As the Easter holidays approach, insights from a Cape Town Tourism (CTT) travel survey for April 2026 show that while global uncertainty affects sentiment, South Africans are still travelling, with a clear preference for domestic trips and value-focused choices.
Over half of respondents (54%) plan to travel this April, with 94% choosing domestic travel.
Only 6% are going abroad.
Cost remains the main factor influencing travel choices. More than half of respondents (51%) cite personal financial pressure as a key constraint, while 49% mention rising living costs and 45% cite fuel costs.
This pressure has now intensified, with South Africa’s April 2026 fuel price adjustment adding R3.06 per litre to petrol and more than R7 per litre to diesel, despite temporary levy relief announced by the government.
“Even under pressure, the desire to travel hasn’t gone away,” says Enver Duminy, CEO of Cape Town Tourism. “What’s changed is how people define value. It’s no longer just about cost, but about experiences that feel meaningful, restorative, and easy to access. That’s where the industry needs to respond, by making travel more attainable, flexible, and relevant to how South Africans are choosing to explore right now.”
Travel behaviour reflects this shift. Trips are shorter, with 51% of travellers staying for three to four nights, while 57% booking within a few weeks of departure. Road travel remains the most popular option, with 77% choosing to drive. Self-catering and staying with friends or family also remain popular, affordable choices.
Spending is also under pressure. Nearly half of travellers (48%) expect to spend less than in previous years, cutting back mainly on eating out (36%), general expenses (24%), and transport (23%).
Despite these pressures, the desire to travel remains strong, driven mainly by rest, reconnection and quality time. Relaxation, mental well-being, and family time are the main motivations, with most trips taken with partners and children.
Cape Town remains the most popular domestic destination, reinforcing the appeal of local travel that offers variety, convenience, and strong value.
“As more South Africans choose domestic travel, the city is well-placed to meet that demand,” says the City of Cape Town’s Mayoral Committee Member for Economic Growth and Tourism, Alderman James Vos. “Visitors can enjoy a wide range of experiences, from beaches and nature to culture and cuisine, without travelling far, making it easier to maximise both time and budget.”
While 49% of respondents say global conflict has reduced their desire to travel, only 10% cite geopolitical concerns as a direct factor in their April plans, well below the impact of financial pressure.
“Right now, travellers are not simply asking where to go. They are asking what is worth it,” says Duminy. “The businesses that make travel easier, more flexible, and genuinely good value will be the ones people choose first.”
Cape Town is at the forefront of wellness, with a handful of exceptional retreats a short drive from the city, where mindfulness and wellbeing take centre stage.
From yoga workshops and nourishing menus to spa treatments and nature walks, Cape Town’s retreats invite you to slow down and reconnect with yourself and nature.
Here are some of our favourite retreats:
Phakalane Retreat
Tucked away in Hout Bay, this wabi-sabi styled sanctuary is set within a magical forest. Phakalane promises a safe environment for self-exploration, healing, contemplation, and recreation. The gardens brim with towering trees and medicinal plants, creating an immersive, grounding experience from the moment you arrive.
At the heart of the space lies the Temple, a circular chamber with an open roof, tall walls and a built-in fireplace. Here, ceremonies, talk circles, yoga, breathwork, and alternative movement come to life. The entire property can be booked exclusively for retreat groups of up to 16 guests in shared rooms. There are four unique rooms connected to the main house, along with three cottage-style cabins designed to draw you into the natural world outside.
Honest Yoga understands modern life: the packed schedules, endless notifications, and the feeling that a proper break requires complicated logistics. The tailored retreats are crafted for those who need a quick reset without travelling too far from Cape Town.
Each retreat is your own personal journey, with yoga, soothing massages, creative workshops, nourishing meals, and time to soak up nature. Your host tailors the experience to suit you, and it’s best to book in advance.
Recognised as Africa’s Best Wellness Retreat 2025 and South Africa’s Best Wellness Retreat 2025 at the World Spa Awards, Santé Wellness Retreat & Spa sets the benchmark for holistic luxury and transformative wellbeing.
Blending luxury accommodation with a world-class day spa, an advanced Health Optimising Clinic, a Bio Energy Centre, and a fully equipped Fitness Centre, Santé believes in an integrated approach to total wellness in one serene destination. Guided by its philosophy of the three R’s: Re-energise, Rejuvenate, and Revitalise, every experience is tailored to each guest’s individual goals.
