14. Bo-Kaap and De Waterkant
The most colourful neighbourhoods in town – situated against Signal Hill. The houses of Bo-Kaap are bright and colourful – and many reckon the area will soon be one of Cape Town’s trendiest areas. De Waterkant is a fine example: situated just next to Bo-Kaap, the neighbourhood has been transformed into one of Cape Town’s most trendy and expensive areas. Some of Cape Town’s finest restaurants and wine bars are situated here.
Start your walk on the corner of Buitengracht and Wale Street in town. Walk up in Wale Street towards Signal Hill into Bo-Kaap. This neighbourhood holds the most number of buildings in South Africa dating back before the year 1840, and has miraculously survived through the apartheid years.
Time has almost stood still in this fascinating neighbourhood and children play carefree in the small alleys. Stop at the Bo-Kaap Museum for an insight into this historical area. The museum was established in 1978 and tells the story of the Bo-Kaap community and Cape Malays through many years to date.
Walk all the way up until you reach Chiappini Street and turn right. The little street is a photographer’s dream. Walk all along Chiappini Street and explore the many side streets. The locals here are warm and friendly – and you will hear some wonderful stories. Avoid exploring the alleys at night.
Travel tip If you are lucky enough to be here on the 2nd of January, do not miss the very famous Coon Carnival – a colourful display of people dancing and signing the night through in Bo-Kaap. The greatest and loudest sounds in town!
Walk along Chiappini street until you reach Strand Street where you should turn left. Cross the road and walk further on and turn right into Vos Street – the start of De Waterkant.
De Waterkant is much like a modernised Bo-Kaap and has become one of the most sought after addresses in Cape Town. The following streets are worth exploring: Loader Street, Waterkant Street, Dixon Street and Napier Street. Many restaurants, art galleries and interesting shops are located here.
End your walk with a meal or night out at the Cape Quarter – beautifully situated between some of the most wonderful architecture in Cape Town. The small and intimate complex has some excellent restaurants and shops.
Travel checklist
- Visited the Bo-Kaap Museum to learn more about the area
- Walked through the streets of Bo-Kaap and saw the colourful houses in Chiappini Street
- Explored the fascinating streets of De Waterkant
- Had a meal at Cape Quarter
Useful numbers
Bo-Kaap museum 021 481 3939
Cape Quarter 021 421 0737
Recommend Cape Spirit to a friend
Did you know ? Cape Spirit guarantees our Special Internet Hotel Rates to be the lowest you can find - and you can book securely online from any country. Book discounted Cape Town accommodation here.
Cape Spirit Home
Cape Town Accommodation
Cheap South Africa Car Rentals
Immigrate to Cape Town South Africa
Download a Free Cape Town travel guide
Cape Town Attractions
Cape Town Wallpapers
Cape Town Pictures
Cape Spirit Sitemap