This meander is a perfect illustration of South Africa as a world in one country. Travel the grasslands of the gold-rich Highveld to the haunting barrenness of the Great Karoo; trundle through the spectacular mountain ranges and scenic winelands of the Cape. Journey’s end is Cape Town, the Mother City of South Africa, cradled by the imposing bulk of Table Mountain, Devil’s Peak and Lion’s Head. Highlights of the north- and southbound routes include a visit to the historic village of Matjiesfontein, an authentically preserved Victorian Village founded as a refreshment stop in 1890, which also boasts an impressive museum on the platform. Another stop is made in Kimberley to visit the Diamond Mine Museum and the world’s largest man-made excavation, the Big Hole. Available in reverse.
How to Reach from New Delhi to Cape Town
By Air:
- Book a Flight: There are no direct flights from New Delhi to Cape Town. You will need to take a connecting flight, typically with one or two stops.
- Common Airlines and Routes:
- Emirates: New Delhi (DEL) to Dubai (DXB) to Cape Town (CPT).
- Qatar Airways: New Delhi (DEL) to Doha (DOH) to Cape Town (CPT).
- Ethiopian Airlines: New Delhi (DEL) to Addis Ababa (ADD) to Cape Town (CPT).
- Turkish Airlines: New Delhi (DEL) to Istanbul (IST) to Cape Town (CPT).
Steps:
Search for Flights: Use flight search engines like Google Flights, Skyscanner, or directly visit airline websites to find suitable flights.
Book Tickets: Choose the best option based on price, duration, and layover time. Book your tickets in advance to secure the best deals.
Prepare Travel Documents:
Passport: Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months from the date of entry.
Visa: Apply for a South African visa if required. Check the latest visa requirements and apply well in advance.
Packing: Pack according to the weather and activities planned in Cape Town. Remember to adhere to airline baggage policies.
Health and Safety: Check for any required vaccinations or health advisories.
Arrival in Cape Town:
Cape Town International Airport (CPT): This is the main airport in Cape Town. After landing, you will go through immigration and customs.
Transportation to the City:
Airport Shuttle: Available for transfer to hotels or city center.
Taxi or Rideshare: Options like Uber are available.
Car Rental: Available at the airport if you prefer to drive.
Tips:
Time Zone: South Africa is 3.5 hours behind India (IST to SAST), so plan for some jet lag adjustment.
Currency: The local currency is the South African Rand (ZAR). You can exchange currency at the airport or use international credit/debit cards.
Local SIM Card: Consider purchasing a local SIM card for easier communication and internet access.
