We see many beautiful places on Instagram every day that inspire us to travel to certain destinations. If South Africa was ever on your list, then probably those colourful houses in Cape Town were one of the things that talked you into it. But before heading to Bo-Kaap, the vibrant neighborhood with the famed buildings, how about you learn more about it?

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All About Bo-Kaap and the Colourful Houses in Cape Town

The story behind these colourful houses in Cape Town is as bright and refreshing as its sight is.

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The History of Bo-Kaap

Bo-Kaap was formerly known as the Malay Quarter as it was inhabited by Cape Malays. Those were slaves who were brought from Malaysia, Indonesia, and the rest of the African continent to work in the city.

Now, you’re probably wondering why the houses are painted in all these bright shades. Back in the 1760s, Cape Dutch and Georgian rental houses, known as “huurhuisjes”, were built and leased to slaves. The rule was that all houses, that are aligned by cobbled roads, had to all be white. But when this rule was lifted and the slaves became able to purchase their houses, they decided to paint them in the brightest colors as a metaphor for freedom!

The neighborhood that’s been home for the Cape Town Muslim population, sits at the foot of Signal Hill. You can easily reach Bo-Kaap through Rose, Chiappini, Shortmarket, and Wale Streets, which also mark the iconic area’s borders.

Things to Know About the Bo-Kaap Community

They love rugby

The sport runs in the Bo-Kaap community’s blood; the love for rugby has been passed from one generation to another. It’s very big there!

Craftsmanship is also big

From beadwork to shoemaking, the Bo-Kaap community is known for bringing up very talented artisans, whom their work speak on their behalf.

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Things to Do and See in Bo-Kaap

Go on a Bo-Kaap walking tour

Obviously, you have to go on a walking tour around the neighborhood. See the iconic houses up close, snap a few photos, and don’t forget to take a picture with the famous vintage blue Ford Cortina, parked there, AKA Mikki’s Ride.

Take a cooking class

Learning cookery overseas is an unforgettable experience and a great way to not just get to know the culture, but also make new friends. Explore the Cape Malay cuisine and get to learn from the experts by taking a cooking class in Bo-Kaap, which could be easily booked through Viator or Airbnb Experiences. Or you could opt for traditional food tasting if you feel out of place in the kitchen. Either way, these are hands down a couple of the most fun Cape Town tours.

Visit the mosques of Bo-Kaap

Bo-Kaap boasts more than nine mosques, which make up one of the cornerstones of the community’s culture. The oldest mosque there is the Auwal Mosque in Dorp Street. Other iconic mosques include Mosque Shafee and Boorhaanol Mosque.

Visit the Bo-Kaap Museum

The Iziko Bo-Kaap Museum is actually one of the oldest houses that were built in the neighborhood. The building dates back to the mid-eighteenth century and the museum showcases Islamic culture and heritage as it depicts the lifestyle of a nineteenth-century Muslim family.

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