21 Tips I Wish I Knew Before Visiting Cape Town

These 21 tips to know before visiting Cape Town are what I wish I knew before my trip to Cape Town, South Africa.
Hopefully these travel tips will help you from making some of my mistakes when traveling through Cape Town!
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DISCLAIMER: I only express my opinion based on my experience. Your experience may be different. These videos are for educational and inspirational purposes only. Links above may include affiliate commission or referrals. I'm part of an affiliate network and I receive compensation from partnering websites. This video is accurate as of the posting date but may not be accurate in the future.

[@camdendavid]

Part 2 is up now -- Hopefully you'll find it just as helpful! Also, feel free to join the newsletter crew: bit.ly/TheTuesdayTravelTip

[@RobertScott1952]

Thanks for the video. Well done. I live in Cape Town and can recommend everything he said. I would add (1) Do NOT climb Table Mountain on your own. It is a dangerous place - always tell someone exactly where you intend to hike and hike in a group. (2) The suburbs he mentioned are all fine for a tourist. There are however areas that are "no go"s, ask the locals first. (3) There is cold water on the Atlantic side (Camps Bay etc) and warm water in the Indian Ocean side (Muizenberg and Fish Hoek) which would be better advised for swimming, in summer obviously.

[@camdendavid]

Appreciate the support and extra insight!

[@worldchampions4379]

Muizenberg & Fishoek is not part of the Indian Icean

[@RobertScott1952]

@@worldchampions4379 Oops! technically correct, but it is warmer water there.

[@dann.9913]

Hi, why exactly is solo hiking (Table Mountain) dangerous? I hope to do so later this year

[@colourinmyrainbow]

​@@RobertScott1952much warmer!

[@lethabop]

We drink tap water and we are alive. There are free spring water facilities in Cape Town you just need a huge bottle to refill. Plastic pollution is real and we can’t be encouraging single-use water bottles.

[@peachleroux]

100%!

[@camdendavid]

Love this!

[@anitadeclerck6000]

61 years living in the Northern Suburbs and we never bought or boiled water for drinking.

[@roza.D.]

​@@anitadeclerck6000exactly

[@joshjourdan2824]

Cape Town announced there is E-Coli in the tap water so it’s not 100% safe.

[@Truthseeker371]

Loadshedding is not the government conserving the electricity. It's mismanagement caused by the corrupted politicians and bureaucrats. In SA, you prepay for the electricity. Many users don't pay up the bill.

[@camdendavid]

Appreciate the insight!

[@tazionuvolari3593]

Not everyone prepays for electricity.

[@valerieross2075]

Yea keep on hanging out the dirty washing.

[@thefullframefox]

Spot on with all your tips, well done. Just a tip to add, sometimes people's stomachs get upset when visiting our city because the food is really rich... a good thing to just have in your bag is activated charcoal tablets. It will help your stomach settle down. Another really great place to visit is Stellenbosch and Franschoek for the wine and gin lovers.

[@camdendavid]

Thanks for these tips! I’ll definitely make sure to add them to my list for the next visit. Really appreciate the support

[@landapanda10]

Most important tip for hikers up Table Mountain… when the table cloth is over or it is windy. Do not attempt that hike as it can become dangerous and fatal.

[@camdendavid]

Thanks for this! That hike looks daunting even in perfect weather haha

[@kchoog]

Cannot wait to go back this year!

[@MichaelIngram-i4y]

The water in Cape Town is brilliant and safe to drink as is the rest of south Africa . Consider the environment and reduce plastic and glass pollution

[@camdendavid]

Absolutely!

[@Dannyvan14]

City of Cape Town put out a warning recently not to drink the tap water, I know it's been deemed safe since then but there is a strong chemical taste to it now. Also, there was a cholera outbreak in Jhb 2 or 3 weeks ago, locals warned not to drink the tap water. If you are from SA, you may want to turn on the radio from time to time.

[@kigzman1745]

Yes in general the water is safe to drink. But to be on the safe side, bottled water.

[@wynandduplessis8630]

South Africa is notorious for giving tourists the trots when drinking the tap water, what are you talking about? Why do the water industry make so much money then? I don’t know of anyone who don’t buy drinking water or clean their water here.

[@Louisefenner]

As a Capetonian I always drink the tap water without hesitation.

[@camdendavid]

Great to know! Thanks :)

[@garymostert4811]

Yup, no problem with Cape Town tap water. No longer always the case in other SA towns and cities though, especially up north (not in Western Cape).

[@NadineHoogenboezem]

I trust the water in most areas in the whole cape

[@johnjones4825]

I have lived in Cape Town almost my entire life, I have only drank bottled water for two reasons: 1, I bottled it myself from the tap, and 2, I saw it in a shop and liked the idea of a flavoured water, especially when I saw lemon flavour. At 65, I still drink from the garden hose when gardening...

