bo kaap walking tours

Bo-Kaap Walking Tour

See the colourful houses, smell the spices and hear a call to prayers of the local mosque. This part of Cape Town is a unique, a real gem and you will totally fall in love with it during our 90-minute walking tour. 

On our FREE Bo-Kaap Walking Tour, you will learn about the history of one of Cape Town’s most diverse and oldest neighbourhoods. 

guided tour

NO BOOKING REQUIRED

About this activity

No need to book, duration: 90 minutes, live guided tour, starting location, the original experience.

• Wander through the colourful cobblestoned neighbourhood 
• Learn about the culture, traditions and history of the colourful Bo-Kaap.
• If you lucky, you may get a taste of traditional ‘Cape Malay’ food.

Full description

Wander through the colourful cobblestoned Malay Quarters on this 90-minutes tour, where the brightly coloured houses unfold in an array of pinks, greens, blues, reds and oranges. The name is an abbreviation of ‘boven Kaap’ or ‘above the cape’. So unsurprisingly, you’ll find the neighbourhood upward from the city centre, on the slopes of Signal Hill. 

Today, it’s known as one of the most Instagrammable places in the country, thanks to its pastel-colored houses and picturesque cobbled streets. This amazing tour allows you to learn about the history of one of Cape Town’s most multicultural areas. Discover some of its oldest historical buildings and learn about the culture and traditions of the local people. Bo-Kaap, a colourful, historic neighbourhood that became home to many Muslims and freed slaves after the abolition of slavery.

Along the way, visit South Africa’s first mosque, Auwal Masjid and if you are lucky, you may get a taste of the spicy ‘Cape Malay’ food.

• FREE guided tour
• Experienced local guides
• Insightful colourful experience
• Visit places the average visitor would never see or experience
• Gratuities (optional)
• Transport to and from the starting point
• Food & Drink

COVID-19 Special Information

• Guests will receive a mandatory temperature check
• Guests are required to bring and wear masks
• Guests are required to record track & trace information

Prepare for the activity

Important information, what to bring.

• Comfortable walking shoes
• Sunscreen / Hat

Know before you go

• Not suitable for guests who require walking assistance
• Guests are advised to be punctual
• Tour operates rain or shine

Fantastic walking tour of this colourful neighbourhood

Sheldon was our guide – a great guy who gave his us a fascinating history of this area. We’d been wanting to do this tour for a while and so pleased we managed to do it.

The colourful houses are a feast on the eyes.

Walking tour rocks!

A “must do” for a short, but deep dive into history, food, architecture!

Exceeded my expectations.

A Tour Hero

Brahm was our tour guide. He has a vast knowledge of the history and area. With lots of patience and humor he guided us though the Beautiful Bo Kaap. A hero to the group when we were about to be attack by a dog he jumped right in front of the group to protect us. Our local super hero💪🏼!! Thanks so much, you were great👏🏽👏🏽

Perfect tour of Bo Kaap with the best guide!

We did the walking tour of Bo Kaap with the best guide ever. You could tell he was so passionate about his city and I really felt like he gave us information and perspective that couldn’t get on your own.

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16 August 2016

Situated on the slopes of Signal Hill, the Bo-Kaap is a popular location for film and photography – with its stone cobbled roads, bright coloured houses and the friendly faces of the community.

And although not technically a stop, you can hop off at  81 Long Street (stop 5)  to join the  FREE City Sightseeing Bo-Kaap Walking Tour . In just 90 minutes, and under the watchful eye of your guide, you make the trek from Greenmarket Square to this picturesque suburb.

While walking, learn about the origins of the Bo-Kaap, said to date back to the 1700s. Stop outside the first and oldest mosque in South Africa. Listen to the theories behind the colourful houses. Hear the love story of a couple from the area. Pick up tips on where the best spots to eat are.

And of course, don’t forget to capture it all!

Stop outside the first and oldest mosque in South Africa

Peak inside the Auwal Masjid

"The Buitengracht Wolf" by artist Sonny

Biesmiellah Restaurant is a favourite among locals and visitors for their delicious Cape Malay cuisine

The wall art tells the story of the people of the Bo-Kaap

Homes are painted brightly – from orange to green

From films to photo shoots, the streets of the Bo-Kaap are a popular choice for the media industry

The view of Table Mountain from Biesmiellah Restaurant

If you can, pop in at Atlas Trading for a wide variety of spices essential to Cape Malay cooking

Rose Corner Café is one of the oldest in the neighbourhood. Locals and visitors can find anything from a loaf of bread to cold meats and fresh koeksisters on a Sunday morning

The FREE City Sightseeing Bo-Kaap Walking Tour departs from and returns to Greenmarket Square (at Shortmarket and Lower Burg streets). It runs daily at 2pm and 4.15 pm.

