Highlights
CITY ORIENTATION
Become acquainted with the oldest city in South Africa. You will be driven through the streets of Cape Town City Centre where historic and important buildings will be pointed out to you.
BO-KAAP / CAPE MALAY QUARTER
Bo Kaap has a rich cultural, religious and architectural heritage and is a mixed and cosmopolitan neighbourhood with strong links to Muslim traditions and culture. The Cape Malay were originally shipped into the Cape Colony as skilled artisan slaves. The Bo Kaap is also home to the oldest mosque in South Africa, the Auwal Mosque, established in 1798.
COMPANY GARDENS
The garden is the oldest in the country and was formally established in 1652 by Dutch settlers who sought to establish a victualling station to service and re-provision spice-trading sailing shops on the long sea route to the east. The Company Gardens in the middle of the CBD is also home to a beautiful rose garden, Japanese garden, fish pond and bird aviary. It is adjacent to numerous important landmarks, including the present-day Houses of Parliament, the Iziko SA Museum and Planetarium, the SA National Gallery and other historical buildings.
CASTLE OF GOOD HOPE
One of the oldest buildings in South Africa. It was built between 1666 and 1679 by the Dutch East India Company (VOC) as a maritime replenishment station. It is a fort rather than a castle. The Castle Military Museum depicts Cape Military History with one of the most impressive sword collections in the country. The William Fehr Collection of historical paintings and period furniture have special relevance to the Cape. The Key Ceremony is performed during weekdays, followed by the firing of the Signal Cannon. Horse and Carriage rides are also available.
TABLE MOUNTAIN: WEATHER PERMITTING
The top of Table Mountain offers spectacular views in all directions and gives a bird’s eye view of the city. The upper cable car station is situated at 1067 metres and the cable car floor rotates 360 degrees enabling visitors to take in the whole of the breathtaking views. There are numerous pathways on top, viewing decks, souvenir shops, a self-service restaurant and coffee shops.
GREEN MARKET SQUARE
Cape Town’s oldest market, set on a cobbled square still has an exciting buzz with some colourful and eccentric characters. You can pick up local art, crafts, fabrics and artefacts from almost every country on the African continent.