[@easy1355]

All really good tips, we travel to Cape Town every year, for 2 months, to get away from winter in London. I think you should also try Blouberg, it's where most pictures of Cape Town (Table Mountain) are classically taken, amazing beaches and restaurants, and it's safe.... great video

[@camdendavid]

I'll have to give that a try. Thanks for the recommendation! I'll have some London content coming soon so I'll be curious to get your take. Thanks for the support!

[@jvanvuuren8461]

The Holiday Inn at St George's Mall (and other hotels close-by) in Cape Town CBD is great. The area is safe and the hotel does not see load shedding as it is next parliament. We go there often and so far so good.

[@camdendavid]

Thanks for sharing this!

[@esk2k5]

Another tip, rent a car, drive up the North Coast to langebaan, stay there instead. Camps bay is trendoid central.... Rent a car, drive through hout bay and along chapmans peak, continue to kommetjie, misty cliffs and onwards to simons Town, kalk Bay, muizenbetg. Stay in strand and do the drive along clarence drive to bettys bay where you can also see penguins and also visit harold porter botanical Gardens... 0:02

[@camdendavid]

Thanks for this! I made it through most of that but didn't get beyond Simons Town

[@jacqueshollands5630]

Best time to visit Cape Town is late Feb to May, but anytime is actually okay. December can be windy (south-easter) and it is cold and rainy from June through to Aug

[@camdendavid]

Got to go in March - April but looking forward to visiting in some of the other months!

[@stephanfourie6879]

😂😂😂December can be windy!!!??? November to April Sometimes NON STOP for 6 to 8 days, maybe half a day no wind and then repeat 6 to 8 days....

[@pearlgumede1243]

what about Mid September?

[@stephanfourie6879]

@@pearlgumede1243 Wonderful time!!

[@brendagitonga8040]

And may?

[@faizalhamssin3714]

Thank you for this video; I’m visiting Cape Town next month, and the information here (especially about the areas to stay) is really helpful!

[@camdendavid]

You got it! Thanks for watching and have a great trip :)

[@kigzman1745]

@faizalhamssin3714 it's winter right now, so expect very cold wet weather. So out door activity might be limited. Table Mountain might be off limits then.

[@hkdollydesignstudio3566]

Cape Town doesnt only have the CBD, they have wine routes on Stellenbosch and Paarl's side. These places are just outside the Northern Suburbs of Cape Town. The better mall to go to is Canal Walk, Century City - prices there will be more normal and that mall is huge. The V&A Waterfront mall is overrated in my opinion.

[@camdendavid]

Thanks for this! I'll add that to my list for next trip. 100% agree on the V&A

[@trevorfortune5022]

Wonderful recommendation :-) To travellers, The Cape Tow "Red Bus" does an awesome tour of the wine route but you can also contact the tour guides for tours.

[@tshifhiwathovhakale9385]

South Africa is known to have one of the best water quality in the world, it is generally safe to drink Tap water, but i believe mostly Rural areas have clean water, because i once moved to Pretoria (city) and water there had some unusual smell... bt in my village it is as good as bottle water

[@cccmmm1234]

Do not make blanket statements about water in SA. It varies from area to area.

[@tshifhiwathovhakale9385]

@@cccmmm1234 hence, I've explained the difference i experienced

[@camdendavid]

Appreciate the insight!

[@francoiscoetzer9920]

Definitely not the world…

[@tshifhiwathovhakale9385]

@@francoiscoetzer9920 check the stats

[@glynislailann9056]

Blouberg Beach is also a nice place to stay with beautiful beaches although a bit out of central Cape Town though.

[@camdendavid]

Didn’t make it over there but will add it to my list for next time! Thanks for the tip :)

[@Van_Wilder]

You did a brilliant job here - well done…got my stamp of approval 👍🏻

[@camdendavid]

Appreciate the support Van! Thanks for watching

[@werner8884]

Im a Capetonian and i Approve of this, sucks that we have loadshedding but there's so much to do when there is load shedding. Many nice places to stay out side of the CBD area. If its cheap avoid it :)

[@camdendavid]

Appreciate the support! Thanks for watching :)

[@PZJBimha]

I live in Cape Town. This video is on point 👌For beautiful scenic drives I recommend Chapman's Peak Drive. One of the most beautiful underrated hikes is "Devil's peak" - just don't hike alone. Unfortunately safety is a major concern anywhere. Muizenberg beach for warm water. Camps bay is very beautiful but the water there is icy.

[@camdendavid]

Thanks for taking the time to watch and sharing your tips! I'll be sure to hit each of those places when I'm back in Cape Town :)

[@wnash7]

I’m visiting SA soon (cape town and garden route), your comment really concerned me, can you please explain more about it. Also what kind of “dangerous” you mean like they will mug me or it reach serious injuries or killing :(

[@bornchildpilot]

What an amazing review of Capetown. I recently moved here and it's exactly as he said. Very modern, just be about your wits. There are a few street beggars that can sometimes become intimidating however they're mostly harmless and just really after a bit of cash or left over food. I highly recommend areas around the city bowl or even the west coast to stay.... Very peaceful.

