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Bo-Kaap

Bo-Kaap - About the Neighbourhood

The Bo-Kaap is one of Cape Town’s most distinct neighbourhoods known for its vibrant, predominantly Muslim, Cape Malay community and its equally bold flat-roofed colourful houses and cobbled stone roads.

Situated at the foot of Signal Hill, on the fringe of the city centre, and formerly known as the Malay Quarter, the Bo-Kaap’s origins date back to the 1760s when numerous “huurhuisjes” (rental houses) were built and leased to slaves and political exiles brought here from other Dutch colonies in the east including Indonesia’s Batavia, Sumatra, Java and also East Africa. Most of these groups spoke some Malay, hence this new community becoming known as the Cape Malays.

The houses in the area are a mix of Cape Dutch and Georgian architecture and the bright colours, it is said, is 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 colours by their owners as an expression of their freedom.

When visiting this area be sure to go see the oldest mosque in South Africa – the Auwal Mosque in Dorp Street and the oldest building in the Bo-Kaap in Wale Street which currently houses the Bo-Kaap Museum. This is the best place to discover the real history of the area and to get a glimpse into the life of a typical Malay family.

Be sure to try a local cooking tour specialising in traditional Cape Malay treats and visit one of the eateries owned and run by families who are historically rooted in the area

Explore by interest in Bo-Kaap

Popular Attractions in Bo-Kaap

From Kirstenbosch Gardens, to Table Mountain Forests and home to Western Cape Rugby and Cricket, Newlands has so much to offer.

Places to Stay in Bo-Kaap

Newlands is one of the most affluent and beautiful neighbourhoods in Cape Town resting on the slopes of Table Mountain. There is a wide range of accommodation available. 

Places to Eat & Drink in Bo-Kaap

Newlands is home to some of the best restaurants and bars in the city. Whether you’re looking for a casual meal or a night out on the town, there’s something for everyone on offer.

Travel Inspiration

Looking for some travel inspiration for your next trip to Bo-Kaap? Here are some ideas to get you started:

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Nothing says Summer quite like indulging in a picnic basket topped with delicious treats while taking in lush landscapes and dramatic views. 🧺🍷

Here are our suggestions:

📍Cape Point Vineyards
📍MOYO Kirstenbosch
📍Spier Wine Farm
📍Klein Roosboom Boutique Winery
📍Hazendal
📍Cavalli Estate
📍Stellenrust Wine Estate
📍Simon’s at Groot Constantia

What are some of your favourite picnic options in the Mother City? Tag them in the comments section…

#capetown #capetownpicnic #lovecapetown #thingstodoincapetown #travel #placestogo
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Summer 2024 in Cape Town is going to be lit!🔥

Tag someone you want to explore the Mother City with in the comments section…

#capetown #lovecapetown #thingstodoincapetown #travel #capetownsouthafrica #kapstadt #kaapstad #lecap
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Come with us to Paarl ⛰️🍷🌅

Just over an hour’s drive from Cape Town, Paarl is known for its history, culture, natural beauty, and wineries. 💃

Here are some attractions you can visit:
📍 Lounah Café
📍 Taal Monument
📍 Laborie Wine Estate
📍 Playrock Adventure Park
📍 Brookdale Estate
📍 Fanglasstic
📍 KWV Emporium
📍 Plaisir Wine Estate
📍 Blueberry Bar
📍 Adara Palmiet Valley

Tag your favourite Paarl destinations in the comments section…

#paarl #lovecapetown #thingstodoincapetown #kaapstad #lecap #kapstadt #ciudaddelcabo #kapstaden
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It’s the weekend! Grab a friend and head out to these new restaurants in Cape Town. 🍽️

Restaurants featured:
📍Qué Linda: 39 Regent Rd, Sea Point
📍ROOI at One & Only: Dock Rd, Victoria & Alfred Waterfront
📍The Wes Bistro & Bar: 55 Shortmarket St, Cape Town City Centre
📍Spyced: Silo 4, V&A Waterfront

Drop your new Cape Town restaurant and bar recommendations in the comment section. 😉

#lovecapetown #thingstodoincapetown #placestogo #capetown #restaurants
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Planning a trip to Table Mountain? ⛰️

We have compiled a guide on how to spend a day on Table Mountain, including tips for getting there, food and beverage options, and fun activities. 🚠

#tablemountain #capetown #thingstodoincapetown
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Cape Town has been nominated for the prestigious @wanderlustmag Reader Travel Awards in the Most Desirable City – Rest of the World category! 😁

The annual awards spotlight the most-desirable destinations, tour operators, and travel brands.🏆

📹: @eye_am_dad_adventures

#capetown #lovecapetown #capetownsouthafrica #kapstadt #kaapstad #lecap #kapstaden
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It’s giving award-winning destination, and we’re here for it! 💐💐💐💐

Fresh off the heels of winning Africa’s Leading City Destination 2024 at the 31st annual @worldtravelawards last week, Cape Town has been crowned the best city in the world for food, as voted by readers in the 2024 @condenasttraveller Readers’ Choice Awards. 🍽️😋

The Mother City achieved a tantalising score of 95.65, securing its place as a culinary capital and dazzling food lovers with its rich tapestry of flavours and gastronomic experiences. 👏

Tag some of your favourite Cape Town restaurants in the comments section.

📹: @chloekimgrootboom

#capetown #lovecapetown #capetownfoodie #capetownsouthafrica #kapstadt #kaapstad #lecap #kapstaden
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