If you want to immerse yourself in the dynamic and rich culture of Africa while avoiding the intense heat then Cape Town is the perfect destination for you.
The place offers a high quality of living with a budget-friendly lifestyle. It is ranked 10th on the nomad list and the place is certainly known as a digital nomad hotspot.
If you have made up your mind about going there then make sure to go over this article and learn all the essentials.
Where is Cape Town located?
Cape Town is the legislative capital and the seat of South Africa’s parliament. This urban city is located at the northern end of the Cape Peninsula, right in the southwestern part of the country.
Fact: Did you know that Cape Town is the second most populous city in all of South Africa?
Why Choose Cape Town as a Digital Nomad? Pros and Cons
Cape Town can appeal to certain people while others may find it uninteresting. Here is a list of pros and cons that might help you decide whether the place is a good fit for you.
| Pros | Cons |
| Tons of activities | Not that safe |
| Moderate internet speed | Visa difficulties |
| Welcoming locals | Dangerous roads |
| English widely spoken | Load shedding |
| Good food | Racial segregation |
| Spacious |
In addition to all these benefits, make sure to note that Cape Town is also a democratic place that happens to be lgbtq+ friendly. The city might not be the safest overall but it is certainly a secure place for women. It is welcoming towards various ethnicities and the freedom of speech is also paramount.
How to Get to Cape Town?
You can get to Cape Town through various means.
By air
One of the best ways of getting to Cape Town is air travel. You can get direct flights or connecting flights and arrive at the Cape Town International Airport. This airport caters to both domestic and international flights. Air travel is also comfortable and convenient. It’s easily the best option for people traveling from abroad.
By train
If you are already in South Africa then train travel is also a viable option. There are trains from and to Cape Town from all over South Africa. Luxury train services such as the Blue Train even run a 27-hour-long scenic ride from Cape Town to Pretoria. Other trains offer daily services to and from nearby areas.
By bus
You can also travel to Cape Town from another one of Cape provinces via bus travel. This form of transport is not only cheap but easily accessible as well.
Transportation and How to Get Around Cape Town?
The transport scene in Cape Town is not that big of a worry if you are living in the right place. Things are easy because mostly everything is within walking distance. As a nomad, you can simply opt for taxis and Uber.
Uber
Uber is commonly used and available in Cape Town which means you are one app away from getting to your desired location. Ubers are definitely safer than local taxis and they tend to cost less as well.
Rent a car
If Uber isn’t a preferable choice for you then you can always rent a car. There are tons of providers in Cape Town who’ll offer you great long-term deals with low rates. Driving on the left side may be a little complex to get used to but it’s the perfect option for road trips!
You can rent a car from providers like Discover Cars
Public transportation
Lastly, you can simply opt for public transport during your time in the cape town. There are a bunch of private bus companies including the city’s sightseeing bus. This form of transport is cheaper, easily accessible, and comfortable.
3 Best Accommodation Options in Cape Town
The accommodation scene in Cape Town is a little different than other digital nomad destinations. First things first, we definitely suggest spending a little bit more money and seeking residence in a safer area rather than some shady part of the city.
Airbnb
As you may have heard from fellow digital nomads, Airbnbs thrive in Cape Town. This means you can easily find a place to live without any hassle.
The best places for digital nomads, remote workers, tourists, and expats include Green Point and Sea Point. Both have their own advantages but most importantly, you’ll find the extra bucks worth it.
Green Point
If you decide to stay in Green Point, you’ll certainly enjoy the abundance of facilities in the proximity of the area. From bars and cafes to restaurants and grocery stores, everything is within walking distance. As for fitness lovers, they’ll be glad to learn that gyms and parks are in the vicinity as well. The signal hill is situated right behind Green Point which means you can go hiking on a pleasant day and see the lion’s head!