[@johnfromireland7551]

Hi A, are you a pilot in Capetown? What do you fly? And would you consider giving some lessons to an absolute beginner? Happy new year 2024.

[@camdendavid]

I appreciate the support! Let me know if you ever have any recommendations

[@jayduplessis7698]

I live in Cape Town and our tap water is 100% good - we have some of the best quality tap water in the world. It is essentially rain water that has been cleaned up (we have a lot of rainfall in winter and we catch that water in dams - even our toilet flushing water is 100% drinkable water). So I have no idea who gave you that advice. Leave the bottled water, it's a waste of your money and bad for the environment. As for taking a jacket - that only true if you go up a mountain or to Cape Point, because the weather can be very different there. But if it's a nice warm day, it will be like that everywhere else you go for the day, so don't stress about it. Also, in terms of where to stay - anywhere in the "city bowl" (which is the whole area within the "arms" of the three mountains (Table Mountain and its side-mountains, Lion's Head and Devil's Peak) - which includes the CBD - or the Atlantic Seaboard (from Green Point to Camp's Bay) is fine. You can get anywhere from there with an Uber in 20 mins or less, because there are two ways: around the mountain or over the mountain (between Lion's Head and Table Mountain). So even if you stay in Camps Bay you can get to the CBD in 10-15 mins. Finally, to say one part of Cape Town (the city) is safer than another is not really accurate. If you're walking around with your iPhone (or other valuables) out you have an equal chance of it being snatched in Sea Point or Gardens as the CBD. There are poor people everywhere who might take an opportunity if you flaunt it. So none of these areas are worse than any others. However, I wouldn't call any of these areas "dangerous" - including the CBD. You are as safe in Cape Town as you are in London (where I also lived). The bad crime rates come from outside the city, like the "Cape Flats". In the City and surrounds you can feel safe walking around like the locals, just don't be careless or naive. Especially at night (e.g. if you walk around at night, walk in a group, or take an Uber). But almost everyone here is very chill, so you can chill too :)

[@camdendavid]

Really appreciate the detailed breakdown and the insight! Always great to hear from the folks who know the city far better than I do :)

[@Thelandlord637]

Ok but don’t lie about the weather, it changes every 30 minutes so a jacket is necessary 💀

[@jayduplessis7698]

@@Thelandlord637 No it doesn't, the weather in Cape Town is very consistent: it is either a warm/hot day or a cool/cold day. It won't change half-way through the day.

[@WhaleTart]

I have lived in Hermanus, Kleinmond and Cape Town for the past 20 years. I find that if you go anywhere near a water body you need to pack a light jacket. We went from Edgemead to Hout Bay a month ago, it was glorious weather in Edgemad and it was freezing and very windy when we arrived in Hout Bay. So there are two sides to this suggestion. I think some people just feel the cold quicker than others. I always have a Pashmina at the bottom of my bag.

[@jayduplessis7698]

@@WhaleTart Ok this conversation is going into Monty Python territory now. Take a jacket if you want to take a jacket - but 9/10 you don't need to if it's a warm sunny day.

[@vickie3237]

Your videos are Always both informative and and Super nice! Thank you

[@camdendavid]

I appreciate the kind words :)

[@kaygee9159]

Oh em gee..I’m South African born and bred…I live in both Midrand and Cape Town, and sweedat 😮‍💨 you👏🏽 are👏🏽 absolutely 👏🏽on👏🏽 point 👏🏽 like literally

[@camdendavid]

I appreciate you taking the time to watch! Thanks for the kind words and support :)

[@NadineHoogenboezem]

a jacket is necessary for the whole of the Cape and surrounding cities or areas like Gordons Bay and Stellenbosch

[@camdendavid]

thanks!

[@byrondemaker]

Straight to the point and thorough... great stuff man!

[@camdendavid]

That's the goal! Appreciate you taking the time to watch

[@BJaMeSoN007]

As a Capetonian, I approve of this message 👍👍 A very well-structured and awesome view of the CBD and surrounding suburbs. As others have mentioned, there are a lot of other great areas, as well, especially the Blouberg side. The 'northern suburbs' as we call them (Durbanville and further) are also great for the wine connoisseurs and lovers of great bubbly - with surrounding suburbs that are super safe, affordable, and quieter (being further out of the city).

[@camdendavid]

Really appreciate the support! And thanks for the recommendations. I'll make sure to spend some time in those areas during my next visit

[@ashlinr38]

Nice video, glad you enjoyed the trip. Another important one is that as a tourist you can claim your VAT (15%),on most of your shopping. Given the weak Rand, this makes a lot of items that much more attractive

[@camdendavid]

Thanks for adding this. VAT often gets ignored by tourists so I appreciate you bringing it up :)

[@thewarriorbunny]

I grew up in Cape Town. I now live in Johannesburg. I drink tap water in JHb but when I visit CT the water makes me queesy...so I boil the tap water and store it in the fridge.