+27 21 511 6000 [email protected]

36 Auckland Street, Paarden Eiland, Cape Town, 7420

Copyright © City Sightseeing South Africa 2024

Cape Town Walking Tour: Exploring the history, apartheid and the Bo-Kaap

• November 28, 2019
• Author & Photographer: Teri Didjurgis

This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. ( Disclosures )

Cape Town Walking Tours

I highly recommend taking guided tours from locals or an educated tour guide. You will get so much more out of the experience and understand the place you are visiting by learning the history, experiencing their lives and hearing their stories.  

I also strongly believe in contributing to the places that are gracious enough to welcome you into their countries, cities and natural landscapes.  Taking tours from the locals not only will strengthen your interaction with the community but support it directly.

Travel is more than TAKING pictures and using the location as ONLY a backdrop. For me, cultural exchange is the priority.

On my recent trip to Cape Town, I definitely wanted to take some tours in the city, however, I had not planned this part as my 8-week tour through many countries and planning this was at the bottom of my list and just did not get done. Fortunately most cities have a Free Walking Tours options which allows anyone to join a tour last minute on a scheduled route.  

I took three tours while in Cape Town:

Historic City Tour

This tour will take you back in time to when the the Dutch East India Company, officially the United East India Company (Dutch: Vereenigde Oostindische Compagnie and referred to as “VOC”) came to Cape Town and setup a trading settlement. 

You will walk through the VOC’s company gardens, go by the Castle of Good Hope which used to be at water’s edge, learn about the slave trade, British rule,  visit several of the churches that were central to the community causes both pro and against Apartheid and see the historic balcony at Cape Town City Hall where Nelson Mandela gave his speech.

This was a great intro tour of the history of Cape Town and orientation to the historic sights in town.

Apartheid to Freedom Tour

Growing up, I heard about Apartheid. As an adult, I have read books about it. It’s still a mentality that is difficult for me to understand and comprehend the insane law put in place to control others. 

The tour walks you through many of the sites key to the Apartheid movement including park benches designated for whites vs black, the High Court City Annex where many of the class decisions were made.

This tour was very impactful at describing the conditions of Apartheid and how it controlled people’s lives, split up families and sowed the seeds of hate that led to current conditions in South Africa today.

These type of tours are often very sobering and leave me at a loss for words. I also believe it’s very important to learn history (even the horrors) to understand people and make sure injustices are not repeated.

Bo Kaap Tour

The Bo-Kaap contains the colorful houses you often see in photos of Cape Town. This neighborhood is on the edge of the “City Bowl” of Cape Town going up the slopes of Signal Hill. 

Bo-Kaap’s origins date back to the 1760s when numerous “huurhuisjes” (rental houses) were built and leased to slaves. These people were known as Cape Malays, and were brought from Malaysia, Indonesia and the rest of Africa to work in the Cape. They also brought with them a rich food culture with curries, spices and more.

The houses are a mix of Cape Dutch and Georgian architecture, in distinctive multi-colored rows. There were a few versions of the why the houses are so colorful. 

There was one story of one-upness, one of being able to find your house, and one detailing that the choice of color is said to be attributed to the fact that while on lease, all the houses had to be white. When this rule was eventually lifted, and the slaves were allowed to buy the properties, all the houses were painted bright colors by their owners as an expression of their freedom.

My guide for the Bo-Kaap tour was excellent. This one touched on the history of the Bo-Kaap, the close knit culture that exists today, as well as the cultural struggles it is experiencing today with gentrification. The guide grew up in Cape Town and had friends in the neighborhood, so he was in their houses often and a part of that community. 

His insight and stories were spot-on for providing information with personal touches (but not too personal). He also provided several restaurants to return to to experience more of the Bo-Kaap.

I would highlight recommend taking a tour in this neighborhood. It’s more than taking a picture in front of the house. I was also given the impression that the neighborhood was not taking kindly to drop-ins by people just using their houses for backdrops. As with many areas in Cape Town, it is simply not safe to be there alone or even in a small group.

After the tour which ended in the Bo-Kaap, the guide even recommended to either walk back with the group to the coffee shop or take an Uber for the short 15 minutes walk to the V&A Waterfront. There had been just too many muggings and other unfortunate incidents to walk alone or even in a small group of women (and especially foreigners). He said to a group of 3 women in my group “I know of at least 3 different characters who will give you trouble if you go down this road to the V&A Waterfront”. 

Aggressive begging have increased in the area. I experienced this when I lagged behind the group in one section of the walk. I quickly rejoined the group. Muggings have also increased with the many tourists with expensive cameras. One was even stabbed.

Crime happens everywhere and while it does not deter me from never leaving my house, I do exercise necessary caution to stay safe by being aware of the issues that areas are having and planning accordingly.  I have seen so many pictures of the Bo-Kaap across my social feeds and never one mention of safety in this area.

I would go into this area again but only with an experience guide as I did on this tour. I was glad I was able to learn the history and get a small peak into the culture of the Bo-Kaap

What is the recommended tip for free walking tours?

