Traveling to Cape Town in 2021
Cape Town opens beaches, bars, pools and more.
On the 1st Feb 2021, President Cyril Ramaphosa announced the following amendments to the lockdown level 3 restrictions that were implemented due to a rise in infections over the 2020 festive season.
A summary of the amendments now in force is below:
Beaches, public parks, dams, and other public swimming areas are open
The hours of the curfew are from 23h00 – 04h00.
Businesses such as restaurants will need to close at 22h00 to allow for staff to get home.
Alcohol sales are permitted.
Off-site alcohol sales are allowed from Monday and Thursday between 10h00 and 18h00
On-site sales are permitted throughout the week between 10h00 and 22h00.
Faith-based gatherings are permitted.
A maximum of 50 people will be allowed to gather indoors, and 100 people will be allowed to gather outdoor
International Travel Restrictions
Additionally, as of Feb. 2, South African authorities are maintaining various international travel restrictions:
Three international airports are open for the entry and departure of foreign travelers, namely O.R. Tambo (JNB), Cape Town International (CPT), and King Shaka International Airport (DUR).
Those entering South Africa will be required to provide a negative COVID-19 test taken no longer than 72 hours before arrival in the country.
Business travelers providing services between countries belonging to the Southern African Development Community (SADC) are permitted multiple entries subject to providing a negative PCR test is presented and taken no longer than 72 hours before departure. This certificate is valid for a period of 14 days.
Transiting in South Africa to a third country is permitted, provided a negative PCR test taken no longer than 72 hours before arrival is presented. If a negative PCR test is not shown, travelers may need to quarantine at a government facility at their costs.
All travelers will undergo screening upon arrival. Those showing symptoms of COVID-19 will be required to take a test. Travelers who test positive will be subject to mandatory quarantine for up to 10 days at a designated facility. Authorities also require travelers to show proof of accommodation should they need to self-quarantine when they arrive in the country.
Travelers departing South Africa will be subject to screening. Those found to have had COVID-19 may be subject to further testing. The test outcome will determine whether or not the person may depart the country, as determined by the Director-General of Health or a delegated person. Travelers testing positive will need to self-isolate; this may take place at one's private residence.
Once you arrive in Cape Town there is so much to see and do. Here are some extra tips to make the most of your time in the wonderful city of Cape Town.
Do read some South African literature before coming to better understand and appreciate the country’s history and culture(s).
Do check times of venues before setting off.
Do plan to get a local SIM while you are in South Africa to avoid extra charges.
Do expect to enjoy some wonderful traditional South African dishes
Do have some cash on you for tips,
Do drink as much tap water as you want, it is delicious and fine to drink straight from the tap!
Do try to mix and meet people from all cultures; people are generally very friendly and receptive to newcomers/visitors.
Do wear whatever you want (the dress code’s lax) but DON’T go anywhere without a warm layer. Ladies be careful with dresses, the wind is powerful.
Do take in lots of experiences, as well as wine tasting do try chocolate, cheese, oil, biltong, and ice cream tastings as well!
If you have any questions about your trip or wish to arrange a villa then please do get in touch.