[@camdendavid]

Thanks for sharing this!

[@livingexplore9295]

Am from South African load shedding sucks 😅 and the app really helps 😊

[@camdendavid]

Glad to hear you agree! My fingers are crossed hoping load shedding becomes a thing of the past in the near future for you and everyone else :)

[@MichaelIngram-i4y]

Tap water in Cape Town and surrounds is perfectly safe to drink ,,, bottled water is usually in plastic bottles which are rarely recycled

[@tracyforrest2253]

Amazing video. I’ve been searching for this info because I’m planning a family vacation to South Africa. So thank you, my friend. New subscriber, keep it coming

[@camdendavid]

Much appreciated! Hope you and your family have a wonderful trip :)

[@etiennelouw9244]

The left side of the road is the correct side to drive on, this comes from when people ride horses and carried swords, most people are right handed so draw and defend themselves with that hand so that's why the right side is kept to oncoming people, you drive on the wrong side.

[@camdendavid]

There's a fun fact!

[@chipm2544]

This is the part that concerns me. I will have an index card with an arrow facing the lane I need to be in. Will also put a short colorful ribbon on the side to help remind which lane to be in.

[@icohen1627]

Advice for this city. Whenever you see a neighbourhood that looks run down and bad. Don't go into it. Other advice is if you visit in the winter which is June-August. Don't expect sunny days. We do have our fair share of sunny winter days and it is pleasant since you can enjoy the greenery. But for most of May-September there is always going to be clouds in the sky

[@camdendavid]

Thanks for sharing your experience

[@garyclarke8862]

Hey, it is great to hear a foreigners view of our country and Cape Town. Remember that there is a lot more to see in South Africa other than Cape Town.

[@camdendavid]

Thanks for the support! Can't wait to visit other parts of the country :)

[@garyclarke3315]

@@camdendavid Camden, I don't know another country that has load-shedding. Zimbabwe just switches off without telling you. I hope you can come to Johannesburg. Be careful where you stay. Here you can use Bolt to ride around cheaper than Uber and here uber and the metered taxis generally have a fight. you can stay at a Bed and breakfast. We have one in Buccleuch (pronounced Bucklew) Are you on your own?

[@camdendavid]

@@garyclarke3315 Thanks for the insight Gary! I'll definitely schedule a trip to Johannesburg the next time I'm in South Africa. I travel around with my wife, Sarah :)

[@garyclarke8862]

Oh just remember if you want to get around you should add Bolt app on your phone. Don't use metered taxis, they rip foreigners off. BOLT IS PRETTY CHEAP

[@lorarucker5561]

I am planning to visit Cape Town alon for few days. This information helpful for my trip. Thanks million for tips.

[@camdendavid]

Glad it was helpful! Let me know if any other questions pop up and have a great trip 😀

[@isoboy1000]

Bro Sim card is free in South Africa i don't know who tried to sell it to you.

[@camdendavid]

Hmmmm

[@isoboy1000]

@camdendavid Yep, they're freely offered to increase subscribers, but it's been a long time since I've heard someone talk about buying a SIM card.

[@forjcapesa]

😂😂

[@derynking2602]

I'm Capetonian and this advice is 100. Couldn't have said it better.

[@camdendavid]

Much appreciated!

[@nicovb4274]

Dude love this video, I am from Cape Town. Everyone must come! if into wine!!! Cape Town is the place to be!!!!

[@camdendavid]

Appreciate the support! Cape Town is unbelievable!

[@rjj479]

I'm so confused... locals don't drink tap water 😂😂😂. I've only met few south africans who don't drink tap water. South African tap water is rated amongst the safest in the world.

[@camdendavid]

That's what I thought too! But then I was told differently and now I'm confused again haha

[@rjj479]

@Camden David LOL. I've drank tap water in my city,Johannesburg, my whole life with no complaints 🤣. I have also drank tap water while traveling to most cities and large towns in SA. Maybe developed immunity over my life 🤣🤣

[@Alex-dh8fy]

​@@camdendavidand the best part is tap water is free at restaurants

[@garethmorgan9374]

There are a few reports that the water is contiminated but I mean yeah. I've lived in Cape Town for over 30 years, I've drunk tap water nearly every day, and not just a glass like 2/3 liters worth and my stomach has never had issues. So it's fairly safe tbh.

[@rjj479]

@garethmorgan9374 if CPT water is bad, then my tap water up in Joburg must be toxic 🤣🤣🤣

[@christoduplessis8177]

It always surprises me that people from America and Europe think that South Africa is not a modern country. Yes there are problems but we live the same as people do all over the world with everything they have there (apart from good public transport and power 24/7). In fact, I think we are better off in many ways than the foreigners.

[@camdendavid]

Couldn't agree more

[@dianathompson8794]

Foreigners forget that South Africa once had 1st world infrastructure..

