Attention all wanderers, explorers and Africa adorers! It’s raining in Cape Town. This is not a drill. We have been inundated with downpours, showers, you name it! And to be honest, we deserve it. When drought-induced water shortage hit the Mother City earlier this year, Capetonians came together to save water and keep the crisis at bay. Residents, business owners and especially the tourism industry joined hands to save water and delay the dreaded Day Zero. Now with a cascade of winter rains and the announcement that there will be no Day Zero in 2019 (whoohoo!), we have all the reason to celebrate.
Water levels in our dams have been on the rise, with latest reports announcing that they’re at over 40 % compared to the same time last year when the levels sat at only 23%. It might not yet be time to fill up our pools, but it’s definitely cause for celebration. “While this is good news, it is too soon to know what supply level is needed in order to safely navigate the summer of 2019,” said the City of Cape Town, urging everyone to still keep consumption low despite these exciting developments.
Some of you might still have concerns about travelling to Cape Town and whether this puts a strain on the water supply or not. We’re pleased to tell you that your visit is anticipated and, most importantly, needed! Foreign tourists represent only 1 percent of the people in the city, even at peak times. Furthermore, tourism supports more than 300,000 jobs across the Western Cape and added R38 billion to our economy in 2017. There’s literally no need to deny yourself the pleasure of our beaches, the wonder of our winelands or the thrill of our world-class city.
Hotels, restaurants and other tourism establishments have led the effort to save water (with some reducing their consumption by up to 40%!). A special mention belongs to The Test Kitchen, one of the top restaurants in the country and a favourite of ours, whose water conservation efforts included a menu that used minimal water and the removal of tablecloths and cloth napkins from their establishment. For more amazing recommended eateries, download our Cape Town restaurant guide.
Our recent Drone through Cape Town video shows the city off in all its splendour and especially the gorgeous landscapes, captivating coastlines and undulating valleys that have enchanted visitors time and again. Find it below:
https://www.facebook.com/RhinoAfrica/videos/10155718542453214/
If you’re coming down to our gorgeous shores in winter, don’t anticipate being cooped up indoors. We’ve put together a list of the 10 reasons Cape Town is great in winter and not only do you have the best coffees and cafes in the world at your feet but the best spots for stargazing in South Africa. If you do insist on staying indoors, why not spend a day at one of our top museums on Cape Town’s Museum Mile or experience a glorious day of pampering at the 12 Apostles Hotel, a bucket list item for many visitors.
See you soon traveler!