Welcome to our digital nomad Cape Town guide. We’ve said it before, and we’ll say it again: WiFi Tribe loves Cape Town.
This complete nomad guide for Cape Town is a work of love that brings together our experiences so far of this beautiful part of the world.
With three full chapters set up in the last year, we just can’t get enough of this vibrant and diverse city. It’s surrounded by not one but two oceans, has not one but two major peaks to climb, and offers thousands of adventures and activities both within and outside the city limits.
Sunset kayaking, paragliding, hiking, mountain climbing, sailing, an ecstatic nightlife, food markets, wine tours, gin tastings, safaris, shark cage diving, and swimming with penguins or seals are just the beginning of what this city and country have to offer.
Add to that the low cost of living, a truly impressive number of coworking spaces and WiFi-friendly cafes, and you have the place with the perfect work-life-balance for digital nomads everywhere.
But let’s get more specific, shall we?
The best digital nomad areas in Cape Town
Where to stay in Cape Town? What are the best areas?
Cape Town in South Africa is fast becoming a top destination for digital nomads around the world. The Mother City offers everything you could need, want, or hope for in a remote worker’s dream location: adventure, great food, white-sandy beaches, mountain views, amazing coffee, an exploding gin scene, intriguing and tragic history, beautiful cafes and coworking spaces, a fantastic nightlife…
The list goes on, yet words will never be able to fully explain why Cape Town is such a perfect spot.
One of the factors for an amazing experience in this city is finding the right accommodation. Since we’ve held at least 15+ month-long chapters here over the last nine years, WiFi Tribe has some handy tips, tricks, and hacks on where to stay in Cape Town as a digital nomad.
Cape Town is a large, sprawling city set between various mountainous ranges and coastlines, with many suburbs that each have their own vibe and charm. Here are the areas and suburbs we recommend for remote workers to stay in Cape Town.
Woodstock
One of the oldest suburbs of Cape Town, Woodstock has also developed into one of the hippest. What was once a bustling seaside resort first turned into a semi-industrial area and has now evolved into a bustling hub of creativity and bougie coffee shops.
At first glance, its industrial vibe may put you off, but trust us: this awesome neighborhood is favored by locals for good reason. It’s a place to see and be seen, showing a fun blend of diversity and culture, food, fashion, arts, and design.
Situated just outside the Central Business District, Woodstock is one of the cheapest areas for visitors to stay in Cape Town while remaining within easy reach of the rest of the city. Check the hostels, hotels, and Airbnb’s here if you’re on a mission not to kill your bank account.
Woodstock is easy to explore on foot, and you really should! Every side road and backstreet tells a story. On Saturdays, check out the Neighbourgood’s Market, a trendy market on the premises of an old mill, offering artisan products and gourmet foods.
Or join a street art tour through Woodstock to learn all about how street art and graffiti have played a major part in transforming the suburb into a safe and vibrant community, adding to its lively character and creativity.
Central Business District
The CBD in the Cape Town city center is surrounded by Table Bay and the mountains of Signal Hill, Lion’s Head, Table Mountain, and Devil’s Peak. Due to it being surrounded by this large, natural amphitheatre-shaped area, the CBD is also known as the “City Bowl.”
The heart of the Mother City provides some of the most interesting and historically significant neighborhoods, including Instagrammable Bo-Kaap with its colorful houses. You can get lost in this central location for hours of easy meandering, take free walking tours on the history of apartheid and historical sights, enjoy amazing dishes at beautiful eateries, nibble on street food at various markets, and dance the night away at one of the many nightclubs and numerous rooftop bars.
Do keep a weather eye on your valuables in this area, especially at night in the clubs on the busiest streets like Long Street and Kloof Street. Pickpocketing is a daily occurrence that can be avoided if you’re smart about keeping your possessions close and hidden.
De Waterkant
This sub-district of Green Point (to which we’ll get next), right next to the V&A Waterfront, is one of the trendiest areas in Cape Town. Known as the “Pink District” due to its large number of gay-friendly bars and restaurants, De Waterkant is popular for its open-mindedness. This stylish little pocket of historic buildings, fashionable shops, art galleries and restaurants that will make foodies weep was built in the 19th century with a mixture of Cape Dutch and Georgian architectural design.
Café Manhattan, an institution in the area, serves massive burgers in a Wild West environment. Go shopping at the Cape Quarter Lifestyle Village or enjoy the steam rooms, video lounges, bar, and sun deck with gorgeous city views at The HotHouse Steam and Leisure, an upmarket steam bath and adult store. Of course, there’s a ton more to do all within walking distance in this vibrant little area.
And if you’re looking for great cafes to work from, check out Origin Coffee Roasting, The Loading Bay, or the Red! art gallery for some prime remote work cafes.
Green Point
Known as “the Soho of Cape Town,” Green Point is an upscale suburb set at the northernmost tip of the city. It offers a bustling nightlife, great restaurants, and amazing coffee shops – but it’s also a great starting point for many ocean-based adventures. Get a sailor’s perspective of the city from out at sea in a kayak, where you might even spot seals or dolphins, with views of Table Mountain rising in the background.