[@garrithsmith799]

Pro tip If you know someone in capetown( a local) Ask them to take you around. They will know all the best kept secrets, for example: Kalk bay Mountain with the boomslang cave. Also dont just tip anyone as they might just rob/mug you. Dont wear facy clothing as you might make yourself a target. Another tip is to always lock your car doors and keep your windows slightly open. Do NOT have them fully open as opportunists might try to rob you whilst you are in your car. Many other tips but I only speak as a resident from muizenburg ek se!

[@bravestarr1797]

Real Capetonians go to Strand and Gordons bay to swim. The water is warmer but there's not much else just ice cream and waffle shops no nightlife, small market though

[@camdendavid]

Great to know! I'll make sure to add it to my list for my next visit

[@candyp-r8626]

Best advice. Gordon's Bay my home town. I won't change it for the world.

[@camdendavid]

@@candyp-r8626 Added!

[@dantedt3931]

I hiked Table Mountain a few years ago. Best! I love South Africa🇿🇦

[@codyhorner7901]

A heads up, as a South African who doesn't live in Cape Town. The first couple of tips... *Loadshedding *Ubar *Card payment Facilities *Modern shopping centers Stand for most the rest of South Africa to.

[@camdendavid]

Thanks for this!

[@robertjames-life4768]

Awesome tips, thanks. Heading there in September

[@camdendavid]

Hope you have an awesome trip! Thanks for the support :)

[@pearlgumede1243]

me too hope the weather is fine

[@angelaevans3520]

Thank you. I will be traveling to cape Town for my birthday in a few weeks. I'm so excited about this trip. Thank you

[@camdendavid]

Happy early birthday! Hope you have a great trip :)

[@michaelw3897]

Don't know where you went for a SIM, maybe the airport? A local SIM is free, I use Telkom and pay as I go which is about $8 per month living here full time. I still US my us sim for international calls but with WhatsApp that is not needed often.

[@camdendavid]

Good to know! Might have to try that next time around and compare to Airalo

[@lilydarcy8394]

You mention load shedding. Great, soon I'm going there just to get disconnected. So, I wouldn't mind the absence of technology at all. I needed this video. Thank you👍👍👍

[@camdendavid]

Thanks for watching :)

[@Yasmina_Anwar]

I just arrived Cape Town and I wish I saw this before I came, they are all make sense!

[@camdendavid]

Hope you have a great time!!!

[@thisminimallife]

Cape Town water is so nice my skin and hair are always lovely when I’m there

[@camdendavid]

100% agree hahah

[@NJHelder]

From South Africa and Mr David is legit. Good work.

[@camdendavid]

Much appreciated

[@someonelastname8175]

Tap water is any country has different bacteria in it, so it's always a risk of upset tummy. SA is typically safe, unless the locals suggest otherwise.

[@camdendavid]

Agreed

[@AlbertCloete]

I've drank Cape Town tap water my whole life. It's been fine so far.

[@camdendavid]

Thanks for this

[@kathrynjeffcoats1371]

That is because your body is used to the water since birth.

[@jaimeinthesun2669]

Great video! Thanks for sharing. I'm headed there for 5 weeks in early 2024!

[@camdendavid]

Thanks for watching! Hope you have an awesome trip :) I'll be there in March so maybe we'll bump into you

[@trevorfortune5022]

The summer time during December - February is a fantastic time to be in Cape Town...you will have a great time.

[@Khromata]

that was incredibly helpful! well done thank you!

[@camdendavid]

Glad it was helpful! Thanks for watching :)

[@theresamu9216]

Is the background picture of this video real? If yes: Where do I have this view?

[@tinahuegel]

Great Advice! I was planning on going either to Table Mt or Boulders beach. So, your tips are very helpful! I absolutely didn't know about loadshetting, but my Airbnb seems to be fine then... I guess xD

[@camdendavid]

Glad it was helpful! Hope you have an awesome trip 😀

[@pasions.1489]

I've learned so much from you!! Thank you. I'm a bit nervous. But, something is telling me to come and explore Cape Town

[@camdendavid]

Thanks for the support! And feel free to reach out with any questions. Definitely don't want anyone being nervous :)

[@rogerwilcoshirley2270]

Good narration and info was helpful, taking a bus tour of SA soon, i can see i made a very good choice. Hopefully when there i can get to see what life actually is for the African residents not just the hordes of American and European tourists. And yes, relating to potable tap water, Montezuma is still very angry at the modern day decedents or not of Cortez ;-)

[@camdendavid]

Glad you enjoyed! Hope you have a great trip :)

[@peachleroux]

How much more budget traveller can anyone be coming here spending Rands? Please consider paying the fee to see the penguins, African penguins are an endangered species and the fee's go toward the upkeep and protection of the colonies!

[@camdendavid]

Great to know! Thanks :)

[@ludovicolongo4559]

very useful video mate thanks

[@camdendavid]

Glad to hear it!

[@karinjacka7422]

Cape Town water is fine…have never drank anything else

[@camdendavid]

Thanks for sharing this!

