Visa, Weather, & Places of Interest

Visa

The conference attendees should check directly with the South African Consulate for visa application and requirements as it varies from country to country. 

Places of Interests

Robben Island: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this former prison housed political prisoners, including Nelson Mandela. Guided tours, often led by former inmates, provide a sobering insight into South Africa’s history and the fight against apartheid. Accessible via ferry from the V&A Waterfront.

Table Mountain: One of Cape Town’s most iconic landmarks, this flat-topped mountain offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city and surrounding coastline. Visitors can hike up or take the cable car to the summit.

Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden: Situated at the foot of Table Mountain, this world-renowned garden showcases South Africa’s indigenous flora, including rare and endangered species. It’s a great spot for picnics and leisurely walks.

Cape Point: Located within the Table Mountain National Park, Cape Point is a dramatic promontory offering stunning ocean views, scenic hiking trails, and a historic lighthouse. It’s also home to diverse wildlife, including baboons and antelope.

Boulders Beach: Famous for its colony of African penguins, this beach offers visitors a unique opportunity to observe these charming birds up close. Boardwalks allow for safe and respectful viewing.

V&A Waterfront: A vibrant hub for shopping, dining, and entertainment, the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront also serves as a departure point for Robben Island tours. It features attractions like the Two Oceans Aquarium and the Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa (MOCAA).

Cape Winelands: Just a short drive from Cape Town, the Cape Winelands region includes Stellenbosch, Franschhoek, and Paarl. Visitors can enjoy wine tastings, cellar tours, and gourmet dining in stunning vineyard settings.

Bo-Kaap: A colourful and historic neighbourhood, Bo-Kaap is known for its brightly painted houses and rich Cape Malay heritage. It’s a fantastic place to explore on foot and enjoy traditional Cape Malay cuisine.

Chapman’s Peak Drive: A spectacular coastal road offering breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean. The drive features viewpoints perfect for photography and connects the towns of Hout Bay and Noordhoek.

Seal Island: Accessible via boat tours from Hout Bay, Seal Island is home to thousands of Cape fur seals. The trips also offer scenic views of the coastline and a chance to spot marine birds.

Cape Agulhas: ÍøÒ×ÌåÓý a 2.5-hour drive from Cape Town, this is the southernmost tip of Africa, where the Atlantic and Indian Oceans meet. The area features a rugged coastline and a historic lighthouse.

District Six Museum: This museum commemorates the history of District Six, a vibrant community forcibly removed during apartheid. It provides a poignant narrative of displacement and resilience.

Lion’s Head: A popular hiking destination, Lion’s Head offers incredible sunrise and sunset views. The trail is moderately challenging and takes about 1.5–2 hours to complete.

Signal Hill: Known for its sunset views and the Noon Gun, Signal Hill is an easily accessible spot to enjoy panoramic vistas of Cape Town.

Weather

In Cape Town, September marks the beginning of spring, bringing milder temperatures and a gradual transition to warmer weather. Here's what you can typically expect during this month:

Temperature: Average daytime highs reach around 19°C (66°F), while nighttime lows can drop to approximately 9°C (48°F).

Rainfall: September is still within Cape Town's rainy season, with occasional cold fronts bringing showers and strong north-westerly winds. However, the frequency of rain decreases as the month progresses, signalling the transition to the drier summer months.

Sunshine: The city experiences an average of 8 hours of sunshine per day in September, providing ample daylight for activities.

Wind: Cape Town is known for its "Cape Doctor" winds, strong south-easterlies that can occur during spring and summer. In September, winds are generally milder but can still be noticeable, especially near the coast.

Humidity: Humidity levels are moderate, making for comfortable conditions.

Overall, September in Cape Town offers pleasant weather suitable for outdoor activities. It's advisable to dress in layers to accommodate temperature variations throughout the day and to be prepared for occasional rain showers.