Plugs and Sockets in Cape Town

In Cape Town, they use Type C, D, M, and N plugs and sockets. The mains voltage is 230 V, and the frequency is 50 Hz.

So, you’ll definitely need a travel adaptor in Cape Town. Their plugs and sockets aren’t the same as our Type G back in the UK.

Key Takeaways

  • Plugs and sockets: C, D, M, and N
  • Mains voltage: 230 V
  • Frequency: 50 Hz
  • Travel adaptor needed? Yes, you do need a travel adaptor
  • Voltage converter needed? No, you won’t need a power converter here.
  • Recommended travel adaptor: AUNNO, Aodeng, and the SHUOMAO Plug Adaptor

These details combine official input from electricity authorities, IEC standards, and practical experience from people who’ve travelled internationally.

Sockets in Cape Town

The plug types you’ll find in Cape Town are Type C, D, M, and N plugs and sockets.

Type C

illustration socket type C

Type C sockets have two round pins and no grounding. Unlike Type G, they take a slimmer plug without an earth pin or fuse.

Type D

illustration socket type D

Type D sockets have three large round pins in a triangular shape. Unlike Type G, they lack a fuse and the pins are round rather than rectangular.

Type M

illustration socket type M

Type M sockets have three large round pins in a triangular layout, similar to Type D but with much thicker pins. UK Type G plugs do not fit into Type M sockets.

Type N

illustration socket type N

Type N sockets have two round pins and a slightly offset earth pin. UK Type G plugs do not fit into Type N sockets.

Recommended Travel Adaptor for Cape Town

From first-hand travel experience to thorough testing, we’ve looked at adaptors in detail. Here, no single adaptor will cover every socket type, so you’ll need to bring more than one. These are the safest options.

Recommended Travel Plug Adaptor (Type C and N)

Rating

by 1,500+ travellers on Amazon


Covers 150+ countries — built-in UK, EU, US and AU plugs in one adaptor
Two USB-A and two USB-C ports — charge your phone, tablet and other gadgets at the same time
Smart IC chip — automatically adjusts the output to protect your devices
Up to 2400 W — powerful enough for travel kettles, hairdryers or straighteners
Compact and under 120 g — slips easily into your hand luggage without taking up space
Built-in 10A fuse with a spare included — extra reassurance if anything blows
Made from fire-retardant materials — keeps you safe on the move
Tested and certified to UKCA, CE, FCC and ROHS standards

Recommended Travel Plug Adaptor (Type D)

Rating

by 1,000+ travellers on Amazon


Charge up to 6 devices at once — 1 UK socket, 2 AC shaver sockets, 2 USB-A, and 1 USB-C
Specifically made for Type D sockets — works in India, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Ghana, Nigeria, and many more countries
Fast charging speeds — smart technology delivers up to 5V/3.4A total, with USB-C up to 3A
Compact and travel-friendly — lightweight design that fits easily in your hand luggage
Built-in safety protections — fire-retardant casing (resistant up to 750°C), plus safeguards against overheating and overloading
Reliable all-in-one solution — no need to pack multiple chargers

Recommended Travel Plug Adaptor (Type M)

Rating

by 500+ travellers on Amazon


Charge up to 5 devices at the same time — 1 AC socket + 3 USB-A + 1 USB-C
Made for Type M sockets — suitable in South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, Mozambique, and beyond
Compact and lightweight — saves you packing extra USB plugs in your case
Quick charging — USB-C up to 5V/3.4A and USB-A up to 5V/3A, cutting down waiting time while travelling
Built-in safety features — protection from overload, overheating, and short circuits
Robust, flame-retardant casing — heat resistant up to 180°C for added reassurance
Convenient all-in-one adaptor — one device covers all your charging needs

No adaptor once you’ve landed? Airports and local shops are an option. But nothing beats the peace of mind of having your own ready to use.

Cape Town is often part of a broader trip that also includes Namibia and Botswana. It’s smart to confirm plug info before you go — neighbouring countries may use different types.

Do You Need a Voltage Converter?

Voltage converters are only necessary if there’s a mismatch. In Cape Town the mains supply is more or less the same as in the UK, so you’re fine.

Before you power up your device abroad, glance at the voltage label. ‘100–240 V, 50/60 Hz’ means you’re good to go without a converter, which is common for modern kit.

Adapter with the label INPUT 100-240V 50-60 Hz

Top Travel Essentials to Take With You

Travelling can be stressful enough without the little annoyances. A luggage scale saves you from those eye-watering charges at the airport, a power bank means your phone won’t die mid-journey, and packing cubes keep everything in order. We’ve taken them on trips ourselves, and they really do make a difference.

Portable Digital Luggage Scale

Rating


Avoid costly excess baggage charges — precise weight up to 50 kg with 0.01 kg accuracy
Easy to read anywhere — clear LCD display, even in dim hotel rooms or early flights
Saves hassle at the airport — tare and weight lock hold the reading so you don’t need to squint or re-weigh
Always travel light — just 90 g, slips into your pocket or carry-on without adding bulk
Built to last — scratch-resistant handle with a sleek finish that won’t fade

Packing Cubes

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Stay organised on every trip — 8 cubes keep clothes tidy and easy to find, no more rummaging through piles
Pack more without stress — compression design makes room for extra outfits and souvenirs
Quick access on the go — clothing symbols show you instantly what’s inside each cube
Built to last — durable, waterproof fabric with strong stitching and tested zips won’t let you down mid-trip
Travel light and smart — compact cubes fit neatly into suitcases, backpacks, and carry-ons
Extra privacy — solid design without mesh means no one sees your belongings at security or in shared rooms

Power Bank

Rating


Never run out of charge on the go — 26,800 mAh keeps your phone powered during trips, hikes, or long days out
Charge multiple devices at once — 5 USB outputs (including USB-C) let you top up several gadgets or share with friends
Fast charging with PD 20W — USB-C output supports high-speed charging for the latest devices
Clear digital LCD display — instantly see the exact remaining battery percentage, no guesswork
Compact powerhouse — a bit heavier, but worth it for the huge capacity and reliability
Freedom from sockets — no more being tied to a wall plug when you’re travelling or relaxing

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