[@mylayoverlife]

My wife and I are planning on taking our kids to Cape Town next month. She’s concerned about crime there. We’re fairly well traveled (South Korea, Vietnam, Europe, etc)…but curious what your thoughts are.

[@camdendavid]

Tough topic. I'd be lying if I said you wouldn't notice an extreme disparity in wealth. Crime definitely exists, but most tourists aren't going to end up in the places that are most dangerous.. I've always felt safe in Cape Town and the surrounding areas but I've stayed in the safer pockets. Probably fair to say it's more important to do your research here to make sure you end up in those ideal areas. My wife and I always walk during the day but Uber if we're going somewhere at night. We spent 2 months in Cape Town in 2023 and we're back in town at the moment (another 2 months). As a well-traveled family, I think you'll be in good shape. You'll likely feel the need to stay a bit more alert than you would in your typical European city but I wouldn't discourage anyone from traveling to Cape Town due to the crime. So many incredible things to see here. Side note -- really appreciate your content. I have a few pilots in my family including one at United. Shoot me a note if you have any other questions

[@jacqueshollands5630]

I always say that it is not a skill to be offended, but I almost was with the patronising comment, "There's really modern infrastructure in Cape Town, believe it or not" (3:31). Gee golly, I don't know, we still use tin cups with string to communicate with each other and ride horses to where we need to get to, but only during the day, because the lions and leopards roam the streets at night, because this is Africa, right! Haha, just having a little bit of fun 😜. But I did like the video - generally a cool presentation

[@camdendavid]

Hahah I appreciate the feedback! Didn't mean to be patronizing but totally understand that. Unfortunately, the US does a great job convincing folks that the US is better than the rest of the world and that places like South Africa can't keep up from an infrastructure perspective. The reality is far from that but US viewers will likely be shocked to see just how advanced Cape Town is! Appreciate you taking the time to watch :)

[@jacqueshollands5630]

@@camdendavid Nah, I was just teasing a bit. You are a great sport. You have done a great job at presenting Cape Town. We are passionate about our country, even though it has some serious political problems. Thank you for taking the time to visit our beautiful city.

[@camdendavid]

@@jacqueshollands5630 Appreciate the kind words :)

[@chloegunston5333]

These are good recommendations- But as far as places to stay are concerned there are so many more options- I see some commenters have already put in a word for the winelands. If I were part of a family coming to Cape Town and I wanted to get a full experience I may consider getting an airbnb or hotel in Constantia (while it's pricy for South Africans to live there- It's no more expensive than getting an AirBnb in town (CBD and areas close by), and arguably less expensive than Clifton. Constantia Is pretty, its really green with beautiful forest walks and parks and lots of good wine tasting and restaurants too. It's definitely more suburban but only about 25 minutes away from the main city and 25 minutes away from Kalk Bay (Another charming spot by the sea en route to Simonstown). Kalk Bay is another nice option for Airbnb or hotels- it's very down to earth and arty, great places to swim, delicious restaurants and a vibrant atmosphere- the only thing is that it's far from town. of course there are loads more, but if you're a first time visitor to Cape Town you will probably want to stay in more well known areas. If you are able to rent a car while you're staying here (or for a part of your stay) I would say that is a good option for getting around. You just need to get an international drivers license which isn't difficult (you may need to do this before you leave your own country, but don't quote me on that). renting a car can be relatively affordable- especially if you're here for a few weeks it's nicer than having to uber everywhere. You are also able to be more spontaneous and enjoy the areas surrounding Cape Town- a road trip in the Western Cape is a beautiful thing (don't worry Google Maps has your back). Lastly, If you are not South African the entry fee to tourist destinations (like boulders beach and the cable car) are more expensive than they are for us. So make sure you check the right price if you're budgeting ahead. Some of our nature reserves have an entry fee because South Africa is quite strict on conservation. You won't have to pay to walk on the mountain or the forest but you will have to pay to go to any areas run by SANParks (You can google these) :)

[@camdendavid]

Really appreciate the detailed recommendations here! I hope others read this so they get multiple perspectives. Thank you my friend!

[@nomsantuli6023]

Thanks sir watching from the UK can't wait to come home this year.

[@camdendavid]

Thanks for the support!

[@helgaheyl5302]

Fortunately we do not experience load shedding any more and many places also have solar now.

[@camdendavid]

Love to hear that!

[@bjornjochems]

Cellphone service is expensive. Tap water is safe in Cape Town, but has a taste. Be safe everywhere, be vigilant Blouberg is perfect for wind water sports Stellenbosch perfect for wine district

[@camdendavid]

Thanks for this

[@arshadsadiq9970]

Thanks for Useful tips to visit Cape Town

[@camdendavid]

Glad you found them useful. Thanks for watching and taking the time to comment :)

[@mario_0101]

Pretty much spot on except that the tap water is very safe and there is no need to tip Uber drivers. Locals almost never do. Only tip if using Uber Eats. There is also Bolt but Uber is the preferred ride hailing app and considered safer.

