Cape Town International Airport (CPT)

Cape Town International Airport (CPT) is world-class, but even the best hubs can be tricky if you’re in a rush. To save time, it helps to know exactly where you are going before you land.

This guide streamlines your arrival by outlining the essentials for navigating the airport and beyond. We cover everything from mastering quick transitions between domestic and international terminals to identifying the fastest transport links into the city center. You will also find curated recommendations for quiet airport lounges perfect for catching up on work. Keep scrolling to ensure you are fully ready for your big adventure.

Quick Overview and Useful Facts About Cape Town International Airport (CPT):

Refer to the following guide for immediate access to Cape Town International terminal maps, physical addresses, and key passenger requirements.

Category	Details
Name of the Airport	Cape Town International Airport
Owner/ Operator	Airports Company South Africa
Airport Type	Public
Serves	City of Cape Town
Opened	1954
Location	Matroosfontein, Western Cape, South Africa
ICAO Code	FACT
IATA Code	CPT
Hub for	AirlinkFlySafair
Focus city for	South African Airways
Terminals	Two terminals linked together by one central terminal
Airlines	Approx 28-31 airlines
Destinations	42 destinations
Ground Transportations options	CarPublic TransportRail Link
Address	Matroosfontein, Cape Town, 7490, South Africa
Website	https://www.airports.co.za/airports/cape-town-international-airport

Which well-known airlines serve passengers at Cape Town International Airport?

With 24 airlines operating from Cape Town International Airport, you can choose from 35 different routes connecting you directly to 30 global destinations.

• Air Botswana
• Air France
• Air Mauritius
• Airlink
• Air Tanzania
• British Airways
• CemAir
• Condor
• Delta Air Lines
• Edelweiss Air
• Emirates
• Eswatini Air
• Ethiopian Airlines
• FlyNamibia
• FlySafair
• Kenya Airways
• KLM
• LAM Mozambique Airlines
• LATAM Brasil
• LIFT
• Lufthansa
• Norse Atlantic Airways
• Proflight Zambia
• Qatar Airways
• Singapore Airlines
• South Africa Airways
• TAAG Angola Airlines
• Turkish Airlines
• United Airlines
• Virgin Atlantic

How Many PassengerTerminals does Cape Town International Airport (CPT) Operate?

Cape Town International Airport has two main terminals, Domestic and International, both seamlessly connected via a single modern Central Terminal.

The Central Terminal follows a split-level layout, with departures on the upper floors and arrivals on the lower floors.

International Terminal Features: The International Terminal houses Customs and Immigration, lounges, duty-free stores, dining areas, prayer rooms, chapels, conference rooms, and airline offices.

Domestic Terminal Features: The Domestic Terminal offers facilities similar to those in the International Terminal, except for Immigration services.

What Basic Services Does Cape Town International Airport (CPT) Offer to Travelers?

Cape Town International Airport offers a range of helpful services to ensure every traveler feels supported and at ease. From essential utilities to specialized services, everything you need is right here. Use this guide to locate the key facilities throughout the building quickly.

1. Accommodation:

Cape Town International Airport offers convenient on-site and nearby accommodation options for every type of traveler. You can choose the Road Lodge Hotel for immediate airport access and essential amenities such as Wi-Fi, or opt for the nearby Hotel Verde, a sustainable choice ideal for quick layovers or catching early-morning departures.

2. Baggage Services:

If you need baggage services at Cape Town International Airport, head over to A-Teck on the ground floor of Parkade 2. They offer professional luggage wrapping to keep your bags safe and secure storage if you need to leave them behind for a while.

3. Banking & Currency Exchange:

Cape Town International Airport offers comprehensive financial services across all terminals. Travelers have 24/7 access to ATMs and full-service banking branches at Cape Town International Airport. Additionally, multiple currency exchange counters operated by major providers such as ABSA, Standard Bank, and Bidvest are conveniently located in both domestic and international zones, ensuring seamless money management for every passenger.

4. Chapel and Prayer Rooms:

For travelers seeking a moment of reflection, dedicated chapels and prayer rooms are available across the terminals at Cape Town International Airport. These serene spaces offer a quiet environment for devotion or meditation. If you have trouble locating them, any ACSA representative is on hand to provide directions and ensure you find the appropriate facility quickly.

