Welcome to Cape Town International Airport (CPT), South Africa’s second-largest and busiest airport after Johannesburg’s OR Tambo International Airport. Nestled in the suburb of Matroosfontein, roughly 20 kilometers east of Cape Town’s bustling city center, this modern gateway welcomes millions of travelers every year. Known for its efficiency and impressive infrastructure, CPT is your first step into exploring the vibrant city of Cape Town, the scenic Western Cape province, and beyond.
As a gateway to the region, Cape Town International Airport connects travelers from around the globe to the city’s iconic Table Mountain, beautiful beaches, historic sites, and the culturally rich Cape Flats area. Whether you’re visiting for leisure or business, this guide will help you navigate the airport, its services, and nearby conveniences, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable travel experience.
🗺️ Cape Town Airport Location and Contact Information
Cape Town International Airport is conveniently located approximately 20 kilometers east of the city center in Matroosfontein. Access is straightforward via the N2 highway, which is a direct route linking central Cape Town to the airport. The clearly marked exit 16 on the N2 freeway guides travelers onto Airport Approach Road, directly leading to the airport’s terminals.
If you’re arriving from the city, plan for a drive time of about 20 to 30 minutes depending on traffic conditions. For easy navigation, simply input the address—Cape Town International Airport, Matroosfontein, Cape Town, 7490—into your preferred GPS navigation app.
Cape Town Airport Address
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Street Address: Cape Town International Airport, Matroosfontein, Cape Town, 7490, South Africa
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Postal Address: Private Bag X9002, Cape Town International Airport
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Phone: +27 21 937 1200airports.co.za
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Email: [email protected]
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Website: www.airports.co.za
For real-time directions and traffic updates, travelers can use navigation apps like Waze or Google Maps by entering the airport’s address.
Parking Facilities and Costs
Parking at Cape Town International Airport is designed to accommodate different needs, from short drop-offs to long-term stays. For quick access to the terminals, Parkade 1 and Parkade 2 offer secure, multi-storey parking ideal for short visits. The first hour in these parkades typically costs around R28, with prices rising incrementally based on the length of your stay.
For those who require parking for longer durations, shaded parking areas, known as Car Parks 3 and 4, provide affordability and convenience, typically starting from R20 for the first hour. Extended parking needs are covered by the dedicated long-term parking area, known as P5, which offers even more economical rates for extended stays, beginning at just R12 for the initial hour.
It’s always wise to verify current pricing on the airport’s official website before arriving, as tariffs may change periodically. Keep in mind the convenient location of payment stations, which accept cash and cards, ensuring a smooth departure from the parking areas.
🅿️ Cape Town Airport Parking Prices
Cape Town International Airport offers a range of parking options to suit different needs and budgets. Whether you’re dropping off passengers, parking for a few hours, or leaving your vehicle for an extended period, the airport provides both shaded and multi-storey parking facilities.
Parkade 1 & 2 (Multi-Storey Parking)
Ideal for short-term parking, these parkades are located close to the terminal building.
| Duration | Tariff (ZAR) |
|---|---|
| 0 – 1 hour | R28 |
| 1 – 2 hours | R56 |
| 2 – 3 hours | R82 |
| 3 – 4 hours | R110 |
| 4 – 12 hours | R170 |
| 12 – 24 hours | R230 |
| Thereafter (per 12h) | R150 |
Car Parks 3 & 4 (Shaded Parking)
These are suitable for longer stays and are a short walk from the terminal.
| Duration | Tariff (ZAR) |
|---|---|
| 0 – 1 hour | R20 |
| 1 – 2 hours | R38 |
| 2 – 3 hours | R50 |
| 3 – 4 hours | R68 |
| 4 – 12 hours | R120 |
| 12 – 24 hours | R150 – R160 |
| Thereafter (per 12h) | R110 |
Long-Term Parking (P5)
For extended stays, the P5 parking area offers competitive rates
| Duration | Tariff (ZAR) |
|---|---|
| 0 – 1 hour | R12 |
| 1 – 2 hours | R26 |
| 2 – 3 hours | R38 |
| 3 – 4 hours | R46 |
| 4 – 12 hours | R92 |
| 12 – 24 hours | R120 |
| Thereafter (per 12h) | R71 |
🏨 Cape Town Airport Accommodation
Several hotels are located within close proximity to Cape Town International Airport, catering to various preferences and budgets.
Hotel Verde Cape Town Airport
Located just 400 meters from the airport terminal, Hotel Verde is renowned for its sustainable practices and modern amenities. The hotel offers complimentary airport shuttles, a fitness center, and eco-friendly accommodations. expedia+6hotelverde.com+6capetown-internationalairport.co.za+6
Road Lodge Cape Town Airport
Situated approximately 0.2 miles from the airport, Road Lodge provides affordable and comfortable lodging options. It’s ideal for travelers seeking convenience and value. Booking.com
Other Nearby Accommodations
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Southern Sun Newlands: Located in the Newlands suburb, offering upscale amenities.
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Cape Royale Luxury Suites: Provides luxurious accommodations with easy access to the city.
