Summer in the Mother City. Whether you’re a nature lover, a foodie, or simply a beach baby, there’s so much to see and explore – but, for a glimpse into the true soul of the city, you’ll need to immerse yourself in authentic cultural experiences. Here’s our round up of Cape Town’s not-to-be-missed, must-sees.
While the brightly coloured houses lining the streets of the Bo-Kaap will look great on your Instagram feed, they are, in fact, a tribute to the history of the city’s Muslim community – along with being one of the city’s top attractions (local lore holds that the homes used to be owned by slaves who could only paint them white while they were under lease; once they were officially able to own the homes, they celebrated by painting them a kaleidoscope of colours). Be sure to sample scrumptious Cape Malay dishes, wander through the food and craft markets, and explore the kramats (Islamic shrines).
Drumstruck
To really fall in love with South African music and culture, an evening with Drumstruck is a non-negotiable. This fabulous experience has received hundreds of five-star ratings from tourists and locals alike, and it’s easy to see why. The event commences with a wine tasting – another must-do when visiting the Cape, one of the world’s best wine-making regions – at the magnificent Silvermist Wine Estate. Next, you’ll be given your own drum so that you can take part in the exuberant show that has captured the imagination of audiences around the world. Afterwards, browse the museum’s extraordinary collection of indigenous African instruments, and complete the experience with a traditional South African braai while you dance to Drumstruck’s marimba band.
Township walking Tours
Although South Africa is steeped in beauty and boasts a host of natural attractions, it’s our people and diverse cultures that make our country so fascinating. A walking tour through townships like Langa, Guglethu or Khayelitsha gives you an opportunity to experience these cultures firsthand, perhaps taking in a beer tasting or stopping by a local’s house so that you can see for yourself the magic in the South African philosophy of ubuntu – the idea that ‘I am because you are’, which is at the foundation of our communities.
District Six Museum
This evocative museum remembers the residents of District Six, a racially mixed area, who were forcibly removed during the Apartheid era once it was declared by government to be a whites only area. Although you can explore the museum by yourself, walking through the exhibits with a former resident will make the experience even more meaningful. The museum stands as a memorial to the suffering endured by Apartheid’s victims, with exhibits capturing the essence of a suburb that was an important cultural centre before it was demolished.
First Thursdays
Unarguably one of the best ways to learn more about Cape Town’s vibrant arts scene, First Thursdays is a celebration of local culture with the city’s museums, galleries and restaurants staying open late for visitors to explore. You’ll be able to view exhibitions by some of the country’s foremost established and upcoming artists, explore stunning local design, stop off to sample drinks and bites from the city’s hottest restaurants and bars, browse markets and catch local musicians and DJs.
There’s no better way to get beneath the skin of a city, and experience its real heartbeat, than by dancing, eating and drinking as the locals do, or by learning about how the past has shaped its present, making these activities a must for your itinerary.
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