Bo-Kaap, a historic neighborhood in Cape Town is as visually striking as it is culturally significant. Known for its brightly painted houses and cobblestone streets, the place practically begs for a leisurely stroll and some stellar photos. Not to mention, it’s a treasure trove of Malay cuisine and vibrant street scenes. Looking for a slice of Cape Town that’s brimming with personality and stories around every corner? Dive headfirst into the colorful world of Bo-Kaap. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or just in it for the ‘Gram, this neighborhood has a charm that’s hard to shake off. Situated at the foot of Signal Hill, Bo-Kaap is an area in Cape Town known for its colorful homes and rich history, which began in the 1760s when the Dutch colonists built and leased houses to slaves, known as Cape Malays.
Wander the Streets
Let’s start with the basics – take a walk. Bo-Kaap’s streets are a feast for the eyes with their rainbow-colored houses and historic charm. Just remember, it’s not a fashion runway, but feel free to strut like it is. The best streets for a stroll are Wale Street, Rose Street, and Chiappini Street. These are your go-to spots if you want the full Technicolor experience plus some Insta-worthy shots. Getting there is a piece of cake (or should we say, a slice of koeksister?). If you’re hailing from central Cape Town, Bo-Kaap is just a hop, skip, and a jump away. Just point yourself toward the mountain and walk. Seriously, you can walk there from most central locations—it’s quite close to the City Bowl. If you’re driving, head toward Signal Hill on Buitengracht Street and watch for the signs. Public transport options like buses and cabs will drop you nearby as well; just ask to be let off near Wale Street.
Visit the Bo-Kaap Museum
If you’re curious about how people lived here in the 18th century without Instagram, the Bo-Kaap Museum has you covered. It’s like a time machine, but you can’t use it to buy Bitcoin in 2009. The Bo-Kaap Museum, officially part of the Iziko Museums of South Africa, is set in one of the earliest homes in the Bo-Kaap, dating back to the mid-18th century, and was declared a National Monument in 1965. It tells the history of the local community, which became home to many Muslims and freed slaves after the abolition of slavery. The museum showcases local Islamic culture and heritage and provides a glimpse into the life of a 19th-century Cape Malay family. The Bo-Kaap Museum represents a significant piece of Cape Malay history and is a valuable cultural resource for understanding the rich heritage of the community.
Take a Cooking Class
Dive into Cape Malay cuisine by learning how to cook it yourself. Impress your friends back home with your newfound skills. Warning: may lead to increased dinner party expectations. One location where such classes are held is at Faeeza’s Home Kitchen. Participants engage in hands-on cooking experiences, from rolling rotis to frying chili bites, cooking curry, and wrapping samoosas. The class typically concludes with an intimate meal where participants can enjoy the dishes they’ve prepared. Another popular option is through The Bo-Kaap Cooking Tour located at 46 Rose Street, Bo-Kaap, Cape Town. This experience invites participants to not just cook but also to understand the history and cultural significance of the food they prepare. Starting at the Rose Corner Café opposite the Bo-Kaap Museum, the tour offers a hands-on cooking experience that combines culture, cooking, and storytelling to create a memorable experience.
Spice Shopping
Speaking of cooking, pop into one of the local spice shops. Your kitchen will thank you. Your sinuses might have a different opinion, though. Located on 94 Wale Street, the Atlas Trading Company has been around since 1946. Walking into Atlas Trading is like stepping into a treasure trove of spices. The air is thick with the scent of cumin, turmeric, cinnamon, and everything in between. They have everything you need to make your cooking taste like a Cape Malay masterpiece. Don’t forget to grab a few packets of pre-mixed spices. They’re like magic dust for your dishes and a great way to bring a taste of Cape Town to your kitchen back home. So, grab a basket and start exploring.