[@camdendavid]

Good to know! Thanks for watching :)

[@dinamjdebruyn7431]

How inconsiderate!!of course one tips the Uber drivers on the app

[@rootsofwisdomhealth]

Man this is a great video !! We’re going to Cape Town soon ! Thanks 😊

[@camdendavid]

Glad it was helpful! Hope you have a great trip 😃

[@The_Angry_BeEconomist]

9:40 I actually live in this street, I own property in the "The Adderley" and live in the building next door on the right in the video we probably walked passed each other a few times

[@camdendavid]

I remember that building! Just around the corner from the Taj, right? Maybe we'll run into each other during my next visit

[@The_Angry_BeEconomist]

@@camdendavid thats correct

[@yaseenmeyer8452]

Tap water is 💯% safe to drink in cape Town.

[@camdendavid]

Thanks for this!

[@meganrich5910]

Keep some cash for tips! Car guards, waiters, etc…

[@camdendavid]

Great point!

[@deliafrye1344]

What are car guards

[@Helgardt6189]

@@deliafrye1344Car guards are there to prevent your car from being stolen…lots of vehicle theft in South Africa.

[@HoldenWorldTravel]

Great video with good tips and useful info.

[@camdendavid]

Glad it was helpful!

[@JesusIsLordLasVegas]

Thank You brother Camden. How did you learn to drive on the wrong side of the road coming from the U.S.? Did you just jump right into it & hope for the best? Could you do a video on how to lease a used vehicle there? Thanks.

[@camdendavid]

I jumped right in haha. Definitely took it slow at first but the adjustment was surprisingly easy! Are you referring to renting a car for a trip or long-term rentals?

[@JesusIsLordLasVegas]

@@camdendavid O.K, cool. No, moreso leasing a used or new vehicle long-term on a contractual month-to-month basis as I'm looking at moving to Cape Town for 6 months or more. Thanks.

[@camdendavid]

@@JesusIsLordLasVegas Ah I see. I don't have any experience with that but hope a local will see this and chime in. Sorry I couldn't be more helpful there!

[@yenhumphrey9329]

We are going to Cape Town this August & glad to find your video! Thanks for all the infos. About Boulders beach, how do we get to the 'free' section? We rather see less penguin but less crowd😀. We saw KZbin, some people went through the boulders to see the penguin up close, not from the wood platforms. Thanks again!

[@camdendavid]

Great question! Your best bet is going to Water's Edge Beach and Middle Beach (Google Maps will make them easy to find). Those are right next to Boulder's Beach and you'll typically have penguins there. You might have to try both to see where the penguins are hanging out that day. Hope this helps and hope you have a great time in August! Let me know if any other questions pop up. I'll have an updated video for you by then cause I'm in Cape Town right now :)

[@yenhumphrey9329]

@@camdendavid Thanks A LOT for the tip! Enjoy CT & looking forward to your new video!

[@divalawyers]

Great video. Thank you so much for this information!

[@camdendavid]

Glad it was helpful!

[@VanessaSolomons-d8d]

Hi pal thx for the video im Capetonion born and bred the tap water is just fine go to Franschoek valley and even nearby Paarl and Stellenbosch for the best wine tasting experiences

[@camdendavid]

Much appreciated!

[@tanishaw8628]

Thank you! I will be traveling solo to south african next year for a week and a half before meeting a group in africa for a safari trip. I have hyatt points and was thinking about staying at the Hyatt in City Center...but I've seen mixed reviews and saw one saying that it wasn't safe at night because it's near Bo-Knapp. So I have a room booked now (that I can still cancel) in V&A Waterfront. I haven't seen a lot of reviews that told you where and stay and why. As a solo female traveler I've always stayed at hotels. Do you think Air BNBs are safe for solo female travelers? Thank you for this! I am definitely going to check out the areas that you recommended.

[@denisehoshor5298]

Awesome video. I want an area reasonable to get to a well equipped bodybuilding gym, access to crazy hikes and beach. What do you recommend? Is the citibus the most economical and practical if I had to go a ways to get to gym or hike if I chose to stay at a good beach like Camps Bay? You’re the best!! United States Girl

[@sarahpalmisano9080]

Another sea point shout out!!!!!

[@camdendavid]

Didn't see that one coming ;)

[@StAlfonzo87]

04:29 I don't know what the Uber prices are like in the states, but I've heard the prices here in Cape Town are much cheaper.

[@peachleroux]

Locals use Uber frequently, so should be cheap as chips for foreigners.

[@camdendavid]

Prices in Cape Town were very affordable compared to the US/Europe. Uber was a great option for us!

[@camdendavid]

Definitely!

[@charliesadv8493]

FYI We haven"t had load shedding for over 200 days. So far, the energy issues were sorted out to some extend

[@camdendavid]

So glad to hear that!

[@Kilim_Anjaro]

I'm flying to CapevTown next week. All the people I shared my plans with immediatly mentioned the security issues. What can you say about that specific point ?

