UCT Upper Campus Cape Town
A historic university campus with breathtaking Table Mountain views and striking, castle-like architecture.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Sunny days, fewer crowds
UCT Upper Campus Cape Town
Best Time
Sunny days, fewer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic university campus with breathtaking Table Mountain views and striking, castle-like architecture.
"The beauty of Upper Campus is unbelievable!"
👟 Comfortable Footwear is Key
Campus is huge! You'll do a lot of walking, so comfy shoes are a must. :athletic_shoe:
🔒 Safety First on Campus
Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night. Stick to well-lit paths or travel in groups. :lock:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Table Mountain Views
Various vantage points across campus
Breathtaking panoramic views of the iconic Table Mountain, a constant, stunning backdrop.

Architectural Marvels
Across campus
Explore unique buildings with castle-like architecture and intriguing artistic touches.

Rugby Stadium
UCT Rugby Stadium
Admire the stadium, a significant landmark and finish point for the Two Oceans Marathon.
Planning Your Visit
Navigating Campus & Safety
Best Time to Visit & Weather
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Comfortable Footwear is Key
Campus is huge! You'll do a lot of walking, so comfy shoes are a must. :athletic_shoe:
🔒 Safety First on Campus
Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night. Stick to well-lit paths or travel in groups. :lock:
🚗 Car vs. Shuttle
A car is useful for exploring further, but the Jammie shuttle is great for campus transit. :bus:
💧 Stay Hydrated
Bring a reusable water bottle; you'll need it for all the walking! :droplet:
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Comfortable Footwear is Key
Campus is huge! You'll do a lot of walking, so comfy shoes are a must. :athletic_shoe:
🔒 Safety First on Campus
Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night. Stick to well-lit paths or travel in groups. :lock:
🚗 Car vs. Shuttle
A car is useful for exploring further, but the Jammie shuttle is great for campus transit. :bus:
💧 Stay Hydrated
Bring a reusable water bottle; you'll need it for all the walking! :droplet:
🧥 Winter Warmth Needed
If visiting in winter, pack warm layers as buildings may not have heating. :snowflake:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise UCT Upper Campus for its breathtaking views of Table Mountain and its unique, almost castle-like architecture. The vastness of the campus and its well-maintained grounds are also frequently highlighted as positives. Some visitors note the extensive walking required, while others mention safety awareness as a consideration, particularly at night.
"Attended a graduation today and WOW 😳 it was so amazing!!!! So proud to be South African. Well done to the organisers of this huge event you did amazingly!"
Colleen Mclintock
"The University is very big and beautiful I always admire and respect their Rugby stadium where we finish when we run Total Sport Two Oceans"
Khululiwe Zondi
"The beauty of Upper Campus is unbelievable 🤎 Hope you like my Photography"
Girl In The Capetown
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can take an Uber or a taxi, which is a convenient option. The Jammie shuttle, UCT's dedicated bus service, also runs routes connecting various parts of the city to Upper Campus, making it an accessible choice for students and visitors alike.
The campus is quite large, so comfortable walking shoes are essential. The Jammie shuttle is a great way to navigate between different buildings and areas on campus, especially if you have classes spread out.
For proximity and safety, consider Rondebosch, Newlands, Observatory, or Rosebank. These suburbs are close to campus and well-served by university transport.
Parking is available on campus, but it can be limited and may require a permit. It's advisable to check UCT's parking regulations or opt for public transport or shuttles.
Yes, besides the Jammie shuttle, various MyCiTi bus routes and other public transport options can get you close to the campus vicinity.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
UCT Upper Campus is primarily an educational institution, and general access to walk around the grounds is usually free. However, specific events, tours, or facilities might require tickets or prior booking.
The campus is generally accessible during daylight hours. Specific building access may vary, and it's best to check with the university for any restricted areas or times, especially for administrative buildings.
While not always formally advertised, sometimes student-led tours or departmental open days are available. It's worth checking the UCT website or contacting their visitor services for any scheduled tours.
No, typically there is no entrance fee to simply walk around and admire the campus grounds and its views.
Absolutely! Tourists are welcome to explore the beautiful campus and enjoy the stunning views, especially of Table Mountain.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Don't miss the incredible views of Table Mountain from various points, the unique architecture of the buildings, and the campus's green spaces. The rugby stadium is also a notable landmark.