5. Services for Disabled Travelers:

CPT Airport is fully accessible, offering dedicated services for people with disabilities to ensure a seamless journey. The facility features ramps, specialized lifts, adapted restrooms, and reserved parking bays. To enhance the experience, travelers can also coordinate personalized wheelchair assistance and boarding support directly through their chosen airline.

6. Flight Information (Flightcheck):

Checking your flight status is quick and easy. Before you head out or upon arrival, you can call the automated line, visit an information desk, or sign up for SMS alerts. For the fastest updates, you just need to check the live arrivals and departures on the airport’s website to stay on schedule.

7. Internet & Wi-Fi:

Free wifi at Cape Town International Airport is available throughout both domestic and international terminals. You can effortlessly stay connected, manage travel plans, or check emails by following simple on-site instructions to link your devices. Therefore, this complimentary service ensures a seamless digital experience for all travelers navigating the airport’s facilities. To connect to the Wi-Fi, just select #CPT Free WiFi, then browse the web. 

8. Porter Services:

Official porter services at Cape Town International Airport are readily available at all terminals and drop-off zones. Easily identified by their orange-and-black uniforms, these self-employed porters provide professional luggage assistance. To support their work, a standard gratuity of R20 per item is officially recommended for travelers.

9. Restrooms & Public Telephones:

Cleanrestrooms are available at Cape Town International Airport in all terminal buildings, many of which are equipped with baby-changing facilities. Additionally, public telephones that accept coins or phone cards are conveniently located throughout the airport for quick and reliable communication.

10. Medical Services 

The Cape Town International Airport has a pharmacy and medical clinic on-site to address passenger health needs and respond to emergencies. 

11. VAT Refund 

International tourists can claim their VAT or value-added tax at dedicated counters in the international departure hall. 

What Shops Are Available at Cape Town International Airport (CPT)?

The shops at Cape Town International Airport transform your wait time into a world-class retail experience. Spanning all terminals, the selection ranges from luxury jewelry and high-fashion boutiques to essential tech and bookstores. It is the perfect destination for both high-end duty-free indulgence and finding that last-minute local souvenir.

1. African Souvenirs, Gifts & Curios:

• Out of Africa- Duty Free Mall (after security) | Tel: +27 (0)21 934 8901
• Cape Farm & Wine- Domestic Departures, 2nd Floor (after security) | Tel: +27 (0)21 936 8173
• Made in SA- Domestic Departures, 2nd Floor (after security) | Tel: +27 (0)21 934 1321
• Cape Farm & Gift Emporium- Domestic Departures, 2nd Floor (after security) | Tel: +27 (0)21 936 8171
  

2. Cellular, Electronics & Technology:

• MTN- Domestic Arrivals (before security) | Tel: +27 (0)83 869 1414
• Vodashop Renta Fone- Domestic Arrivals (before security) | Tel: +27 (0)21 934 4951/2
• Capi Electronics- International Departures | Tel: +27 (0)21 934 6899 / +27 (0)21 934 9894
• Electro Electronics & Sound- Domestic Departures, 2nd Floor | Tel: 083 402 6016 / 071 818 4341

3. . Fashion, Footwear & Accessories:

• Sunglass Hut- International Airside- Duty Free Mall, Domestic Arrivals (before security), Domestic Departures, 2nd Floor (after security), Tel: +27 (0)21 934 0467 / 2243 / 2665
• Cellini- Central Terminal (before security) | Tel: +27 (0)21 936 3129
• Love Cape Town- Domestic Departures, 2nd Floor (after security) | Tel: +27 (0)21 936 2820
• Ocean Africa- Central Terminal (before security) | Tel: +27 (0)21 934 2596
• Sneakers- Domestic Departures (after security) & International Duty Free Mall | Tel: +27 (0)21 934 2594
• The Cross Trainer- Central Terminal (before security) | Tel: +27 (0)21 934 1396
• Twill- Domestic Departures (after security & airside) | Tel: +27 (0)21 934 4087
  

4. Jewellery & Accessories:

• American Swiss- Central Terminal (before security) | Tel: +27 (0)21 934 1420
  

5. Books, Cards & Gifts:

• Books & Things- Central Terminal (before security) & International Departures | Tel: +27 (0)21 936 8173 / 8175
• Exclusive Books- Airside Domestic Departures | Tel: +27 (0)21 934 5869
  