Central to Green Point is the park of the same name. In its center stands the Cape Town Stadium, built for the Soccer World Championships held in South Africa in 2010, where you can watch soccer and rugby games throughout the year. The park is surrounded by Mouille Point in the north, where the long Sea Point Promenade winds its way along the Atlantic coast and past the Green Point Lighthouse, offering gorgeous ocean views in all directions.
Green Point is also situated right next to the V&A Waterfront, from where you can catch ferries out to Robben Island, where you can take a tour of the facilities in which Nelson Mandela was imprisoned for 27 years.
Sea Point
Just a short walk further down the Sea Point Promenade brings you to its namesake part of town, Sea Point. Stretched long between the coast of both sandy beaches and rocky cliffs to the West, and the ridge of Signal Hill to Lion’s Head in the East, Sea Point is one of the city’s most affluent and popular neighborhoods.
Sea Point features natural tidal swimming pools, kids’ playgrounds, and gorgeous sunset views on and from Milton Beach, as well as abundant sushi bars, fast-food eateries, and pizzerias. African handicrafts, craft coffee, and live music are all set in one place at the colorful Mojo Market, where you can enjoy a wide variety of street food while getting some work done “in the rafters.”
This laid-back yet vibrant part of town is where WiFi Tribe sets up its lairs to explore this beautiful city and the surrounding areas like Muizenburg, Stellenbosch, the Winelands, and Cape Point.
Clifton And Camps Bay
Continuing south along the coast and crossing Bantry Bay, you’ll end up in Clifton and Camps Bay, the most expensive parts of Cape Town. While the villas and mansions of the Clifton rise sharply above four family-friendly beaches, offering amazing sea views to mostly private homes, Camps Bay Beach provides a promenade of beachfront restaurants and bars at the foot of the Twelve Apostles.
Stay here for the most gorgeous beaches fairly close to the city center, if you can afford to. But beware! The Atlantic Ocean is icy year-round this far south of the African continent.
The Waterfront
The waterfront area of Cape Town is a popular tourist destination located along the coast of the city. It features a mix of shops, restaurants, cafes, and attractions, as well as beautiful views of the ocean and the surrounding cityscape. The area is home to the Victoria and Alfred Waterfront, which is one of the most visited places in Cape Town and offers a range of shopping, dining, and entertainment options. The waterfront is also home to the Cape Town International Convention Centre and the Two Oceans Aquarium, which are both popular destinations for digital nomads.
Pricing For Accommodation
No matter your budget, you’re sure to find the right accommodation for your South African adventure in the Mother City. Whether you prefer luxury or boutique hotels, self-catering guest houses, or hostels, Cape Town’s got you covered.
- Hostels range from 10 to about 32 USD/night for dorm beds and 40 to 110 USD/night for privates.
- Airbnb apartments cost between 35 and 100 USD/night, depending on the location.
- 3-star hotels range from 60 to 160 USD/night for double rooms, whereas 4-star hotels are priced at between 90 and 200 USD/night for a double room.
- 3- and 4-star bed & breakfasts will set you back between 55 and 150 USD/night.
3 top hostels in Cape Town for digital nomads
Cape Town offers a wide variety of hostels, from super cheap to hip and bougie. Let’s have a look at which ones are great for digital nomads to stay at.
Never@Home Cape Town
Set in an easy-access location on the main road of Green Point, very close to the V&A Waterfront, Never@Home offers the perfect mix of fun, party, and chill time, while upholding high standards of cleanliness and security. The hostel features
- private lockers,
- access by key card,
- swimming pool,
- BBQ,
- free walking tours,
- kitchen,
- book exchange, and
- free WiFi.
You can get work done in a comfy common area with various seating options.
The hostel offers 4- to 16-bed mixed dorms starting at 15 USD/night, as well as private twin rooms from about 73 USD/night. Female-only dorms start at circa 19 USD/night.
91 Loop Boutique Hostel
Smack-dab in the middle of Cape Town’s CBD, 91 Loop is a sociable and comfortable hostel that makes a great base for city-wide adventures, especially for solo travelers. It’s modern and clean, with funky artwork covering the courtyard walls. It features
- laundry facilities,
- bike parking,
- inclusive breakfasts,
- free walking tours,
- lockers, and
- individual power outlets and reading lights on the beds.
The staff regularly arranges fun activities like quizzes, live music, and drinking games.
Prices range from 15 USD/night for 4- to 8-bed en-suite dorms, to king or twin rooms starting at around 60 USD/night, to private rooms from 70 USD/night and up.
This hostel also offers fun pod rooms starting at 19 USD/night.
Long Street Backpackers
If you’re a party beast as well as a digital nomad, then Long Street Backpackers is the hostel for you. Long Street is Cape Town’s party central, bursting with clubs, bars, and restaurants. The hostel offers
- kitchen,
- outdoor areas,
- pool table,
- chill-out room,
- gamer room,
- airport shuttle service,
- BBQ,
- free WiFi, and
- free stew on Sundays.
The 4- to 10-bed mixed dormitories start at 10 USD/night, but you can also stay in private budget rooms from 31 USD/night. Not the easiest place to get work done in all the hubbub, but a nice, centrally-located hostel nonetheless.
3 top hotels in Cape Town for digital nomads
You’ve probably guessed that Cape Town also offers a variety of hotels in all shapes and sizes and price ranges. So here we’ll try to catch the three best for digital nomads across that variety, from budget to luxury hotels.
