Cape Town International Airport (CPT) is the third largest airport on the continent of Africa. It is a fantastic, compact airport serving the city of Cape Town and the surrounding wine country of South Africa. Located approximately 20 kilometres (12 mi) from the Cape Town CBD (the city's main economic hub), the airport was opened in 1954 to replace Cape Town's previous airport, Wingfield Aerodrome.
A mere 30-minute drive from downtown Cape Town, which is locally called the CBD (Central Business District). A major highway leads directly to the city and it is very easy to navigate. If you’re heading to the winelands, it’s under an hour’s drive from CPT. As a South African with a home in Cape Town, this is the airport I have used most in my life. Flying in or out you will catch spectacular views of the famed Table Mountain and the beautiful Atlantic Ocean.
Cape Town International Airport is the only airport in the Cape Town metropolitan area that offers scheduled passenger services. The airport has direct flights from South Africa's other two main urban areas, Johannesburg and Durban, as well as flights to smaller centres in South Africa. In 2024, CTIA experienced its highest tourism passenger volumes on record. In 2025, Cape Town International was ranked as the Best Airport in the World in the AirHelp Score list, shifting from its 2024 rank of second-best.
D. F. Malan Airport was opened in 1954, a year after Jan Smuts Airport (now O. R. Tambo International Airport) on the Witwatersrand, near Johannesburg, opened. The airport replaced Cape Town's previous airport, Wingfield Aerodrome. Originally named Bellville Airport due to its proximity to the town of the same name, it initially served as a domestic airport.
Then, at the request of the Bellville Federation of Taxpayers, the airport was renamed after the then South African prime minister. D.F. The first years of the twenty-first century saw tremendous growth at the airport; from handling 6.2 million passengers per annum in 2004-05, the airport peaked at 8.4 million passengers per annum in 2007-08 before falling back to 7.8 million in 2008-09.
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In preparation for the 2010 FIFA World Cup, Cape Town International Airport was extensively expanded and renovated. Passengers then pass through a consolidated security screening area before dividing. Retail outlets are located on the lower (arrivals) level of the terminal at landside, as well as airside at the departure gates. The restaurant level overlooks the airside of the terminal, where a glass curtain wall separates the patrons from the planes three stories below. On the 4th floor is where the airport's lounges are situated.
In October 2025, it was reported that, based on recent air travel statistics, numerous airlines were choosing to send an increasing number of outbound flights from SA via Cape Town International instead of via Johannesburg's O. R. Tambo International.
Terminals and Check-In
Although this airport was built in the 1950s, it is a modern building with all the facilities you might need as a traveler coming to South Africa. There are 2 terminals at CPT and they are connected by a central space. CPT is a multi-level building with departures situated on the upper floors and arrivals on the floors below. Check-in for all flights is found in the central main hall of the terminal building. International departures leave from the northern section of the terminal and domestic flights are to the south, but both are accessed after the central security checkpoint.
The central terminal connects both the international (north) and domestic (south) terminals. Air bridges and bus transfers help you move quickly between sections. You check in at the central terminal. It features 120 check-in desks and 20 self-service kiosks, covering both domestic and international flights.
Getting Around CPT Airport
Getting around Cape Town International Airport is straightforward due to its efficient layout. The airport features a central terminal building where all check-in activities occur. This central area links the international terminal to the north and the domestic terminal to the south. Understanding the layout helps in navigating the terminals efficiently:
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- Central Terminal: This is where you'll find 120 check-in desks and 20 self-service kiosks. After check-in, a unified security checkpoint serves both international and domestic passengers.
- International Terminal: Located to the north, this terminal is accessible after passing through the central security area. It includes amenities such as lounges, duty-free shopping, and dining options.
- Domestic Terminal: Situated to the south, it mirrors the facilities of the international terminal but without immigration services.
Both terminals are equipped with air bridges and bus transport services to remote aircraft parking areas. Signage throughout the airport guides you to the appropriate sections for both arrivals and departures. For leisure and shopping, the terminals offer a variety of retail and dining options, with the central terminal housing a notably large restaurant and multiple lounges on the fourth floor.
Retail Selections at the Airport
All shops are located in the lower arrivals area of the main terminal. There is a great little shop called Woolworths where you can get a superb flat white coffee, some grocery items (I pick up groceries right here upon arriving from the US to take home to my place in Cape Town), and even items you might need for the house like cleaning materials and toiletries.
There is also Link Pharmacy in the central area of the terminal if you need anything medical - you’ll find it under the escalators. Books & Things sells the latest South African magazines - I always pick up the design magazine VISI to check out the latest local styles - and books, of course. There are also a few snack shops, clothing stores and a big souvenir selection for last-minute gifts or mementos. After security there are similar stores, along with a big selection of duty-free shopping options and even more souvenirs.
