The History of Freedom in Bo Kaap
Discover the history of Bo Kaap's famous colors. Originally, the houses were all white while leased. When former slaves were finally able to buy their homes, they painted them in vibrant hues to express freedom.
Private & personalized tours - just for you!
The best stories aren’t found in guidebooks. Skip the crowds and unlock the hidden gems of Bo Kaap with a private, personalized experience led by a local.
Always private. It’s just you and your local host. No strangers, no groups.
Let your local host tailor the experience completely to your wishes.
Our tours are designed with people, places, and the planet in mind.
Make your stay in Cape Town complete with these things to do
Reviews from guests about our tours and locals
"Theo is fabulous. He is passionate about the history of his home, and is easily able to transmit this passion to his guests. We learned so much, and it was so enjoyable, too! We highly recommend Theo!"
"Absolutely fantastic experience with Sebastian in Cape Town, he made every moment special. His deep knowledge of the city’s history, culture, and hidden gems brought everything to life. he curated the perfect balance of adventure, culture, and relaxation. He was professional, friendly, and went above and beyond to make sure we were comfortable and having fun. Thanks to him, we saw Cape Town through a local’s eyes. Highly recommended! "
"We spent a great day with Elizabeth. She knows everything about her hometowm and did a really good job! And she has a very warm personality! Couldn‘t have been better! Thank you, Elizabeth, we will recommend you to all our Friends!"
"Fun, competent and professional person. It was a pleasure to spend a day with him. He showed us Cape Town (as much as you can see in a single day) in exactly the way we wanted. When we return we will definitely contact him for a new tour. Absolutely recommended!"
"We spent 4 fantastic hours on a walking tour with wonderful Sebastian. We saw such a variety of areas and sights in Cape Town and felt we had a much fuller understanding of the historical backdrop, as well as a unique insight into the city's present, and the daily life of a local. Sebastian was a lot of fun and made sure the tour was perfectly tailored to us. We came away feeling we now knew Cape Town much better than we ever would have discovering it on our own. We're glad we booked it for near the start of our trip. It also helped us to feel safe in the City on our own for the rest of the trip, as we were able to ask Sebastian for advice and guidance and also see what a friendly place it was, and with excellent security presence within the city. Sebastian generously followed up after our tour with lots of suggestions for the rest of our trip. Thanks for everything Sebastian, we're so glad we got to meet and spend time with you. Victoria & Brett, UK"
"We spent 2 days walking with Parinita and got a great exposure to the old part of the city. She was knowledgeable, friendly and a pleasure to be with. She had a plan but also made adjustments to accommodate any request we made. "
"So helpful and fun and knowledgeable! We loved our experience with Sebastian! We would book again! "
"We had an outstanding 4 hour walking tour with Sebastian - a detailed historical tour of Cape Town matched with an openness about South Africa past & present. A joyful and informative afternoon to be repeated next time in SA. "
"Vielen Dank an Gilbert für die tollen Stunden in Kapstadt.Wir haben die Stadt kennengelernt, was wir so sonst nicht hätten."
"Wir sind 4 Stunden mit Sebastian durch Kapstadt gelaufen. Es war sehr informativ, total nett und lustig noch dazu. Sehr zu empfehlen 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻"
Learn about their personal stories and find out how you can explore Cape Town with locals
Our locals will give you the best experiences that Cape Town has to offer
Discover experiences based on your interest
Step into a real-life rainbow in Bo Kaap! The vibrant colors and rich history of Bo Kaap are a feast for the senses. The best way to experience its magic is on a private Bo Kaap tour with a local expert.
Discover the history of Bo Kaap's famous colors. Originally, the houses were all white while leased. When former slaves were finally able to buy their homes, they painted them in vibrant hues to express freedom.
Bo Kaap is the historic heart of Cape Malay culture in Cape Town. Feel the unique spirit, a blend of Southeast Asian and African traditions, expressed through language, music, and strong community bonds.
A trip to Bo Kaap is incomplete without tasting Cape Malay food! This cuisine is a delicious fusion of sweet and savory spices. A local guide can show you where to find the best bobotie and koesisters.
Beyond its photogenic streets, Bo Kaap is a living, breathing neighborhood. Hear the call to prayer, smell home-cooked spices, and see a community that has thrived on these slopes for centuries.
Visit the Auwal Mosque in Bo Kaap, established in 1794, making it the first mosque in South Africa. Its founder, Tuan Guru, was an exiled prince who became a revered spiritual leader for the community.
Your tour is just for you. No strangers, no groups.
You’ll experience the city one-on-one (or with your own travel group) in a relaxed, personal way. No rushing, no scripted group tours.
From highlights to hidden gems, your host adjusts everything to fit you.
Want to skip a museum, add a food stop, or focus on street art? Just ask. Every experience is shaped around your pace, preferences and interests.
Message your host directly to customize your experience.
Ask questions, get local tips, or make special requests. Our hosts are real people, ready to make your day unforgettable.
Every booking supports independent locals and their communities.
We believe tourism should benefit the people who live there. Your host earns directly and often invests it right back into their neighborhood.
You’re choosing meaningful travel, not mass tourism.
Withlocals is built on fair pay, human connections and travel that leaves a positive mark for both you and the places you visit.
Loved by over 1,000,000 travelers all around the world.
Withlocals hosts consistently earn 5-star reviews for their kindness, knowledge and the personal stories they share.
Book with peace of mind: safe payments and easy changes.
Your plans can shift and that’s okay. We offer flexible cancellation and real support when you need it.
Your tour is just for you. No strangers, no groups.
You’ll experience the city one-on-one (or with your own travel group) in a relaxed, personal way. No rushing, no scripted group tours.
From highlights to hidden gems, your host adjusts everything to fit you.
Want to skip a museum, add a food stop, or focus on street art? Just ask. Every experience is shaped around your pace, preferences and interests.
Message your host directly to customize your experience.
Ask questions, get local tips, or make special requests. Our hosts are real people, ready to make your day unforgettable.
Every booking supports independent locals and their communities.
We believe tourism should benefit the people who live there. Your host earns directly and often invests it right back into their neighborhood.
You’re choosing meaningful travel, not mass tourism.
Withlocals is built on fair pay, human connections and travel that leaves a positive mark for both you and the places you visit.
Loved by over 1,000,000 travelers all around the world.
Withlocals hosts consistently earn 5-star reviews for their kindness, knowledge and the personal stories they share.
Book with peace of mind: safe payments and easy changes.
Your plans can shift and that’s okay. We offer flexible cancellation and real support when you need it.
Don't just see the postcard view, live the story! Your perfect Bo Kaap adventure is waiting. Book a private tour with a passionate local guide now to uncover the secrets behind the colors and create memories that will last a lifetime. Spots are limited, so book today!