Braeside B&B
Braeside B&B is located strategically in the heart of Green Point village and consists of two Victorian houses built in 1870 and 1903. The two beautiful heritage homes feature secluded courtyards, braai facilities, elegantly decorated rooms with original Oregon-pine floors, and large communal living rooms with a fireplace.
Apart from this, the Bed and Breakfast provides
- a daily breakfast buffet,
- BBQ-facilities,
- free parking,
- free WiFi,
- private bathrooms,
- safety deposit boxes,
- TVs, and
- extra-long beds.
Room prices start at 74 USD/night. Get some work done with a glass of wine under the flowering bougainvillaeas in the quiet courtyards.
Cape Grace Hotel & Spa
Location, location, location – that’s what they say is key, right? Well, Cape Grace Hotel & Spa has location in spades. Located on a private quay on the V&A Waterfront and with water on three sides, this 5-star boutique hotel has the feel of a cruise ship. All rooms have views of the yacht marina or the harbor, and facilities also include a spa with panoramic views of Table Mountain and the marina.
Other than that, the hotel features
- a fitness center
- indoor and outdoor swimming pools
- airport shuttle
- breakfast
- flat-screen TVs
- game consoles
- private bar with deli snacks
- dressing rooms
- en-suite marble bathrooms
The cheapest room is the Luxury Double Room, which starts at approximately 555 USD/night.
10 best coworking spaces in Cape Town for digital nomads
As almost any digital nomad who’s ever stayed and worked there will tell you, Cape Town is one of the most amazing cities for remote workers, not just in South Africa, but in the world. Cape Town offers mountains, oceans, amazing food, local markets, a hopping nightlife scene, breweries, gin distilleries, and of course, the African wildlife in national parks just a few short hours drive away. It’s not surprising that our members love it so much that we stay for at least a couple of months each year.
And, yes, it’s super easy to be a digital nomad in Cape Town, too. Not only do most cafes in Cape Town offer free wifi, but coworking spaces all around the city have exploded over the last few years. Let’s take a closer look at the best coworking spaces in Cape Town’s most popular areas.
You may also want to consider the best places to stay in Cape Town before you decide where you want to work from.
1. Workshop 17 Watershed
Workshop 17 Watershed offers over 150 hot desks, standing desks, and dedicated seats. Members can make use of meeting rooms and board rooms for private meetings, or sit down together at the Pure Good Cafe in the public space, which seats over 80 people.
There’s even an incubator called Ideas Lounge for brainstorming new ideas together or just holding more unofficial meetings, with small meeting tables and writable walls.
There are also private offices and office suites with dedicated work areas in a shared workspace for startups or small teams looking for privacy. They all feature lock-up-and-go facilities, cleaning services, and access to the amenities. Currently, more than 470 entrepreneurs and 100 companies work there.
Besides Watershed on the Waterfront, Workshop 17 has multiple other locations around Cape Town.
Workshop 17 also has locations in Johannesburg, Paarl, and Mauritius, too.
2. Cube Workspace
Cube Workspace is one of the best coworking spaces in Cape Town and offers several different customizable packages in various locations across the city. From a shared “Co-Space”, over small and large offices, as well as meeting rooms and board rooms for hire, you can’t just choose where you and your team would like to set up your office; you can also assemble a variety of different services to suit your specific business needs.
Cube Workspace also has a unique “virtual office” feature, where you get a business address and professional call answering service for all your business communication, without occupying a physical office space. You’re able to choose from different custom-made services to suit your requirements. If at some point you do need physical office space, you’re able to upgrade to one of the co-spaces or a private office.
These are the other two Cube Workspace locations in Cape Town:
And there are locations in Johannesburg as well.
3. Spaces
Spaces has multiple coworking locations in Cape Town, including one at the V&A Waterfront. With its stunning views of Table Mountain, Spaces V&A Waterfront is a creative hub for modern professionals. The renovated dockside building has taken on an exciting new life as a coworking space. And if you’re looking to work in stylish surroundings too? There are designer office spaces across seven floors that will suit your needs just right (especially for those who require more than just working).
Spaces offers the following options:
- Office Space
- Coworking Membership
- Dedicated Desk
- Virtual Offices
- Meeting Rooms
Depending on your term of commitment and services, different pricing tiers are available.
4. Inner City Ideas Cartel
Ideas Cartel has multiple locations across Cape Town, including its location at the V&A Waterfront, The Old Foundry. This location has over 100 coworking desks, 32 private offices and four meeting rooms. Other locations are in Cape Town city center, Claremont, and Muizenburg, with a Stellenbosch location opening soon.
5. Neighbourgood Bree Street
Situated on Cape Town’s iconic Bree Street, and as part of a growing cultural node filled with some of the best brands, cafes and eateries that this city has to offer, Neighbourgood coworking is centered around a beautiful outdoor courtyard which accentuates its uniqueness. The open layout allows light into every workroom through glass walls or lofty ceilings while also creating private nooks for deeper concentration.
6. Hustle House
Reserve a hot desk for the day or go monthly with a dedicated desk, each offering lightning-fast internet to set up quickly and crush your workday. The culture at Hustle House is “always casual and vibey” with an in-house barista and snack bar ready to fuel your productivity. You can even order lunch at the snack bar via WhatsApp so you can get in the zone at your desk all day long.