While generally safe, it's important to exercise common sense, especially at night. Avoid walking alone in isolated areas after dark and be aware of your surroundings.
You'll find kiosks, cafeterias, and an on-site store for refreshments and essentials. There are also plenty of dustbins promoting a clean environment.
Yes, the campus offers stunning photographic opportunities with its architecture, greenery, and the ever-present Table Mountain backdrop.
It's a vibrant academic environment with a mix of impressive architecture, natural beauty, and a strong sense of community, especially among students.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the campus has several cafeterias and kiosks offering various food options for students and visitors.
Campus cafeterias and kiosks generally offer reasonably priced meals catering to student budgets.
You can expect a range of options, from quick snacks to more substantial meals, typically catering to diverse tastes.
The surrounding suburbs like Rondebosch and Observatory have numerous restaurants and cafes offering a variety of cuisines.
Yes, visitors are welcome to bring their own food and drinks to enjoy on campus grounds.
📸 📸 Photography
Anywhere with a view of Table Mountain is a winner! Also, explore the unique architectural details and the lush greenery for diverse shots.
Yes, photography for personal use is generally allowed. However, for commercial or professional shoots, you might need to seek permission.
Golden hour (early morning or late afternoon) offers beautiful light for photographing the campus and Table Mountain.
Using drones on university campuses is often restricted due to privacy and safety regulations. It's best to check UCT's specific policies before flying a drone.
Photography inside academic buildings or administrative offices may be restricted. Always be respectful of the learning environment and ask for permission if unsure.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Look for open areas where kids can safely run around, and use the opportunity to discuss the university's role in education and research. The unique architecture can also spark imagination. If visiting during an event open to the public, it might offer more family-friendly activities.
💰 Budget Travelers
Consider visiting during off-peak hours or seasons to avoid any potential crowds and enjoy a more relaxed experience. The university's impressive architecture and natural surroundings provide ample photo opportunities without any cost.
🎓 Students & Academics
If you're considering studying here, visiting the campus can provide valuable insights into the academic atmosphere and facilities. Connect with current students or attend open days if available. The surrounding suburbs offer student-friendly accommodation and social life.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring UCT's Stunning Architecture
Beyond the grand structures, pay attention to the smaller details: the artistic graffiti that adorns certain tunnels, and the creative lighting fixtures that resemble upside-down candles. These elements contribute to the campus's character and make it a fascinating place to explore for those interested in design and aesthetics. The sheer scale of the campus means that walking between buildings can feel like a workout in itself, offering a unique perspective on the university's layout.
From a visitor's perspective, the campus feels well-maintained, with numerous dustbins contributing to its pristine environment. The thoughtful setup encourages a pleasant experience, whether you're attending an event, visiting a student, or simply taking in the sights. The combination of impressive buildings and the natural landscape makes UCT Upper Campus a photographer's delight.
Safety and Navigating UCT
The campus is extensive, and navigating it can be a significant undertaking. Wearing comfortable shoes is paramount, as you'll likely be doing a lot of walking between lectures, libraries, and other facilities. The Jammie shuttle service is a highly recommended and convenient way to get around the campus and its surrounding areas, reducing the need for extensive walking and providing a safer mode of transport.
For those considering accommodation, suburbs like Rondebosch, Observatory, and Rosebank are frequently mentioned as good options due to their proximity to campus and access to university transport. Some international students have found dedicated accommodation like 'The Rezident' to be a great choice for meeting fellow students and enjoying their semester abroad.
The UCT Experience for International Students
However, international students also offer practical advice. For instance, those arriving during winter (August-October) should be prepared for cooler temperatures and rain, as campus buildings may not have central heating. Packing warm clothing or considering a portable heater is a common suggestion. The transition to a new country and university can be challenging, but resources like the IES Abroad program aim to support students, making their adjustment smoother.
Finding suitable accommodation is a significant aspect of the international student experience. Recommendations often lean towards areas close to campus for convenience and safety, such as Rondebosch or Observatory. The university's own student housing options or dedicated international student residences are also frequently suggested as reliable choices for a secure and social living environment.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit