Cape Town Tourism encourages its visitors to get to know the city from the ground up through walking or cycling tours, exploring townships with local guides, buying local arts and crafts, and eating local foods.
It aims to be a city that is protected and showcased by this benign form of tourism, that allows Capetonians to benefit from and be part of tourism in the city.
Local Traditions
Taking some time to learn about the customs and traditions of the local people will go a long way in showing respect to your hosts. Learning a couple of phrases in the local language(s), even if you don’t pronounce it correctly, will undoubtedly make someone smile and is a great way to start a conversation.
Respect the environment
Cape Town is known for its natural beauty, especially the immense biodiversity of Table Mountain and its surrounds. It’s a very delicate eco-system so don’t just pick flowers or interesting plants while on a hike – it’s most often also illegal. Also, carry your litter with you until you find a suitable place to discard it.
Save Water
South Africa has been experiencing one of the most severe droughts in recent history. The whole country is affected, and both locals and visitors are requested to use water sparingly. When you’re at your hotel, take a quick shower instead of a bath, don’t put towels in the laundry basket unless absolutely necessary, and be careful to close taps properly.
Take public transport
There are many different ways to get around Cape Town without a car – walking, metered taxis, minibus taxis, trains and the city’s myCiti bus service will not only help to ease the load on Mother Nature, but you’ll get the opportunity to interact with real Capetonians who often have interesting stories to share.