7. Craft+Graft
We all want to work in an environment that makes us feel productive and creative. That’s the idea behind Craft+Graft.
Craft+Graft offers flexible spaces for freelancers or teams that are looking for a place where they can meet up during business hours without having any other meetings booked on top of them.
These modern Cape Town offices provide a gathering place filled with inspiration from fellow creatives and entrepreneurs around town while still providing a private office so each person has their own space when needed.
8. Cape Town Office
Cape Town Office (CTO) is a coworking space in town because of its members. Over the past decade, CTO has evolved from a small group to an international community with strong ties between members across countries and cultures—all here sharing our passion for creativity! CTO offers a free guest day to anyone who wants to try it out before committing to a longer plan.
9. Roamwork
Roamwork provides a unique, serviced workspace for entrepreneurs and freelancers to work productively. With private offices as well as common areas that can be used by teams of any size or shape, from small startups up through international corporations with branches across South Africa, Roamwork’s combination of flexible amenities makes it easy not only to get work done but also to enjoy yourself while doing so.
10. CHIPS Coworking
Coworking doesn’t have to be about meeting new people or working late hours. CHIPS Coworking is a comfortable, friendly space that helps you achieve your goals with respect and accountability from other members in the community of entrepreneurs like yourself. They offer all sorts of amenities for work done at home, including solar backup power for lights and internet, which can be a lifesaver during Cape Town’s load shedding.
Coworking Meetups
For coworking meetups, join the Cape Town Digital Nomads Facebook group. Run by Johannes Völkner, founder of the Nomad Cruise, the group posts digital nomad meetups in Cape Town, but you can also post, connect and organize meetups in the group yourself.
Load Shedding
Before you commit to a coworking location in Cape Town (or before you book your flights there, even), you should be aware that load shedding happens from time to time when the demand on the electrical grid is higher than the supply. You should be prepared for this ahead of time.
To check the load shedding schedule, download EskomSePush and note when power will be off in different parts of the city. Some coworking spaces in Cape Town have generators or the ability to run lights and internet off of solar power. If you don’t have a flexible work schedule, this is something you should be well aware of ahead of time.
While it won’t solve the problem of power, you can also consider getting either a local SIM card or an eSIM from a provider like Airalo to solve your internet needs in a pinch.
15 Best cafes in Cape Town for Digital Nomads
Capetonians love their hip city and their coffee shops. The city is renowned for some of the best coffee shops on the continent. And yes, remote workers and digital nomads love them, too. Most are very friendly toward people living the laptop lifestyle, so let’s have a look at the best cafes and coffee shops in Cape Town for digital nomads.
1. Bootlegger Coffee Company
With around 60 locations, Bootlegger Coffee Company is one of the most popular coffee shops in Cape Town. Not every one of them lends itself to work from since they all vary in size, but the one in Sea Point, a.k.a. “The Original”, offers a great variety of seating options with comparatively good wifi and great coffee.
According to locals, Bootlegger serves one of Cape Town’s best and most iconic brews. But Bootlegger’s no slouch in the food department, either. From an extensive breakfast menu over amazing burgers, salads and Buddha bowls to wraps and sandwiches, you can spend your entire day working from Bootlegger and never want for anything.
Internet: Workable. It can get spotty when many people are signed on
Power outlets: Yes, quite a few, though not at every table.
Coffee: Outstanding!
Work vibe: Always people with laptops present
Size: Medium to large cafe with various types of seating options
Hot Tip: During load shedding, Bootlegger doesn’t have electricity or wifi, but they do stay open. It’s a good spot to work if you have a mobile hotspot and want a cool drink.
Bootlegger has a ton more locations in Cape Town besides Sea Point: There are branches in Greenpoint, Three Anchor Bay, Cape Quarter, Zonnebloem, and Salt River, just to name some other popular spots.
2. Mojo Market
Right across the street from Sea Point’s Bootlegger is Cape Town’s famous indoor food market, Mojo Market. It features a ton of yummy international food stalls, four bars, live music, and several unique boutiques. Even better, an entire section upstairs is set up for remote workers to enjoy the two-hour free wifi at comfortable tables, offering a great vantage point over the central bar section below.
If you don’t need peace to work, enjoy an extended lunch in this lively place that offers some of the best international street-food-style meals in the city.
Internet: Free for two hours, workable
Power outlets: A few are scattered around
Coffee: Fine options, but you really come here for the food
Work vibe: Usually, at least a few people with laptops sitting upstairs. It’s still an indoor food market, though, so it can be quite noisy, even during the day.
Size: The entire venue is huge, and the upstairs seating area is also quite large. Gets busier towards the end of the day.
3. Naked Coffee
Naked Coffee in Cape Town is a large and airy coffee shop with plenty of natural light that’s popular for its diverse and healthy menu made with fresh ingredients. It offers a range of seating options, including a little bar facing the street that’s a favorite among people working on laptops, but it’s best to come early to secure a spot in this bright and popular coffee shop.
Internet: Free Wifi
Power outlets: Yes
Coffee: Excellent
Work vibe: Can get pretty busy, especially during breakfast
Size: Medium to Large
4. Caffe Neo
Caffe Neo is a bright, breezy cafe and eatery set between the Green Point Lighthouse and Green Point Park. The cafe appreciates remote workers to the point where they’ve set up two long, sturdy tables with tons of power outlets, extra for people who bring their laptops.
