Cape Town Airport Mini Guide
The Airport
Cape Town Airport is the second busiest in South Africa and is only twelve miles from the city. Last year it handled eight million passengers flying into the city. At the airport you’ll find over 7,000 parking spaces and 120 check-in desks including many self-service ones.
Getting There
Plenty of airlines fly into Cape Town, all of them are scheduled and some of them operate on a seasonal basis only. You can fly into Cape Town from many countries such as the
UK,
USA,
France,
UAE and
Germany.
Getting to Your Destination
The rail link for Cape Town is currently under construction and due to be finished this year. For now, shuttles operate from the airport to Cape Town city centre and other major destinations through the Western Cape. The MiCiTi shuttle operates from the airport to the civic centre in the city. All shuttle drivers meet their passengers in the terminal before escorting them to the vehicle. Be careful if you intend using a taxi for your onward travel, only Touch Down have been vetted and approved. You may put yourself at risk of danger if you choose another company.
If you’ve pre-booked a hire car, the companies’ desks are found in front of the Transport Plaza and central terminal building. At peak times send a party member through to begin the process or you may find you face a long delay. Getting to your destination is quite simple. The airport approach road links directly with the N2 into the city.
Public Information
Information points are found in both terminals in the public concourse. They can help with onward travel and accommodation as well as general airport enquiries. Be warned, you may be asked for identity.
Facilities
NedBank and ABSA Bank have branches on the mezzanine level in the arrivals hall and ABSA also has a branch after security but only for non-residents. There are plenty of ATMs around the airport.
Shopping at Cape Town is excellent with over a hundred shops including top fashion labels. Other items for sale include books and magazines, music, health and beauty products and electronics. There is a good duty free outlet selling tobacco products, wine and spirits, perfumery and gifts. For last minute souvenirs there are shops selling African handicrafts.
Eating at the airport is a good experience too. Ignore the fast food outlets such as Wimpy or KFC if you can and instead try restaurants which include the largest outlet of Spur Steakhouse on the continent. Other good restaurants are available specialising in South African food.
There is an airport medical clinic, which you will find off the main concourse, and which is open 24 hours a day to deal with medical issues. Wi-Fi hotspots are available across the terminals but it is chargeable on a pay per use basis.
What if I Need Special Assistance?
Access for passengers with reduced mobility is good, with easy access ramps, lifts to all levels and wheelchairs provided. A dedicated member of staff can be arranged to accompany you through the airport experience but you need to give 48 hours’ notice if you can. There are always staff on hand to help at the airport but you should inform your airline before travelling so that necessary steps can be taken to ensure your comfort during your flight.
Collect a pre-booked rental car from Cape Town Airport and the whole of this magical area of the country is yours to explore. The area around The Cape has vineyards producing some of the best wine in the world whilst a trip up to the top of Table Mountain is a must; don’t worry, there’s a cable car to get you to the top!
From there you can join some of South Africa’s most celebrated walking trails and follow the coast along the line of hills and mountains that back the shore.