Eat at a Local Cafe
Put those cooking aspirations on hold and let someone else do the work. The area’s cafes serve up some seriously tasty dishes that’ll have you considering culinary school. Café Zor is a quaint spot where lunch and vinyl records create a memorable ambiance. Café Zor prides itself on being a supportive space for local and independent small businesses within the Bo-Kaap, inviting patrons to enjoy not just the vibes but also the food. Bo-Kaap Kombuis originally started as a cafe. The establishment shares the rich legacy of its founders, Yusef and Nazli, through its delicious offerings, making it a perfect spot to enjoy cakes and traditional dishes while admiring the sweeping views of Table Mountain and the colourful cobbled streets below.
Street Art Safari
Keep your camera at the ready because Bo-Kaap’s street art is worth capturing. It’s like a safari, but without the need for binoculars or running from lions. This experience is part of the Urban Safari by Kiff Kombi Tours, which combines a Cape Town city tour with visits to various sites, including Bo-Kaap, showcasing street art, craft breweries, wine tasting, and the scenic Chapman’s Peak drive. Participating in the Street Art Safari in Bo-Kaap through Kiff Kombi Tours offers an alternative Cape Town city tour experience, highlighting the rich cultural tapestry and urban creativity of the region. The tours are designed to showcase the artistic and historical significance of areas like Bo-Kaap, famous for its brightly colored homes and cobbled streets, which serve as canvases for local and international street artists.
Attend the Noon Gun
Experience the daily boom of the Noon Gun. Spoiler alert: it happens at noon. It’s Cape Town’s original “time’s up” alarm clock. The Noon Gun has been a historical time-keeping tradition in Cape Town, South Africa, since 1806. It consists of a pair of black powder Dutch naval guns, with one gun fired daily (except Sundays and public holidays) at noon, while the other serves as a backup. The guns are situated on Signal Hill, close to the city center, providing both locals and visitors a unique and audible experience. This tradition not only serves as a time signal but has also become a significant tourist attraction and a part of Cape Town’s heritage. Signal Hill itself does not just offer a close view from the Noon Gun site, but you can also enjoy the event from other parts of the hill that provide a broad vista over Cape Town. From various locations along Signal Hill, visitors can both see and hear the Noon Gun as it fires.
Explore Nearby Signal Hill
For panoramic views of Cape Town, Signal Hill is a short jaunt away. Just remember, what goes up must come down. Plan your footwear accordingly. Signal Hill in Cape Town, known as Seinheuwel in Afrikaans, is a prominent flat-topped hill located next to Lion’s Head and Table Mountain. It is a notable landmark offering panoramic views of Cape Town, including the city itself, Table Mountain, the Atlantic Ocean, and Robben Island. Apart from the breathtaking views, Signal Hill is also famous for its sunset spots and provides a base for paragliding enthusiasts to take off from. Signal Hill is a perfect destination for outdoor activities including hiking, picnicking, and watching the sunset or the city lights at night.
Greenmarket Square Shopping
Venture a bit further to Greenmarket Square for some bargain hunting. It’s a marketplace, yes, but haggling is the true sport here. Greenmarket Square is a historical square in the heart of old Cape Town, South Africa, known for its vibrant atmosphere and colorful history. Established in 1696, it is one of the oldest public spaces in Cape Town and over the years, it has served various functions including a slave market, a fruit and vegetable market, and more recently, a flea market where locals and tourists can shop for African curios, crafts, clothing, and art. Regular live music and street performances contribute to the square’s lively ambiance. Additionally, the adjacent Michaelis Collection at the Old Town House offers visitors a chance to explore fine examples of Dutch Golden Age paintings, which further enhance the cultural experience of the square.
Visit the District Six Museum
Not exactly in Bo-Kaap but close enough, this museum tells the poignant story of District Six and its community. A reminder that history should teach us something, especially about resilience and rebirth. The District Six Museum, established in 1994, is set in a former church in Cape Town and serves as a memorial to the vibrant multicultural community of District Six that was demolished during apartheid in the 1970s. The museum offers a poignant insight into the lives of the residents who were forcibly removed from their homes. It preserves memories and experiences through exhibitions that feature photographs, recordings, and personal testimonies, bringing the story of District Six and its people to life.