Internet: Good
Power outlets: Tons on the two long tables set up for people to work from
Coffee: Excellent
Work vibe: Always some people with laptops. Nomad-friendly staff
Size: Quite large, with different types of seating options in- and outside
4. Shift Espresso Bar
A small place, Shift Espresso Bar is nevertheless a great place to work from because there are power outlets at each table at the indoor and outdoor seating options. The staff is super friendly and really cares about their coffee beans, which makes for some of the best coffee in town.
Internet: Great
Power outlets: Yes, at almost every table
Coffee: Excellent
Work vibe: Always some people with laptops. Nomad-friendly staff
Size: Small
5. Jason Bakery
Jason Bakery is the best place for pastries in town, especially their heavenly croissants. It’s also a great breakfast and brunch spot with attentive waiters. However, be sure to come early as they usually close around 3 pm.
Internet: Pretty good. Video calls can be challenging, but useful for most tasks.
Power outlets: None
Coffee: Great coffee
Work vibe: Some people with laptops (however, not geared towards being a workspace)
Size: Medium to Large
6. Vagabond Kitchen
Vagabond Kitchen in Cape Town is a popular destination for food lovers. It’s known for its fresh and flavorful menu, including dishes that showcase seasonal ingredients. The restaurant has a warm and inviting atmosphere, and the staff is attentive, making it a great place for brunch or breakfast.
Internet: Free uncapped wifi
Power outlets: Scattered around the cafe
Coffee: Okay, but people usually come here to eat
Work vibe: Pleasant. Easy to spend a whole work day here
Size: Medium to Large
7. Origin Coffee Roasting
As one of the first inner-city cafes in Cape Town, Origin is known as the godfather of all gourmet coffees in the Mother City, offering a wide range of coffee beans roasted on-site, served any way you like. It’s a buzzing venue, industrial and chic, and the light meals are almost as good as the coffee.
Internet: Good
Power outlets: A few are scattered around
Coffee: Excellent
Work vibe: Always people with laptops, popular with entrepreneurs for networking. Nomad-friendly staff
Size: Medium to large
8. The Loading Bay
The Loading Bay is a restaurant, an Aesop shop, and a men’s wear store all in one. Above all, it’s praised for the amazing, entirely organically-sourced food with lots of vegan options and great service. The Loading Bay supports the three pillars of regenerative farming: soil health, animal welfare, and social fairness.
Internet: Great
Power outlets: None
Coffee: Good
Work vibe: Always some people with laptops
Size: Medium
9. Kloof
Kloof Street is a vibrant and lively part of Cape Town that is popular among tourists, locals, and digital nomads alike. Located in the city center, Kloof Street is home to a wide range of bars, restaurants, and cafes that offer something for everyone. The street is known for its lively atmosphere and diverse mix of people, making it a great place to relax, unwind, and socialise after a long day of work, of course. Whether you’re looking for a casual coffee shop, a trendy bar, or some fine dining, Kloof Street has you covered.
10. The Conscious Kitchen
The Conscious Kitchen is a popular eatery known for its focus on healthy, sustainable and ethically sourced ingredients. With a menu of diverse and flavorful dishes, the restaurant offers a range of options for breakfast, brunch, and lunch. The atmosphere is bright and inviting, with plenty of natural light, and the staff is attentive and knowledgeable.
Internet: Free Wifi
Power outlets: Yes
Coffee: Okay, but people usually go here to eat
Work vibe: It can get a bit noisy
Size: Small
11. Our Local
Our Local in Cape Town is a popular spot for delicious food, friendly staff, and a welcoming atmosphere. Ideal for breakfast, brunch, or lunch, its menu features a range of options using seasonal ingredients. It often gets busy, so it’s best to come early.
Internet: The First hour is free, succeeding hours are for a small amount
Power outlets: None available
Coffee: Okay, but people usually go here to eat
Work vibe: Not known as a deep work location!
Size: Medium to Large
12. Truth Coffee Roasting
This is a must-do while in Cape Town, whether you just go for a cup of coffee or end up working from there the whole day. Because you can enjoy your latte and cappuccino served by baristas dressed up Mad-Max-style with desert goggles, leather suspenders, and knuckle rings. How cool is that?
To top it off, this steampunk-themed venue was named The World’s Best and The World’s Coolest coffee shop in 2015, and offers tours of the roastery and coffee tastings.
Internet: Workable
Power outlets: A few
Coffee: Excellent. The Resurrection Blend Flat White is a must-try!
Work vibe: Not exactly a quiet spot to work from, since it’s always super busy because it’s so well-known
Size: Small to medium
13. Bean There Coffee Company
Coffee is a staple in Cape Town, and Bean There is another coffee shop competing for the title of Cape Town’s best coffee. Bean There sources their beans ethically and takes pride in traveling to farms and communities, hand-selecting their single-origin coffees. Aside from that, it’s a haven for digital nomads, offering free wifi and seating with tons of natural light.
Recline on comfy, colorful cushions in the windows, sit at the counter, or make yourself comfortable at a table to enjoy your cup of joe and join the droves of happy remote workers who’ve already “bean” there and done that.
