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Cape Town Airport CPT Airport Traveler Guide

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CPT Airport Insights & Guide

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Getting to Know CPT Airport

Discover Cape Town Airport, your entry to the Western Cape's beauty, featuring modern amenities and breathtaking Table Mountain views. Our concise guide simplifies your journey, covering everything from flight updates, parking, to the best dining and shopping spots. Experience seamless travel from doorstep to gate.

Explore more about this and other airports with our Comprehensive Airport Guide at iFly.com.

iFly Tip: Simplify your travel planning with links to various air travel topics on our reference page.

Cape Town Airport has one main terminal building with two levels. The terminal building is divided into two sections: domestic and international. The domestic section is located on the ground level and the international section is located on the upper level. The airport has 64 check-in counters, 20 self-service kiosks, and 16 boarding gates.

Major airlines such as South African Airways, British Airways, Emirates, and Qatar Airways operate from CPT. Domestic airlines such as Mango, Kulula, and FlySafair also operate from the airport.

Passengers can easily navigate the airport terminals as there are clear signs and directions throughout the building. The airport also offers various services such as baggage storage, currency exchange, and car rental facilities.

Use our interactive airport map to locate food, services, and airline departure gates.

Connecting Between Terminals

CPT Airport has two terminals: Domestic Terminal and International Terminal. The two terminals are located within walking distance of each other, and it takes approximately 10 minutes to walk between them. The walkway is covered and well-lit, making it easy to navigate between the terminals.

For travelers who prefer not to walk, there is a shuttle bus service that runs between the terminals. The shuttle bus is free of charge and operates every 15 minutes, making it a convenient option for those with heavy luggage or mobility issues.

Tips from CPT Frequent Flyers

To help make your experience at Cape Town International Airport as smooth and enjoyable as possible, we’ve gathered the best advice and tips from CPT-based frequent travelers, flight attendants, pilots, and airport staff. Their first-hand insights are sure to provide you with valuable guidance. Here’s what they have to say:

Navigating the Terminals

"Cape Town Airport is straightforward to navigate, but if you're flying internationally, try to check in early to avoid the lines at the upper level. The signage is clear, so just follow the green signs for international departures." — Thandiwe M., Stellenbosch, December 2023

"If you're in a rush, the self-service kiosks are a lifesaver. They're usually less crowded, and you can print your boarding pass in no time." — Johan S., Somerset West, February 2024

Getting To/From the City

"The MyCiTi bus service is reliable and budget-friendly. It’s a great way to get into the city if you’re not in a hurry. Just make sure to check the schedule ahead of time." — Sipho N., Bellville, March 2024

"For a quicker ride, Uber is convenient and easy to find right outside the terminal. Just follow the signs to the ride-share pickup area." — Lindiwe P., Paarl, April 2024

Parking

"If you're picking someone up, the cell phone waiting area is the best spot to wait without paying for parking. It’s free for up to 30 minutes, and you’re just a short drive from the terminal." — Pieter V., Durbanville, May 2024

"For long-term parking, I always choose the off-airport lots. They offer shuttle services to the terminal and are usually cheaper than the on-site options." — Zinhle K., Kuils River, June 2024

Inside the Airport

"If you have time before your flight, grab a coffee at Vida e Caffè. It's a nice spot to relax and enjoy a light snack." — Fatima R., Fish Hoek, July 2024

"For some last-minute shopping, Out of Africa has unique souvenirs that are perfect for gifts. It's located in the International Terminal, so you can browse before your flight." — Ahmed B., Hout Bay, August 2024

Avoiding Delays and Stress

"Always check your flight status on the airport's displays or your airline's app. It helps to stay updated on any delays or gate changes, especially during peak travel times." — Nomvula D., Muizenberg, September 2024

"Arrive early, especially during holiday seasons. The security lines can get long, and it’s better to have extra time to relax before your flight." — Lucas J., Milnerton, October 2024

iFly Tip: Find out how to navigate airport procedures comfortably with our overweight passenger tips.

Picking Up and Dropping Off Passengers

At CPT Airport, picking up and dropping off passengers can be done at the designated curbside areas located outside the terminals. However, it is important to note that there are strict restrictions on parking at the curbside, and vehicles are not allowed to wait or park for extended periods. To avoid any inconvenience, it is recommended that drivers use the airport's short-term parking facilities if they need to wait for longer periods.

