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Rally Your Tribe! Finding Friends & Meeting People
Mar 26
5 min read
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Moving to Cape Town as an expat brings a mix of excitement and nerves. The scenery is jaw-dropping, the culture is rich, and the pace of life has its own rhythm, but it can also feel isolating at first.
The key to feeling at home? Finding your people...
Here’s some tips based on our own lived experience on how to build a strong, supportive network that helps you feel connected and confident in your new home city.
Get to Know the Expat Scene
Cape Town is home to a lively and growing expat population, with communities from the UK, Germany, the Netherlands, the US, Australia, and beyond. These groups bring familiar touch points while blending into the uniquely South African lifestyle.
Start by connecting with these online expat communities:
Originally started by a British expat mum, this group a welcoming space for mums to ask questions, arrange playdates, and share experiences and advice.
A trusted expat network that hosts regular in-person events and interest-based groups. Ideal for building your social and professional circle as you settle into life in Cape Town.
A welcoming community where expats and locals share first-hand advice on everything from housing and schools to lifestyle tips. A solid go-to for practical insight and everyday support.
Expats in South Africa (Expat Focus)
An online space for English-speaking expats across South Africa. Great for conversation and community.
For remote workers and location-independent professionals, this group offers an easy way to connect, exchange travel tips, and stay informed about what’s happening locally.
International Friends Cape Town
A diverse mix of locals and internationals coming together to learn, connect, and make the most of life in Cape Town. A great way to meet people and feel at home.
These groups are a goldmine of local tips, friendship opportunities, and insights into the city’s expat life.
Show Up to Local Events
Cape Town is a city that loves events. From food and wine to live music and outdoor markets, you’ll find endless reasons to get out and mingle.
Here are a few events worth adding to your calendar:
Neighbourgoods Market (in Woodstock): Saturdays filled with food, music, and community.
Cape Town Jazz Festival: Africa’s grandest gathering of jazz and soul.
First Thursdays: Art galleries and cultural venues open late on the first Thursday of every month.
Kirstenbosch Summer Concerts: Enjoy live music in a botanical garden at the foot of Table Mountain.
Want to meet people based on your hobbies? Try...
Cape Town Hiking Meetup - A community of outdoor lovers who organise regular group hikes around Cape Town. It’s a great way to explore the city’s trails while meeting like-minded people.
Run Cape Town – Offers guided running tours and connects you with local running groups. Perfect if you want to stay active, see the sights, and meet fellow runners.
Playtomic – An easy-to-use app for joining padel and tennis games at courts across the city. Great for meeting new people and staying fit while having fun.
Use Social Media as a Starting Point
Social platforms can fast-track your community-building. In addition to Facebook and WhatsApp groups, try these apps:
Meetup – from salsa dancing to coding nights, there’s something for everyone.
Bumble BFF – not just for dating! Many expats have used it to make friends.
Couchsurfing Hangouts – spontaneous meetups and events.
Starting a conversation online often turns into a coffee or wine meet-up offline. Just a quick “Hey, I’m new to Cape Town, anyone up for a beach walk or brunch?” can go a long way.
Try Classes and Workshops
Learning something new is one of the best ways to meet people and bond over shared interests. Cape Town has no shortage of inspiring classes:
Clay Café – paint pottery while sipping wine in Hout Bay or the CBD.
Cooking classes at Ginger & Lime – cook and connect over South African dishes.
Lighthouse Studio – offers photography, creative writing, and mindfulness workshops.
The Yoga Room – for those seeking community through movement and wellness.
Even a short course can lead to lasting friendships.
Volunteer in the Community
Giving back is one of the most fulfilling ways to build real connections. Here are a few causes that welcome expat support:
Volunteer Wildfire Services – help protect Cape Town’s landscapes.
TEARS Animal Rescue – volunteer with rescued dogs and cats.
The Shine Literacy Project – tutor kids in local schools.
Habitat for Humanity Cape Town – build homes and hope alongside other volunteers.
You’ll meet kind, community-minded locals and expats who care about making a difference.
Be Open to the Unexpected
Cape Town has a way of surprising you. Say yes to spontaneous invites, last-minute adventures, or things outside your comfort zone.
A few hidden gems to explore...
Beta Beach – quieter than Clifton, with stunning views.
The Book Lounge – indie bookstore with author nights and poetry readings.
SecretEATS – underground dining experiences across the city.
Whether it’s paddle boarding at Clifton, trying open mic night at Yours Truly, or wine tasting in Franschhoek, every new experience brings a chance to meet people.
Host Your Own Meetups
Sometimes, the easiest way to connect is to invite others in. Whether it’s a beach picnic, Barbeque (braai), or morning hike; take the initiative. People are often just waiting for an excuse to get together.
Try organising...
A Cape Malay cooking night at home.
A casual potluck at Green Point Urban Park.
Stay In Touch
When you’re settling into a new place, staying connected to home isn’t always as easy as it sounds. Sometimes, calling friends or family can make you feel even more homesick, and it’s tempting to avoid it altogether.
But keeping in touch with the people who know and support you can help you feel more grounded, especially during the early days when everything feels unfamiliar. Even small, consistent check-ins can make a big difference. There are so many easy and FREE ways to stay in touch nowadays too- there's no excuse not to feel connected;
Share quick updates, photos, or drop a voice note on WhatsApp, Facebook or Insta; even while you’re out exploring your new neighbourhood.
Set up regular video calls (even short ones). A quick catch-up can do wonders.
Start a blog to share your adventures; fun for you and a great way to keep everyone updated in one go.
Snap little moments from your day and send them to friends and family; helps them feel closer, and reminds you you’re not alone.
Try a monthly email update or family newsletter. It’s low effort and keeps everyone in the loop without a million messages.
Use apps like Moonpig to send physical cards and gifts on birthdays and special anniversaries; a surprise post is always a win.
It’s not about forcing deep conversations, it’s about staying connected in a way that feels manageable and real.
Be Patient, and Keep Showing Up!
Building a social life in a new country takes time. Some connections will click right away, others might take a while. Keep showing up, keep saying yes, and give yourself grace.
Each new face you meet is a potential friend, and each new day brings fresh opportunities.
Final Thoughts...
Cape Town is a city full of colour, energy, and community. While moving somewhere new can be challenging, you don’t have to do it alone. From Facebook groups to hiking trails, pottery classes to beach hangouts; your people are here. You just have to find them.
So start small, be open, and say "Hi". That’s often all it takes to begin building a network and a new life you’ll love.
📩 Get in touch today! Let’s make Cape Town feel like home for you & your family 🏡
📧 Email: info@caperelocators.com
🌍 Visit: www.caperelocators.com
💬 WhatsApp: +44 (0) 7736 040292
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