Location: La Bella Vita Wine Estate, Simonsvlei Rd, Paarl Website:www.santeretreat.co.za
Bodhi Khaya Nature Retreat
Just under two hours from Cape Town, Stanford, Bodhi Khaya Nature Retreat. Surrounded by mountains and forest trails, this peaceful haven invites you to reconnect with nature, yourself and others. Here, both facilitated and self-guided retreats nourish body and mind. Meditation and beginner-friendly yoga sessions frame the day, while swimming, hiking trails and Qi Gong, a flowing series of mindful movements, encourage gentle exploration of both landscape and self.
Personal retreats enable guests to set their own pace, with two- and three-night stays currently available. Two self-catering, two-bedroom cottages can also be hired when not in use for exclusive retreats.
For travellers big on sustainability, Vida Nova Retreat is a calm, green escape where comfort and conscious living go hand in hand. Surrounded by indigenous gardens and mountain views, the space feels removed from the fast pace of the city.
Guests can spend their days lounging by the pool, walking through the gardens, or journaling. The rooms are designed with natural materials and soft, neutral tones that encourage rest and ease. Vida Nova is well-suited for both private stays and small retreat groups.
Travelling more than 200 kilometres (124 miles) from Yambio, the capital of Western Equatoria State in southwestern South Sudan, a team of justice experts escorted by United Nations peacekeepers moved slowly along rough, dusty roads, determined to reach communities that have waited years for their day in court.
With Cape Town’s ever-evolving food scene and new restaurants opening at a rapid pace, it takes something special to keep going. While trends come and go, a handful of establishments have stood the test of time, earning loyal followings, preserving culinary traditions, and becoming Mother City institutions.
These include:
Biesmiellah Restaurant
Biesmiellah in the Bo-Kaap has been serving Cape Malay and Cape Indian cuisine for over 50 years. This family-run institution keeps it simple with classic dishes packed with flavour and love. On the menu, enjoy everything from tomato bredie and lamb breyani to classic bobotie, denningvleis (a sweet-and-sour Cape Malay stew), and crayfish curry. If you’re feeling spoilt for choice, build your own savoury starter platter with crowd favourites like daltjies (chilli bites), samoosas, mini pies, and half-moons.
In the late 1990s, when Kenneth McClarty couldn’t find a flat white anywhere on the South Peninsula, he and a group of foodie friends decided to open a humble old fish-and-bait shop called Olympia Cafe and Deli. Almost 30 years later, people are still lining up for a table. While you wait, take a look at the chalkboard for the day’s menu, and one thing you can always count on is a perfectly brewed flat white. Everyone loves their freshly baked breads and pastries. And don’t be shy: feel free to lick your fingers and your plate afterwards. That’s how Olympia does it.
Kloof Street House opened its doors in a Victorian house in 2012, bringing a touch of old-world charm to Cape Town. Step inside, and you’ll find Chesterfield couches, age-old artifacts, glittering chandeliers, a travelling case bar, a cosy library lounge, and a fairy-lit garden. Pull up a chair in the brasserie-style dining room and tuck into classics like South African wagyu, grilled ostrich, hearty “bord kos,” and garlic prawns.
This three-decade-old favourite at the V&A Waterfront boasts some of the best views in Cape Town. The menu changes with the seasons, but the flavours always hit the right notes. Grab a spot on the dockside terrace under the umbrellas and dig into a menu of international inspired dishes like Norwegian Salmon Beurre Blanc, Filet de Boeuf – Chateaubriand, and Vol au Vent. Thirsty? Pair your meal with a glass from the gold-winning wine list or choose from a selection of Belgian craft beers.
Location: Pierhead, Victoria & Alfred Waterfront Website:denanker.co.za
Willoughby & Co
For over two decades, Willoughby & Co has been bringing fresh, mouth-watering Japanese cuisine to the V&A Waterfront. While the kitchen continues to create new dishes, it’s the sushi that keeps locals and visitors coming back for more, from classic rolls to delicate sashimi that’s almost too pretty to eat. Their most popular menu item is the 4×4, which includes 4 pieces Rainbow Reloaded and 4 pieces Spicy Creamy Rock Shrimp Roll. Grab a platter, pair it with a crisp Cape wine, and enjoy it on a sunny day overlooking the waterfront.
Location: Shop 6132, 19 Dock Rd, Victoria & Alfred Waterfront Website:willoughbyandco.co.za
A Tavola
If you’re craving a taste of Italy in the Southern Suburbs, A Tavola has been dishing up delicious, hearty dishes since 2008. The menu features everything from classic pastas to comforting favourites, with a few local hits like Linguine Pescatore (seafood pasta) and Vitello Tonnato (veal with tuna sauce) that keep people coming back for more. Wash it all down with a wine from their carefully chosen list, and you’ve got the perfect Italian meal.
