Aerial View of Cape Town Airport

Cape Town Airport CPT

Explore Today's Deals

Logo invertedCPTCape Town Airport

Cape Town Airport (CPT) Guide

Discover Cape Town Airport, your entry to the Western Cape's beauty, featuring modern amenities and breathtaking Table Mountain views. Our concise guide simplifies your journey, covering everything from flight updates, parking, to the best dining and shopping spots. Experience seamless travel from doorstep to gate.

Explore more about this and other airports with our Comprehensive Airport Guide at iFly.com.

Cape Town Airport has one main terminal building with two levels. The terminal building is divided into two sections: domestic and international. The domestic section is located on the ground level and the international section is located on the upper level. The airport has 64 check-in counters, 20 self-service kiosks, and 16 boarding gates.

Major airlines such as South African Airways, British Airways, Emirates, and Qatar Airways operate from CPT. Domestic airlines such as Mango, Kulula, and FlySafair also operate from the airport.

Passengers can easily navigate the airport terminals as there are clear signs and directions throughout the building. The airport also offers various services such as baggage storage, currency exchange, and car rental facilities.

Use our interactive airport map to locate food, services, and airline departure gates.

Connecting Between Terminals

CPT Airport has two terminals: Domestic Terminal and International Terminal. The two terminals are located within walking distance of each other, and it takes approximately 10 minutes to walk between them. The walkway is covered and well-lit, making it easy to navigate between the terminals.

For travelers who prefer not to walk, there is a shuttle bus service that runs between the terminals. The shuttle bus is free of charge and operates every 15 minutes, making it a convenient option for those with heavy luggage or mobility issues.

Picking Up and Dropping Off Passengers

At CPT Airport, picking up and dropping off passengers can be done at the designated curbside areas located outside the terminals. However, it is important to note that there are strict restrictions on parking at the curbside, and vehicles are not allowed to wait or park for extended periods. To avoid any inconvenience, it is recommended that drivers use the airport's short-term parking facilities if they need to wait for longer periods.

For those who prefer not to park, the airport also offers a cell-phone waiting area where drivers can wait for their arriving passengers. This area is located a short distance away from the terminals and allows drivers to park their vehicles for free for up to 30 minutes while they wait for their passengers to arrive. Once the passengers have collected their luggage and are ready to be picked up, the driver can then proceed to the curbside area to pick them up.

Parking Facilities & Options

the airport offers a variety of parking options to suit the needs of all travelers. There are several parking lots and garages located within walking distance of the airport terminals. Short-term parking is available for those dropping off or picking up passengers, while long-term parking is available for those leaving their vehicles for an extended period of time.

For those waiting to pick up arriving passengers, there are cell phone waiting areas located near the airport terminals. These areas allow drivers to wait in their vehicles until their passengers are ready to be picked up, without having to pay for parking.

Handicapped parking is available in all parking lots and garages, with designated spaces located near the airport terminals for easy access.

For those looking for a more economical parking option, off-airport parking is available nearby. These parking facilities offer shuttle service to and from the airport terminals, and often have lower rates than on-airport parking.

Get details about Cape Town Airport parking options and rates, along with more economical off-airport parking here.

Transportation Options

When arriving at Cape Town Airport, there are a variety of transportation options available to get you to your destination.

If you prefer to rent a car, there are several major car rental providers located at the airport, including Avis, Budget, Europcar, and Hertz. You can find their rental desks in the Arrivals Hall of the Central Terminal Building.

If you prefer to take a taxi, there are designated taxi drop-off areas outside of the Central Terminal Building. Fares are metered and vary depending on your destination and time of day. It is recommended to confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey.

Shared ride services, such as Uber and Bolt, are also available for pickup at the designated ride-share pickup area outside of the Central Terminal Building. Please note that there may be restrictions on the number of passengers and luggage allowed in the vehicle.

Airport shuttles are available to transport passengers to and from the airport. These shuttles operate on a fixed schedule and pickup areas can be found outside of the Central Terminal Building. Fares vary depending on your destination and the shuttle provider.

If you prefer to take public transportation, there are several options available, including MyCiTi bus service and the Cape Town Metrorail train. Both options have pickup areas located outside of the Central Terminal Building, and fares vary depending on your destination and mode of transportation.

Airport Hotels

Whether you're catching an early morning flight or arriving late, choosing a hotel near the airport can make your journey much more comfortable. From stylish and modern accommodations to charming bed and breakfasts, we present a selection of hotels that cater to a variety of needs and budgets. These options offer a unique blend of comfort, convenience, and proximity to the airport. Some are situated mere miles from the airport, ideal for quick layovers or early departures, while others offer unique amenities like serene gardens or communal lounges, perfect for unwinding after a long day of travel. Many are also conveniently located near local attractions, allowing you to explore during your stay. Discover the best hotel options with our CPT Hotels guide.

Dining, Shopping & Enjoying the Airport

As one of the busiest airports in South Africa, the airport offers a wide range of dining and shopping options for travelers. Whether you're looking for a quick bite or a sit-down meal, there's something for everyone.

For a taste of South African cuisine, head to Mugg & Bean, located in the Domestic Terminal. This popular chain restaurant serves up hearty breakfasts, sandwiches, and burgers, as well as local favorites like bobotie and boerewors rolls. If you're in the mood for something lighter, try Vida e Caffè, a coffee shop that also offers fresh sandwiches and salads.