Sea Point
As for the sea point, it essentially offers the same things as the Green Point but this area is more commercial than the former. This is an open-facing sea point which makes it lively and vibrant! If you decide to live here, make sure to head inland as you’ll find a bunch of seafood restaurants, fast-food points, South African handicrafts, coffee shops, live music, and the colorful Mojo Market.
General tips
Here are some general tips to keep in mind while searching for a residence.
- Airbnb tends to be cheaper when you book them on a monthly basis.
- Most times, the rent prices are negotiable.
- Be sure to ask about the load-shedding situation.
- Check the internet connection.
- Evaluate the hygiene situation.
- If you are interested in a co-living and co-working space then make sure to visit the Neighbourgood as they offer great services for this specific interest.
- Places like the Sunflower Stop and The Little Lemon Tree offer a great hostel experience.
Internet Connectivity in Cape Town
The best way of describing Cape Town’s internet situation is by saying one single word; “developing”. The internet connection here is not the best but it’s definitely improving over time.
The internet speed varies from location to location but several digital nomads have complained that the internet here is not the fastest. You can find moderate and reliable internet at several Airbnbs, restaurants, and cafes but there are no promises about the speed. The load shedding certainly doesn’t help as most places do not have the wifi on inverters.
You can also get local SIM cards at convenience stores nearby and enjoy affordable data packages.
E sims
Additionally, you can avoid the trouble of inconsistent internet and physical SIM cards by opting for an Esim. Compare the data packages below and see which provider suits you the best.
Holafly
| Data allowance | Validity | Price |
| Unlimited | 5 days | 29$ (26.72€) |
| Unlimited | 7 days | 37$ (34.09€) |
| Unlimited | 10 days | 44$ (40.54€) |
| Unlimited | 15 days | 47$ (43.30€) |
| Unlimited | 20 days | 59$ (54.35€) |
| Unlimited | 30 days | 79$ (72.78€) |
Airalo
| Data allowance | Validity | Price |
| 1 GB | 7 days | 4.50$ (4.15€) |
| 2 GB | 15 days | 8$ (7.37€) |
| 3 GB | 30 days | 11$ (10.13€) |
| 5GB | 30 days | 15.50$ (14.28€) |
| 10 GB | 30 days | 26$ (23.95€) |
5 Best Places to Work from in Cape Town
If you are someone who doesn’t like working from your place of residence then look into some other places. Luckily, Cape Town has a ton of cafes and coworking spaces to keep you motivated.
Nourish’d
Nourish’d is a plant-based cafe that offers the most delicious and healthy food in all of Cape Town. In addition to that, it also has comfortable seating, a good working environment, and a good wifi connection. Remote workers will find it cozy and convenient for sure.
Park cafe
Park Cafe is another one of the best places to work from. Their colonial-style architecture and cheap prices attract remote workers to come here and work for hours. Located in the heart of Green Point, this place has outdoor seating with shaded areas where you can indulge in work.
Cushty Neighborhood Deli
Cushty Neighborhood Deli offers more than just mouth-watering treats and bakery items. This place has a comfortable vibe and a chilled community that promotes a good working environment. It is located in the suburban area of Green Point. Their workstations are always full but you can try your luck and arrive early.
Ideas Cartel
If you do not prefer working from cafes then consider going to this coworking space. Built in an industrial building, the Ideas Cartel doesn’t only have a great location and working environment but it is also immune to load shedding! This is a good place overall and the lack of power shortage helps it stand out. The Ideas Cartel will allow you to work seamlessly for hours at the end and meet those last-minute deadlines.
Roamwork
Roamwork is one of the best coworking spaces in Cape Town. They offer everything from hot desks, private rooms, and dedicated desks to meeting rooms, common rooms, and call booths. This is a perfect place for determined remote workers who wish to avoid distractions at all costs. Their collection of compelling art, covering the walls will certainly intrigue you and promote creativity.