Maria’s Greek Café, one of Cape Town’s oldest and most beloved restaurants, has been serving authentic Greek cuisine in Dunkley Square, Gardens, since the 1950s. Stepping inside feels like a little escape to the Mediterranean, with a menu full of classics like chicken souvlaki, moussaka, taramasalata, and kataifi.
Celebrating 30 years this year, Aubergine blends contemporary French cuisine with refined Asian influences. Housed in a historic 1830s building that was once home to Cape Town’s first Chief Justice, Sir John Wylde, this award-winning restaurant delivers an exceptional fine-dining experience. On the menu, you’ll find dishes like pasture-raised beef prime rib, pork fillet with pancetta crisp, and a South African artisan cheese selection.
Having access to comfortable, accessible prayer facilities can make your journey smoother and more meaningful. Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) provides dedicated prayer spaces at major South African airports, ensuring travellers can observe their faith with ease while on the move.
Prayer facilities are located at the following South African Airports: Cape Town International Airport, King Shaka International Airport, O.R. Tambo International Airport, and Chief Dawid Stuurman International Airport.
Here are some of the facilities available:
Cape Town International Airport
Type of facilities: Muslim Prayer Facility (Jamat Khana) and Multi-Faith Prayer Room
Location: Both facilities are located at Parkade 2, Ground Floor, next to the South African Police Service (SAPS) station.
The Jamat Khana, opened in 2010, is an ACSA-owned facility that operates 24 hours a day. The facility accommodates both male and female worshippers, with ablution facilities for both. Friday (Jumuah) prayers are held in congregation and led by ACSA’s Imam, typically from 12:45pm to 1:45pm. Due to high attendance on Fridays, travellers are urged to arrive early. During Ramadan, dates are made available so fasting worshippers can break their fast in the evening.
O.R. Tambo International Airport
Type of facilities: Muslim Prayer Room and a Christian (Chapel) Prayer Room
Location: Parkade 1, Level 1 (International Arrivals Parking)
King Shaka International Airport
Type of facilities: Muslim Prayer Facility and Non-Denominational Prayer Facility
Locations: Muslim Prayer Facility: International Arrivals Hall (opposite the ATMs) Non-Denominational Prayer Facility: Terminal Operations Centre (Level 3), in the terminal building where Passenger Service, AMC, and IT are located.
Chief Dawid Stuurman International Airport
Type of Facility: Muslim Prayer Room and Interdenominational Prayer Room
Location: Both facilities are located on the 1st floor, close to Wimpy Restaurant.
Other ACSA Airports
Due to the size of their facilities, Upington, Kimberley, and Bram Fischer airports do not have dedicated prayer facilities. Passenger movement at these airports is typically very quick, with minimal waiting periods.
A prayer facility is being considered for inclusion at George Airport as part of the terminal expansion project. At King Phalo Airport, passengers who need a quiet space for prayer are currently accommodated in the VIP lounge. Prayer facilities at King Phalo airport are part of the departure terminal projects currently underway, with completion expected in April 2027.
Travellers should prepare for traffic disruptions in Cape Town ahead of the 2026 State of the Nation Address (SONA) this February.
President Cyril Ramaphosa is set to deliver the address on Thursday, 12 February 2026, at 7pm at Cape Town City Hall, which will result in multiple road closures across the city.
Traffic flow in and around the Cape Town CBD will be affected before, during and after the event, with disruptions extending to surrounding suburbs and major arterial routes.
Road Closures
Road closures will be in place from Monday, 9 February to Thursday, 26 February 2026, affecting large parts of the Cape Town CBD, Foreshore and major commuter routes. In the city centre, roads, including Darling Street, Plein Street, Corporation Street, Longmarket Street, Parade Street, Commercial Street, Buitenkant Street and Roeland Street, will see partial or full closures at different times. Most closures will take place between 3pm and midnight, although some will start as early as 4am.
It’s not just the CBD that’s impacted. Temporary traffic stoppages and rolling closures are expected on key routes between Newlands, Rondebosch, Mowbray, Observatory, Salt River, Woodstock and the city centre. This includes sections of the M3 (Rhodes Drive), Philip Kgosana Drive (De Waal Drive), Union Avenue and the city-bound N2, along with connecting roads such as Woolsack Drive, Anzio Road, Klipper Road, Princess Anne Avenue, and Dean Street.
Cape Town’s natural beauty and warm hospitality attracts thousands of visitors from around the world annually. And like any other top destination around the world, it’s important to be safe and vigilant while exploring our incredible city.