Internet: Good
Power outlets: None
Coffee: Excellent
Work vibe: Usually, some people with laptops. Nomad-friendly staff
Size: Small to medium
14. Yours Truly
Probably the best-known cafe in the Mother City, Yours Truly is always packed with the artsy, hipster crowd. Which fits, since the venue is surrounded by galleries and art centers in a Victorian-inspired building. Enjoy the “coffee house office” vibes during the day, and the vibrant eatery and bar with live music at night.
Internet: Workable
Power outlets: None
Coffee: Excellent
Work vibe: Always some people with laptops, gets really busy at times, though
Size: Mid-sized inside, but lots of outside seating surrounded by green
The best restaurants for digital nomads in Cape Town
Cape Town is a cornucopia of amazing restaurants, cafes, food markets and bars, all of them incredibly delicious and wonderfully international. So let’s narrow it down to some of our Tribe favorites.
We are loving coliving in Cape Town, one of our favourite cities on earth! Everyone has the time of their lives here; there’s so much to see, so much to do and above all…
…there are so many places to eat!
Kloof Street House
This is arguably the best restaurant in all of Cape Town. The brunch menu is amazing with lots of really interesting combinations of ingredients, and the dinner menu also doesn’t disappoint. Be sure to make a reservation if you are in a large group, as they tend to book up quickly. Or, go just for drinks and be sure to get your hands on an espresso martini! You won’t regret it!
Follow on Instagram: @kloofstreethouse
Lekker Vegan
Lekkar Vegan is all about gourmet vegan junk food, so think burgers, nuggets, fries, etc. Although a little obscure to get to, we love the atmosphere of the shop and the food and staff are wonderful!
Follow on Instagram:@lekkervegan
Bungalow
The Bungalow was a definite crowd pleaser for the Cape Town tribe. This little restaurant and beach bar is tucked away near Clifton and makes for perfect sunset drinks after a day at the beach. The outdoor seating is on large daybeds with views of the ocean and the Twelve Apostles (mountain peaks of Cape Town). The combination of food, drinks, music and atmosphere makes it a regular stopping ground for WiFi Tribe members.
Stellenbosch Wine Tour
If you get the chance to, absolutely take a day to do a proper wine tour in the South African winelands of Stellenbosch. Coastal conditions and a variety of landscapes mean that South Africa can create really interesting wines. We loved getting to learn more about what makes South African Wines unique, and indulging in the food served on site as well!
Kiff Kombi Tours
Surprisingly, Cape Town is the Gin & Tonic capital of the world, and they host a Gin & Tonic festival every October. Kiff Kombi Tour group leads a Gin Tasting tour around Cape Town, which is a great way to learn more about how the spirit is made, how the flavors are different from anywhere else in the world, and to try the combination of gins with the great variety of tonics that Cape Town produces.
Life Unframed
Lastly, but certainly not least, ICE CREAM. If you’ve got a sweet tooth and love interesting flavors, you MUST try Life Unframed craft ice creams. With two locations (Kloof Street and inside the Watershed Building on the Waterfront), Life Unframed was a regular stop for me. Their small batch ice cream means that they do limited-time flavors!
Follow on Instagram: @lifeunframed
Nightlife
Let’s jump further into the Capetonian nightlife, which is just as wide and varied as its culinary delights. You could go out in Cape Town every night for a month and not have to go to the same place. There are three major areas to know about:
- Victoria Road in Camps Bay, or “Sunset Strip,” with tables on the pavement or raised platforms.
- Long Street, an increasingly grungy area attracting a young pan-African crowd. Most of the backpackers find their way here.
- Bree Street (which runs parallel to Long Street, making it easy to explore both on the same night) with the densest concentration of hip bars and cool, casual eateries.
Whatever your preferred vibe, you’re sure to find it in more than one place.
Visa Requirements
Nothing beats the views of Table Mountain or working remotely from a beachside café in Cape Town. And these days, South Africa’s new Digital Nomad Visa makes that dream a reality. This visa is probably one of the kindest in the world and allows remote workers and freelancers who want to live in South Africa to work for clients or companies abroad for up to three years.
As of March 3, 2025, the South African digital nomad visa is up and running. Of course, as with all digital nomad visas, there are a few stipulations. You will need to:
- Prove that you work remotely through contracts
- Earn $35,700 per year
- Have a clean criminal background check from your country of residence for the last three years
If that isn’t possible, tourists from most countries get a 3-month visa, extendable to 6 months.
To extend the visa, you’ll have to apply from inside South Africa, more than 60 days before your first visa expires. This visa can be extended once per “session,” meaning that after 180 days in the country, you’d have to leave South Africa, ending your tourism session. You may return at a later date for a new tourism session.
Internet
Most coworking spaces in the city, stretching from Woodstock to Sea Point, have fibre-optic internet, typically ranging from 10Mbps to 200Mbps.
There are plenty of WiFi hotspots around the city, but the ones that offer free access can often be frustratingly slow, and the rest offer tiny free tiers (30Mb – 50Mb), after which they require paid access. Unfortunately, even when you pay for data on public WiFi or WiFi in coffee shops and hotels, the performance may still not be the best.