For those who prefer not to park, the airport also offers a cell-phone waiting area where drivers can wait for their arriving passengers. This area is located a short distance away from the terminals and allows drivers to park their vehicles for free for up to 30 minutes while they wait for their passengers to arrive. Once the passengers have collected their luggage and are ready to be picked up, the driver can then proceed to the curbside area to pick them up.

Parking Facilities & Options

the airport offers a variety of parking options to suit the needs of all travelers. There are several parking lots and garages located within walking distance of the airport terminals. Short-term parking is available for those dropping off or picking up passengers, while long-term parking is available for those leaving their vehicles for an extended period of time.

For those waiting to pick up arriving passengers, there are cell phone waiting areas located near the airport terminals. These areas allow drivers to wait in their vehicles until their passengers are ready to be picked up, without having to pay for parking.

Handicapped parking is available in all parking lots and garages, with designated spaces located near the airport terminals for easy access.

For those looking for a more economical parking option, off-airport parking is available nearby. These parking facilities offer shuttle service to and from the airport terminals, and often have lower rates than on-airport parking.

Get details about Cape Town Airport parking options and rates, along with more economical off-airport parking here.

Transportation Options

When arriving at Cape Town Airport, there are a variety of transportation options available to get you to your destination.

  • Rental Cars: If you prefer to rent a car, there are several major car rental providers located at the airport, including Avis, Budget, Europcar, and Hertz. You can find their rental desks in the Arrivals Hall of the Central Terminal Building.
  • Taxis: Taxis are available with designated drop-off areas outside of the Central Terminal Building. Fares are metered and vary depending on your destination and time of day. It is recommended to confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey.
  • Ride Share Services: Shared ride services, such as Uber and Bolt, are also available for pickup at the designated ride-share pickup area outside of the Central Terminal Building. Please note that there may be restrictions on the number of passengers and luggage allowed in the vehicle.
  • Airport Shuttles: Airport shuttles are available to transport passengers to and from the airport. These shuttles operate on a fixed schedule and pickup areas can be found outside of the Central Terminal Building. Fares vary depending on your destination and the shuttle provider.
  • Public Transportation: If you prefer to take public transportation, there are several options available, including MyCiTi bus service and the Cape Town Metrorail train. Both options have pickup areas located outside of the Central Terminal Building, and fares vary depending on your destination and mode of transportation.

iFly Tip: Discover the best ways to pack efficiently using our carry-on packing tips.

Airport Hotels

Whether you're catching an early morning flight or arriving late, choosing a hotel near the airport can make your journey much more comfortable. From stylish and modern accommodations to charming bed and breakfasts, we present a selection of hotels that cater to a variety of needs and budgets. These options offer a unique blend of comfort, convenience, and proximity to the airport. Some are situated mere miles from the airport, ideal for quick layovers or early departures, while others offer unique amenities like serene gardens or communal lounges, perfect for unwinding after a long day of travel. Many are also conveniently located near local attractions, allowing you to explore during your stay. Discover the best hotel options with our CPT Hotels guide.

Dining, Shopping & Enjoying the Airport

As one of the busiest airports in South Africa, the airport offers a wide range of dining and shopping options for travelers. Whether you're looking for a quick bite or a sit-down meal, there's something for everyone.

For a taste of South African cuisine, head to Mugg & Bean, located in the Domestic Terminal. This popular chain restaurant serves up hearty breakfasts, sandwiches, and burgers, as well as local favorites like bobotie and boerewors rolls. If you're in the mood for something lighter, try Vida e Caffè, a coffee shop that also offers fresh sandwiches and salads.

When it comes to shopping, Cape Town Airport has plenty of options to keep you entertained. If you're looking for souvenirs or gifts, head to Out of Africa, located in the International Terminal. Here you'll find a range of African-inspired crafts, jewelry, and clothing. For something a bit more high-end, check out Montblanc, which offers luxury writing instruments, watches, and leather goods.

The locations of all food, shops, and services at Cape Town Airport can be found using iFly's interactive map. For a complete list of restaurants, bars, shops, and news stands, browse the full directory here.

Passenger Services

CPT offers a range of passenger services to make your travel experience as comfortable as possible. Here are some of the services available:

Wifi Access: The airport provides free wifi access throughout the terminals. Simply connect to the "Airports@vast" network and follow the on-screen instructions to get online.

Lost and Found: If you have lost an item at the airport, you can contact the lost and found department located in the arrivals area of the international terminal. You can also report lost items online through the airport's website.

Children's Areas: The airport has dedicated play areas for children located in both the domestic and international terminals. These areas are equipped with toys and games to keep your little ones entertained while you wait for your flight.