We understand that planning your journey to and from the airport can be a bit daunting, especially if it’s your first visit to Cape Town. That’s why we’ve created this easy-to-use guide, designed to help you safely navigate between Cape Town International Airport and your destination, before discovering everything the Mother City has to offer.
Recommended routes
A well-planned trip ensures a hassle-free journey. Here are a few routes you can use when moving to and from the airport:
· Travelling to and from the False Bay Area and Southern Suburbs: Travel via the M5 and N2, or the M3 and N2.
· Travelling to and from the Northern Suburbs: Travel via the N1 to R300 and N2.
· Travelling to and from Somerset West, Strand and Gordon’s Bay:
Travel via the N2.
NB: The following areas are considered high-risk, and we recommend staying alert should you choose to travel along these routes:
· N2 off-ramp onto Borcherds Quarry Road.
· N2 off-ramp onto R300 on both the Bellville and Mitchells Plain sides.
· N2 off-ramp onto Airport Approach Road.
· N2 off-ramp to Oliver Tambo Drive.
· N2 between Mew Way.
Self-driving tips
To ensure your safety on the road, here are some essential driving tips:
· Keep friends or family informed: Let them know the route you’re planning to travel. Ideally, you should also update them on the progress of your journey and let them know when you have reached your destination safely.
· Vigilance at traffic lights and intersections: Be cautious and alert at traffic lights and intersections, as these can be areas of potential risk.
· Awareness of surroundings: Pay attention to your where you are, taking note of any unusual activity or individuals.
· Emergency-ready: In case of a flat tyre, continue driving until it’s safe to stop. Lock your car, then contact help immediately.
· Planning your journey: Research and prepare your route in advance, keep the doors locked, and windows up at all times. Use a GPS navigation tool to plan your trip in advance. Also, ensure your vehicle has enough fuel before you leave.
· Keep valuables out of sight: Don’t leave your mobile phone or other valuables where they are visible from outside the vehicle. Place valuables in the trunk (boot) before you hit the road.
· Avoid picking up strangers: Never pick up anyone you don’t know or hitchhikers.
· Seek police advice: If you want information about an area, you can contact the local police station for help.
· Contact information: If you’ve hired a vehicle, make sure you have the number of the car rental company in case you’re stranded.
· Always obey road rules: And carry your driver’s license.
· Avoid driving at night: If possible, don’t drive after dark. Alternatively, only use reputable tour operators and transport services to get around.
How to deal with incidents
· Accidents: In the event of an accident, find out the extent of the damage or injuries and assess whether medical attention is required. Take a picture with a camera or mobile phone, and file an accident report with the police as soon as possible. Remember to get the names, addresses, telephone numbers, and ID numbers of everyone involved in the accident.
· Minimising risks at emergency stops: Avoid stopping on the highway. Rather move to a public area, or well-lit space if it’s night time.
· Essential roadside equipment: Before hiring a car, make sure items like a first aid kit, tow rope, warning triangles, torch and fire extinguisher are in the car.
Organisations here to help you
Various organisations and law enforcement agencies are working together to keep you safe while visiting Cape Town.
· SAPS (South African Police Services) Presence: SAPS vehicles stationed at strategic locations, such as the Borcherds Quarry intersection, serve as a deterrent to criminal activities. In case of emergency, you can contact SAPS by calling 021 927 2900.
· Collaboration with Border Police: Collaboration between ACSA (Airports Company South Africa) and the Border Police aims to deploy additional resources to combat crime. For assistance contact the ACSA Control Room on 021 937 1207.
· Reporting Suspicious Activity: Travellers are encouraged to report any suspicious or criminal activities in high-alert areas to SAPS or ACSA’s Control Room.
· Provincial Traffic Department: For real-time road condition updates, particularly during protest actions, travellers can contact the Provincial Traffic Department on 021 931 1646.
· Law Enforcement: For city emergencies you can contact The City of Cape Town Law Enforcement on 021 480 7700
· CTT Band-Aid Programme: Our Band-Aid team is here to help visitors who may be in distress during their stay in Cape Town. Should an incident occur, please call us on 021 487 6552 for assistance.
Receive emergency assistance with the Namola Safety App
Namola is a mobile app allowing users in Cape Town, to request emergency assistance quickly and easily from SAPS, and other emergency services. The app uses your GPS location to alert the nearest police station and emergency services. It also allows users to provide detailed information about the emergency.
You can also track the progress of the emergency call in real-time and provide regular updates on the status of your request for assistance. You can download the Namola app for free on your app store.
Disclaimer
The suggested safe routes may change depending on various factors such as protest action or accidents on the road. Cape Town Tourism will not be held responsible or liable for any incidents, accidents are unforeseen events that may occur while following these routes.
