean to catch a glimpse of humpback whales, tours run July-December