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Everything You Need to Know about Bo-Kaap in Cape Town
The Bo-Kaap is a vibrant neighbourhood in Cape Town, known for its colourful houses, cobblestone streets, and predominantly Muslim Cape Malay community.
Dating back to the 1760s, Bo-Kaap was originally known as the Malay Quarter. The area was populated by slaves and political exiles from Dutch colonies such as Indonesia and East Africa, who brought their Malay language and culture with them.
The bright houses, featuring Cape Dutch and Georgian styles, were originally white due to leasing rules. After gaining ownership, residents painted them vibrant colours to celebrate their freedom.
Where is Bo-Kaap?
Bo-Kaap is located at the base of Signal Hill, close to the city centre.
What is the main street in Bo-Kaap?
The main street in Bo-Kaap is Wale Street. It’s a central route that connects you to the area’s Islamic shrines, mosques, food and craft markets.
How to Get to Bo-Kaap
By Foot: Bo-Kaap is just a five-minute walk from the Cape Town CBD. Simply follow Wale Street straight up until you reach the IZIKO Bo-Kaap Museum.
By Bus: You can use the MyCiTi bus service, with the nearest stop being the Old Fire Station stop. Take bus number 105 to get there.
By Taxi: The base fare for taxis is around R20, with an additional R10 per kilometre. You can set your drop-off point to your desired destination in Bo-Kaap for a direct and hassle-free arrival.
What to Do and See in Bo-Kaap
Take an audio tour
Media from janetnewenham
I took a 20-minute Audio Tour from the Bo-Kaap Museum, led by Shereen Habib.
With her 20 years of guiding experience, Shereen provided a personal and insightful perspective. Her stories made the historical streets come alive and showed why this part of Cape Town is so cherished by people worldwide.
Visit the Bo-Kaap Museum
Media from wanderer.capetown
Website: https://www.iziko.org.za/museums/bo-kaap-museum/
Address: 71 Wale St, Schotsche Kloof
Phone: +27 21 481 3938
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Saturday – 9 AM to 5 PM
I visited the Bo-Kaap Museum, which is set in one of the oldest houses in the neighbourhood from the 1760s.
The museum offered me a fascinating glimpse into the Bo-Kaap community, known for its mix of Cape Malay, African, and European influences. The exhibits include old documents, photos, artefacts, and some interactive displays.
Explore Auwal Masjid
Media from laudiumtoday
Website: https://www.auwalmasjid.co.za/
Address: 43 Dorp Street
Phone: +27 84 324 6853
Operating Hours:
- Open daily – 9 AM to 5 PM
During my visit to the Auwal Masjid, I was struck by its impressive white façade and tall minaret.
This mosque, the first and oldest in South Africa, has been a cornerstone of the Bo-Kaap community’s rich heritage since the early 18th century. It continues to serve as an important spiritual and social centre for both locals and visitors.
Join a cooking class
Media from outdoorsydiva
Address: 109 Wale St, Schotsche Kloof
I joined a cooking class at Cooking With Love, led by Faldella, whose family has deep roots in the area. The class focused on making traditional Cape Malay dishes like roti, samosas, and chicken curry.
I enjoyed making roti by rolling dough with butter and frying it until crisp, though my samosas had a few leaks. The Cape Malay chicken curry was packed with flavour, and the warm, syrup-soaked koeksisters made a sweet ending to the meal.
Try Scootours
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Website: https://scootours.co.za/
Address: 209 Tafelberg Rd, Table Mountain (Nature Reserve)
Phone: +27 21 100 3900
Operating Hours:
- Open daily – 10 AM to 4:30 PM
Scootours offer an exhilarating ride down Signal Hill to Bo-Kaap on a big-wheeled scooter. When I joined the tour, we were equipped with helmets and gloves and given a brief safety overview on handling the Monster Mountain Scooters.
We then followed a guide down a jeep track, soaking in fantastic views of Table Mountain, Cape Town City Centre, Cape Town Harbour, and Bo-Kaap.
Explore Bo-Kaap on a walking tour
Media from capetownfreewalkingtours
Website: https://freewalkingtourscapetown.co.za/bo-kaap-walking-tour/
Address: Motherland Coffee, St Georges Mall
Operating Hours:
- Starts at 2 PM and 4:20 PM daily
I recently took a free walking tour of Bo Kaap with Free Walking Tours Cape Town. We simply showed up at 2 PM in Parliament Square and looked for their green umbrellas.
Even though I’d been living in Cape Town and knew some of Bo Kaap’s history, the tour offered new insights. Our guide was excellent, and I was glad to leave a tip of around R100, as these tours rely on tips.
Witness the Noon Gun
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Address: Lion Battery, Military Road
After the English took over the Cape in 1795, they replaced the Dutch cannons with a larger English one. Since 1806, this cannon has fired a shot at noon as a time signal, a tradition that continues today.