If you need a fast and stable internet to do your job, it might be prudent to spring for a MiFi device and a SIM card.
Sim Cards
SIM cards are available to buy in millions of locations. Non-residents need to show their passports to buy a SIM card. Data is fairly expensive, with 1GB going for about 150 Rand. Cell C and Telkom Mobile have large packages at much better rates, such as 50GB or 100GB packages for about 2000/3000 Rand (which are usually valid for 1 year).
Of course, if you have an unlocked phone, get an eSIM before you land and have data from the get-go at a much cheaper price. Use the code WiFi Tribe15 to get a great discount from Airalo, our preferred eSIM provider.
Currently, Vodacom and MTN have the best coverage, with Cell C doing well in urban areas. If you are traveling in the countryside and your connection drops to Edge (or GPRS), you’ll be lucky to get any data at all.
Transportation
It’s easy to get around in Cape Town. From buses to cabs and shuttle services, the city’s got it all. The elephants don’t provide free rides, FYI!
MyCiTi Bus
The MyCiTi integrated rapid transport network offers an easy and cheap way to get around town. These modern buses offer great public transport options for the city center and a host of nearby landmarks, also extending to:
- Hout Bay on the Atlantic Seaboard
- Table View and the Blouberg coastline, north of the city
- Cape Town International Airport
The fares are calculated by distance traveled. You’ll have to buy a MyConnect card, available at the stations or select retailers, and put enough money for your trip on it.
Uber
Uber is an appealingly simple and cheap way to get around Cape Town, especially on shorter rides. Longer trips tend to become more expensive, but it’s still our Tribers’ favorite mode of transport in the city and comparatively cheap compared to European Uber prices, especially when you’re sharing the ride.
Metered Taxis
There’s always the option of metered taxis. Fares are displayed on the outside of the car as a per-kilometre amount. To use a metered taxi, you either need to book one in advance or find one of the designated taxi areas. Aside from this minor restriction, metered taxis offer a reasonable way to get around and see Cape Town.
Shuttle From the Airport
All the above-mentioned transportation methods can be used to get to and from the airport, located 20 km from the city center. But you can also hire an airport shuttle service to get you to where you need to be.
Fitness
Cape Town is every fitness lover’s dream. Hiking, biking, running, walking, rollerblading, swimming, kayaking, rock climbing – staying fit is easy with all the opportunities, sunshine and free space available along every promenade and around every corner.
If you prefer the structure and ease of a gym, the city also offers a myriad of great ones to keep you pumped.
Safety
The high poverty rate in Cape Town means that most crimes are financially motivated – mugging and pick-pocketing are something to be on guard for in some areas, like downtown. That being said, in most cases, there’s no reason to feel unsafe, especially when in a group. Common sense is your best bet in warding against being mugged or pick-pocketed.
How to stay safe in Cape Town
- Don’t flaunt your valuables. Keep your bag and pockets close and in sight at all times, especially in crowded areas like dance floors.
- Avoid walking downtown at night and on weekends when it gets crowded.
- Rather than walking at night, take a taxi or Uber.
- Don’t take people up on their offer of helping you at ATMs – it’s a scam! Use ATMs inside banks or shopping centers.
- Instead of giving to beggars, consider donating to a homeless shelter or charity. Not to sound harsh, but giving money or food to a homeless person or child in the street may result in them becoming your shadow.
- Avoid walking by yourself at night or running and hiking the trails on your own. An exception to this is Sea Point promenade, where there are always a lot of people around until late into the night, making it safe to stroll or run by yourself.
- Don’t leave valuables visible in your rental car when parked, and always drive with doors locked.
This may sound frightening, but it’s honestly nothing to worry about. If you stick to these common-sense rules, especially downtown, it’s unlikely that anything will happen. Many areas in Cape Town are very safe, and we never felt threatened or unsafe, even when by ourselves. These areas include Sea Point, Green Point, Camps Bay, Clifton, and the V&A Waterfront, to name a few popular destinations in town. For extra info, please have a look at our Top Tips for staying safe.
Health
Sanitary and hygienic conditions, as well as healthcare, are as good as anything you would expect at home (in some cases, a lot better!).
- High-quality tap water is available across the city and is safe to drink straight from the tap.
- Medical facilities in Cape Town are world-class. There is an excellent network of both state and private hospitals.
- Travel health insurance is highly recommended, as the hospitals will bill you for your treatment.
- Pharmacies offer a wide variety of common drugs and medications.
- Adults don’t need vaccines unless they’re traveling to the country from a yellow-fever endemic area.
- Wear sunscreen when you’re outside. In summer, the sun in Cape Town is strong and shines what feels like 24/7.
Things to do in Cape Town for digital nomads
A six-week stay is almost not enough time to get through all the amazing things to do in Cape Town and the surrounding areas. Check out this non-exhaustive list for some great Triber-inspired ideas!
Free walking tours
Get to know more about Cape Town by going on a free walking tour. Choose between the Historic City Tour, the Apartheid to Freedom Tour or the Bo-Kaap Tour – or go on all of them. Tours start several times a day from the city center and run exclusively on tips.
Table Mountain
You can either take the cable car up to the city’s iconic mountain top or hike up, or even hike up and take the cable car down. Just make sure the cable car is running before you Uber over there; it shuts down during bad weather or high winds. When hiking up, make sure to take enough water and snacks with you; even the so-called “easy” and “short” hikes up to the top can be gruelling, especially when it’s hot out!