I generally tip ~$15 per hour for the guide. This number might go up or down based on: (1) Length of the tour (2) Size of the group (3) Covering what was in the walking tour description. Sometimes they don’t go to all the places or the entire route if the group is large (4) Quality of the information.

Cape Town Tour Reviews:

Cape town tour pros.

The great perk of these free walking tours is they allow a great amount of flexibility for your schedule and last minute planning. There is no need to pre-book and the tours run on a set schedule. It’s also great for solo travelers to avoid high expenses of private guides

The guides are also very passionate about their city. This came through with all three different tour guides from this company. 

While people may gripe about “free tours”, I feel they do more good than bad.   Most of the people I have met who run these type of companies are passionate about their cities. They are also doing something to be not only unofficial ambassadors of their city but creating a business which educates people. I do prefer a custom private guide (who wouldn’t to maximize your time & knowledge).   The tour groups usually also offer that option at a fee as well. 

Cape Town Tour Cons

Large group tour: One of the tours was about right with 10 people on it. The other two were large with 25+ people. Moving in a group that big through a city is cumbersome. I also don’t like participating in the herd mentality of groups. 

Tour groups generally tend to hog sidewalks are run over individuals in a mentality to stay with the herd. These tour guides were conscientious in moving their groups out of many through-ways, but its inevitable. It was also difficult to hear at times as there is no headset.

Time: Each tour is about 1.5 hours long. You can do all three tours in one day, and you will have breaks in-between to grab lunch or a snack. However, it makes for a long day especially as the some of the content and routes of the Historic City Tour and Apartheid tour overlap. The guides will offer you recommendation for food stops, but not quite the same as a food tour.

11:00am – Historic City Tour – 1.5 hours 2:00pm – Apartheid to Freedom Tour – 1.5 hours 4:20pm – Bo Kaap Tour – 1.5 hours

Note: Check the website for the schedule. Other tours are offered at different times.

Information

For the Free Walking Tours, I would overall give it a “B”. The information was consistent to what I have read and other information I have received so it did not feel like they were making up anecdotes or jokes which I often found on other tours. All of the guides too did seem very passionate about what they were doing and I commend them for that.

All three tours touch on the tough subjects of apartheid, race and gentrification. I can imagine this is difficult to explain, especially in short periods of time.

I thought it was handled well except one incident. One of the guides on the Apartheid tour was relaying the information in a game show format, making people guess, on a topic which no-one wants to get wrong. When people did not respond or gave the wrong answer, the guides response came off as superior and indignant.

I am not a fan of game-show type guiding in the first place as people are coming to learn, not be tested. I also feel that there is no way to walk in someone else’s shoes, and if they are willing to walk beside you and learn, you should not shut them down for not knowing enough. 

Ironically, this guide was born after apartheid had ended and was not relaying first hand knowledge. Though the ramifications of Apartheid are of course still felt today in Cape Town, the indignation directed at foreigners coming to learn did not sit right with me. Maybe the guide just had a long day and one too many tourists.

Regardless, this tour was only part of the 4.5 hours I spent on the tours and overall they provided good information, efficient tours and a great introduction to Cape Town. It delivered as advertised.

Take a walking tour in Cape Town. The history is both rich and complicated and a good guide will enhance your trip.

Free Walking Tours is a good choice if you want to keep your itinerary flexible and jump on a last-minute walking tour covering one of these topics. It would also be a good option if you are just interested in one topic.

However, I do not think the three individual tours was the best use of my time if you want to cover all of these topics and also integrate some food stops. The Historic Walking Tour and Apartheid Tour overlapped in both content and the route – though both provided information and sights the other did not that I would want to see and learn about. It was nice to take breaks between the tours and enjoy the food and some of the museums but this could be accomplished with one guide.

A better choice: I would recommend one of the following:

• Free Walking Tours : Book a “custom tour” through the “Free Walking Tours” company to incorporate the three topics and a food stop (They also have a food tour on their site)
• With Locals : Arrange a guide with another company like With Locals. I did not take this tour, however after returning, this is exactly what I would have booked had I saw it. It is a 4 hour walking tour for $70 for one person (a little more $, but comparable to what I tipped for 3 individual tours) and would be a better use of time, a private tour, and covers all three topics and adds in some food stops. The price goes down for more people on the group, so this would be even more economical with 2-4 people.

Inspired to visit Cape Town?

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Teri Didjurgis

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Bo-Kaap Roots Scheduled Tours

Bo-Kaap Tour 

With tea & traditional treat.