Special-Needs Services: CPT Airport offers a range of services for passengers with special needs, including wheelchair assistance and special seating arrangements. If you require any special assistance, please contact your airline before your flight.

Banking: There are several banks and ATMs located throughout the airport, making it easy to access cash or exchange currency. Some of the banks available include ABSA, FNB, and Standard Bank.

Medical Help: If you require medical assistance while at the airport, there is a medical clinic located in the international terminal. The clinic is staffed by qualified medical professionals and is equipped to handle a range of medical issues.

Flight Status Info

As an air traveler, it's important to stay informed about the status of your flight departure. Fortunately, there are several ways to get flight status updates at the airport in South Africa.

One of the easiest ways to check flight status is by using the in-airport flight displays (FIDS) located throughout the terminal. These displays provide real-time information about flight departures, including gate information, delays, and cancellations.

Another convenient way to stay informed about flight status is by using airline mobile phone apps. Many airlines offer apps that allow passengers to receive push notifications, text messages, or emails about departure delays, gate changes, and other important updates. It's a good idea to download the app for your airline before your trip to ensure you have access to real-time flight information.

Passengers can also check the status of their flight departure at Cape Town Airport by visiting the flight departures page on ifly.com, which provides real-time updates on flight departures, delays, and gate information.

Airport Facts & Stats

  • Location: Cape Town International Airport (CPT) is located in Cape Town, South Africa.
  • Terminals: The airport has a single terminal building, divided into domestic and international sections.
  • Airlines Served: Major airlines include South African Airways, British Airways, and Emirates. For a complete list of airlines, visit the CPT Airlines Served page.
  • Passenger Traffic: Cape Town International Airport handles approximately 10,000 passengers daily.
  • Daily Flights: The airport sees around 200 daily flights.
  • Top Destinations: The most popular destinations from CPT are Johannesburg, Dubai, London, Amsterdam, and Frankfurt.
  • Hub Status: Cape Town International Airport is a hub for South African Airways, Mango Airlines, and FlySafair.

Airport History

The airport, also known as Cape Town International Airport, is the second busiest airport in South Africa and serves as a hub for major airlines such as South African Airways and British Airways.

Here are some significant events in the airport's history:

  • 1954 - Cape Town Airport opens for commercial flights
  • 1971 - The airport undergoes a major expansion to accommodate larger aircraft
  • 1997 - The airport is renamed Cape Town International Airport
  • 2010 - The airport undergoes a major renovation in preparation for the FIFA World Cup hosted by South Africa
  • 2013 - A new central terminal building is opened, increasing the airport's capacity to handle up to 14 million passengers per year
  • 2018 - Cape Town International Airport is awarded the Best Airport in Africa award by Skytrax

Today, Cape Town International Airport continues to serve as a major gateway to South Africa and the African continent, with over 10 million passengers passing through its doors each year.

Airport Contact Information

For more information about Cape Town Airport, please refer to the following contact details:

  • IATA Code: CPT
  • Airport Website
  • Phone: +27 21 937 1200
  • Email: [email protected]
  • Mailing Address: Cape Town International Airport, Private Bag X9002, 7525, South Africa

Note that the contact information provided here is subject to change by the airport operator(s).

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Cape Town Airport Q&A

The domestic section is on the ground level and the international section is on the upper level of the main terminal. Follow the green signs for easy navigation.
You can use the MyCiTi bus service, Uber, taxis, or airport shuttles. The MyCiTi bus is cost-effective, while Uber and taxis offer more convenience for those with luggage.
The cell phone waiting area is located a short distance from the terminals, allowing drivers to wait for free for up to 30 minutes before picking up passengers.
Mugg & Bean offers hearty South African meals, while Vida e Caffè provides lighter options like sandwiches and salads. Both are located in the Domestic Terminal.
Out of Africa in the International Terminal offers African-inspired crafts and souvenirs, while Montblanc provides luxury items such as watches and leather goods.
Use the in-airport flight displays for real-time updates, or download your airline's app for notifications. You can also visit the iFly website for current flight information.
There are short-term and long-term parking options, as well as handicapped parking near the terminals. Off-airport parking with shuttle service is also available for economical rates.
The airport offers wheelchair assistance and special seating arrangements. Contact your airline in advance to request any special assistance.
Yes, free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminals. Connect to the "Airports@vast" network and follow the on-screen instructions to get online.
Car rental services are available from providers like Avis, Budget, Europcar, and Hertz. Their desks are located in the Arrivals Hall of the Central Terminal Building.

Find more help here for your journey through the airport