
Image by Jean van der Meulen via Pixabay
Come for the houses, stay for the culture, and leave with memories that will last a lifetime …
Welcome to the Bo-Kaap: a neighbourhood in Cape Town, South Africa, that is sure to brighten up your day (and your Instagram feed). With its cobblestone streets and colourful houses, this lively area is a must-see on any Cape Town itinerary. Whether you’re looking to learn about the neighbourhood’s rich history or indulge in some delicious Cape Malay cuisine, there’s something for everyone in the Bo-Kaap.
But before we get started on our adventure, let’s take a quick look at the history of the Bo-Kaap. Originally known as the Malay Quarter, Bo-Kaap is one of the oldest neighbourhoods in Cape Town and was once home to many slaves and political exiles. Today, it’s a vibrant community known for its Cape Malay culture and colourful houses that are painted in a rainbow of hues.
Speaking of colours, let’s talk about the houses in the Bo-Kaap. From bright pink to sunny yellow to mint green, the houses are a photographer’s dream. And the best part? Each house is a different colour, so there’s no shortage of stunning photo opportunities. You might even find yourself getting lost in the winding streets, marvelling at the colours around every corner.
If you want to explore the Bo-Kaap in more detail, we highly recommend taking Where It All Began’s Walking Tour. Not only will you get to stretch your legs and burn off some of those koeksisters (more on those later), but you’ll also get a chance to learn about the neighbourhood’s history and culture from a knowledgeable guide. Just remember to wear comfortable shoes and dress appropriately for the weather.
As you stroll through the Bo-Kaap, you’ll notice the strong influence of Cape Malay culture. The neighbourhood is home to many Muslims, and you’ll see mosques and minarets throughout the area. You’ll also hear the sounds of the Cape Malay language, a unique blend of Malay, English, and Afrikaans.


Image by Thomas McPherson via Unsplash
Image by Shaun Meintjes via Unsplash
And speaking of Cape Malay cuisine, you won’t want to miss the chance to try some of the delicious food in the Bo-Kaap. From spicy curries to sweet treats like koeksisters (a type of donut dipped in syrup), the food here is a feast for the senses. You can even take a cooking class to learn how to make traditional dishes like bobotie (a spicy meat dish) or samoosas (a type of savoury pastry).
But it’s not just the food and the colours that make the Bo-Kaap so special. It’s the community itself, with its warm and welcoming residents who are always happy to share their stories and their culture with visitors. One event that perfectly embodies the community spirit of Bo-Kaap is the Kaapse Klopse festival, a celebration of Cape Town’s Cape Malay heritage. Held every year on January 2nd, the festival is a true spectacle not to be missed. Thousands of people take to the streets in colourful costumes, dancing and singing in a lively parade that winds its way through the Bo-Kaap and other parts of Cape Town. It’s a celebration of culture and identity, and a reminder of the rich history that makes Bo-Kaap such a special place. If you’re lucky enough to be in town at the right time, be sure to join in the festivities and experience the true spirit of Bo-Kaap.

Image by SkyPixels, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
So what are you waiting for? Book your walking tour with our team today and experience the vibrant colors, rich culture, and delicious food of the Bo-Kaap for yourself. We can’t wait to show you around!