When it comes to shopping, Cape Town Airport has plenty of options to keep you entertained. If you're looking for souvenirs or gifts, head to Out of Africa, located in the International Terminal. Here you'll find a range of African-inspired crafts, jewelry, and clothing. For something a bit more high-end, check out Montblanc, which offers luxury writing instruments, watches, and leather goods.

The locations of all food, shops, and services at Cape Town Airport can be found using iFly's interactive map. For a complete list of restaurants, bars, shops, and news stands, browse the full directory here.

Passenger Services

CPT offers a range of passenger services to make your travel experience as comfortable as possible. Here are some of the services available:

Wifi Access: The airport provides free wifi access throughout the terminals. Simply connect to the "Airports@vast" network and follow the on-screen instructions to get online.

Lost and Found: If you have lost an item at the airport, you can contact the lost and found department located in the arrivals area of the international terminal. You can also report lost items online through the airport's website.

Children's Areas: The airport has dedicated play areas for children located in both the domestic and international terminals. These areas are equipped with toys and games to keep your little ones entertained while you wait for your flight.

Special-Needs Services: CPT Airport offers a range of services for passengers with special needs, including wheelchair assistance and special seating arrangements. If you require any special assistance, please contact your airline before your flight.

Banking: There are several banks and ATMs located throughout the airport, making it easy to access cash or exchange currency. Some of the banks available include ABSA, FNB, and Standard Bank.

Medical Help: If you require medical assistance while at the airport, there is a medical clinic located in the international terminal. The clinic is staffed by qualified medical professionals and is equipped to handle a range of medical issues.

Flight Status Info

As an air traveler, it's important to stay informed about the status of your flight departure. Fortunately, there are several ways to get flight status updates at the airport in South Africa.

One of the easiest ways to check flight status is by using the in-airport flight displays (FIDS) located throughout the terminal. These displays provide real-time information about flight departures, including gate information, delays, and cancellations.

Another convenient way to stay informed about flight status is by using airline mobile phone apps. Many airlines offer apps that allow passengers to receive push notifications, text messages, or emails about departure delays, gate changes, and other important updates. It's a good idea to download the app for your airline before your trip to ensure you have access to real-time flight information.

Passengers can also check the status of their flight departure at Cape Town Airport by visiting the flight departures page on ifly.com, which provides real-time updates on flight departures, delays, and gate information.

Helpful Tips

When to Arrive

When traveling through CPT, it's recommended to arrive at least 2 hours before your flight for domestic flights and 3 hours before for international flights. The busiest times to avoid are during the morning and evening rush hours, as well as during school holidays and major events in the city.

Getting to the Airport

The best ways to get to CPT Airport are by car, taxi, or shuttle bus. If you're driving, there are several parking options available, including short-term and long-term parking. Taxis and shuttle buses are also readily available throughout the city and can be booked in advance or upon arrival at the airport.

Getting Oriented

When you arrive at the airport, it's important to get oriented to your surroundings. You can do this by using iFly.com's interactive airport maps, which provide detailed information about the airport's layout, including terminal locations, shops, restaurants, and other amenities. You can also ask for assistance from airport staff or use the information desks located throughout the airport.

Avoiding Delays

To avoid delays at Cape Town Airport, it's important to arrive early, especially during peak travel times. You should also check your flight status regularly and sign up for alerts to stay informed about any delays or cancellations. Additionally, be sure to pack your bags according to the airport's regulations and allow enough time for security screening.

Airport Facts & Stats

Cape Town Airport, located in South Africa, is the second busiest airport in the country, serving millions of passengers every year. The airport has a single terminal building, which is divided into domestic and international sections. The terminal offers a variety of amenities, including restaurants, shops, and lounges.

The top airlines with the most daily flights at CPT are South African Airways, British Airways, and Kulula. On average, the airport handles around 10,000 passengers daily, with an average of 200 daily flights. The airport serves over 80 destinations worldwide, with the top 5 destinations being Johannesburg, Dubai, London, Amsterdam, and Frankfurt.

CPT Airport is a hub for South African Airways, which operates a large number of domestic and international flights from the airport. Other airlines that use the airport as a hub include Mango Airlines and FlySafair.

Airport History

The airport, also known as Cape Town International Airport, is the second busiest airport in South Africa and serves as a hub for major airlines such as South African Airways and British Airways.

Here are some significant events in the airport's history:

  • 1954 - Cape Town Airport opens for commercial flights
  • 1971 - The airport undergoes a major expansion to accommodate larger aircraft
  • 1997 - The airport is renamed Cape Town International Airport
  • 2010 - The airport undergoes a major renovation in preparation for the FIFA World Cup hosted by South Africa
  • 2013 - A new central terminal building is opened, increasing the airport's capacity to handle up to 14 million passengers per year
  • 2018 - Cape Town International Airport is awarded the Best Airport in Africa award by Skytrax

Today, Cape Town International Airport continues to serve as a major gateway to South Africa and the African continent, with over 10 million passengers passing through its doors each year.

Airport Contact Information

For more information about Cape Town Airport, please refer to the following contact details:

  • IATA Code: CPT
  • Airport Website
  • Phone: +27 21 937 1200
  • Email: [email protected]
  • Mailing Address: Cape Town International Airport, Private Bag X9002, 7525, South Africa

Note that the contact information provided here is subject to change by the airport operator(s).

Last updated:

Find more help here for your journey through the airport