Hike up Lion’s Head
An amazing alternative to the Table Mountain hike is Lion’s Head, especially spectacular when you go in time for sunrise. It takes about an hour from the parking lot up to the top, and the views easily rival those of Table Mountain.
Enjoy a beautiful sunset over the ocean from Signal Hill, the other end of the ridge from which Lion’s Head rises. Signal Hill is the lion’s rear end, but definitely worth a visit.
Sunset kayaking
While we’re on the topic of sunsets, another beautiful way to experience one in Cape Town is to go kayaking in Green Point. If you’re lucky, you’ll even spot seals or dolphins!
Sunset Cruise
Yet another sunset activity is going on a sunset cruise. Just head to the V&A Waterfront and discuss prices with one of the numerous cruise operators. They’re often willing to give discounts or even private cruises for larger groups. Make sure to bring a jacket, as it can get cold on the water once the sun has gone down!
Robben Island
Take a boat from the V&A Waterfront to visit Robben Island – the historic site of what used to be a prison island, where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned for 18 years. Previous prison inmates now give tours through the decommissioned facilities.
Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens
This gigantic botanical garden is nestled at the Eastern foot of Table Mountain. You can take a whole day meandering through the beautiful landscapes, across treetop walkways or with a picnic surrounded by mountains that make you think of Jurassic Park. Many amazing open-air concerts and cinema nights also take place here and are definitely worth checking out.
Cape Town beaches
Out of the many beautiful beaches Cape Town has to offer, our favorites are without a doubt Clifton Beach and Camps Bay. Yes, the surf is icy, but the white sands, turquoise waters and mountain vistas all around are all the more breathtaking. And don’t forget to enjoy a cocktail during an ocean-view sunset at The Bungalow in Clifton, our favorite after-beach hangout.
The Neighborgoods Market
Located in the historic Old Biscuit Mill warehouse in the Woodstock neighborhood, The Neighborgoods Market houses Cape Town’s finest micro-merchants, designer-makers, speciality-producers and food-alchemists every Saturday.
Cape Peninsula tour
Rent a car or take a guided tour around the Cape Peninsula for a day. Stop for the amazing views at Chapman’s Peak on the way there, visit both the Cape of Good Hope and Cape Point, stop to see the penguins at Boulders Beach and go surfing in the breakers of Muizenberg.
Penguins, sharks and seals
Go swimming with penguins at Boulders Beach, snorkeling with seals in Hout Bay or shark cage diving in Gansbaai. The threat level gets higher when you choose the apex predator over the friendly seal, but whatever gets the blood pumping, right?
Join us in Cape Town on a WiFi Tribe Chapter
Thanks for reading the WiFi Tribe ultimate digital nomad Cape Town guide!
Hopefully, you now have an idea of what to expect from this amazing location and how to prepare.
Cape Town’s superpower is her ability to draw you in time and time again; to show you new and undiscovered things as well as the things you know and love.
Our community have been hanging out in Cape Town for a long time and we regularly hold month-long remote work colives. Why not join us? The best trip of your life gets even better when you have friends to share it with!
Frequently asked questions
What are the best cafes in Cape Town for digital nomads?
Top cafes for digital nomads in Cape Town include Bootlegger Coffee Company, Mojo Market, Naked Coffee, Caffe Neo, Shift Espresso Bar, and Origin Coffee Roasting. Many offer free WiFi and power outlets, ideal for remote work.
What are the best coworking places for digital nomads in Cape Town?
The best coworking spaces in Cape Town include Workshop 17 Watershed, Cube Workspace, Spaces, Ideas Cartel, Neighbourgood Bree Street, Hustle House, Craft+Graft, Cape Town Office, Roamwork, and CHIPS Coworking.
Where are the best places for digital nomads to stay in Cape Town?
Top areas for digital nomads to stay include Woodstock, the CBD, De Waterkant, Green Point, Sea Point, and Camps Bay. These offer a mix of good accommodation, cafes, coworking spaces, and safe surroundings.
Is Cape Town safe for digital nomads?
Cape Town is generally safe for digital nomads if common-sense precautions are followed: avoid walking alone at night, keep valuables secure, and stay in well-populated areas like Sea Point and Green Point.
How do I get around as a digital nomad in Cape Town?
The MyCiTi bus system, Uber, and taxis are common transport methods in Cape Town. Many nomads also use airport shuttles or rent cars for weekend adventures.
What are some good day trips I can do from Cape Town?
Popular day trips from Cape Town include the Cape Peninsula tour, Stellenbosch wine tours, visiting Boulders Beach penguins, hiking Table Mountain or Lion’s Head, and exploring Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens.
Can I get a South African Digital Nomad Visa?
Yes. As of March 3, 2025, South Africa offers a Digital Nomad Visa. Requirements include proof of remote work, a clean criminal record, and earning at least $35,700 annually. The visa is valid for up to 3 years.
How can I be a digital nomad in South Africa?
To be a digital nomad in South Africa, apply for the Digital Nomad Visa, choose nomad-friendly cities like Cape Town, secure reliable internet (via coworking spaces or a SIM card), and follow basic safety tips.
