Categories: Bo-KaapCape TownWestern Cape

What to do in Bo-Kaap

Traditional Cape Malay cuisine in Bo-Kaap. Photo: Rodnae-productions / pexels

Bo-Kaap doesn’t just offer beautiful, coloured house. Culture-buffs and foodies are spoiled for choice in this suburb. With the area being as historically and culturally-rich as it is, visitors can take their pick of art exhibits, museums and historical and food tours. Here’s our top picks:

Iziko Bo-Kaap Museum

Iziko South African Museum, The Company’s Garden. Photo: Javier Gallego / Flickr

Why you should visit: The Bo-Kaap Museum, situated on Wale Street, in the historic area that became home to many Muslims and freed slaves after the abolition of slavery, showcases local Islamic culture and heritage.

How much does it cost: Entrance fee for the museum is R20 for adults and R10 for children above 5-years-old.

Cape Malay Art Exhibition

Cape Malay colourful houses on Dorp Street, Cape Town. Photo: Kyle Waterston / Unsplash

Why you should visit: The gallery is currently one of the finest Cape Town art institutions dealing with the exhibition and sales of artworks. The exhibition contains art dedicated to the struggles of the Cape Malay people, as well as, their contributions to South African culture and society.

How to get there: Wander down Wale Street, Cape Town to find this gem of a place.

Auwal Mosque

Auwal Masjid, recognised as the first mosque established in South Africa. Photo: Kamal Anwar / Flickr

Why you should visit: Established in 1794, Auwal Mosque is South Africa’s first and oldest mosque. Auwal Masjid is regarded as symbolic of the struggle by Cape Muslims for the recognition of Islam, as well as their freedom to worship.

How to get there: Situated on Dorp Street, the mosque allows day visits , however, it’s best to check directly with the mosque about visiting.

The Bo-Kaap Cooking Tour

Various typical Cape Malay spices. Photo: Shantanu Pal / Pexels

Why you should experience it: Cooking and walking tours are popular things to do in Cape Town but the Bo-Kaap Cooking tour, in particular, takes you on a voyage into the life, food and culture of the Cape Malays, whilst offering you a hands-on, practical lesson on how to cook. Learn how to fold Samoosas and mix Masala for that perfect pot of Cape Malay Curry.

How much does it cost: The cooking tour is priced from R1 100 per person and is 3.5 hours long, with a take-home recipe book and mixed masala upon completion.

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