A stylish budget-friendly option in the leafy Gardens neighbourhood of Cape Town, just a 10-minute walk from Long Street and the city centre. Clean, comfortable rooms range from dorms to private en-suites, and the rooftop terrace has great views towards Table Mountain. The social atmosphere and tours desk make it ideal for solo travellers.
Once in Cape Town Boutique Hotel is located on Kloof Street in the leafy Gardens neighbourhood, a ten-minute walk from Long Street and the city centre, and close to the Company's Garden, the Mount Nelson area, and the restaurants and cafes that line Kloof Street itself. The building has been given a stylish, contemporary makeover that sets it apart from typical backpacker hostels, with bright common areas and a design-led aesthetic that still keeps rates budget-friendly. Accommodation ranges from shared dorms to private en-suite rooms, all kept clean and comfortable, giving flexibility for solo backpackers, couples, and small groups travelling together on a budget. There is no formal restaurant, but the rooftop terrace is the property's standout feature, offering views towards Table Mountain and serving as a social hub where guests gather in the evenings, sometimes over drinks from the on-site bar. A shared kitchen allows self-catering guests to prepare their own meals, and the common room provides a relaxed space to meet other travellers. The tours desk is a key service for independent travellers, helping arrange Table Mountain cableway trips, Cape Peninsula day tours, and onward Baz Bus travel along the Garden Route. There is no spa, pool, or gym, keeping the focus on the social, budget-conscious backpacker experience rather than resort-style facilities. The atmosphere is friendly and geared strongly towards solo travellers looking to meet people, with staff who are approachable and well informed about the city, making it a strong choice for younger and budget-minded visitors over families or business travellers.
Amenities
- rooftop bar
- shared kitchen
- tours desk
- wifi
- lockers
- common room
Location
106 Kloof Street, Gardens, Cape Town, 8001
-33.9311, 18.4125 View on map
Highlights
- Rooftop terrace with views towards Table Mountain, popular for evening socialising
- Central Gardens location, a ten-minute walk from Long Street and the city centre
- Range of accommodation from dorms to private en-suite rooms
- Tours desk helping arrange Cape Peninsula excursions and Baz Bus travel
Tips for visiting
- Book a private en-suite room ahead of time if avoiding dorms, as these sell out first
- Use the shared kitchen to cut costs on meals rather than eating out every night
- Head to the rooftop terrace around sunset for the best views towards Table Mountain
- Ask the tours desk about combining a Table Mountain cableway trip with a Cape Peninsula day tour