Cape Town residents speak out: frustrations rise over tourist influx

In recent years, tourism has transformed Cape Town into one of the world's most sought-after destinations.

However, as the city welcomes an increasing number of tourists and digital nomads, local residents are growing weary of the impact this influx has on their daily lives.

The age-old belief that “tourism is good for the economy” is now being challenged by the voices of those who call the Mother City home.

One such voice is Luke Hackney, a resident whose candid TikTok video has resonated with many, showcasing the reality of living in a city overwhelmed by visitors.

In his viral video, Hackney expressed frustration about the overwhelming presence of tourists and digital nomads in the city.

“Welcome to Cape Town! You’ve picked a great destination. The weather this time of the year is superb, the scenery unmatched, you can't change it. I just think I've had enough," he stated, highlighting the growing discontent among locals.

Hackney expressed his irritation with the loudness of American tourists, saying, “I’m tired of hearing you before I see you. That loud arrogance and confidence is just too much.”

He even joked about considering learning German due to the significant number of German tourists.

The impact of tourism is also felt in everyday life, particularly in coffee shops and restaurants.

“The coffee shops, the restaurants, the queues, guys, the queues, I can't. You stand in the queue for hours, you get to the front, and there is one person at every single little table with their laptop. They have probably been sitting there for what, three or four hours, maybe, sipping one mug of coffee," he lamented.

“I just want to be able to sit in a coffee shop again in peace and quiet, not have to be part of some new startup or listen to someone else's work conversation. It's enough now.”

He further addressed the issue of wildlife tourism, particularly at Boulders Beach, where tourists have been seen chasing penguins.

“Our wildlife is not your prop,” he insisted, calling for respect towards local wildlife.

Hackney is not alone in his sentiments. Many locals have taken to social media to express their frustrations.

Comments on his video include:

@user2543218525702 said: “As a South African, it’s sad that South Africans cannot afford to visit Cape Town anymore.”

@keatoute stated: “Ons is gatvol😫😭😭 love, light and matcha for real ✌🏻.”

Another user, @siphuzibs3, said: “Everything is expensive here ever since they found out about CPT. You spot on, boet.”

While @user8661224794781 agreed:  “Broe, I’m with you on this. Enough is enough 😂😂.”

Despite these frustrations, Cape Town remains an attractive destination for tourists and digital nomads.

Jonny Plein, a South African-born online business co-founder raised in the UK, recently invited remote workers to explore the city.

“If you’re an entrepreneur in the UK considering working abroad, just take 10 seconds to listen to me. You may have heard people talking about working from Dubai or Bali, but the most slept-on place for remote work has to be Cape Town."

Plein highlighted the affordability of living in Cape Town.

"It's really cheap. I mean, you're paying about £1 for a coffee, £3 for a beer, and £5 for lunch. You can get Ubers and eat out. Three meals a day for the same cost as your TFL and your press sandwich and crisps is really good value here," he added.

He also praised the city’s beautiful weather and the abundance of activities available, from paddle sports to incredible hikes like Lion's Head and Table Mountain.

Moreover, Plein mentioned the thriving entrepreneurial community in Cape Town, where many founders from London gather.

“There's actually a massive founder community here. It seems like top founders leave London and come to Cape Town in January. You've got a massive community of entrepreneurs. And because, you know, you're all here together, they want to meet for coffee and chat about business. It's just fantastic for networking.

"So, if you're in the UK, get on a flight, get yourself to Cape Town; you're not going to regret it," he encouraged.

As Cape Town continues to attract visitors, the balance between tourism and local life remains a pressing issue.

Residents hope for a future where both tourists and locals can coexist peacefully in this beautiful city.