Is it safe to walk around Cape Town?

Stick to busy areas like the V&A Waterfront, city center during the day, and Camps Bay. Don't walk alone at night or display expensive items. Use Uber rather than walking after dark. Avoid townships unless with a guide.

Do I need a car for 3 days in Cape Town?

Not essential but helpful for the peninsula day trip. You can do the city center and Table Mountain without a car using Uber and walking. For Cape Point, either rent a car for one day or join a tour group.

What if Table Mountain cable car is closed?

You can hike up (2-3 hours) via Platteklip Gorge if you're fit, or visit Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, the wine regions in Stellenbosch (45 minutes drive), or explore the city's museums and markets instead.

How much should I tip in Cape Town?

10-15% at restaurants if service charge isn't included. Round up taxi fares. Tip tour guides R50-100 per person for half-day tours, R100-200 for full-day tours.

How to spend 3 days in Cape Town

Three days gives you enough time to see Table Mountain, explore the V&A Waterfront, visit Robben Island, and take a day trip to the Cape Peninsula. Start with the city center and waterfront, dedicate one full day to the peninsula including Cape Point, and use your third day for Table Mountain and the wine regions if time allows.

Book accommodation in the City Bowl or V&A Waterfront. Stay within 15 minutes of the city center. The City Bowl puts you near restaurants and attractions. V&A Waterfront is touristy but convenient for ferries and has good restaurants. Avoid staying in townships or far suburbs for a 3-day visit.
Plan around Table Mountain weather. Check the Table Mountain webcam before going up. The cable car closes in high winds, and clouds can roll in quickly. Go early morning (8-10am) for clearest views. Have a backup indoor plan for cloudy days.
Book Robben Island tickets in advance. Tours sell out, especially in summer (December-February). Book online at least 2 weeks ahead. The 3.5-hour tour includes a 30-minute boat ride each way and runs multiple times daily from the V&A Waterfront.
Arrange peninsula transport. Rent a car, book a tour, or hire a driver for the Cape Peninsula day trip. The drive to Cape Point is 90 minutes each way. Tours cost R600-800 per person. Car rental runs R400-600 per day plus petrol.

Is it safe to walk around Cape Town?: Stick to busy areas like the V&A Waterfront, city center during the day, and Camps Bay. Don't walk alone at night or display expensive items. Use Uber rather than walking after dark. Avoid townships unless with a guide.
Do I need a car for 3 days in Cape Town?: Not essential but helpful for the peninsula day trip. You can do the city center and Table Mountain without a car using Uber and walking. For Cape Point, either rent a car for one day or join a tour group.
What if Table Mountain cable car is closed?: You can hike up (2-3 hours) via Platteklip Gorge if you're fit, or visit Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, the wine regions in Stellenbosch (45 minutes drive), or explore the city's museums and markets instead.
How much should I tip in Cape Town?: 10-15% at restaurants if service charge isn't included. Round up taxi fares. Tip tour guides R50-100 per person for half-day tours, R100-200 for full-day tours.