Getting Around Cape Town Without a Car: A Student Transport Guide

You don’t need a car to live well in Cape Town. With a bit of planning, students and newcomers can reach campus, the shops and the city centre using a mix of trains, shuttles, buses and ride-hailing apps. This guide breaks down the main ways to get around and how to do it safely and affordably.

The MyCiTi Bus

MyCiTi is Cape Town’s modern bus rapid-transit network. It is clean, reliable and uses a tap-and-go card system. Routes connect the City Bowl, Atlantic Seaboard and several suburbs, making it a solid choice for getting into town. Load your card at stations or partner shops and check the official route map to plan trips.

Metrorail and the Southern Line

The Southern Line train runs through the student belt – Observatory, Mowbray, Rondebosch and Rosebush – down toward Muizenberg and the coast. When running well it is the cheapest way to move along this corridor. Travel during busy daytime hours, keep your belongings close, and ask locals about current service reliability before relying on it for a commute.

The Jammie Shuttle

If you study at UCT, the free Jammie Shuttle is your best friend. It loops between campus and the surrounding suburbs where most students live, so choosing accommodation on a Jammie route makes daily life effortless. Our 89 Station Road home sits in exactly this kind of well-connected area.

Ride-Hailing and Minibus Taxis

Uber and Bolt operate widely across the city and are a safe, convenient option for evenings or trips off the main routes. Minibus taxis are the most extensive and affordable network of all, though they take some getting used to – ask a local to show you the ropes.

Walking and Cycling

Many student suburbs are compact and walkable, so living close to campus or work means you can skip transport altogether for short trips. A bicycle can cover the rest. Choosing a central, well-located home is the single biggest thing you can do to cut your travel time and cost.

Pick Your Location Wisely

The easier your commute, the more you will enjoy Cape Town. Browse our co-living homes in transport-friendly neighbourhoods, or read our study in Cape Town guide for more tips on settling in. Ready to find a well-connected base? Contact our team for current availability and pricing.