6. Health, Beauty & Wellness:

• Link Pharmacy- Central Terminal (before security) | Tel: +27 (0)21 934 5217
• Gloss- Central Terminal | Tel: +27 (0)21 934 5217
• Express Hair & Skin- Domestic Terminal | Tel: +27 (0)21 936 3301
• Yemaya Express Nail Bar- Domestic Departures (airside) | Tel: +27 (0)21 439 2266
• Obey Your Body- Airside Domestic Departures | Tel: 021 551 4483

7. Duty Free & Department Stores:

• Big Five Duty Free- International Airside Duty Free Mall & International Arrivals (Baggage Claim) | Tel: +27 (0)21 934 6814
• Brittans- Domestic Departures, 2nd Floor (bussing gates & after security), Duty Free Mall (after security), Tel: +27 (0)21 936 8173 / 1198 / 8175

8. Specialized & Passenger Services:

• Passenger Stop- Central Terminal | Tel: +27 (0)21 934 0269 / 551 7733
• Tax Refund Office- Central Terminal (before security) | Tel: +27 (0)21 934 8675
• Lere Shoeshine- Domestic Departures | Tel: +27 (0)72 422 1172
• Additional Airside Services (Domestic Departures)- Tel: 071 310 6705 / 071 213 5879 / 021 934 5221

What Restaurants Can I Find Inside Cape Town International Airport (CPT)?

Explore restaurants at Cape Town International Airport with this comprehensive guide and enhance your travel experience. We have carefully curated every top-rated eatery by terminal and floor, helping you skip the aimless wandering. 

• Barcelos: Central Terminal Building, before security
• Steers: Central Terminal Building, ground floor, before security
• Mugg & Bean: Central Terminal Building, third floor, before security
• Mugg & Bean On the Move: Domestic Departures, second floor, after security & bussing gates
• Wimpy: Domestic Departures, second floor, after security, Mezzanine Level, Viewing Deck, before security
• Ocean Basket: Mezzanine Level, Viewing Deck, before security
• Primi Piatti: Central Terminal Building, third floor, before security
• KFC (Sit-Down): Mezzanine Level, Viewing Deck, before security
• Spur: Mezzanine Level, Viewing Deck, before security
• Woolworths Foods: Central Terminal Building, before security
• Montagu Dried Fruit & Nuts: Central Terminal Building, before security
• Vida e Caffè: International Arrivals
• ICONS: International Departures

Are there Car Parking Facilities at Cape Town International Airport (CPT)?

If you are looking for car parking options at Cape Town International Airport, the facilities are owned by Airports Company South Africa (ACSA). However, the day-to-day management and valet services are handled by Katanga Parking Services.

• Parkade P1 (North of Terminal):

This five-storey, 4,050-bay parkade features valet services, 14 accessible spots per floor, and a 20-minute free grace period for convenient passenger pick-ups and drop-offs.

• Parkade P2:

P2 Parkade’s ground floor centralizes e-hailing, valet, and pick-up services. The hub also features executive parking, vehicle maintenance, and convenient postal facilities for all travelers.

• Shaded Parking (P3 & P4):

Flanking the central car rental hub, these 1,600 shaded long-stay bays are easily reached via pedestrian subways for convenient, protected airport parking. Free shuttle service is available round the clock for transporting travellers from the central terminal building’s main entrance. This is the best option for those on longer holidays who prefer shaded parking. 

• Long Stay Parking (P5):

Ideal for stays of 5+ days, this 189-bay lot is the most affordable long-term option. Available on a first-come, first-served basis, they offer the best value for budget-conscious travelers on long journeys. 

• Long Stay Parking for Special Needs Passengers

Ground-floor P1 offers QASA-approved accessible parking. Contact Katanga or ACSA for a prepaid card; rates match standard Long Stay (P5). Secure your access before arrival. However, the vehicle must have a valid disability permit clearly displayed. 

• Additional Parking Services:

Katanga Parking Services provides rapid on-site battery jump-starts and flat tire assistance via dedicated patrol vehicles. Professional support is just a quick call away.

• Valet Parking Services:

Four official valet providers operate from Parkade P2’s ground floor, offering a premium airport parking experience for travelers seeking convenience and high-end service.

