Bo-Kaap
71 Wale St., Schotsche Kloof, Cape Town, ZAF
Lined with brightly colored houses and lively streets, Bo-Kaap is as vibrant as it is culturally rich. The historic neighborhood, set just outside central Cape Town on the flanks of Signal Hill, is a dynamic melting pot of Malaysian, India, Sri Lankan, and African culture. It was one of the first settlements of freed slaves and Muslim immigrants in South Africa.
Bo-Kaap buzzes with cultural attractions ranging from traditional restaurants and craft markets to museums and churches, and a visit provides a look back in time, as well as a window into the neighborhood’s modern culture. Sample the local cuisine on a food tour, visit the Bo-Kaap Museum in the quarter’s oldest building, or get personal insights from a local on a guided walking tour.
The Bo-Kaap is a must-visit for history buffs and culture enthusiasts.
There are ample dining opportunities within the quarter.
Most of the neighborhood is wheelchair and stroller accessible.
Conveniently located on the outskirts of the Cape Town city center, the Bo-Kaap can easily be reached by public transportation or taxi. You also can visit on a hop-on hop-off bus or a guided tour.
You can visit the neighborhood at any time of day, with the experience varying greatly depending on when you visit. If you want to get the streets to yourself and capture photos of the colorful houses, visit early in the morning. To get to know the local culture, visit in the afternoon or evening. Note that the Bo-Kaap Museum is closed on Sundays.
Located in a historic home that was listed as a National Monument in 1965, the Bo-Kaap Museum is a cultural museum that focuses on Muslim history in the Cape. The historic house has been restored and furnished to display the lifestyle of a 19th-century Muslim family, providing a rare insight into one of South Africa’s underrepresented populations.
Travel Like an Expert with AAA and Trip Canvas
Get Ideas from the Pros
As one of the largest travel agencies in North America, we have a wealth of recommendations to share! Browse our articles and videos for inspiration, or dive right in with preplanned AAA Road Trips, cruises and vacation tours.
Build and Research Your Options
Save and organize every aspect of your trip including cruises, hotels, activities, transportation and more. Book hotels confidently using our AAA Diamond Designations and verified reviews.
Book Everything in One Place
From cruises to day tours, buy all parts of your vacation in one transaction, or work with our nationwide network of AAA Travel Agents to secure the trip of your dreams!