Price: R450.00 pp

Duration: 2 Hrs

~ Walking tour of Bo-Kaap  ~

~  Fascinating history  ~

~  Sights, smells and sounds of Bo-Kaap  ~

  ~  Unique traditions  ~

  ~  Colourful Chiappinni Street  ~

~  Storytelling and tea in a host’s home  ~

With a Cape Malay Meal

Price: R960.00 pp

Duration: 3 Hrs

~ Stroll through the colourful Bo-Kaap  ~

~ History and Culture  ~

~ Preserving heritage  ~

~ Murals on traditions  ~

~ Authentic Cape-Malay meal  ~

~ Warm, friendly community  ~

With a Cape Malay Cooking Class

Price: R1140.00 pp

Duration: 3.5 Hrs

~ Walking Tour of Bo-Kaap  ~

~ Origins of this oldest suburb  ~

~ Fusion of traditions  ~

~ Authentic experience with a local guide  ~

~ Striking colourful houses  ~

~ Warm hospitality  ~

~ Fun, interactive cooking class  ~

With Traditional Music, Tea & Traditional Treat

Price: R4 400.00 fixed amount (1 – 6 pax) Additional people a further R580.00 pp

Duration: 2 Hrs

~ History shared by a neighbourhood Guide  ~

~ Beautiful traditions  ~

~ Stroll through the multicoloured houses  ~

~ Tea and a traditional treat  ~

~ Traditional Ghoema music  ~

~ Let the music do the talking  ~

 - Minimum two guests per Tour -

 - Please feel free to make use of our Contact Page   to enquire about group discounts -

Top of page

Bo-kaap roots scheduled tours.

Price: R450.00 pp

~ History  ~

~ Sights, smells & sounds of Bo-Kaap  ~

~ Unique traditions  ~

~ Colourful Chiappinni Street  ~

~ Storytelling & tea in a host’s home  ~

Price: R960.00 pp

~ Ambling through the colourful  ~   ~  Streets of Bo-Kaap  ~

~ Warm, friendly community   ~

And Cape Malay Cooking Class

Price: R1140.00 pp

~ Authentic experience with local guides  ~

Traditional Music, Tea & Treat

Duration:2 Hrs Price: R4 400.00

(Fixed amount 1 – 6 pax) Additional people R580.00 pp

~ Knowledgeable neighbourhood Guide  ~

~ Stroll through multicoloured houses  ~

 - Please feel free to make use of our Contact Page  

to enquire about group discounts -

View our T's & C's

© 2023 bokaaproots.co.za

Walking Tour of the Bo-Kaap in Cape Town

Walking Tour of Bo-Kaap in Cape Town

If there's one place that I must visit every time I go to Cape Town , it's the Bo-Kaap. I'm ever so fascinated by this historic, colourful district, which is always a sight for sore eyes. On my most recent trip to the Mother City, I did a walking tour in the Bo-Kaap with  Walk Cape Town  and learnt so much more about the area.

Guided walking tours to the Bo-Kaap leave from the City Sightseeing Bus offices in Long Street daily. That’s where we met our local guide, Sheldon, and began the tour. Our group of about a dozen people were from Nigeria, Germany and Switzerland. There were also other South Africans like us.

Tourists in Bo-Kaap

En route, Sheldon pointed out the Jan De Waal house on Bree Street. Originally from Amsterdam, Jan who was a church sexton, built the first houses in the Bo-Kaap which he subsequently rented out to the slaves. They were known as huurhuisies (rental houses).

Cape Heritage Hotel

We then stepped into the Cape Heritage Hotel located in Heritage Square. Historic features such as original walls and windows can still be seen in the hotel, alongside murals depicting the history of the square and Cape Town. The hotel houses the Sisonke Gallery which was created to promote upcoming young artists, as well as some eateries and shops. The central courtyard is shaded by South Africa’s oldest grapevine which was planted in 1771 and still bears fruit!

Spot South Africa’s oldest grapevine

From there, we proceeded to the Bo-Kaap, walking up the cobbled slopes while Sheldon told us about the history, culture and traditions of the area, as he pointed out the best photo spots.

View from the arch

Lying on the lower slopes of Signal Hill, the name Bo-Kaap means “above the Cape”. It was previously known as the Malay Quarter. Unlike the multi-coloured houses that line its narrow streets, attracting tourists and photographers from far and wide, the Bo-Kaap has a somewhat dark history.

Bo-Kaap Houses

It was first established in 1760 as a slave quarter, and many of the current residents are descendants of these slaves, who were brought to the Cape by the Dutch in the 16th and 17th centuries from Malaysia, Indonesia, as well as other Asian and African countries. There were traders, religious scholars, skilled craftsmen, artisans and convicts too. They brought their religion, cuisine, culture and language with them. I realised this to a great extent when I visited Malaysia and heard words being used that I normally associate with the Cape Malay community.

Bo-Kaap House

Most of the Bo-Kaap houses were built before 1860 and reflect a mixture of Cape Dutch and Cape Georgian architectural styles. The oldest house there still in its original form, is now home to the Bo Kaap Museum where you can learn more about the history of the area. It was built by Jan de Waal in 1768.

The houses of the Bo-Kaap are painted in vivid shades of vibrant colours, making the Bo-Kaap one of the main attractions in Cape Town, mainly due to its Instagrammability . There are several theories about the origins of the rainbow colours but the most popular one seems to be that residents were previously restricted in the colours they were allowed to use and when this rule was finally lifted they painted their houses in bright, cheerful colours to express their joy and newly-found freedom. They often re-paint their houses in celebration of Eid or other special occasions, and usually after consulting with their neighbours, to avoid clashes.