What Types of Transportation are Available at Cape Town International Airport (CPT)?

Select your preferred transportation option at Cape Town International Airport that fits your budget and schedule.

• MyCiTi Bus Service

This service is reliable and highly affordable. It establishes a connection between the airport and the city centre. To locate it, take a look at the signage that goes from the arrival hall up to the bus station. This is the best option for solo and budget travelers, as well as those living in the city centre. 

• Authorised Airport Taxis 

This is the safest and most direct way to reach your destination. You will find these easily identifiable vehicles outside the terminals. The taxi service is ideal for those seeking door-to-door services sans any prior booking. 

‘

• Ride-hailing Services

You will find prominent services such as Bolt and Uber at Cape Town International Airport. You may book them through the respective mobile apps. Check the airport signage for the exact pickup location. 

• Gautrain: 

The Gautrain rapid rail runs daily from early morning until late evening, departing approximately every twelve minutes for passenger convenience.

Where Can I Rent a Car at Cape Town International Airport (CPT)?

If you need a car rental at Cape Town International Airport, nine agencies are located right in front of the terminal. You can use the two pedestrian subways for safe, easy access; there’s no need to cross busy roads to reach your vehicle or parking.

• Avis / Budget- Contact: 021 927 8800 (24-hour service)
• Europcar- Contact: 021 935 8600 (24-hour service)
• First Car Rental- Contact: 021 934 7499 (24-hour service)
• BLUU Car Rental- Contact: 021 927 2750 (24-hour service)
• Hertz- Contact: 021 935 3000 (24-hour service)
• Sani Car Rental- Contact: 011 230 5000 (24-hour service)
• Tempest Car Hire- Contact: 021 935 8600 (24-hour service)
• Woodford Car Hire- Contact: 021 934 7165 (Operating hours: 07:30-23:00 daily)
• Capital Car Hire- Contact: 021 936 2121 (Operating hours: 05:00-23:00 daily) 

Explore the Finest Lounges at Cape Town International Airport (CPT):

Discover the finest lounges at Cape Town International Airport. Furthermore, you can relax in style as you compare premium amenities to find your perfect pre-flight sanctuary before departure.

1. Domestic Departures Terminal:

Here are some lounge services available at the domestic departures terminal. Each of the lounges mentioned has an excellent ambiance, ensuring passengers enjoy a relaxing experience before their flight.

• Bidvest Premier Lounge 
• SAA Voyager Platinum Lounge 
• SAA Baobab Premium Class Lounge
• SLOW Lounge 

2. International Departures Terminal:

The lounges listed below are located in the international terminal. The Emirates Lounge has two levels. 

• Bidvest Premier Lounge 
• The Emirates Lounge 
• British Airways Galleries Lounge 
• Protocol Lounge 
• Smoker’s Lounge 

Cape Town International Airport (CPT) Security Wait Times:

Security wait times at Cape Town International Airport are usually quick and easy to navigate. Most days, you can breeze through screening in about 10 to 20 minutes. However, it can get busier in the early mornings, on weekends, or during holiday rushes, when you might wait 30 minutes or more. International lines also tend to move more slowly than domestic lines. Furthermore, to keep things simple, arrive early and double-check those liquid rules. 

Cape Town International Airport (CPT) Interactive Map:

The Cape Town International Airport Interactive Map takes the guesswork out of travel. This digital guide helps you pinpoint everything from check-in desks and boarding gates to shops and lounges in seconds. From locating the nearest restroom to finding that perfect pre-flight meal, the CPT Airport’s map offers a clear layout for every traveler, including those with reduced mobility. Use it to plan your path, save time, and enjoy a more relaxed, confident travel experience.

Cape Town International Airport’s Contact Details:

For inquiries about the airport layout or available services, please call Cape Town International Airport at the number below. 

Call	+27 (021) 937 1200086 72 77 888
Website	https://www.airports.co.za/airports/cape-town-international-airport

Conclusion:

There’s a reason Cape Town International Airport is a multi-award winner, it’s just plain easy to use. Everything from the quick security lines to the straightforward transport into the city is designed to take the weight off your shoulders. Whether you are grabbing a final bite of local flavor, browsing the shops, or just looking for a quiet corner to recharge, this handy guide is your true companion.

FAQs