Frequently Asked Questions

Cape Town enjoys a Mediterranean climate with warm, dry summers (December to February) and mild, wet winters (June to August). Summer temperatures average 25-30°C, while winter days are around 15-18°C. The city rarely experiences extreme cold. The south-easterly wind, known as the Cape Doctor, can be brisk during summer months. We recommend layered clothing year-round, as conditions can change quickly, especially at higher elevations like Table Mountain. Cape Town is a wonderful destination in every season, and Mike will tailor your tour to make the most of whatever weather the day brings.

Cape Town is a popular international tourist destination and millions of visitors enjoy the city safely every year. As with any major city, sensible precautions apply: be aware of your surroundings, avoid displaying expensive jewellery or electronics in crowded areas, and use reputable transport. On a private tour with Mike, safety is never a concern. You are in a private vehicle with a knowledgeable local guide who knows the city intimately and will ensure you feel comfortable and secure throughout your experience. Tourist areas such as the V&A Waterfront, Camps Bay, Constantia, and the Winelands are well-policed and very safe.

No special vaccinations are required to enter South Africa from most countries. Cape Town and the Western Cape are malaria-free, so anti-malaria medication is not needed for tours in the Cape Town area, the Winelands, the Garden Route, or the Eastern Cape game reserves. If you plan to visit Kruger National Park or other lowveld areas on a separate trip, malaria precautions may be advisable. We recommend consulting your doctor or a travel health clinic at least six weeks before travel for personalised advice. Routine vaccinations such as hepatitis A and typhoid are sometimes recommended for travellers to South Africa but are not mandatory.

South Africa’s currency is the South African Rand (ZAR), denoted by the symbol R. The Rand offers excellent value for international visitors, particularly those travelling from Europe, the UK, or North America. At the time of writing, approximate exchange rates are around R18-20 to the US Dollar and R23-25 to the British Pound, though rates fluctuate. You can exchange currency at the airport, banks, and foreign exchange bureaux throughout Cape Town. ATMs are widely available and accept international cards. Most tourist establishments, restaurants, and shops accept Visa and Mastercard. Mike’s tour pricing is quoted in Rand.

Yes, Cape Town’s tap water is safe to drink and is rated among the cleanest and best-tasting municipal water in the world. It comes from mountain reservoirs and is thoroughly treated and tested. You can drink it straight from the tap without concern. Bottled water is also widely available and is provided on all of Mike’s tours. Cape Town takes water conservation seriously, so we encourage visitors to be mindful of water usage, particularly during the drier summer months.

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted throughout Cape Town, including at restaurants, hotels, shops, attractions, and wine estates. Visa and Mastercard are the most commonly accepted, with American Express accepted at larger establishments. Contactless payments and Apple Pay/Google Pay are increasingly common. It is a good idea to carry some cash (Rand) for smaller purchases, tips, market stalls, and parking attendants. Notify your bank before travelling to avoid your card being blocked for unusual activity. ATMs are readily available at shopping centres, petrol stations, and in town centres throughout the Western Cape.

Tipping is customary in South Africa and is an important part of many service workers’ income. At restaurants, a tip of 10-15% of the bill is standard for good service, with 20% for exceptional service. For tour guides, tipping is appreciated but never expected - the amount is entirely at your discretion based on your experience. Other common tipping situations include car guards (R5-10), porters (R20-50 per bag), and hotel housekeeping (R20-50 per day). Tips can be given in cash (Rand) and are always received with gratitude. South Africans are warm and hospitable people, and a sincere thank-you is always valued alongside any tip.

Booking a tour with Mike is simple and personal. You can get in touch via the contact form on this website, by email at [email protected], or by WhatsApp or phone on +27 83 251 3570. Let Mike know your travel dates, the number of guests, and which tours interest you, and he will put together a personalised itinerary and quote. Mike responds to all enquiries within 24 hours. No deposit is required to hold your booking - Mike operates on a trust-based system. Payment is made on the day of the tour in cash (Rand) or by electronic transfer. Mike is happy to answer any questions about Cape Town and help you plan your visit, even before you book.