There are currently no restrictions on colours. Sheldon said that he asked one of the residents why he painted his house dark green, and he responded that it was because it was the colour of the Springboks (South Africa’s national rugby team). Another resident painted her house purple because it was the colour of royalty.

In between the streets of colourful houses, you will see walls with brightly painted murals.

Street art in Bo-Kaap

Cape Malay cuisine is unique and includes delicacies like koeksisters, boboties and bredies. Many of the residents offer cooking experiences in their homes. Faeeza’s Home Kitchen is one of them. Faeeza also has a tea garden which has hosted celebrities like Prince Harry, Meghan Markle, and Roger Federer. Other popular local eateries are Biesmiellah Restaurant, Bo-Kaap Kombuis, and Against The Grain.

Faeeza's Kitchen

The Bo-Kaap is predominantly Muslim and there are 10 mosques there, the oldest being the Auwal (First) Mosque which was built in 1794. Inside the mosque, there is a Quran handwritten from memory by Tuan Guru , an Indonesian prince who was incarcerated on Robben Island long before Nelson Mandela . He was the first imam of the mosque. Built in 1820, the Palm Tree Mosque is the second oldest Mosque in the Bo Kaap. The 5 palm trees outside the mosque represent the 5 pillars of Islam.

Palm Tree Mosque

Recently, Bo-Kaap residents have been fighting against gentrification, price hikes and evictions, which is threatening the heritage of the area.

We walked back to the City Sightseeing offices, after a thought-provoking walk. The tours are free but tipping is recommended. We’ve done them in several countries and they’re well worth the tip, as the tours are normally given by local guides with in-depth knowledge and inside information about the area. I would highly recommend doing the City Sightseeing Bus tour to see the rest of the city.

Where to stay in the Bo Kaap

If you want a luxury stay in the Bo-Kaap, the Hyatt Regency Cape Town is ideally located at the beginning of the Bo-Kaap district, close enough for one to immerse oneself in the culture and colour of the neighbourhood but not enough to encroach on its ambience.

Related posts:

• The Hyatt Regency Cape Town – A luxe stay in the Bo-kaap
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24 comments on “Walking Tour of the Bo-Kaap in Cape Town”

Love these images! We visited years ago but on a gray, rainy day so didn't get any of these beautiful pictures.

It's so colorful! I really wish I got to visit this part of Cape Town when we were there - so beautiful! A walking tour is definitely the way to go.

Such a pretty and colourful part of Cape Town! I'll add a Bo-Kaap walking tour to my itinerary next time I'm in South Africa. Saving this for later!

Can I stay in one of these houses for a day? They look so vibrant and lovely.

Really fine post. I adore this site. Keep it up.

Wow!! Loving all the colours!! Although think that pink would give me a headache!!

You want to spend a few days right in the middle if it? book one of the fabulous rooms at Rouge on Rose , boutique hotel, a fabulous place with great hosts at a very reasonable price.

Thanks for the suggestion Nadine. Will have a look at it the next time I'm in the area.

omg are these places for real?? gorgeous pictures... really enjoyed reading this :)I can only imagine what a wonderful community to put up that sign! how were the locals?

Thank you Sahar. It does look like a make-believe world but the locals are authentic, friendly and welcoming.

MashaAllah, what attractive pictures and beautiful, colorful little houses! I would love to visit this place, seems like out of a story book... full of fascination 🙂

It's a fascinating place. Do come visit soon!

MashaAllah what a beautiful sight! The Masjid looks so fresh and pretty. Fascinating bit of background info for this beautiful place, thank you for sharing it with us. Definitely adding SA to my holiday list, I hope I get to visit one day inshaAllah.

Thank you! South Africa has many beautiful places. Do come visit soon!

Love the place! Its so vibrant and colourful. I wish i could take a walk down the streets one day InshAllah.

Thank you thequintessentialhousewife. Hopefully you will be able to walk down that street soon!

These houses are beautiful mashaAllah, really vibrant. Defo adding this to my holiday list inshaAllah

That would be awesome ChristalBlogs. Do come visit soon.

Wow beautiful places... everything looks so out of the world..

I agree - it looks like a make-believe world.

I want to take a walk down this street every day! MashAllah so colourful 😀

I think it would lift ones spirits to walk in such a colourful street everyday!

I want the pink house! Lol I love all the colours!

You can have the pink house - I'll take the purple one 😉

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Unforgettable experiences

Bo-Kaap Community Walking Tour (Includes a Local Experience)

Nestled like a colorful jewel in the crown of Cape Town, the Bo-Kaap Community Walking Tour beckons visitors to uncover the vibrant tapestry of the Malay community. Led by a local guide, this immersive experience promises to unveil the hidden gems and untold stories of this historic neighborhood.

