16/05/2026
South Africa was officially crowned the friendliest country in the world in 2024 — and after travelling abroad a fair bit, I can confirm: we are basically the golden retrievers of humanity.
In many countries overseas, if you greet a stranger in the street, they look at you like you’re about to recruit them into a pyramid scheme.
In South Africa? If you say “Howzit?” to someone in the street, there’s a good chance you’ll leave with directions, weather updates, rugby predictions, and an invitation to a braai.
Cape Town especially has its own beautiful kind of chaos.
Where else in the world do you park your car and immediately meet an unofficial “car guard” named Blessing, who watches your vehicle like it’s a Bentley parked outside Buckingham Palace… for the price of two coins and a cold Coke?
Where else do tourists stop at a scenic viewpoint to admire the ocean, only to discover a baboon has unzipped the rental car, stolen a packet of Simba chips, and is now judging everyone from the roof like the rightful owner of the vehicle?
And don’t even get me started on our neighbourhood culture. In Cape Town, your neighbour comes over to borrow a screwdriver and somehow three hours later there’s a fire going, someone’s uncle is telling stories from 1987, music is playing, and you’re being asked, “How do you like your steak?”
No calendar invite. No RSVP. Just vibes.
As someone who runs private tours around Cape Town, one comment I hear from visitors again and again is:
“The people made this trip unforgettable.”
Sure, we’ve got Table Mountain, breathtaking coastlines, penguins, wine farms, and sunsets that look photoshopped… but the real magic is the people you meet along the way.
The petrol attendant who cleans your windscreen without being asked.
The local aunty who calls you “my boy” after meeting you once.
The stranger who gives you a full weather forecast while you’re standing in a supermarket queue.
Cape Town is a lekker place. It gets under your skin a little bit. That’s why so many tourists struggle to say goodbye at the airport… and honestly, I don’t blame them.
Come visit South Africa.
Worst case scenario: a baboon steals your snacks.
Best case scenario: you leave with a second family.
And as always- stay vigilant, use reputable transport, and apply common sense when it comes to safety as you would when travelling to any country.
Ready2Go Cape Shuttles
More than a ride - your travel partner
M: +2772 127 4493