Working Remotely & Living in Cape Town | Remote Year

No two days are the same when your neighborhood backdrop is both beach and mountains. Truly immerse yourself in the local day-to-day happenings when spending a month in Cape Town. whether that’s picking up a locally sourced cup of coffee at Truth on your way to work, to riding the cable car up Table Mountain for an end of day sunset. Cape Town gives you access to unique bucket list adventures, from crossing off the Big-5 on an African safari, to visiting one of the 7 New Natural Wonders of the World. 

More than a simple guide to the city, our team wanted to dive into the true nuances of what makes Cape Town one of the world’s most incredible cities, especially when living and working abroad. Made up of recommendations from Remote Year travelers for Remote Year travelers, our guide has it all – whether that’s safaris in South Africa's Bush to picturesque days in Stellenbosh wine country.

cape town waterfront

Waking up hits differently in Cape Town

Creating a fulfilling morning in Cape Town is an easy task. With sights and sounds of the Atlantic as your playlist, you'll start the day inspired and motivated. Get in your morning run along the V&A Waterfront. Be greeted by seals tanning on the pier as you gaze into False Bay during morning meditation. Meet a friend for a local red cappuccino, made from Rooibos tea, before making your way to work. Cape Town mornings are the perfect excuse to wake up on the right side of the bed every day. 

"Green Point Park is one of my favorite places in Cape Town…I typically find a spot on the

grass and journal while taking in the park vibes. It's nice to have that family feeling while traveling and also refreshing to see people out in nature playing and being active." -Tyler, Remote Year staff

"Take a spin class at SPINHaus, then go to Ground for coffee and amazing food!" -Claire, Ikemba Program

“Hike from Signal Hill down into Camps Bay to have breakfast at Mantra Cafe.” - Krystal Pino, Shoshin and Aurora Programs, 12 Month, World. 

Increase productivity and cultivate community in your new workspace

With the adrenaline pumping from your morning run (or when the caffeine starts to kick in), head to a workspace located in the heart of the Victoria and Alfred Waterfront. Full of open collaborative spaces and nestled nooks and crannies, you can engage with fellow Remote Year travelers, or get your head down for your next deadline. 

Need a breath of fresh air? Inhale to the smell of the ocean waves off the Atlantic. Looking for a change of scenery? You’re in the heart of the city’s liveliest neighborhood. Cape Town has tons of local coffee shops and neighboring hotels where you can bring your laptop and work. 

"Camp's Bay is certainly a trendy spot, but also the Mount Nelson hotel or the Silo Hotel are nice spots to grab a coffee/tea and hang out, both nice and safe." - Emily, Genesis Program

cape town waterfront and cooking class

Indulge in South Africa's most unique dishes during your afternoon lunch break

Take advantage of your lunch breaks by exploring each style of cooking and unique ingredients the local restaurants in Cape Town have to offer. Spend your lunch break trying the iconic Gatsby sandwich, stuffed with meat, fries, eggs, salad, and sauces galore! Having a busy day? Snack on some dried, cured meat, or biltong. In a city where BBQ (or what the locals call braai) is considered a religious activity, your palette will be delighted!

Looking for more food recommendations? Our remotes on the ground have got you covered:

"I love the samosas and pies you can get from stands everywhere too. I also love trying the varieties of venison in South Africa - ostrich, kudu, and springbok." - Hunter, Sisu & Bourdain Programs, 12 months, World.

"Meals - Bobotie and Bunny chow. Awesome food markets - Mojo Market, Oranjezicht Farmers Market, Old Biscuit Mill Saturday Market." - Natalie, Remote Year Staff

"Biltong has to be the best snack in South Africa. As for markets, The Old Biscuit Mill and Oranjezicht City Farm Market are great." - Pino Shoshin and Aurora Programs, 12 months, World.

"I'm vegan, but Cape Town was good. Vegan burgers for lunch at Scheckter's Raw. Dinner somewhere around beers." - Kevin, Remote Year Staff.

Work without play is certainly not the Cape Town way.

Send your last email and log off. Your night in Cape Town is yours for the taking. Sharpen your culinary skills with a Cape Malay cooking class, or bring music to your ears as you watch an authentic drumming performance by locals near the V&A Waterfront. For dinner, join friends for a relaxing evening meal on the Waterfront or head out to a night at Woodstock Beerhall. Even a casual evening stroll through the City Center can lead you to discovering a hidden gem at GreenMarket Square. No matter the plan, you're guaranteed to have memorable evenings throughout your month in Cape Town

"I loved having a picnic at Cape Point Vineyard (the restaurant provides them as part of the experience, you don't have to pack your own — resulting in a very "life is good" moment). I also loved taking the electric scooters from the Waterfront to Camps Bay along the promenade, which was a great way to see the whole thing." - Jacob

Having the Twelve Apostles to hike any day is epic. The trails are well-traveled and provide the most amazing views.” - Heather B. 

“Some awesome bars: Fireman's Arms to watch live sport, Dark Horse and Power and Glory for after work drinks. For more of a music vibe after the after work drinks: The Moveable Feast, Village Idiot, Tigers Milk Kloof Street, Harrington's Cocktail Bar." - Natalie C., City Manager, Cape Town

Safari and penguin beach

Elephants one day, penguins the next. Weekends are full of fun and wildlife in Cape Town. 

Now that you call South Africa home, you can discover the country's notable wildlife and nature is right in your backyard! Spend your weekends exploring the beauty of the country with a Safari at Kruger's National Park – and see if you can spot the Big 5 (bonus points for lions and elephants!). Head down to Boulder Beach right outside the city and swim alongside South African penguins. Spend time in Shameela’s home kitchen, a local chef, as she guides you through the wonders of South African cuisine and teaches you how to fold authentic samosas.  Looking to give back? Join in a positive impact program, and contribute to the community in Cape Town. This city has endless opportunities, now it’s time to curate your perfect month in Cape Town!

"This (Kruger Homestay Safari) was the highlight of my time in South Africa and is a stellar experience that no one should miss. Blaine and Ryan are incredible guides who think about every single detail. On this trip you get it all - a safari, a homestay with locals, paragliding, kayaking, hiking, and so much more. - Nina M, Remote Year program participant. 

"The most authentic safari experience! Getting to know true South Africans and hearing Mike & Jackie stories was such a highlight. We learned a ton about the wildlife, environment, and anything and everything about South Africa."  - Melissa B. Yugen Program, 12 month. World.

Ready to join in on the fun? Sign up for a 1-month trip in Cape Town with Remote Year!

Further reading: 

• Working Remotely & Living in Lisbon: The Remote Year Guide

• 5 Ways Remote Working Could Change Your Life

• What Makes Remote Year Different Than Other Travel Options?

• Closing Out Pride Month: How Three Remotes from Our Nation Found Courage, Identity, and Even Love While Traveling on Remote Year