As participants meander through the cobbled streets and pastel-hued houses, they are not just observers but active participants in a living cultural narrative. The tour offers a unique opportunity to witness firsthand the traditions and customs that have shaped the Bo-Kaap community, leaving guests with a deeper understanding of its rich heritage and a desire to explore further.

• Explore Bo-Kaap’s vibrant streets and rich cultural heritage .
• Indulge in authentic Malay dishes and cooking methods.
• Engage with the local community to understand their traditions.
• Discover the blend of cultures shaping Bo-Kaap for an immersive experience.

Here's some more nearby activities we've reviewed

• From Cape Town: Winelands Cycling Tour
• Aquila Reserve: Private Day Tour With Shared Game Drive
• Cape Town: 1.5-Hour Luxury Sunset Cruise With Prosecco
• Private Chauffeur Driver Service Cape Town

Activity Details

Curious about the Bo-Kaap Community Walking Tour’s activity details? The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing payment flexibility by allowing travelers to reserve now and pay later. This way, you can keep your travel plans flexible without any upfront costs.

The duration of the activity is 2 hours, and availability times can be checked for different starting slots. A live tour guide is available to lead the tour in English, enhancing the experience with local insights and knowledge.

These features make the Bo-Kaap Community Walking Tour a convenient and engaging way to explore the vibrant community and learn about its rich history.

Experience Overview

To fully immerse in the vibrant Bo-Kaap community, participants of the walking tour can anticipate an enriching local experience that delves into the Malay community’s history and cultural significance.

This experience offers a unique opportunity to explore the rich cultural heritage of the Bo-Kaap neighborhood while enjoying local cuisine and engaging with the community’s traditions.

Throughout the tour, visitors will have the chance to sample authentic Malay dishes, learn about traditional cooking methods, and understand the cultural significance of food in the Malay community.

Plus, the tour provides insights into the historical background of the area, highlighting the unique blend of cultures that have shaped Bo-Kaap into the vibrant and colorful community it’s today.

Tour Highlights

One of the key highlights of the Bo-Kaap Community Walking Tour is the opportunity to learn about the vibrant history and culture of the Malay community through a guided exploration of the neighborhood’s colorful streets.

Welcome to Bo-Kaap

Enjoy the vibrant and culturally rich community of Bo-Kaap through a guided walking tour that offers a local experience, optional lunch, and a historical exploration focused on the Malay community.

Bo-Kaap welcomes visitors with open arms, allowing for a deep culture into its colorful streets and historical significance. As you walk through the cobblestone roads, the aroma of local cuisine fills the air, enticing you to taste traditional Malay dishes that are part of the optional lunch provided during the tour.

This experience not only showcases the beauty of Bo-Kaap’s architecture and vibrant homes but also delves into the heart of the community, offering insights into its rich history and cultural heritage.

Explore Bo-Kaap through its food, stories , and traditions , making this tour a truly unforgettable experience.

Bo-Kaap Community Insights

Stepping into the Bo-Kaap community offers a unique window into the historical and cultural tapestry of this vibrant neighborhood. The community culture is rich and diverse, with a blend of Cape Malay heritage evident in the colorful homes and warm hospitality.

Exploring Bo-Kaap provides insights into the traditions, customs, and lifestyle of its residents, showcasing a close-knit community proud of its roots. One can’t overlook the significance of local cuisine in understanding Bo-Kaap’s essence. The tantalizing aromas wafting from family kitchens and the opportunity to taste authentic dishes during the tour are a testament to the importance of food in this community’s identity.

Embracing Bo-Kaap’s community culture and savoring its local cuisine promise an enriching experience for visitors seeking a deeper connection with this historic neighborhood.

Tour Directions

Exploring the Bo-Kaap community further involves navigating through its vibrant streets with a local guide to discover the intricate tapestry of historical and cultural landmarks. As visitors stroll along the cobblestone pathways, they’ll encounter the tantalizing aromas of local cuisine wafting from family kitchens and street vendors.

The guide will point out architectural marvels like the iconic brightly colored houses that line the streets, each with a unique history dating back centuries. Plus, visitors will have the opportunity to witness the fusion of Dutch and Cape Malay architectural styles in the mosques and buildings scattered throughout the neighborhood.

This immersive experience offers a deeper understanding of Bo-Kaap’s rich heritage and its significance in Cape Town’s cultural tapestry.

• Engage with the tantalizing aromas of local cuisine.
• Discover the architectural marvels of the brightly colored houses.
• Witness the fusion of Dutch and Cape Malay architectural styles.

Here's a few more nearby tours and experiences we have reviewed.

• Constantia Wine Valley Bicycle Tour
• Cape Town City Tour: Table Mountain, Kirstenbosch & Wine
• Cape Town: Table Mountain Abseiling Experience
• Cape Town: Peninsula Road Bike Tour
• From Cape Town: Round-Trip to Aquila With Game Drive
• Cape Town: Private Jeep Constantia Wine Tour With Tastings

Common questions

Are there any specific dress code requirements for the bo-kaap community walking tour.