Food and Drink at the Airport
Restaurants are located on the third floor above the departures level. Here you’ll find a Spur, which has a big meat selection and a famed salad bar. You’ll also find Ocean Basket, which is great for casual seafood, and Primi Café for classic Italian options.
If you want the biggest muffin of your life, try the Mugg and Bean, where they also have coffee and tea, additional hot drinks and full meals (they are a favorite for panini sandwiches). The restaurant level overlooks the airside of the terminal. My favorite coffee place is Vida E Cafe, a Portuguese inspired cafe where there are delicious, sweet treats like pasteis de nata and a selection of great coffees. The airport is technically open 24 hours per day, but many of the restaurants do close around 9 pm.
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Other Services at CPT
For a smaller airport, CPT is well appointed with anything you may need. In terms of these services there are banks - although South Africa is now well equipped with tap-to-pay credit card functionality pretty much all over - and Forex, where you can get local currency, Rand, and also exchange money if needed.
There is also a VAT refund point at CPT, and here you can get tax back on purchases you made while shopping in South Africa. It can be a little complicated, and you will need paperwork prepared by each store where you made the purchases, so plan ahead with a bit of research if you want to take advantage of this. There is also a post office, where I sometimes stop to send postcards.
If you need Wi-Fi, you can take advantage of the free Wi-Fi networks available. You can connect easily by following the prompts and there is no password or additional information required. Because you can only take a small bag with you on to most safari lodges, I have often taken advantage of the ability to leave bags behind temporarily at CPT. A-Teck, which is on the ground floor towards the parking area 2, will store your larger bags for a fee (or anything else you want to leave behind).
Hotels at Cape Town International Airport
There are 2 hotels at Cape Town International Airport: The Hotel Verde, which is a 4-star property, and a budget hotel called City Lodge. They have shuttles that pick up right outside the terminal in the southern parking area.
There are a host of really great hotels in the city, and it’s less than a 30-minute drive in a taxi (and very inexpensive) so I always recommend checking-in at a hotel in the city instead. I highly recommend staying at the iconic Cape Grace directly on the V&A Waterfront. From here you can easily walk to a great dinner and many shops.
Lounges
There are a few different lounge options at CPT, depending on which terminal you are in. On the domestic side, my favorite lounge is the SLOW lounge. There are only a few beautifully designed airport lounges in the world, and this is one of them. It’s gorgeous. However, it’s only for certain credit card holders and you cannot pay to enter on a day pass.
On the international side, I enjoy both the South African Airways lounge and the British Airways lounge. CTIA offers travellers premium airport lounges such as South African Airways Lounge, British Airways Lounge, SLOW Lounge and Bidvest Premier Lounge.
Parking
There is ample parking available at CPT, including locations on both sides of the main transport plaza. You can choose a range of options from short-term to extra long-term, and there are shaded parking areas available to protect your car from the South African sun. There is also a pick-up parking area that allows temporary parking for up to 20 minutes while you greet your arriving passengers.
Renting a Car at the Airport
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I go to Cape Town several times every year and I rent a car every time. I find this to be the most convenient way to leave the airport and get around the city while I’m in town. To do the same, exit the terminal, walk out through a tunnel under the main road, and arrive at the rental car area.
Several major rental agencies can be found here and they are all open 24 hours a day. There are a few local brands, too. Renting a car in South Africa generally comes with no complications and you can easily pick up your car right next to the car rental desks any time.
I recommend not renting a flashy car, though. For safety reasons, it’s more appropriate to stick with a simple, ordinary car, and there are always plenty of these available.
Renting a car at Cape Town International Airport is generally a straightforward process. The car rental companies are conveniently located near the arrivals hall, making them easily accessible for incoming passengers. Look for clear signage directing you to the car rental area as you exit the baggage claim.
The top recommended companies based on customer satisfaction are:
- Hertz
- Alamo (serviced by Europcar)
- Woodford Car Hire
These companies are known for their efficient service and a good range of vehicle options. Alamo, although serviced by Europcar, generally receives more positive reviews than Europcar’s standalone service.
On average, picking up a rental car can take anywhere from 15 to 30 minutes, depending on the time of day and the number of customers in line. During peak travel times, it might take a bit longer.
Here are a few important tips for renting a car in South Africa:
- Driving Side: Right-hand drivers, take note that in South Africa, you drive on the left-hand side of the road.
- Vehicle Types: Both manual and automatic transmission vehicles are available. If you’re not comfortable with a manual transmission, make sure to specify an automatic car when making your reservation.
- Documentation: Ensure you have all the necessary documentation, including your driver’s license, ID, and a credit card for the deposit. If your driver’s license is not in English, it’s advisable to have an International Driving Permit.