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The Three Boutique Hotel: A stylish hotel situated in the heart of Cape Town.
These accommodations offer a range of services, including airport shuttles, dining options, and business facilities, ensuring a comfortable stay for travelers.
If your flight arrives late or departs early, there are excellent accommodation options available very close to the airport. Hotel Verde, situated just a brief stroll from the terminal, is a highly recommended, environmentally-conscious hotel offering comfortable rooms, free shuttle service, and a range of sustainable practices.
Another convenient choice is Road Lodge Cape Town International Airport, positioned slightly further out but still within easy walking distance. It offers affordable and comfortable rooms ideal for overnight stays or short visits.
For a luxurious experience, travelers might consider nearby establishments such as the Southern Sun Newlands, offering upscale amenities and easy access to central Cape Town, or Cape Royale Luxury Suites, noted for its elegance and proximity to key city attractions.
Facilities at the Cape Town Airport
Cape Town International Airport prides itself on excellent facilities aimed at ensuring comfort and convenience for all travelers. Once inside, travelers will find spacious terminals featuring an array of check-in counters and self-service kiosks, making checking in easy and efficient.
For dining and relaxation, the airport hosts a variety of cafés, restaurants, and shops that offer everything from local South African cuisine to international brands. If you need to catch up on emails or browse online, complimentary Wi-Fi is widely available throughout the terminals.
Business travelers and those holding frequent-flyer memberships can access various airline lounges, such as the Bidvest Premier Lounge, providing quiet spaces to unwind or work before flights. Additionally, the airport has extensive accessibility options for travelers with disabilities or reduced mobility, including designated parking, assistance services, and wheelchair-friendly facilities.
Cape Town International Airport offers a range of facilities and services to enhance the travel experience:
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Terminal Buildings: The airport comprises domestic and international terminals, connected by a central terminal building.
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Check-In Counters: 120 check-in desks and 20 self-service kiosks are available for passenger convenience.
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Lounges: Various airline lounges, including Bidvest and South African Airways lounges, are located on the 4th floor.
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Dining and Shopping: A variety of restaurants, cafes, and retail outlets are available throughout the airport.
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Wi-Fi: Free Wi-Fi is accessible in most areas of the airport.
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Accessibility: Facilities are in place to assist passengers with reduced mobility, including dedicated parking bays and wheelchair services.
Transportation Options
When it comes to transportation between Cape Town Airport and the city center, you have several practical choices. The simplest method for most travelers is using app-based taxi services such as Uber or Bolt, both operating reliably from dedicated pick-up zones directly outside arrivals.
Traditional metered taxis are also readily available, though negotiating fares ahead of time is recommended to avoid surprises. For greater autonomy, you can find numerous car rental agencies at the airport, enabling travelers to explore the region freely.
Currently, there isn’t a direct rail link connecting the airport to central Cape Town, so taxis and rental vehicles remain the most practical transportation methods.
Exploring the Cape Flats Region
Located southeast of the airport, the Cape Flats region provides visitors a unique glimpse into Cape Town’s rich cultural diversity and vibrant local life. While historically known for challenges such as socio-economic disparities, the Cape Flats also showcases remarkable resilience, creativity, and community spirit.
Travelers interested in experiencing local culture can engage in guided tours that safely highlight the vibrant arts, local cuisine, and community-driven initiatives. Visit authentic eateries in neighborhoods like Athlone or Mitchells Plain to savor traditional Cape Malay dishes or explore community art projects showcasing local talent and history.
While exploring the Cape Flats, it’s important to prioritize safety and awareness. Opting for guided tours or joining reputable community visits is strongly recommended, ensuring both safety and a deeper understanding of this compelling area of Cape Town.
Helpful Travel Tips
As you prepare for your trip to Cape Town, consider these practical tips:
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Plan your arrival at the airport at least two hours before domestic flights and three hours before international departures, allowing ample time for check-in and security procedures.
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Exchange currency at the airport or withdraw local currency (South African Rand) from one of the many ATMs available in the terminal buildings.
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Carry essential contact information, including your accommodation details, local transportation apps (like Uber or Bolt), and emergency numbers for convenience.
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Check the weather forecast in advance, as Cape Town’s weather can vary significantly, even within a single day, due to its coastal position.
Frequently Asked Questions
Travelers often wonder about certain practicalities regarding their visit to Cape Town Airport. For example, the best way to reach the city center from the airport is typically via Uber or a taxi, which takes around 20–30 minutes depending on traffic. Car rental services are readily available at the airport, ideal for travelers planning extended visits or exploration beyond Cape Town’s city limits.
Additionally, the airport’s modern terminals and amenities make it a comfortable place to wait for connecting flights, ensuring a stress-free travel experience.
Final Thoughts
Cape Town International Airport serves as your introduction to one of Africa’s most beloved cities. Equipped with this guide, navigating the airport and beginning your South African journey becomes simple and stress-free. Whether you’re exploring the scenic beauty of Table Mountain, diving into the rich history and culture of the Cape Flats, or embarking on business in the bustling city, CPT provides a welcoming and efficient gateway to all your adventures.
Enjoy your travels, and welcome to Cape Town!
