Host City Information

Wonderful and once-in-a-lifetime experiences await you in Cape Town and the Western Cape. But before you get to the fun part, you need to know what to expect from the weather, how our currency works and what local phrases you should learn to make a good impression. Below is some useful information to keep in in mind for your trip.

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Events in Cape Town

Cape Town has a fantastic line up of local events and festivals in September. Check out these local websites for more info or to book tickets:

https://www.whatsonincapetown.com/

https://www.quicket.co.za/events/south-africa/western-cape/cape-town/

https://www.waterfront.co.za/leisure/events/

Population

More than six-million people call Cape Town and the Western Cape their home (6,166,324 to be exact).

Climate

We have a year-round mild Mediterranean climate, with temperatures averaging between 15°C - 27°C. Have a look at the video below for a crash-course into what you need to know about weather in Cape Town and the Western Cape:

Getting around

Uber, the MyCiti bus system and car rentals are widely available in the Western Cape. A fast-growing cycle culture in the province also adds an alternative and fun way to enjoy the outdoors. Our local operator can also organise private transfers. To book, send a Whatsapp to Zelda +27 84 6575476.

Language

We have 11 official languages. Yes, 11! Although English is the most widely spoken language in the province, brush up your skills on a few more – a sure way to make friends with the locals.

Currency

South Africa uses the Rand as currency. Keep in mind that you can only use the Rand to shop, dine and experience the province, so you'll have to exchange to the local currency – luckily this can be done quickly and easily.

Safety

Keeping you safe in Cape Town and the Western Cape is a top priority. Unfortunately, like many other places in the world, some areas grapple with the unacceptable impact of crime. To counteract this sad occurrence, we continually invest in and work with initiatives such as increased law enforcement deployment, technology expansion and safety awareness at work to provide a safe environment for all.

We want you to leave our beautiful region with nothing but with happy memories. To ensure a pleasurable trip, please keep in mind a few precautions that you can employ on all your travels across the world:

Avoid walking in deserted and dark places at night
Never allow strangers to assist you in any way at ATMs
At night, park in a secure and well-lit area with street guards.
Keep photocopies and all valuable documents in a safe place

Water

We have overcome great water challenges and have become a much greater city for it. We also have a much healthier relationship to natural resources. On your visit you'll probably notice water saving tips and initiatives in hotels and restaurants.

Have a look on the Nowhere Better website to learn more about our dam levels and water saving initiatives.

Emergency numbers

Accidents happen, it's part of life. Be prepared for any scenario by saving these numbers on your phone before your trip:

For all emergency services from your mobile dial 112
For all emergencies from a landline,
dial 107
To call the South African Police Service, dial 10111

Duty-free shopping

All stores charge the Value Added Tax (VAT) of 15% levied on the purchase of most goods in South Africa. As a foreign visitor you may apply for a refund of the VAT you pay while in the country provided you apply before you depart.

Ensure that you receive your tax receipts for all purchases made. To claim your VAT refund, present all your tax receipts to the VAT administrator at your point of departure.

Shopping

Shops at the major malls such as the V&A Waterfront and Canal Walk are open until 9pm every day, while the shops in shopping centres close at 7pm. Informal traders and flea markets generally trade from 9pm - 4pm. Muslim owned businesses are closed between 12pm and 2pm on Fridays.

Different regions in the province have varying laws when it comes to buying alcohol from shops or a liquor store. Generally liquor stores will open 11am and close at 8pm each day. You can also order alcohol from restaurants and bars after 11am.