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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...

The Winelands

Franschhoek Valley

For the somellier in all of us

 

Whether you're a seasoned wine connoisseur or an easy-going afficionado, the Western Cape's vineyards offer a fascinating glimpse into the incredible wines this region has to offer. What's more, with the preferential exchange rate, these can all be enjoyed be at a fraction of the cost of the other big name wine regions. Better yet, The Winelands can be accessed in as little as 45 minutes from Cape Town.

Sip back and relax...

Mont Rochelle

Mont Rochelle

Located in the picturesque town of Franschhoek, Mont Rochelle will likely be top of your agenda. Owned by Virgin Limited Edition, you can expect sensational wines, mouth-watering cuisine and fantastic Virgin hospitality.

 

 

Tastings start from R60pp

Haute Cabriere - CPT Travel Guide

Haute Cabrière

Family owned for over 40 years, Haute Cabrière offers some of the most impressive wines in the region. You can also enjoy lunch at Haute Cabrière's restaurant whilst taking in the incredible views of the Franschhoek Wine Valley.

 

Tastings start from R90pp

Lanzerac Wine Estate

Lanzerac

Founded just 13 years after Stellenbosch itself back in 1692, Lanzerac Wine Estate is a renowned part of the region's history. Lanzerac remains true to the legacy it has created and continues to offer a luxurious experience to all who visit.

 

Tastings start from R80pp

Rickety Bridge - CPT Travel Guide

Rickety Bridge

Formerly owned by one of the first female landowners in South Africa, Rickety Bridge is a traditional estate sat within the Franschhoek Valley. Tastings here are incredible value and there's even a child friendly option so no one misses out. 

 

Tastings start from R75pp

 

 

When one day just won't do

  • For those wanting to enjoy the Winelands for longer, why not spend a couple of nights in one of the gorgeous Winelands hotels. A stay in a Winelands hotel gives you the opportunity to relax and take a break from the excitement of Cape Town. We recommend a stay in Mont Rochelle, a stunning Virgin Limited Edition hotel located in the Franschhoek Valley.

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