I’ve watched the South African Navy load and fire the cannon, and it’s fascinating to see how the tradition is kept alive. Visitors can see the process up close, learn about the cannon’s history, and enjoy stunning views of Cape Town.
Check out art galleries
Media from artducap
Addresses:
- Art du Cap: 97 Chiappini St, Schotsche Kloof
- Chandler House: 134 Church St, Schotsche Kloof
- Johans Borman Fine Art Gallery: Buitengracht St, Central
Bo-Kaap is home to several notable art galleries, including Art du Cap, Chandler House, and Johans Borman Fine Art Gallery. Each of these spaces highlights the area’s diverse cultural and artistic heritage.
Where to Eat and Drink in Bo-Kaap
Bo-Kaap Kombuis
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Website: https://www.bokaapkombuis.co.za/
Address: 8001, 7 August St, Schotsche Kloof
Phone: +27 21 422 5446
Pricing: $$
Operating Hours:
- Tuesday to Saturday – 12 PM to 10 PM
- Sunday – 11:30 AM to 3 PM
Bo-Kaap Kombuis, affectionately known as ‘The Kombuis,’ is a Cape Malay restaurant that truly reflects its vibrant surroundings. Owned by Yusuf and Nazli Larney, it’s been a beloved spot for over 17 years.
I’ve enjoyed their flavour-packed curries and savoury vegetarian dishes like potato fritters and samosas. If you’re unsure what to try, their tasting platter is a great choice, offering a selection that includes fish curry, butter chicken, and lamb curry.
Bo-Kaap Deli
Media from bokaapdeli
Address: 114 Church Street
Phone: +27 76 346 6207
Pricing: $
Operating Hours:
- Sunday to Thursday – 8 AM to 4:30 PM
- Friday & Saturday – 8 AM to 10 PM
Bo Kaap Deli has a vibrant, modern atmosphere and offers a great outdoor seating area with some of the best views in the area. The restaurant stands out for its blend of Cape Malay cuisine and contemporary dishes.
I’ve tried their koeksisters and curry, which have a wonderful blend of spices and flavours. On a hot day, their electric lemonade is particularly refreshing, with a surprising twist from the tapioca pearls.
Biesmiellah Restaurant
Media from biesmiellahrestaurant
Website: https://www.biesmiellah.co.za/
Address: 2 Wale St & Pentz Street
Phone: +27 21 423 0850
Pricing: $$
Operating Hours:
- Open daily – 11 AM to 10 PM
I’ve been coming to Biesmiellah, a family-owned restaurant, for years. This halaal eatery stands out for its affordable Cape Malay dishes and warm, welcoming atmosphere.
I particularly enjoy their curries, which balance spicy and aromatic flavours without being overwhelming. Their chilli bites have a pleasantly crisp texture, while the potato fritters offer a comforting, mild heat that’s just right.
Faeeza’s Tea Garden
Media from warrenmendes
Website: https://faeezashomekitchen.com/
Address: Chiappini Ln, Schotsche Kloof
Phone: +27 72 120 3710
Pricing: $$
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Friday – 9 AM to 5 PM
- Saturday – 9 AM to 4 PM
Faeeza’s Tea Garden offers a relaxed setting in a large courtyard with a scenic view of Signal Hill. The menu features a range of traditional dishes like chilli bites, boboties, and various curries, alongside desserts such as koeksisters and milk tart.
During my visit, my friend and I enjoyed a 3-course meal that cost about R200. The roti was soft and warm, the curry was rich and spicy, and the koeksisters had a sweet, syrupy crunch that was a perfect end to the meal.
Marco’s African Place
Media from marcosafricanplace
Website: https://www.marcosafricanplace.com/
Address: 15 Rose St, Schotsche Kloof
Phone: +27 21 423 5412
Pricing: $$
Operating Hours:
- Sunday & Monday – 3 PM to 11 PM
- Tuesday to Saturday – 12 PM to 11 PM
Marco’s African Place is a vibrant 220-seater restaurant that showcases African culture through its décor and live entertainment. The atmosphere is enriched by performances from marimba bands and other local acts.
I tried the Pan African platter, which included springbok, kudu, ostrich, and crocodile. Each meat had a distinct taste, with the springbok being tender and the crocodile offering a mildly gamey flavour, all complemented by traditional Xhosa dishes.
Turkish Döner Haus
Media from originalturkishdoner
Address: Shop 2, 102 Wale St, Schotsche Kloof
Phone: +27 73 600 3648
Pricing: $
Operating Hours:
- Open daily – 10:30 AM to 8 PM
Turkish Döner Haus offers a genuine taste of Turkish cuisine, with its doner wraps standing out for their generous size and authentic flavour. What sets it apart is how the sauce seamlessly blends traditional Turkish tastes with local preferences.