Cost of Living in Cape Town
Greenback declares Cape Town the cheapest city for expats! The title is well-earned because this South African city lets you afford a high-quality lifestyle on a low budget. Here’s a rough breakdown of prices there.
| Nomad’s cost of living | $2091/month (€1926) |
| Cost of living for a family | $2524/month (€2325) |
| hotel | $1097/month (1010€) |
| Studio in the city center (1br rent) | $477/month (€440) |
| Airbnb | $1556/month (€1433) |
| Dinner | $8.14 (€7.50) |
| Beer | $4.07 (€3.75) |
| Taxi | $2.33/trip (€2.15) |
| Coca-cola | $1.36 (€1.35) |
| Coffee | $1.74 (€1.60) |
| Coworking desk | $198/month (€182) |
As apparent above, Cape Town has an affordable cost of living. The ultimate estimate will depend on your spending habits but if you live a standard digital nomad lifestyle, you’ll spend about 2,091$ (€1926)/ month as an individual nomad.
Fact: The cost may change due to currency fluctuations or economic circumstances.
Culture, Nature, and Food in Cape Town
Cape Town is a vibrant city that is rich in culture, nature, and food. The local culture here is a mix of first-world and third-world cultures that collectively form a vibrant combination. The exciting mix includes Dutch, French, Malay, English, Hindu, and Afrikaner lifestyles. Cape Town’s heritage is also depicted by its vibrant culture.
As for the natural beauty, the city is surrounded by natural reserves. There are a ton of stunning landscapes and a scope of outdoor activities for nature lovers. You can engage in hiking, stargazing, and even birdwatching during your time here.
The food here is a perfect representation of its traditional values. The restaurants and cafes are extremely affordable while the variety offered is simply astonishing. You can also get fresh local produce to cook at home.
Best Time to Visit Cape Town
It’s no secret that Cape Town doesn’t have great weather all year long. While you are free to visit the city anytime you want, the best time is between June and November. This is the rainy season of the year that brings winds and cool breeze. Not only are the prices low during this time but the overall tourist inflow is also low.
This means you can explore the city and go to all the famous spots when they are less crowded. The good weather and cool temperatures will allow you to explore on foot. This time of the year is perfect for digital nomads who travel on a budget as the accommodation is also cheaper.
12 Best Things to Do in Cape Town
One thing about Cape Town is that there is a bunch to do! There are a lot of beautiful places where you can go but here are the 12 best things to do.
1. Take a table mountain gondola ride
The Table Mountain Aerial Cableway is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that takes you on a memorable 5-minute ride to the top of Table Mountain. This cable car transportation is a great way to see scenic and panoramic views. It is also one of the most popular tourist attractions in the cape town.
2. Go wine tasting
If you are looking for a rich and unforgettable experience then consider going wine tasting in Cape Town. There are a lot of wineries including Durbanville Hills, Cape Point Vineyards, and Rust en Vrede. You can look into each, see which one suits you the best, and make a day trip out of it. We recommend you sign up for one of the tours and enjoy it properly!
3. Visit Robben island
Robben Island, translated to Seal Island is a marvelous island that is worthy of a visit. The place has even been declared a UNESCO World Heritage site due to its historical value. It houses buildings such as the maximum security prison that dates back to the 20th century. It is symbolic of the triumph of democracy over oppression and racism. A well-guided tour will even take you through Nelson Mandela’s cell.
4. Visit the Constantia Valley
Constantia Valley is one of the oldest vineyards in Cape Town that hosted personalities such as Jane Austen and Napoleon Bonapart. Cape Town is the mother city of South Africa and your time here is incomplete without a visit to its oldest vineyard. You can engage in a bunch of activities such as picnics, festivals, and tours.
5. Visit the District 6 museum
If you want to immerse yourself in Cape Town’s rich history then make sure to visit the District 6 museum. This place was previously home to more than half of the city’s population but was declared a “white neighborhood” later on. District 6 is a vital reference point and a tour of this museum can help you understand the heritage more properly. Guided tours are also available.
