Public Transport

Help Center
< Back

Public Transport

Public Transport in Cape Town

Cape Town has a wide range of public transportation options, but not all are suitable for visitors. Your ability to safely use public transport depends on where you’re going, the time of day, and your familiarity with local systems.

General Guidelines

  • All public transport must be approved by VACorps staff before use.

  • You may not use a route for the first time alone. Someone experienced with the route must accompany you the first time.

  • Public transport is not permitted after dark under any circumstances.

MyCiTi Bus System

The MyCiTi Bus is a safe, reliable, and tourist-friendly transport option in certain areas of Cape Town. It offers modern buses with scheduled routes, clean facilities, onboard security cameras, and free WiFi.

Popular MyCiTi routes include:

  • Cape Town International Airport

  • The City Bowl and Central Business District

  • The Atlantic Seaboard (Camps Bay, Sea Point, Hout Bay)

  • Major shopping destinations (V&A Waterfront, Canal Walk, Gardens Centre)

  • Blouberg, Milnerton, Table View, and Big Bay

Benefits:

  • Generally reliable (approx. 90% on-time performance)

  • Safe and clean

  • Staffed stations with security cameras

  • Easy for tourists to use

Drawbacks:

  • Does not cover the Southern Suburbs (Observatory, Rondebosch, Claremont, Muizenberg, etc.)

  • Closest station to VACorps housing is Spencer Road Station in Salt River (~10–15 min walk). We recommend using Uber to get there.

  • Walking to/from stations requires vigilance—be alert and aware of your surroundings.

  • Not recommended after dark.

Minibus Taxis

Minibus taxis are widely used by locals and offer a cultural experience. They are very affordable, with fares starting at around R10. However, they can be confusing and are not recommended for first-time users without support.

How they work:

  • Taxis can be hailed from the side of the road.

  • Route signs are displayed on the dashboard; drivers also hoot to signal space.

  • Pay in cash only, and try to have exact change.

  • Tell the fare collector or driver when you want to get off—usually at a known landmark.

Risks and Drawbacks:

  • Driving may be aggressive or erratic.

  • Stops are frequent and routes can be slow.

  • Vehicles may be overcrowded, especially during peak hours.

  • Some taxis will wait until full before departing.

  • Navigating the system can be stressful for newcomers.

Safety Tips:

  • Do not use minibus taxis at night.

  • Always go with someone experienced, especially for your first trip.

  • Know your route and destination before boarding.

  • Keep bags zipped and on your lap.

  • Travel with friends whenever possible.

Train Travel

Cape Town’s train system is has improved, and, on specific routes, can be used safely during the day. Trains are only permitted with prior VACorps approval and only between the Southern Suburbs and Cape Town CBD.

Approved Train Route:

  • Kalk Bay to Cape Town Station (and vice versa), during daylight hours only.

Important Reminders:

  • Do not use trains alone on your first trip—go with a VACorps-approved person or staff.

  • Never take trains outside the approved route or after dark.

Approved Public Transport Corridors

The following public transport routes are considered allowable under VACorps policy, with prior staff approval and during daylight hours only:

  • Wynberg – Cape Town CBD (Minibus taxi or MyCiTi bus, where applicable)

  • Kalk Bay – Cape Town CBD (Train)

  • Atlantic Seaboard & City routes via MyCiTi (e.g., Hout Bay, Camps Bay, Sea Point)

Public transport to townships or low-income areas is not permitted.

If you’re ever unsure whether a particular transport option is safe or approved, check with a VACorps staff member before traveling. We’re here to help you navigate Cape Town safely and confidently.