• University of Cape Town Academic Conference Centre, Protea Hotel, Graduate School of Business, Cape Town, South Africa
  • September 4 – 6, 2026

Contact Us

  • University of Cape Town Academic Conference Centre, Protea Hotel, Graduate School of Business, Cape Town, South Africa Address
  • September 4 – 6, 2026 Date
  • sue@eventsmanagement.co.za Mail to us

General Information

Heart of Cape Town Museum
Groote Schuur Hospital
Old Main Building
Main Road
Cape Town

Tours available on Thursday afternoon and Sunday afternoon (outside of conference hours). Tour duration 2 – 3 hours. Tickets only. Bookings essential.

Contact: sue@eventsmanagement.co.za for further information.
Groote Schuur Hospital, Cape Town
The Dr Chris Barnard Story
The human heart transplant, one of the greatest moments in medical history was made possible by an extraordinary man Dr Chris Barnard plus an interplay of scientific dedication, human courage and generosity, and a timely chain of events.

Today, The Heart of Cape Town Museum honours all those who played a major role in the surgical feat that pushed the boundaries of science, into the dawn of a new medical era, an era in which it became possible to transplant the symbol of the essence of life, our human heart.
Heart of Cape Town Museum - Dr Chris Barnard Theatre
Heart of Cape Town Museum - Dr Chris Barnard Theatre
Cape Town Stadium

Statement Regarding Recent Xenophobic Protests in South Africa

We are aware that recent reports of xenophobic protests and anti-immigrant demonstrations in parts of South Africa have raised understandable concerns among delegates planning to attend the EACTS/STS/CSIA Cardiothoracic Conference in Africa for Africa (CTS in Africa for Africa) meeting in Cape Town.

We would like to reassure delegates that, based on the current situation, there have been no reports of similar protests or xenophobic-related incidents affecting the Cape Town city centre, the V&A Waterfront precinct, or the conference venue. The recent demonstrations have largely been localised to specific areas elsewhere in the country and have not disrupted normal activities in Cape Town.

The conference will be held at the Graduate School of Business, Cape Town, South Africa, with accommodation centred around the V&A Waterfront and surrounding business district. These are well-established international tourism and business precincts that maintain a visible security presence and routinely host large international conferences and events.

As with travel to any major city, delegates are encouraged to exercise normal precautions, remain aware of their surroundings, and follow local advice. The organising committee will continue to monitor the situation closely in conjunction with local authorities and our professional event management team. Should circumstances change in a way that could affect delegates, we will communicate promptly with all registered participants.

While no organiser can guarantee absolute safety anywhere in the world, we have no reason at present to anticipate that delegates attending the meeting will be affected by the recent protests reported in other parts of South Africa. We look forward to welcoming colleagues from around the world to Cape Town for what promises to be an outstanding scientific meeting.

Should you have any questions or concerns prior to your travel, please do not hesitate to contact the organising committee.

Currency
The monetary unit is the South African Rand (ZAR) and the international symbol is R. R1 = 100 cents. Currency is issued in denominations of notes of R200, R100, R50, R20, R10 and coins. Please visit www.xe.com to convert your local currency.
Value Added Tax
Value added tax (VAT) is included in the price of most goods and services. Visitors are required to pay VAT on purchased goods. VAT refunds may be claimed at airports, harbour and custom offices on items taken out of the country when the total value exceeds R250.00. Customs officials will ask to see the items as well as their purchase slips when applying for a refund.
Banking
Banks are found in most towns and are generally open from 09h00 to 15h30 on weekdays and 08h30 to 11h00 on Saturdays (Closed Sundays and Public Holidays). Most of them offer foreign exchange services - with cash, bank & credit cards. You can also obtain cash from automatic teller machines (ATMs). Several international banks have branches in the main city centres. Always advise your bank that you are travelling outside the country as they might block your purchases if they are not informed.
Cape Town weather in September (Western Cape, South Africa)
In September, the weather in Cape Town is generally mild and pleasant. You can expect:
Average daytime temperatures around 20°C (68°F) and nighttime lows of about 13°C (55°F)
What should you wear in this month?
Pleasant temperatures in October/September mean you can pack light but flexible pieces. Cotton t-shirts, comfortable walking shorts, and one warmer layer for evenings. A light sweater or denim jacket works well. Rain gear is recommended, you can expect wet weather on multiple days. The water temperature sits at about 16°C, which is too chilly for most people to enjoy swimming. Leave the swimsuit at home unless you love cold water. You'll definitely want to pack sunglasses and sunscreen. There will be plenty of bright sunshine this month.
Time
South Africa is GMT+2 (2 hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time).
Example: 12h00 midday in South Africa, is:
06h00 in New York, USA
11h00 in London, UK
12h00 midday in Paris, France
20h00 in Sydney, Australia
Tipping / Gratuities
A 10% gratuity on the bill generally applies in restaurants and is normally at the discretion of the diner and dependent on the standard of service experienced. Restaurants usually do not include the tip in the bill unless the booking is for 10 or more people.
Electricity
The electricity supply in South Africa is 220/230 volts AC 50Hz. Appliances of lesser voltage require a transformer (especially those with a heating element such as hairdryers). Adapters are obtainable locally and, in most cases, available from your hotel concierge. Most hotel rooms have 110-volt outlets for electric shavers and small appliances.
Water
South African tap water is completely safe to drink and quite palatable. Bottled water is also available from room service, restaurants and at retail outlets.
Smoking
Smoking is prohibited by law in public areas throughout South Africa, including airports, shopping malls and restaurants. Most public spaces have specially designated smoking areas.
OTHERS
Congress WIFI
Name: TBC
Password: TBC

WiFi access is available free of charge for all SATS Congress delegates.

Certificates
All registered delegates present on-site are entitled to receive a Certificate of Attendance and Certificate of Oral Presentation/Poster Presentation, depending on their involvement.

Lost & Found
The lost and found service is available at the registration.

Travel Adapter
It is necessary to have an adapter with Type M output.

Safety and Security
Cape Town is a modern cosmopolitan city that attracts millions of visitors from all over the world every year. The Mother City is generally safe; however, travelers are urged to take basic safety precautions when visiting.
  • Avoid carrying large sums of cash, don’t carry cell phones, wallet, jewellers or cameras in plain sight and do not leave belongings unattended. Don’t walk in deserted or dark areas. Stay in a group and on lit paths.
  • Avoid walking in deserted and dark places at night. Park in a secure, well-lit area with street guards.
  • Use a taxi/uber at night and only those from a reputable company
  • Never allow strangers to assist you in any way at ATMs or cash points.
  • Street children and beggars may approach you for a handout. If you wish to help, consider giving food, donating to a registered charity for advice.
  • Keep copies of all valuable documents in a safe place.
  • Hiking: When exploring Table Mountain National Park, take a map, comfortable walking shoes, a few friends and a charged mobile phone. When hiking, please avoid the Signal Hill area. Be prepared for weather that can change rapidly, even in summer. Bring along enough water and sunblock, as well as something warm to wear. Start heading back well before dark and don’t venture away from the demarcated paths. Don’t hike alone. We recommend you hike with a group of four or more people. Load the Table Mountain National Park emergency number +27(0)861 106 417 into your mobile phone before departing on a hike.
Security tip for Delegates
Emergency Contacts
Emergencies from Mobile: 112
Emergencies from Landline: 107
South African Police Service: 10111
Medical & Fire: +27 21 535 1100
Ambulance: 10177

If you have any questions or require further information, please do not hesitate to contact us chipo@eventsmanagement.co.za
Lion's Head, Cape Town

Supporting Organisations

2026

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