- Check the Car Before Leaving: Before leaving the rental lot, check the car for any existing damage and ensure it’s noted in your rental agreement to avoid any disputes later. It’s wise to take your own photos.
- Insurance: Consider your insurance options carefully. Rental companies offer various insurance packages, and it’s crucial to choose one that adequately covers you for the duration of your rental.
- Fuel Policy: Be clear on the fuel policy. Most rental companies operate on a full-to-full policy, meaning you receive the car with a full tank and should return it full.
- Familiarise Yourself with Local Driving Laws: Knowing the basic road rules, speed limits, and parking regulations in Cape Town will help ensure a smooth driving experience.
Public Transport at the Airport
Cape Town International Airport is very easy to reach and has many options for getting to the city. There are car hire services, shuttles and taxis onsite.
The shuttle service runs from CPT airport to Cape Town CBD, as well as some other destinations across the Western Cape. Taxi service can be booked online before arrival. There are a few companies that offer this service at CPT, and a few more with desks near the escalators available on arrival. Of course, the rideshare companies are also available here, and you can catch these at parking area 2, which is found on the southern side of the airport.
Whichever option you choose, do not use unauthorized vehicles. Ensure that you have booked with a company that is reputable.
Airlines and Destinations
Cape Town International Airport serves numerous destinations via a variety of airlines. The following table lists airlines and their destinations as of a recent update:
| Airline | Destinations |
|---|---|
| Airlink | Bloemfontein, Gaborone, George, Harare, Hoedspruit, Johannesburg-O. R. |
| CemAir | Durban, East London, Hoedspruit, Johannesburg-O. R. |
| FlySafair | Bloemfontein, Durban, East London, George, Hoedspruit, Johannesburg-Lanseria, Johannesburg-O. R. |
| LIFT | Durban, Johannesburg-O. R. |
| South African Airways | Johannesburg-O. R. |
| BidAir Cargo | Johannesburg-Lanseria, Johannesburg-O. R. |
Note: Some Delta Air Lines flights from Atlanta to Cape Town operate via Johannesburg. Some flights operate via Johannesburg.
Security & Screening
In this section, you will find detailed information about the security and screening processes at the airport. Learn about the locations of security checkpoints, the availability and locations of Fast Track lanes for expedited screening, and the procedures for passport and immigration control. Additionally, discover how to renew or enroll in TSA PreCheck to enjoy a faster and more convenient airport experience.
Locations of Security Checkpoint(s)
CPT Airport has multiple security checkpoints located throughout the airport terminals. The exact locations of the checkpoints may vary depending on the terminal and gate you are departing from. It is recommended that you arrive at the airport at least two hours before your flight to allow enough time to pass through security. Make sure to have your boarding pass and identification ready to present to the security officers.
Fast Track Lanes and Locations
Fast Track lanes are available for passengers who want to expedite the security process. These lanes are located at the security checkpoints in both the domestic and international terminals. To use the Fast Track lane, you must have a valid boarding pass and pay the fee at the designated kiosk. The fee for the Fast Track service varies depending on the airline and the time of day.
Passport & Immigration Control Locations
Passport and immigration control is located in the international terminal of the airport. After passing through security, you will need to proceed to the immigration control area to have your passport and visa (if required) checked by the immigration officers. Make sure to have all necessary documents ready and easily accessible. After clearing immigration, you will be able to proceed to your departure gate.
Frequent Flier Terminal Tips
To help you navigate the airport terminals with ease, we've gathered the best advice and tips from CPT-based frequent travelers, flight attendants, pilots, and airport staff. Their first-hand insights will guide you through the CPT terminals for a smoother experience. Here's what they have to say:
- "If you're flying internationally, head to the SLOW Lounge early. It's a peaceful spot with great food and showers, perfect for freshening up before a long flight." - Thandi M., Stellenbosch, March 2025
- "Last time I was at the airport, I found the Bidvest Premier Lounge in the domestic terminal to be a lifesaver. The snacks and Wi-Fi kept me sane during a delay." - Sipho N., Somerset West, April 2025
- "For a quick bite, skip the big chains and try Vida e Caffe. The coffee is excellent and the vibe is very Cape Town." - Aisha K., Bellville, May 2025
- "The central terminal can get crowded, especially during peak times. I always use the self-service kiosks for check-in to save time." - Johan P., Paarl, June 2025
- "If you're connecting between international and domestic flights, factor in extra time. The walk can be long, and security lines vary." - Zanele T., Durbanville, July 2025
- "Don't miss the duty-free shops in the international terminal. They often have good deals on local wines and spirits." - Lerato S., Kraaifontein, August 2025
- "Keep your boarding pass handy at all times. Security checks are frequent, and having it ready speeds things up." - Paul R., Cape Town, February 2025
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