When exploring the Bo-Kaap community, visitors should adhere to modest dress codes out of respect for cultural norms . Dress respectfully, covering shoulders and knees. Comfortable shoes are recommended for the walking tour experience.

Is There Any Particular Etiquette or Customs to Be Aware of When Interacting With the Local Community During the Tour?

When interacting with the local community during the tour, it’s important to respect local customs and etiquette. Being mindful of cultural traditions, asking questions respectfully , and showing genuine interest in their heritage can enhance the experience.

Are There Any Opportunities for Hands-On Cultural Experiences or Activities During the Tour?

During the tour, participants can engage in hands-on workshops and cultural activities , offering a deeper immersion into the Malay community’s traditions. These experiences provide a unique opportunity to actively participate and learn firsthand.

Can Participants Expect to Interact With Local Artisans or Community Members During the Tour?

Participants can expect engaging local interactions during the tour, including artisan demonstrations . This immersive experience offers a chance to connect with community members and witness traditional craftsmanship firsthand, adding depth to the exploration.

Are There Any Specific Local Dishes or Snacks That Participants Should Try During the Optional Lunch Provided on the Tour?

When on the tour, participants can savor local delicacies and culinary delights during the optional lunch. The experience offers a taste of authentic flavors, enhancing the immersion into the vibrant Bo-Kaap community and its rich history.

Here's more of our most recent tour reviews happening neaby

• Sunset Boat Cruise Cape Town
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• Boulders Beach Cape Town: Swimming With Penguin & Close Encounter Half Day Tour
• Private Cape of Good Hope Cape Point Penguin Kirstenbosch Tour.
• Robben Island Scenic Helicopter Flight
• Cape Point Full Day Tour
• Private Mountain Biking Tour From Cape Town
• 1-3 Passenger Private Cape Town – Airport Transfer
• Langa Township – Arts and Culture Tour
• Best of Cape Town Cape Point and Wineries Combined Private Tour

Step into the vibrant world of Bo-Kaap with the Community Walking Tour for a truly immersive experience. Explore the rich history, colorful homes , and deep-rooted heritage of this Malay community in the heart of Cape Town.

With a knowledgeable guide leading the way, participants can connect with the local culture and history on a journey that promises to be both memorable and enriching.

Don’t miss out on this opportunity to discover the beauty of Bo-Kaap firsthand.

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THE 10 BEST Bo-Kaap Tours & Excursions

Bo-kaap tours.

• Ports of Call Tours
• Historical & Heritage Tours
• Sightseeing Tours
• Cultural Tours
• Private Tours
• Walking Tours
• Wine Tours & Tastings
• Multi-day Tours
• Photography Tours
• Hop-On Hop-Off Tours
• Scenic Railroads
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Likely to Sell Out
• Special Offers
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Table Mountain, Penguins & Cape Point Small Group Tour from Cape Town

2. The Cape Town Essentials Food Tour

3. From Cape Town: Table Mountain, Cape of Good Hope & Penguins including Park Fees

4. Table Mountain & Cape Town City Half Day Private guided Tour

5. Table Mountain, Penguins Colony and Cape of Good Hope Small Group Shared Tour

6. Cape Town Food tour with locals

7. Private Table Mountain, Kirstenbosch and Constantia Wine Tasting.

8. Half Day Table Mountain and Penguins Shared Group Tour

9. Private Cape Town Table Mountain Bo-Kaap + Cable Car Tickets H/D

10. Travel Photography

11. 4 Day Cape Town Essential Tours & Overnight Big 5 Safari At Inverdoorn

12. Sunset Champagne Cruise from Cape Town,Table Mountain,Bo-Kaap

13. Robben Island Prison Museum Table Mountain Bo-Kaap All Tickets Included Full Day

14. Private Cape Town City Tour

15. Private Guided Tour in Cape of Good Hope and Table Mountain

16. Private Cape of Good Hope Sightseeing and African Penguin Tour

17. 3 Days Private Tour: Cape of Good Hope, Penguins, Table Mountain & Robben Island

18. Cape Of Good Hope Bo-Kaap Penguins Full Day Shared Tour Excluding Entry Fees

19. Cape Town Private City Tour

20. African Penguins (Boulders Beach) Half Day tour from Cape Town

21. Three Day Private Tour - Cape Peninsula/Table Mnt/Stellenbosch Winelands

22. Private Tour: Cape Of Good Hope & Wine Tasting

23. Cape of Good Hope and Penguins - Small Group - Full day

24. Small Group Table Mountain Penguin Colony and Cape Point Tour

25. Table Mountain Boulder's Beach and Cape Point

26. Cape Town's Must Do Tours (Walking,Cycling and E-scooters)

27. Private Visit to Robben Island Bo-Kaap Plus Table Mountain + All Tickets F/day

28. 3 Day Cape Town Holiday South Africa

29. Boulders Beach Cape Town: Swimming With Penguin & Close Encounter Half Day Tour

30. Cape of Good Hope & Penguins Full Day Tour From (The Mother City) Cape Town.

What travelers are saying.

