South Africa Western Cape Cape Town

Bo-Kaap

A colorful historical quarter in Cape Town, known for its Cape Malay culture, vibrant houses, cobbled streets, and a rich multicultural heritage.

Tips from the community

Formerly known as the Malay Quarter, you’ll find the Bo-Kaap neighborhood situated at the foot of Signal Hill. The Bo-Kaap Museum is the oldest building of Cape Town and the entire area has a fascinating history. Way back in the 1760s, when slaves were first allowed to lease and eventually buy houses, they nabbed the beautiful properties in this area. In celebration of their freedom, legend has it that they painted their houses in a rainbow of colors. The style is proudly maintained to this day and creates a dazzling streetscape. 

theblondeabroad 4 years ago

This multicultural area consists of brightly colored houses built in the seventeenth and nineteenth century. Also known for its cobble stoned streets, Bo-Kaap is the oldest surviving residential neighborhood in Cape Town. Its unique architecture attracts thousands of tourists every year. 

leyre_paniagua 4 years ago

Bo-Kaap Guides

Bo-Kaap Articles

  • The Blonde Abroad’s Guide to a Weekend in Cape Town

    Ever visit a place that so completely steals your heart and soul that you feel like you never want to go back home? That’s what happened to me in Cape Town. I fell in love with the magical city by the sea and lingered literally for years. I made my own home away from home […]

    Read more...

  • 33 of the Best Things to Do in Cape Town

    Cape Town: a coming-together of landscapes, cultures and cuisines. This unique, mesmerizing city —crowned by the magnificent Table Mountain National Park—continues to enchant everyone who visits. The Mother City has a lot to offer, from gorgeous natural getaways to multicultural city streets. If you’re looking for a perfect Cape Town itinerary (but not sure where to start), […]

    Read more...