[@camdendavid]

In my experience, I wouldn't be overly concerned. But I was only there for about 2 months and stayed in pretty safe areas (planning on visiting again in March). What part of town are are you staying in? I'm sure some locals here will be able to share more updated info but you'll likely be okay if you stick to what the locals stay (take Ubers, don't walk alone at night, and be aware of your surrounding). January is a high tourism season as well which should help a bit. Hope you have a great trip!

[@leeufontein]

@@camdendavidDavid, would love to connect with you. I have a Facebook Group that I have featured you on. I live in Cape Town, I have some ideas for your next visit

[@justinlee3467]

My wife and I are staying the night in Cape Town next week and flying into Botswana the next day. We will be staying at the Hotel Verde Cape Town Airport. What would you recommend for a nice dinner spot?

[@camdendavid]

Sounds like a fun trip! What type of dinner are you looking for? And are you wanting to stay in that area or would you prefer something closer to city center? I'm not too familiar with the area where you're staying but I reached out to a local friend and they had this to say -- "The restaurant inside the hotel was actually really great. I had a banging pizza and my wife really enjoyed her vegan spaghetti bolognese. They also had my favorite Belgian Beer, Leffe. They even do picnics in a lovely area outside with a pond." But if you're looking to hop downtown, Bao Down was a great Asian eatery! Happy to throw some other suggestions if you have any other details/specifics on what you're looking for. Hope this helps and enjoy your trip!

[@justinlee3467]

@@camdendavid Thank you for the recommendations!

[@nicolamanton748]

Have just watched and now very concerned about where we are staying! We are staying on Riebeek Street, Cape Town CBD between Bree Street and Long Street and it has got me quite worried 😔

[@AngelsBalancecoach]

Hey! Great video. Do international phone contracts work there to call and use internet though? I'm travelling there for work so to know if I need the esim. Thanks!

[@camdendavid]

Great question -- the calls will just be over internet and will ONLY be usable through 3rd party apps like FaceTime, WhatsApp, etc. I probably wouldn't think of these as contracts -- they're moreso buying prepackaged amount of internet data that can be used in a bunch of different ways. Does that make sense?

[@gregadams6827]

I love South Africa, been there 9 times and love Kaap Stad, and man you are so handsome, Baie Dankie Vriend Greg, Springfield, Louisiana, USA.

[@camdendavid]

It's a special place. Appreciate the the support haha!

[@louiseg8678]

Tap water is absolutely fine. Avoid Table Mountain hikes.

[@camdendavid]

Thanks for sharing!

[@linekermwiikisa1399]

Nice content. did you have to get clearance to fly your drone?

[@camdendavid]

Appreciate the support. I was traveling through some countries with severe drone restrictions right after Cape Town so I didn't actually bring one. I purchase drone shots through platforms like Artlist and Storyblocks to support drone cinematographers :)

[@Donald.Archer]

Tap water is 100% drinkable, we just like to filter is from the tap. Loadshedding is not them conserving energy, it is because of corruption, they can't produce enough electricity, so we end up having to take turns without it.

[@tlit3284]

Thank you so much. Very helpful 🙏🏻🙌👍🏻😇🤗

[@camdendavid]

Thank YOU!

[@myhappyspace4533]

Great video from someone living in Cape Town

[@camdendavid]

Much appreciated

[@PFNel]

I'm a bit puzzled by the water comments. I've drunk Cape Town tap water all my life and there's nothing wrong with it. Is it possible that someone else may have a slightly different constitution that reacts differently to the water? Well, perhaps, but I'd never heard of such a thing until now.

[@camdendavid]

Definitely possible! I’ve heard many folks who have had no issues but also heard some not so great stories haha. Great to hear both sides!

[@AutieTortie]

The driving side here isn't "flipped". The driving side in YOUR COUNTRY is flipped.

[@camdendavid]

True haha

[@truthhq3954]

are there any safe airbnbs in walking distance to 284 Vootrekker Road Maitland, Cape Town

[@camdendavid]

I'd probably recommend using Uber in that area

[@emileneslo5695]

Here is a travel tip for everyone who doesn't trust the tap water of the country they visit. Go to the local stores and buy you 2 or more glass carafes or glass bottles. Boil the tap water to it's boiling point in pots and or water boilers. Let the water cool off on it's own and pour it into these glass carafes/bottles and place them in the refrigerator. Do this every day or so much so that you only need to do it once every 2 days. Yes it's a bit of a chore but you will have clean water to drink. Besides, buying plastic water bottles means you are drinking micro plastics.

[@camdendavid]

First time hearing that tip! Thanks for the recommendation :)

[@johnfromireland7551]

A Cold wind? At the top of a mountain maybe, but I only ever experienced a warm wind in Cape Town.

[@camdendavid]

Yeah mostly on hikes towards late April. Love the warm wind though!

[@BrazilNDM]

Much appreciated Camden!!

[@camdendavid]

Thanks for watching!