Cape Town Airport Layover? Guide & Tips

Top 5 Layover Ideas for Cape Town Airport

Long layovers can sometimes be a drag, but not at Cape Town Airport (IATA code: CPT). This airport, being one of the busiest in Africa, offers a range of activities to keep you entertained. Here are the top five layover ideas that you can enjoy within 12 hours.

1. Explore the Airport's Shopping and Dining Options

The airport boasts a variety of shops and restaurants. You can find everything from high-end fashion stores to souvenir shops selling local crafts. If you're hungry, there are plenty of dining options to choose from, including fast food chains, sit-down restaurants, and cafes offering local and international cuisine.

2. Relax at the Airport Lounges

For a more relaxing layover, head to one of the airport's lounges. These lounges offer comfortable seating, free Wi-Fi, refreshments, and sometimes even shower facilities. Some lounges also provide panoramic views of the runway, adding a touch of excitement to your layover.

3. Visit the Two Oceans Aquarium

If you have enough time, consider taking a short trip to the nearby Two Oceans Aquarium. Located just 20 minutes away from the airport, this aquarium is one of Cape Town's top tourist attractions. Here, you can see a variety of marine life, including sharks, penguins, and sea turtles.

4. Take a City Sightseeing Tour

With Cape Town's city center just 20 km away from the airport, a sightseeing tour is a great way to spend your layover. You can visit iconic landmarks such as Table Mountain and the V&A Waterfront, and get a taste of the city's vibrant culture and history.

5. Visit the Wineries in Stellenbosch

If you're a wine lover, don't miss the opportunity to visit the wineries in Stellenbosch. This famous wine-producing region is just a 30-minute drive from the airport. You can sample some of the best South African wines and enjoy the beautiful vineyard landscapes.

Helpful Tips & Resources

Need help navigating your way through an unfamiliar airport? Look no further than iFly.com for expert tips and advice. Here are some helpful tips to help you travel stress-free through CPT Airport:

Don't let heavy bags slow you down! Make use of our airport's complimentary baggage carts, available for all travelers in the baggage claim area.
If you have some time before your departure, relax, grab a bite at one of CPT's restaurants, peruse the shops, or jump on the free internet and surf galore!
If you are flying in business or first class (or are a member), check out where the airline club lounges are located.
Once you have passed through security, you can use the airport map to find your gate, as well as the various restaurants and shops that are available on your route.
Surf to your heart's content. Jump on Cape Town airport's internet (free!)
For those (dreaded) early-morning flights, consider one of the airport hotels on or near CPT to spend the night prior to your flight. In many cases your parking for the trip's duration is free!
Have a flight arriving and want a fast way to get to your destination? Here are a few taxi and limo airport service providers that service the airport.

Nearby Attractions for an Extended Layover

If you find yourself with a layover of 12 to 48 hours at Cape Town Airport, you have the unique opportunity to explore some of the nearby attractions that Cape Town has to offer. Here are some recommendations for activities that are within a reasonable proximity to the airport.

1. Discover the Beauty of Cape Point

Cape Point, a nature reserve within the Table Mountain National Park, is a must-visit. With its breathtaking ocean views, diverse wildlife, and scenic hiking trails, it's the perfect place to enjoy South Africa's natural beauty. It's about an hour's drive from the airport, making it a feasible trip for those with longer layovers.

2. Visit the Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden

Located at the foot of Table Mountain, the Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden is a paradise for nature lovers. This world-renowned garden is home to a vast array of indigenous plants and offers stunning views of the mountain. It's just a 30-minute drive from the airport, making it a convenient stop for travelers with extended layovers.

3. Explore the Historic Robben Island

Robben Island, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a significant part of South Africa's history. It's most known for being the prison where Nelson Mandela was held for 18 years. A tour of the island includes a visit to the former prison and provides insight into the country's past. The island is accessible by ferry from the V&A Waterfront, which is about a 20-minute drive from the airport.

4. Experience the Vibrant Nightlife in Long Street

If you're stuck overnight, why not experience Cape Town's vibrant nightlife? Long Street, located in the city center, is known for its lively bars, clubs, and restaurants. It's a great place to enjoy local music, meet new people, and sample local cuisine. The street is about a 20-minute drive from the airport.

5. Take a Scenic Drive Along the Chapman's Peak Drive

Chapman's Peak Drive is one of the most scenic drives in the world. This 9km route offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and the surrounding mountains. There are numerous viewpoints along the way where you can stop and take photos. The drive is about an hour away from the airport, making it a perfect activity for those with a longer layover.

Updated on: November 22, 2023

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