While these recommended routes serve only as a guide, it’s important to prioritise your safety while travelling. That means researching your routes ahead of time, following basic rules for safe driving, staying up to date with local news that might affect your trip, and being prepared with available resources in case of emergencies.
If you’retravelling to Cape Town this festive season, especially through areas you’re less familiar with, it’s helpful to stay aware of your surroundings.
While most trips are trouble-free, a few city intersections have seen occasional smash-and-grab incidents. We have all the information to help you plan your route with confidence.
Airport Routes
Here are a few routes you can use when moving to and from the airport:
Travelling to and from the False Bay Area and Southern Suburbs: Travel via the M5 and N2, or the M3 and N2.
Travelling to and from the Northern Suburbs: Travel via the N1 to R300 and N2.
Travelling to and from Somerset West, Strand and Gordon’s Bay: Travel via the N2.
Please take extra awareness when travelling through the following locations:
N2 off-ramp onto Borcherds Quarry Road.
N2 off-ramp onto R300 on both the Bellville and Mitchells Plain sides.
N2 off-ramp onto Airport Approach Road.
N2 off-ramp to Oliver Tambo Drive.
N2 between Mew Way.
Be Mindful When Driving in These Areas
The following locations have been identified as high risk:
The intersection of Jakes Gerwel Drive and Jakkalsvlei Avenue Area: Bonteheuwel / Vanguard Estate boundary
At the corner of 35th Street and Bishop Lavis Drive Area: Bishop Lavis
The junction of Stellenbosch Arterial Road and Adam Tas Road Area: Saxonsea / Kuils River Industrial Area
The area around M10 and Stellenbosch Arterial Road, near the Belhar graveyard Area: Belhar / Belhar Cemetery precinct
At Owen Road and 35th Street in Elsies River Area: Elsies River (Avondale side)
On M12, Jan van Riebeeck Road near Elwood High School Area: Kuils River (near Sarepta / Highbury East)
The intersection of Valhalla Drive and Jakkalsvlei Drive in the Kalksteenfontein and Bonteheuwel area Area: Kalksteenfontein / Bonteheuwel
Helpful Tips
Motorists are advised to take the following precautions:
Keep all valuables such as phones, handbags, and laptops out of sight, preferably in the boot or on the floor of the vehicle.
Be aware of your surroundings at intersections, especially near traffic lights, moving between cars, or approaching vehicles.
Maintain a safe distance from the car in front of you.
Keep windows rolled up and doors locked, particularly when approaching or stopping.
Heading to the HSBC SVNS Cape Town this weekend? You may want to take note of the road closures in the city to plan your trip accordingly.
The HSBC SVNS, also known as the Cape Town 7s, is back from 6–7 December! Don’t miss the world champion Blitzboks in action on their home turf, as two days of fast-paced rugby sevens light up DHL Stadium.
Between matches, soak up the gees with live entertainment, delicious food, and drinks all weekend long.
Road Closures
If you are travelling, here are the road closures:
Matches
The HSBC SVNS in Cape Town delivers fast-paced, action-packed rugby sevens matches over two days. Top men’s and women’s teams from around the world compete in pool matches in hopes of making it into the finals on Sunday.
The Sanlam Cape Town Marathon is set to take place in Cape Town on 18 – 19 October 2025, and we have all the road closure details to help you plan your commute in and around the city.
The 42.2km marathon is an annual global city race that showcases some spectacular views of Table Mountain, the Atlantic Ocean, and historic landmarks.
Here are the road closures for this year’s event:
Road Closures
If you are travelling, please note that the following roads will be closed on the weekend of the event.
These include:
For full road closures, parking restrictions, and times, please visit here.
Parking Restrictions
The road closures will result in limited to no access to parking near the start and finish areas.
Runners are advised to use only the Park & Ride or Park & Walk services (available at Registration) to travel to and from the Race Village venue, as no public or street parking is available in the Green Point, Sea Point, or Mouille Point areas.
The Park & Ride areas include Century City, UCT, Civic Center, and CTICC. The cost is R50. Cars parked in restricted areas will be towed.
Click here for more Park and Ride information, visit here.
Parking Restrictions
The road closures will result in limited to no access to parking near the start and finish areas.
Runners are advised to use only the Park & Ride or Park & Walk services (available at Registration) to travel to and from the Race Village venue, as no public or street parking is available in the Green Point, Sea Point, or Mouille Point areas.
The Park & Ride areas include Century City, UCT, Civic Center, and CTICC. The cost is R50. Cars parked in restricted areas will be towed.
Click here for more Park and Ride information, visit here.
