The Ultimate Guide to Taxis and Ride-Sharing for Tourists in Cape Town

Cape Town offers plenty of exciting attractions—from its breathtaking coastal views to its lively markets—but navigating the city can be tricky without local knowledge. Luckily, taxis and ride-sharing services make it easier to explore without the need for a car! In this guide, we’ll break down the top transportation options, offering insider tips on how to stay safe, avoid overpaying, and maximize your Cape Town adventure.

Whether you’re heading to Table Mountain or dining at the V&A Waterfront, let’s make sure you get there stress-free. Did you know that Uber and Bolt offer 24/7 service in Cape Town, even during peak tourist seasons?

Important Tip: While Cape Town has many transportation options, it’s highly recommended that tourists avoid using the white mini-bus taxis that operate across the city. These taxis are often overcrowded and can present safety risks.

Why Tourists Love Ride-Sharing in Cape Town

Easy Access to Iconic Landmarks

Using taxis and ride-sharing services, tourists can easily reach Cape Town’s top landmarks without the stress of driving or parking. Quick rides to Table Mountain, Camps Bay, and the V&A Waterfront make sightseeing a breeze.

Without the need for a rental car, you can avoid parking fees and the hassle of navigating unfamiliar roads. Services like Uber and Bolt also provide direct transport to areas like Cape Point, making long-distance trips easier and safer.

Safe and Reliable Transport for Tourists

Ride-sharing apps, such as Uber and Bolt, vet their drivers thoroughly to ensure passengers’ safety. Both apps offer real-time GPS tracking, trip-sharing features, and fare estimates before your ride.

Always verify your driver’s identity and vehicle before hopping in—both apps show the driver’s name, car model, and license plate for added security.

Cost-Effective Travel

Ride-sharing apps offer competitive pricing compared to traditional taxis. Uber and Bolt often charge less than taxis, particularly for shorter rides.

However, keep in mind that surge pricing can occur during peak times, such as when leaving events or during rush hour. In many cases, using these apps can still be cheaper than renting a car or relying on public transport for short distances.

The Top Ride-Sharing Apps in Cape Town

Uber

Uber is one of the most popular ride-sharing apps in Cape Town. It’s easy to use, offering 24/7 availability and great customer service. Uber can also be used for airport pickups—ideal for arriving tourists who need a reliable ride to the city center. A typical Uber ride from Cape Town International Airport to the city center costs around R200–R250, depending on traffic and time of day.

Bolt (Formerly Taxify)

Bolt operates similarly to Uber but is often slightly cheaper, making it a good alternative for budget-conscious tourists. You can download the Bolt app before your trip and use it for rides throughout Cape Town. Be mindful of surge pricing, which can make Bolt temporarily more expensive, so check the fare before confirming a ride.

Exploring Local Ride-Sharing Apps

While Uber and Bolt dominate Cape Town’s ride-sharing scene, some local apps are also available. However, these apps are typically less reliable in terms of service and may not offer the same level of security features as the international options.

For tourists, Uber and Bolt remain the most trusted choices for navigating the city.

Navigating Cape Town with Traditional Taxis

How to Identify Licensed Taxis

Licensed taxis in Cape Town can be identified by their taxi meters and official identification, often displayed on the car’s dashboard. Unlike ride-sharing services, many taxis can be hailed on the street, but it’s safer to book one in advance through a reputable taxi service. Ensure the taxi is metered to avoid overpaying.

Comparing Taxi Fares with Ride-Sharing Costs

While traditional taxis are widely available in Cape Town, they tend to be more expensive than ride-sharing options like Uber and Bolt. A taxi ride from the city center to Camps Bay might cost around R300, while a similar trip on Uber would typically cost less, around R180–R220.

Booking Taxis for Airport Transfers

For airport transfers, it’s best to book your taxi ahead of time through a reliable company, such as Excite Taxis or Unicab. These companies offer fixed rates and a high standard of service for tourists. Expect to pay around R300–R350 for a taxi ride from Cape Town International Airport to the city center.

Essential Tips for Tourists Using Taxis and Ride-Sharing in Cape Town

When to Use Ride-Sharing vs. Taxis

For most tourists, ride-sharing apps like Uber and Bolt are a more convenient and cost-effective transport method in Cape Town. However, traditional taxis can be a better option for larger groups, or when ride-sharing availability is low, especially during peak hours. Booking a taxi in advance is recommended for groups traveling to remote locations or for early morning flights.

Avoiding Common Tourist Pitfalls

To avoid paying higher prices due to surge pricing, plan your trips outside peak times, such as after major events or during rush hour. Always verify the driver’s details on the app before entering the car, and avoid using taxis that don’t display an official meter or identification. 

Be aware that some drivers may not speak fluent English, so having your destination typed into your phone or using the app for communication is helpful.

Staying Safe When Using Ride-Sharing or Taxis

Whether using a ride-sharing service or a traditional taxi, always confirm that the driver and vehicle match the details in the app. Ride-sharing apps allow you to share your trip with friends or family, which is a great way to ensure safety. In the rare case of an emergency, both Uber and Bolt offer in-app options to contact authorities or their support teams.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Taxis and Ride-Sharing in Cape Town

Is it safe to use ride-sharing apps like Uber and Bolt in Cape Town?

Yes, Uber and Bolt are both widely used and trusted in Cape Town. Both apps have safety features such as real-time GPS tracking, trip-sharing, and driver vetting to ensure passenger security. Always verify your driver’s details before getting into the vehicle.

What is the typical cost of an Uber from Cape Town International Airport to the city center?

A typical Uber ride from Cape Town International Airport to the city center costs around R200–R250, depending on traffic, time of day, and surge pricing. Bolt may offer slightly cheaper rates on this route, though prices vary.

How do I identify licensed taxis in Cape Town?

Licensed taxis in Cape Town can be identified by official taxi meters and driver identification, which is usually displayed on the dashboard. It’s safer to book taxis in advance through reputable services to avoid unlicensed or overpriced rides.

Should I use white mini-bus taxis in Cape Town?

It’s highly recommended that tourists avoid using white mini-bus taxis. These taxis are often overcrowded, do not adhere to formal schedules, and may present safety risks. Stick to trusted transportation options like Uber, Bolt, or licensed taxis.

What are the benefits of using Uber or Bolt over traditional taxis?

Uber and Bolt tend to be more affordable than traditional taxis, especially for shorter trips. They offer real-time tracking, transparent pricing, and the ability to share your trip with others for safety. Traditional taxis, however, can be more convenient for larger groups or when availability for ride-sharing is limited.

What is surge pricing and how can I avoid it?

Surge pricing occurs when there is high demand for ride-sharing services, often during peak hours or after large events. To avoid surge pricing, plan your trips outside of rush hour (before 8 AM or after 6 PM) or wait until demand decreases.

Are ride-sharing apps available 24/7 in Cape Town?

Yes, both Uber and Bolt offer 24/7 services in Cape Town, making it easy to find a ride at any time of day or night.

How much should I expect to pay for a taxi ride from the city center to Camps Bay?

A typical taxi ride from the city center to Camps Bay costs around R300, while the same trip via Uber or Bolt would typically range from R180–R220. Always check fare estimates on your app before confirming your ride.