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[title]Cape Town has the ‘it’ factor – there’s a reason it’s loved by locals and visitors alike, scooping the title of best city in the world in 2025. Digital nomads flock to the city and you’re just as likely to hear a German, French or American accent alongside South Africans when strolling along the Atlantic Seaboard’s promenade. Remote working in Cape Town means a day at your laptop could start with a sunrise hike up Lion’s Head or end with sundowners in Bantry Bay. Tempted? Here’s your guide to digital nomad life in Cape Town.
Why Digital Nomads Love Cape Town
In Cape Town, the warmer months offer late sunsets, so you can get extra daylight hours to enjoy the city. European visitors have the benefit of a similar time zone (GMT+2), and those working with clients in Asia will have a morning overlap, plus our afternoons align well with early hours for the USA. Cape Town’s popularity also means another nomad isn’t far from reach, especially in the CBD and Atlantic Seaboard. It’s also comparatively affordable, with a quality cappuccino setting you back between $2 and $3 (R40) or $10 (R180) per person for a game of Padel.
Between Zoom calls and Slack messages, Cape Town could fill your itinerary for several months. See the penguins at Boulders Beach in Simonstown, hop on the Wine Tram in Franschhoek to explore our gorgeous vineyards or pop your takkies (sneakers) on and climb Table Mountain – or take the cable car if you hit the wine-tasting with a tad too much enthusiasm. We listen and we don’t judge.
Cape Town’s beaches are famous for a reason, so take the time to find a favourite. Camps Bay and Clifton beaches are popular with digital nomads, but it’s worth heading a bit further to Llandudno. Most foodie nomads arrive in Cape Town with a list of restaurants they want to try, but booking well in advance (especially in peak season) is crucial if you have your sights set on award-winning spots like FYN, perfect for Japanese fusion. For more of a classically South African fine dining experience, book a table at Curate.
Where to Work in Cape Town
Cape Town’s coffee culture means you’ll always have a fair number of laptops around you in cute cafes. Burnt Clubhouse, the Power and the Glory and Our Local on Kloof Street are all popular options, but try not to hog a table for longer than an hour or two. If you’re setting up for the whole day, you’re better off heading to dedicated coworking spots.
With so many digital nomads in Cape Town, these options are typically bustling and a great place to meet other travellers, especially if you’re flying solo or staying in an Airbnb without much community. Whether you want a hot desk for the day or want to set up something more permanent for the months you’re in town, check out Workshop 17, We Work, and Ideas Cartel. Pick a location that’s close to your base and take it from there.
Check out our complete list of the best remote-working spaces in the Mother City
Where to Stay in Cape Town
It depends on the type of digital nomad you are. If you love a sense of community while you’re working and want built-in friends to mission around with you during free time, then Cape Coliving is ideal. It’s a gorgeous Cape Victorian villa in Green Point that’s over a century old with ten rooms, all en-suite, sharing a big kitchen and coworking space downstairs. Every room has a desk equipped, though, so you can have your privacy too. Every Monday, the house gets together to make plans for the week, whether it’s heading out to Spier in Stellenbosch for wine tasting and picnics, Cecilia Forest for a hike, or hitting one of the viewpoints for a spectacular sunset. It’s walking distance from the Cape Town Stadium, V&A Waterfront and a quick Uber to the CBD, and the in-house community manager always has a recommendation, whether it’s a fun cocktail spot or advice on extending your visa.
If you prefer keeping to yourself and joining for the occasional event, Neighbourgood is probably a good fit for you, and there are lots of locations to choose from. And if you really like being on your own, then Airbnb is always an option (just make sure you check there’s wifi and a work desk) or the various aparthotels scattered around the city. It’s always a good idea to choose your neighbourhood based on proximity to your interests. If lots of kitesurfing is high on your list, then definitely set yourself up in Blouberg or Muizenberg for surfing. Always check the Google reviews for where you’re staying, and don’t be shy to ask any questions of the owners/community managers.
Take a look here for more great places to stay in Cape Town.
Where to Play in Cape Town
For nature-loving nomads, Cape Town is going to blow your mind. There’s always something going on, whether it’s a run on the promenade, yoga on the beach or a hike. If you’re hiking, stay safe by hiking in numbers. The easiest way to do this is to join an organised group hike, led by a professional hiking guide. LekkerHike offers group hikes and private trips, but also a wonderful pay-what-you-can community hike each week, making safe hiking accessible and affordable. It’s a great way to meet other active travellers.
Cool off with a dip in the icy ocean, enjoy a picnic in Kirstenbosch Gardens or Green Point Park, and then check out the food stalls in the Oranjezicht Market or Mojo Market. The Red Bus is a popular choice for seeing more of the city and if you’re in town for First Thursdays, make the most of the city’s incredible arts and culture scene. Just be street smart and keep your hands on your phone and wallet, as not every attendee is there for the art.
For nightlife, check out the Athletic Club and Social, Cause/Effect, and the not-so-secret Gin Bar, tucked in the back of Honest Chocolate. Café Caprice and Cabo Beach Club are also popular and Bokeh is fun for a night of karaoke. For craft beer, Aegir Project in Noordhoek is a real treat.
Check out our complete list of the best things to do in Cape Town and the best restaurants.
Time Out Tips:
- Mid-December to mid-January is peak season and South African school holidays, so the city becomes gridlocked with holiday-makers.
- Winter is Cape Town’s secret season. Yes, it rains, but not constantly and great accommodation specials run from May to September.
- Make sure your accommodation is in a safe area and has good security features. Don’t leave your phone or laptop unattended.
- Uber is huge in Cape Town, so renting a car is unnecessary, and there are lots of shuttle companies to take you on day trips – and there are so many options from Cape Town (nature reserves, wine farms, whale watching, and more).
- Get a local SIM card to stay connected on the move. MTN and Vodacom are good options.
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