YOUR SUMMER CHECKLIST:

Clear, blue skies and long, warm evenings is a standard feature of Cape Town’s long summer that stretches from as early as October and into March. Here are a few ways you can truly prepare for your visit:

1. The temperature

Cape Town’s summer is dry and often fairly windy with breathtakingly blue skies to admire. The average day temperature during summer is a balmy 23 degrees Celsius. However, it can often get as high as 35 degrees Celsius and if a Berg wind blows (from the inland Karoo desert.) You will sometimes see temperatures soar closer to 40 degrees Celsius.

On your checklist: Pack summer clothes and that swimsuit

2. The wind

Wind is certainly a feature of summer in Cape Town. The prevailing wind direction comes from the the south east, blowing off the cool ocean and making the hotter days in Cape Town more bearable. Known as the Cape Doctor, it blows most during January and February and is well-loved by wind sports enthusiasts, such as kitesurfers. If you’re looking to spend time outdoors out of the wind, then head over to Hout Bay beach, or one of the Clifton beaches.

On your checklist: Pack a light jacket or two

3. The sun

It’s no secret that the African sun can be harsh, so don’t forget to apply a layer of sun block before spending any amount of time outdoors. Don’t forget to reapply half way through the day! A hat and of course, keeping well hydrated, will also help those unaccustomed to the persistent heat to cope more effectively.

On your checklist: Buy sun block, a hat and some water

4. Water scarce

We need everyone to help by being water-wise when visiting Cape Town. We need you to save like a local, and keep your usage to under 105 litres per day.

On your checklist: Stay waterwise

5.Giving tips

Every city has its own rules. Luckily in Cape Town, these are straightforward. When tipping your waiter at a restaurant, a tip of about 10% of the bill is considered fair. Official car guards in the CBD will charge R3.40 for the first 15 minutes, and a flat hourly rate thereafter. Tipping car guards outside of the city centre is also acceptable, and usually at your discretion.

On your checklist: Carry loose change and smaller notes

6. Getting from A to B

If you’re moving around in the CBD, take in the sights and vibe of Cape Town’s city bowl by setting out on foot. This will mean a fair amount of walking, so make sure you have a comfortable pair of shoes packed. And when it comes to longer distances, there are several transport options including Uber, MyCiti Bus, railway services and bus systems.

On your checklist: A pair of comfortable walking shoes