6. Greenmarket square
Greenmarket Square is Cape Town’s oldest public square that holds great historical value. Located in the center of old Cape Town, this place has a bustling and lively environment. You can find everything from jewelry and clothing to handicrafts and quality goods. Make sure to visit here and get some souvenirs.
7. Visit the Bo-kaap
Bo-kaap is an area easily distinguished by its range of colorful houses and the rich feeling of cultural diversity. This neighborhood is home to Cape Town’s Muslim community which was brought in by Dutch slavers. You can learn more about this fascinating community and its vibrant culture through a guided tour of the Bo-kaap Museum.
8. Visit the Two Oceans aquarium
The Two Oceans Aquarium is a must-visit place in Cape Town! Located at the Victoria and Alfred waterfront, this place gives you an opportunity to experience the Atlantic and Indian oceans simultaneously. The aquarium is home to around 3000 diverse creatures including penguins and turtles. This is one of the most famous tourist attractions and promises a great time.
9. Visit the castle of good hope
Built in the 17th century, the Castle of Good Hope is a bastion fort that is popular among tourists and locals alike. It is the oldest European building in South Africa and it was previously used as a supply station by the Dutch. The place is worth a visit because its architecture is a sight to behold.
10. Visit the Clifton 1st beach
When in Cape Town, make sure to visit this white sandy beach and enjoy a fun-filled day. This beach has all the characteristics of a good beach including much-needed tree cover, a scenic surrounding, and a rocky cove. You can go there and swim on a warm day, have a picnic, or make sand castles. The deep blue waters offer tranquility and peace as well.
11. Visit the Kirstenbosch National Botanical Gardens
The Kirstenbosch National Botanical Gardens is a great and important garden located near Table Mountain in Cape Town. It houses a range of 7000 diverse species, some of whom are extremely rare. It is one of ten national botanical gardens and holds great significance. The beauty and diversity depicted here are truly marvelous.
12. Hike the lion’s head
The Lion’s Head is a mountain in South Africa, located right between Table Mountain and Signal Hill. If you are a nature lover who enjoys outdoor activities then make sure to hike this mountain. Since it is 669 meters above sea level, It takes approximately 90 minutes to get to the top. The journey may sound tough but the views are totally worth it.
Is Cape Town safe?
Safety is one of the main concerns for many people. Cape Town is generally a safe area but we wouldn’t call it the “safest”. Every place has its flaws and for Cape Town, it’s the safety concerns. This place is good for women, children, and tourists but unfortunately, the crime rate is quite higher than other digital nomad hotspots. The tourist crime rate is low but you’ll noticeably feel less safe while traveling alone, walking at night, or going to less crowded areas. As with any other country, we recommend that you stay cautious and vigilant. As a remote worker in a foreign country, make sure to take all the necessary precautions and remain on your guard at all times.
Visa Requirements in Cape Town
Unfortunately, South Africa doesn’t offer a digital nomad visa per se. However, you can always go with the alternate option and enter the country. U.S. citizens who plan on staying in South Africa for less than 90 days (for tourism or business purposes) will not require a visa at all. The rest can opt for a tourist visa that will last for 3 months initially and allow a 3-month extension after that. Here are the visa requirements:
- Valid passport and travel document
- A completed and filled out BI-84 form
- Proof of payment
- Yellow-fever vaccination certificate
- Two colored passport-photos
- Proof of financial means
- A return ticket
- 2 empty pages on your passport (for entry and departure)
- Documents confirming the purpose of your stay
Fact: It’s best to contact a nearby embassy or consulate to understand the required documents.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Cape Town is one of the best destinations for digital nomads because of its natural beauty, low cost of living, and friendly South Africans. This is the kind of place where you can go and forget about the worries of the outside world. One of the best things about Cape Town is that it’s summer there while the rest of the world experiences the cold brutal winter, which means it’s a great place to escape and have an amazing time.
We wish you good luck on your journey! If you have any further queries, feel free to contact us and we would be happy to help.
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