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 city’s true soul, you’ll need to immerse yourself in authentic cultural experiences. Here’s our round up of 5 best cultural experiences in Cape Town.
Cape Town Cultural Experiences
1. The Bo-Kaap
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 the food and craft markets, and explore the kramats (Islamic shrines).
Book now: Bo-Kaap: Walk with a local
2. Drumstruck
To 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 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.
Dates & Times: Over the festive season, Drumstruck runs daily at 11.30am and 3.30pm. The show will run until April 2025.
Book now: Drumstruck at Silvermist
Also read: Weekend away in Cape Town
3. 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, Gugulethu, or Khayelitsha gives you an opportunity to experience these cultures first hand. Perhaps take in a beer tasting or stop 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’. This is at the foundation of our communities.
Book now: Cape Town township private tour
4. 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 alone, 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.
Skip the Line: District Six Museum Admission Ticket
5. 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 can view exhibitions by some of the country’s foremost established and upcoming artists and explore stunning local designs. Also 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. Learning about how the past has shaped its present, makes these activities necessary for your itinerary.
Featured image: Drumstruck Zama Qambi, Mpho Rasenyalo & Tumelo Seleke)
