Layover In Cape Town, South Africa (CPT)
Mar 10, 2009 | Comments 0
Stuck on a layover in Cape Town, South Africa? Considered as one of the top ten airports in the world , South Africa’s Cape Town International Airport (CPT), offers plenty to do for those stuck on a layover. And located 13 miles east of Cape Town, this airport makes it easy for those looking to explore the city on a long layover. If you’re trying to determine whether you can leave the airport during your Cape Town layover, click here for useful tips
There’s a wide host of shopping in the airport, where you can pick up everything from African souvenirs to jewelry and pharmacy items. There’s also a medical clinic, prayer rooms, free wireless Internet and even a wine shop. For business services, there is the Zenith Airport Conference Venue in the Domestic Terminal.
You can drop off your luggage at the baggage storage facilities in both the Domestic and International arrivals (021) 936-2494. Also, for a small tip, porters can move your luggage between terminals.
If you’re looking to catch some zzz’s, there’s a 90-room Road Lodge Hotel, located next to the airport. It has Internet Access in all room and a guest office. +27 (0)21 934 7303
The best way to get into the city center and see the sights would probably be taxi, which would take about 20 minutes each way. The airport’s authorized taxi company is “Touch Down Taxis” and they recommend that you use them instead of unauthorized taxis. There are also door-to-door minibus services for R150, including Randy’s Tours (021) 934-4440.
Layover Guide’s Suggestions Of Things To Do On A Cape Town Layover:
Table Mountain
Check out the sights from the top of Table Mountain, only about 5km from Cape Town. If you don’t have the time (or energy) for the 1½ hour climb, you can take the cable car which will take you to the top in 5-10 minutes (costs R130). Here you can check out the view of Cape Town and walk along to McLear’s Point. Don’t forget to wear sunscreen and a hat!
Victoria & Alfred Waterfront
Set up against Table Mountain, the V&A Waterfront is the cultural and commercial heart of Cape Town, where you’ll find plenty of shops, museums and restaurants. You can download a map of the area, with all the attractions, here.
Cape Point And Cape Peninsula National Park
The southernmost top of the mountains that include Table Mountain, Cape Point National Park is a dramatic park with sweeping ocean views, and home to many different plants, wildlife and birds. You can visit the lighthouse, which can be reached by the use of a funicular.
Helicopter Rides And Flight Tours
A great way to quickly see the sights of South Africa is by air! There are many companies that offer helicopter and small plane flights over the area, such as this company. They also offer tons of other more extreme activites, such as kite surfing, rock climbing, river rafting and bungee jumping.
Cheetah Outreach
You can visit the Cheetah Outreach Facility to learn about the plight of the cheetah and even, cat willing, get a cheetah encounter. Personal encounters are from 11:00–13:00 and 14:00-17:00, and you can find the various prices here.
Have a suggestion for a Cape Town, South Africa layover? Leave a comment below!
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