• Table Mountain, Penguins & Cape Point Small Group Tour from Cape Town
• From Cape Town: Table Mountain, Cape of Good Hope & Penguins including Park Fees
• The Cape Town Essentials Food Tour
• Table Mountain, Penguins & Cape of Good Hope Small Group Top Tour from Cape Town
• Cape Town - 7 Attractions On One Private Full Day Guided Tour
• Closer to Africa Tours
• Waterfront Experiences
• Tribal Lion Safaris
• Soraya De Bruyns

Free Walking Tours in Cape Town

NEW! Best of Bo Kaap Tour

Bo Kaap Walking Tour

Twice a day departing from Motherland Coffee, St Georges Mall .

Starts at 14:00 and 16:20

See the colourful houses, smell the spices of the East, hear the mosques calling for prayer, let the Cape Malay food tempt your taste buds and get a feel of what else to do in Cape Town. On the way there we could reveal hidden spots to enjoy a local beer…

Highlights on our Cape Town tour include the oldest Mosque, Auwal Masjeed, the story of Tuan Guru, the old Tailor’s House, the different coloured houses, Biesmiellah Cape Malay Restaurant, the Atlas Spice Trading Centre for spices from the east and the beautiful Chiappini Street.

How do I join this tour?

• No need to book!  
• Just arrive and sign up at Motherland Coffee, St Georges Mall
• Look out for our green umbrellas !
• Tours departing every day  365 days a year Rain or Sunshine at  14:00 and 16:20
• Like our Facebook Page for regular updates

CAPE TOWN FOR CAPETONIANS

Discover the City’s hidden gems with these walking tours

Cape Town is a place of incredible beauty, history and culture – it’s no wonder the City is a popular destination for travellers worldwide.

One of the best ways to experience the City is on foot, with a walking tour that will take you through the most iconic neighbourhoods, historical sites and natural wonders.

Here are some of the best walking tours in Cape Town:

1. Bo-Kaap Walking Tour

The Bo-Kaap Walking Tour is a popular tour that takes visitors through the colourful and historic neighbourhood also known as the Cape Malay Quarter.

The Bo-Kaap is famous for its brightly painted houses, cobbled streets and rich cultural heritage. During the tour, visitors will have the opportunity to explore the narrow streets of Bo-Kaap and learn about the area’s history, people and traditions.

The neighbourhood was once home to the Cape Malay community, who were brought to Cape Town as slaves from Indonesia, Malaysia and other parts of Southeast Asia. Today, the area is a vibrant mix of cultures and religions, with a strong Muslim community and a rich culinary heritage.

2. Historic City Tour

The Historic City Tour is a great way to explore the historic heart of the City and learn about its fascinating past.

Our City’s rich history spans over 350 years, and its centre is home to many important landmarks and monuments, which reflect our colonial and apartheid-era past.

The walking tour includes seeing the Company’s Garden, Parliament, Green Market Square, the Castle of Good Hope and the Iziko Slave Lodge.

Also read:   Discovering Cape Malay cuisine and culture: The Bo-Kaap Cooking Tour

3. District Six Walking Tour

District Six is a residential area, once vibrant and diverse, that was forcibly evacuated and demolished during apartheid in the 1960s and 1970s after being declared a “whites-only” area by the government.

Today, the District Six Museum and walking tour serve as a tribute to the former residents of the neighbourhood and their struggle for justice and restitution.

The tour takes visitors through the streets of the area, which is now largely empty, and provides a glimpse into the lives of the former residents and the history of the area.

4. Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens Walking Tour

Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens is one of Cape Town’s most popular attractions, and a walking tour is a great way to explore this beautiful natural wonder.

Kirstenbosch sits on the slopes of Table Mountain, and is home to a stunning array of plant species. The free walking tour starts at the visitor centre (Gate 1), where visitors can purchase entry tickets and grab a map.

Some of the highlights of the tour include a visit to the Boomslang Walkway, the Fragrance Garden, the Protea Garden, the Succulent Garden, and the Garden of Extinction, which features plants that are critically endangered or extinct in the wild.

5. Woodstock Street Art Walking Tour

Woodstock has become known as one of the City’s vibrant artistic hubs, and the Woodstock Street Art Walking Tour is a great way to explore the area’s many murals and graffiti works.

The tour is usually led by a local guide, who is familiar with the area’s street art scene and can provide insights into the artists and their work. The tour typically starts in the heart of Woodstock and winds through the neighbourhood’s many streets and alleyways, where visitors can discover a wide variety of different styles and techniques.

The tour includes art that showcases the country’s political history and highlights contemporary social issues, giving visitors a chance to learn about the cultural and historical context of Cape Town street art.

Visit Cape Town’s newest street art on a Culture Connect SA tour

Picture:  Cape Town Tourism

Article written by Jules Keohane

CapeTownETC

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