Welcome to IES Abroad Cape Town

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Welcome to Cape Town

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Welcome to Cape Town! This breathtaking city sits at the foot of Table Mountain and is surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean. Cape Town is one of South Africa’s most important cultural, political, and financial centers—the perfect backdrop for your study abroad adventure!

Our Center

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Welcome to the IES Abroad Cape Town Center, conveniently located on *Main Road Rondebosch* and close to the University of Cape Town campus. Stop by after class to use the wifi, attend a class, collect your mail, visit our library or chat with an IES Abroad staff member. Decked out in vibrant colors and eye-catching student photos, our Center offers students a relaxing place to study, connect with fellow students and staff, or attend a guest lecture.

Housing

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You can choose to live with other IES Abroad students in a furnished house or apartment near the University of Cape Town campus, or live in a university residence hall with local and international students. There are also local student Resident Assistants in our housing who meet you at the airport and generally offer support, mentorship and friendship during your time in Cape Town. Rooms are furnished, and you have access to a shared kitchen.

University of Cape Town

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The stately, ivy-covered buildings of The University of Cape Town at the base of Table Mountain provide a dramatic backdrop for your studies at this prestigious public research university. Established in 1829, it is the oldest university in South Africa and is considered the best university in Africa. You enroll directly in UCT courses with both local and international students in a wide variety of subjects.

Service Learning

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Giving back and learning about the local community is a cornerstone of our program. In addition to your courses at UCT, you can also choose from one of two IES Abroad courses, both of which offer a service learning component. Here you will be able to work closely with a local community. Each course includes 60 hours of volunteer work and project research.

Table Mountain

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Standing at an impressive 3,558 feet, Table Mountain is one of Cape Town’s most famous landmarks. It’s recently been voted as one the New 7 Wonders of Nature. Take the cable car to the summit and stand on its enormous plateau as you overlook your host city, or be brave and hike your way up! The mountain offers trails for hikers of all levels and unforgettable views.

Camps Bay

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No matter where you turn at Camps Bay, you can’t miss the stunning views of Cape Town’s one-of-a-kind landscape. Located at the foot of the Twelve Apostles mountain range and just 15 minutes from the city center, it’s a beach lover’s paradise. In this popular Cape Town neighborhood, you will also find dozens of beach-side restaurants where you can watch the sunset after a day in the sun.

Lion's Head

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Standing at over 2,000 feet, Lion’s Head keeps a careful watch over the city. An hour-long hike to the top of the peak offers visitors incredible views of Cape Town—especially at sunset!—as well as of surrounding Table Bay and the beautiful Atlantic Ocean.

Boulders Beach

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Head to Boulders Beach for sun, sand…and penguins! That’s right, this serene beach is home to a colony of over 2,000 African Penguins. Spend an afternoon mingling with the “locals”—and taking advantage of the amazing scenery.

Chapman's Peak Drive

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With some of the most dramatic views of Cape Town’s coast, Chapman’s Peak Drive, considered to be one of the most scenic drives in the world, has breathtaking views of cliffs, the ocean and the little town of *Hout Bay*. Watch out for passing schools of dolphins!

Cape Point

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A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Cape Point offers visitors views of not only a wide variety of diverse flora unique to the region, but also spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean. While you’re taking in the beautiful views from the most Southwestern tip of Africa, if you’re lucky you may just spot some of the local wildlife, such as a Chacma baboon or a breeching Humpback whale.

V&A Waterfront

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Take in panoramic views of the waterfront from the Ferris wheel as you explore this historic harbor, which has been revamped as an outdoor shopping mall. You will find everything from handicrafts to luxury boutiques as you leisurely stroll along the waterfront. When you’re ready to take a break from shopping, stop by one of the many restaurants in the area—you’ll find samp and beans, sushi, samosas, bobotie, burgers and more!

Robben Island

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Both a South African National Heritage Site and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Robben Island is a 45-minute ferry ride from Cape Town. The Island served as a maximum security prison for political prisoners until 1991 and former South African president Nelson Mandela was among the many who faced years of imprisonment here. Gain a deeper understanding of South African history as you tour the island with a former inmate as your guide.

Greenmarket Square

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Head to Greenmarket Square to find traditional crafts from all over Africa. Half of the fun is searching for the market’s hidden treasures and bargaining with vendors as you enjoy an afternoon in the city. Visitors often walk away with traditional hand painted fabrics, African beadwork and jewelry, one-of-a-kind artwork, and colorful African masks.

Kirstenbosch

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Located at the foot of Table Mountain, Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden is considered one of the best botanical gardens in the world, and is home to over 7,000 species of indigenous South African flora. This lush oasis, located less than 7 miles from Cape Town’s city center, is often referred to as South Africa’s most beautiful garden. It’s a great place to study, lose yourself in a book or enjoy a picnic and outdoor concert with your friends.

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