From my experience, the doners are packed with tender, well-seasoned meat and have a nice balance of spice and tanginess from the sauce. Each wrap is filling, and the portion of meat is enough to keep you satisfied.
Where to Stay in Bo-Kaap
Signal Hill Lodge
Website: https://www.signal-hill-lodge.co.za/
Address: 29 Military Rd, Schotsche Kloof
Phone: +27 79 214 4380
Price: $$
Signal Hill Lodge is a delightful spot featuring 16 beautifully decorated rooms inspired by the vibrant Bo-Kaap village. During my stay, I enjoyed the double/twin room with a balcony that boasted breathtaking views of the city bowl and harbour.
The lodge also had a lovely tiered garden where I relaxed under the sun and a bar with a fantastic sunset view. The room was well-equipped with air-conditioning and complimentary Wi-Fi.
Forty on L 607
Address: 40 Military Road
Pricing: $$
Forty on L 607 is a cosy 1-bedroom apartment, offering a comfortable spot for up to two guests. The space is modern and well-designed, with a fully equipped kitchen and a living area that includes a smart TV and fast internet.
I especially enjoyed the balcony with its braai setup, which is perfect for enjoying meals and taking in the views of Bo-Kaap. The rooftop pool was a highlight, providing a great place to cool off and enjoy stunning city views.
La Rose Bed & Breakfast
Media from larosecapetown
Website: https://www.larosecapetown.com/
Address: 32 Rose Street
Phone: +27 21 422 5883
Price: $$
La Rose Bed & Breakfast is a delightful fusion of French, Indian, Cape Malay, and African styles. It features an en suite room with vibrant decor and modern comforts like a cosy double bed and an outdoor patio.
I appreciated the chance to mingle with other guests over a hearty breakfast in the atrium, which was a standout feature of my stay.
The Studios 315
Address: 112 Buitengracht
Price: $$
If you’re looking for a stylish spot to stay, The Studios 315 is a great choice. The split-level apartment has a cosy loft with a queen-sized bed and an en-suite bathroom, which I found perfect for unwinding after a day exploring the city.
The modern kitchen is well-equipped, so cooking up a meal was a breeze, and the lounge area with its comfy chairs and flat-screen TV made for relaxing evenings. Plus, the balcony offers a lovely view of the colourful Bo Kaap houses.
Dorp Hotel
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Website: https://dorp.co.za/
Address: 273 Longmarket St, Schotsche Kloof
Phone: +27 21 612 0298
Price: $$
Dorp Hotel is a hidden gem nestled on the hillside, exuding a quaint village-like charm with its lush gardens and distinctive decor. Each room and suite is uniquely styled, featuring thoughtful touches that enhance the stay.
I particularly enjoyed the rooftop terrace, which offered stunning views of the city and Table Mountain. Additionally, I relaxed on the chaise-longue in the tomato greenhouse, and the midnight snacks made the experience truly delightful.
Where to Shop in Bo-Kaap
Atlas Trading Co
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Website: https://atlastradingonline.com/
Address: 104 Wale St, Schotsche Kloof
Phone: +27 21 423 4361
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Friday – 8:15 AM to 5:15 PM
- Saturday – 8:30 AM to 1 PM
Atlas Trading Co has been a fixture in the city since 1946, offering a wide range of spices and ingredients in a family-run setting. The shop’s aroma of exotic spices greets you well before you enter.
I’ve always enjoyed exploring their shelves, from earthy turmeric to fragrant curry mixes and dried chillies. I usually leave with a few new spices, as it’s hard to resist the variety and quality on offer.
Monkeybiz
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Website: https://monkeybiz.co.za/?v=e4dd286dc7d7
Address: 65 Rose Street
Phone: +27 (0)21 426-0145
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Friday – 9 AM to 5 PM
- Saturday & Sunday – 9 AM to 1 PM
Located next door to the Bo-Kaap Museum, Monkeybiz is a boutique that offers a unique collection of African beads. I’ve always appreciated how they blend traditional beadwork with a modern twist.
When I visited, I found their jewellery to be both striking and thoughtfully designed. It’s impressive to see how their non-profit work supports local families and disadvantaged women, adding even more value to each purchase.
The Diamond Gallery
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Website: https://www.thediamondgallery.co.za/
Address: 15 Jordaan Street
Phone: +27 82 620 7692
Operating Hours:
- Open daily – 8 AM to 8 PM
I visited The Diamond Gallery, and it’s truly a special place for diamond and Tanzanite lovers. Their showroom is impressive, featuring South Africa’s only Tanzanite emporium, making it a unique spot to find a memorable piece.
The team there was incredibly warm and welcoming, answering all my questions and showing me their finest jewellery and gems.
