- 1. Before you fly
- 2. Landing
- 3. Immigration
- 4. Baggage & customs
- 5. Arrivals hall
- 6. Transport
- 7. Car rental
- 8. eSIM & money
- 9. First 24 hours
Arrive connected with an eSIM
Install it before departure and your maps, ride app and driver messages work the second you land. Check that your phone supports eSIM and is network-unlocked, then compare coverage, plan data and validity before you buy.
Not connected yet? Use Wi-Fi, then decide
Do not decide under pressure. Connect to Wi-Fi if you need to, compare your options, then commit.
Know the currency and keep a backup
South Africa uses the rand (ZAR). Cards and mobile pay are widely accepted, but keep a backup method and a little cash for tips and porters.
Use established ATMs inside the terminal
Compare the displayed rates and fees before you confirm.
Use only approved porters
Approved porters wear a uniform and carry ID.
Plan chosen · eSIM installed? · Cash needed
Get the full Cape Town Airport Arrival Guide
A calm, step-by-step route from the aircraft door through immigration, baggage and customs into verified onward transport. Mobile-first, printable and offline-ready, with the peak-time planner, the 10-second stamp check, the 2026 declaration summary, transport and pickups, and a 60-second checklist. Keep your eSIM and money notes in the printable guide.
Get the full Arrival Guide on Payhip ↗October 2026 edition · 20 pages · Independent, not affiliated with ACSA
Airport procedures can change. Layouts, procedures, services, transport, fares and operating hours can change. Always follow current instructions from the airport, airline, immigration, Customs, security and transport providers. This page reflects the October 2026 edition of the guide.
Independent guide. Cape Town Flow is an independent publication, not affiliated with or endorsed by ACSA, the airport operator. The views are the author’s own.