One of Cape Town's most popular backpackers, Curiocity is situated in De Waterkant with easy access to the V&A Waterfront and city centre. The vibrant social atmosphere, rooftop terrace, and excellent bar make it a favourite for travellers looking to meet people and explore the city. Both dorms and private rooms are available.
Curiocity Backpackers Cape Town is set on Jarvis Street in De Waterkant, a colourful, cobbled hillside neighbourhood just above the city centre, giving guests easy access on foot to both the V&A Waterfront and the restaurants and nightlife of Cape Town's central business district. The building is a converted city property fitted out for a lively backpacker crowd, with communal spaces designed to encourage guests to socialise rather than a quiet boutique atmosphere. Accommodation covers a wide range of dorm sizes as well as private rooms, giving flexibility for solo travellers, couples, and small groups on varying budgets, and all rooms are kept clean with reliable wifi throughout the building. The rooftop terrace is one of Cape Town's best-known backpacker hangouts, offering views over the city and Table Mountain and hosting regular evening events, while the on-site bar is a major draw in its own right, known for its atmosphere and reasonably priced drinks. There is no restaurant, but the bar area and nearby De Waterkant eateries cover most dining needs, and a tours desk on site helps arrange popular excursions such as Table Mountain hikes, Cape Peninsula tours, and shark cage diving trips. Bike hire is available for guests wanting to explore the city centre and Waterfront independently. There is no pool, spa, or gym, keeping the focus firmly on the social backpacker experience rather than resort facilities. The overall character is high-energy and community-driven, making it one of the best choices in the city for solo travellers and groups wanting to meet other backpackers, rather than travellers seeking quiet or privacy.
Amenities
- rooftop terrace
- bar
- tours desk
- wifi
- lockers
- bike hire
Location
10 Jarvis Street, De Waterkant, Cape Town, 8001
-33.9157, 18.4239 View on map
Highlights
- Well-known rooftop terrace and bar with regular evening social events
- De Waterkant location within walking distance of both the Waterfront and city centre
- Range of dorm and private room options to suit different budgets
- On-site tours desk and bike hire for exploring the city independently
Tips for visiting
- Book a private room ahead of time if seeking quieter accommodation, as dorms can be lively
- Check the rooftop bar's events calendar, as themed nights are a highlight of staying here
- Use the tours desk to book shark cage diving or Cape Peninsula day trips in advance
- Rent a bike from the hostel to explore the Waterfront and city centre at your own pace