"Advice for student living in Cape Town"

Everything you need to feel safe, confident, and prepared.

Your Complete Guide to Staying Safe, Comfortable & Confident in South Africa

Cape Town is one of the most beautiful, exciting, and multicultural cities in the world –  and a fantastic place to study English. To help you prepare for your stay, we’ve created a practical guide with everything international students need to know: living costs, transport, safety, banking, SIM cards, activities, and insider tips from locals.

Living Costs in Cape Town

Cape Town is more affordable than many international study destinations. Monthly costs depend on lifestyle, but students typically spend:

CategoryAverage Cost (ZAR) USD Equivalent
Accommodation (shared/student residence)R5 500 - R8 500 | $300 - $450
Transport (MyCiTi + Uber + Taxis)R500 - R1 200 | $30 - $65
Food + groceriesR2 500 - R4 500 | $130 - $240
SIM card + dataR150 - R400 | $8 - $20
EntertainmentR600 - R1 500 | $35 - $80
Total Estimated Monthly Costs:R9 000 - R15 000 ($480 - $800)

Where to Live

Most students choose neighbourhoods close to the schoo, beaches, cafe’s, and transport.

Recommended Areas

  • City Centre – Close to everything, lively, odern apartments.
  • Green Point – Safe, clean, trendy, popular with young people.
  • Sea Point – Oceanfront living, international community, great value.
  • Observatory – Student-friendly, affordable, youthful vibe.
  • Gardens / Tamboerskloof / Bo-Kaap – Safe, central, great cafes and lifestyle.

Safety Tips For Students

✔ Do:

  • Use Uber/Bolt or MyCiTi buses at night
  • Keep your phone zipped inside your bag in busy areas
  • Stay in well-lit places
  • Ask our team for neighbourhood guidance
  • Save emergency contacts on your phone

✘ Dont

  • Walk alone late at night
  • Display expensive items in public
  • Accept offers from unofficial taxi drivers

Important:

We give all students an in-person safety orientation on the first day.

Money, Banking & Currency

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1. Currency

South African Rand (ZAR).

Banknotes: R10, R20, R50, R100, R200

2. Card Acceptance

  • Visa and Mastercard widely accepted
  • Contactless payments are everywhere
  • Apply Pay & Samsung Pay supported
  • American Express accepted n limited places

3. ATMs

Widely available from banks like: FNB, ABSA, STANDARD BANK, NEDBANK, CAPITEC

4.Opening a Bank Account

For long-term students (12+ weeks), we can help you open a local student bank account.

SIM Cards & Mobile Data

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Available at: Vodacom, MTN, Telkom, Cell C.

Most popular for international students: Vodacom & MTN.

Average Data Prices:

  • 5GB: R199
  • 10GB: R299
  • Unlimited monthly bundles also available.

Bring your passport when buying a SIM.

Weather in Cape Town

Lions Head mountain towering over a sunny coastal scene in Cape Town, South Africa, perfect for travel inspiration.

Summer (Nov - Mar)

Hot, sunny, windy. 24 -32°C. Perfect for beaches and outdoor activities.

rainy day, umbrella, walk, rain, weather, raindrop, drops, nature, water, rain shower, wet, rainy weather, colour, girl, waterdrop, rainy, texture

Winter (Jun - Aug)

Cool, rainy. 10 - 18°C. Bring warm clothes and a jackets.

Table Mountain view over Cape Town with vibrant wildflowers in the foreground.

Spring & Autumn

Mild, fresh, colourful weather. Cape Town is known for having "four seasons in one day" - carry a light jacket.

Food & Eating Out

Cape Town has delicious and affordable food from many cultures.

Popular options:

  • Seafood grills
  • Burgers and Pizza
  • Cape Malay curries
  • Braai (South African barbecue)
  • Vegan & health cafes

Average meal costs:

  • Fast food: R50 -R90
  • Cafe meal: R80 – R140
  • Restaurant meal: R120 – R250
  • Coffee: R25 – R45

Halal and vegetarian options are widely available.

Is the Water Safe?

Yes – tap water in Cape Town is safe to drink in most areas.

Bottled water is easily available if preferred.

Transport in Cape Town

Close-up of a ride-sharing car with a bright red illuminated sign for night-time travel.

1. Uber/Bolt

Most common and safe option for students.

A quiet interior of a public bus with vibrant blue and orange seating, United Kingdom.

2. MyCiTi Bus

Reliable, clean, and affordable. Operates airport routee too.

Old minibus on a sunlit street in Cairo, showcasing local urban transport.

3. Minibus Taxis (Shared)

Cheapest but not recommended for new international students due to safety and navigation challenges..

Two men with backpacks walking alongside a green bicycle under a willow tree on a park path.

4. Walking & Cycling

Safe in specific areas (Green Point, Sea Point, V&A Waterfront).

Luxury cars lined up at an outdoor dealership, showcasing sleek designs.

5. Car Rentals

Available for students with valid drivers licences.

Aurora helps students choose the best transport for daily travel.

Top 10 Things to Do in Cape Town

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1. Table Mountain

Cable car or hike with friends

Exterior view of the iconic Victoria Wharf Shopping Center in Cape Town, South Africa.

2. V&A Waterfront

Restaurants, shops, live entertainment

A breathtaking aerial photograph capturing the coastal beauty of Cape Town's Lion's Head and beaches.

3. Camps Bay & Clifton Beaches

Blue waters and amazing sunsets

4. Robben Island

Historic island where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned

5. Cape Point & Cape of Good Hope

Dramatic coastal scenery

6. Kristenbosch Botenical Gardens

Cultural Tips For Cape Town

  • South Africans are friendly and informal
  • Punctuality is appreciated
  • Tipping in restaurants: 10 – 15%
  • Respect queues in public places
  • English is widely spoken everywhere

Extra Useful Tips

  • Buy a travel adapter (South African 3-pin plug)
  • Sunscreen is essential in summer
  • Keep a copy  of your passport in your bag
  • WiFi is widely available in cafees, libraries, and residences