Bo Kaap In Cape Town

History of Bo Kaap

Bo Kaap was formerly called the Malay Quarter, which gives away its traditionally multicultural and multiracial nature. The neighbourhood was established when Jan de Waal purchased a small block of land at the foot of Signal Hill between Dorp and Wale streets, and built several small rental houses to lease to his slaves. Because the local residents here were constantly fighting the Dutch colonizers, slaves were imported from Malaysia, Indonesia and other such countries where they had their colonies, which gave the place the name ‘Malay Quarter’. Though the history of Bo Kaap, South Africa is not a proud one, but it is important to know to understand its significance. Later on, Muslim immigrants and political exiles were also deported here. Together all these families built up a diverse and dynamic culture in the heart of Cape Town.

Attractions of Bo Kaap

The main attraction of Bo Kaap walking tours is the cobbled streets dotted with the famous Bo Kaap colourful houses. When the houses were built for lease, they were white in colour and they were later painted bright by homeowners as an expression of freedom from slavery and oppression. Do visit the oldest building here on your Bo Kaap tour in Wale Street, which currently houses the Bo Kaap Museum. Read about the real history of the area here from the exhibits of the museum. The first established Muslim mosque of South Africa, the Auwal Mosque, is also located here. There is a host of craft stalls, small Islamic kramats or shrines and delicious Malay food stalls to explore as well.

Things to Do in Bo Kaap

Enjoy Bo Kaap Free Walking Tour: This is a great way to get an insight into Bo Kaap’s culture, traditions, and history. One can take a free walking tour to Bo Kaap which is organized by the Nielson Tours. This is an informative tour wherein visitors gets to know about the Bo Kaap attractions, best places to shop, historical places to visit, and best restaurants and cafes to eat in.

Visit Bo Kaap Museum: This museum is an extended version of the South African Cultural History Museum and was established in the year 1976. The museum is designed in a way that it looks like its a home to a family. The museum tells about the lifestyle of a 19th-century traditional Muslim family.

Relish the taste of Cape Malay Cuisine: When visiting Bo Kaap make sure to savor to your taste buds with the Cape Malay cuisine that involves fragrant curries samosas and rotis with loads of fruits and spices. You can visit Bo-Kaap Kombuis and Biesmiellah restaurants to try some of the best Cape Malay cuisines.

Visit Marco’s African Place: This is an amalgamation of culture, art, music, and food. It is a popular restaurant in Bo Kaap which is frequently visited by many travelers as well as locals. The ambiance of the restaurant is lit and is based on African culture and style.