Walking tour through

Bo-Kaap

Bo-Kaap is the oldest suburb in South Africa with its origins dating back to the Dutch colonists who brought with them slaves from Indonesia, Batavia, Malaysia, India and Africa.  It is this mix of cultures that culminates in the unique and incomparable Bo-Kaap culture, custom and cuisines.  The area still boasts architecture typical of that time as well as the cobblestone streets that meander between the colourful houses.

Your walking tour will start in front of the Bo-Kaap Museum, which is also the oldest house in the Bo-Kaap and showcases Dutch architecture.  The house is still in its original condition, complete with sash windows, front door and parapet.  Your walk will then take you to the Auwal Mosque, which is the oldest Mosque in South Africa, dating back to 1794, when it was started by slaves in defiance of Dutch law.

Inside the Mosque you will see a Quran handwritten from memory, by Tuan Guru, an exiled political prisoner from the Island of Trinate.  From here you will walk down the most photographed street in South Africa as you work your way towards Cape Town’s famed spice shop, Atlas, where you will smell the heady aromas of spices used in everyday Cape Malay cooking.  These are the same spices used by slaves as an expression of freedom in their masters’ kitchens.

You will then end the tour at the Cape Malay Art Gallery where the impact of the Cape Malays has been expressed artistically.

Notes: 
Meeting Point: In front of the Bo-Kaap Museum, 71 Wale Street
Guests to wear comfortable walking shoes and sun protection.  When entering the Mosque, guests to wear clothing garments that reach below their knees.

Duration: 2 hour walking tour