Cape Town , South Africa

Cape Town Walking Tour

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For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Welcome to the Dark Side of Cape Town Walking Tour! On this journey, you will explore the intriguing and lesser-known stories of Cape Town, revealing the city’s mysterious, historical, and sometimes eerie past. This immersive experience will uncover tales of crime, punishment, hauntings, and forgotten corners of the Mother City, offering you insider knowledge and memorable encounters with local traditions. Perfect for adventure seekers and history enthusiasts, this tour will leave you with a deeper understanding of Cape Town’s rich, complex history.

Available options

Cape Town Walking Tour

What's included

Tour guide

Bottled water

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Historically a slave market, this square has witnessed numerous events from the colonial era. Hear about its transformation over the centuries and the dark stories of the people who once walked these cobblestones

Our next stop is the Castle of Good Hope, South Africa’s oldest colonial building. This star-shaped fortress has a chilling history of imprisonment, torture, and ghost sightings. Discover the stories of its haunted dungeons and the spirits that are said to roam its corridors.

Stop 3

A brief walk brings us to the District Six Museum, where we delve into the dark history of apartheid and forced removals. The museum stands as a testament to the vibrant community that was destroyed and the lingering pain of its former residents.

Stop 4

The Slave Lodge, now a museum, housed enslaved people brought to the Cape. Explore the harsh conditions they endured and the stories of their lives and resistance. This building is a poignant reminder of the city’s involvement in the transatlantic slave trade.

Take a break to enjoy some local cuisine at Truth Coffee Roasting, renowned for its steampunk-inspired décor and exceptional coffee. This is an opportunity to discuss what you’ve learned so far and reflect on the tour’s themes

Stop 6

After lunch, we’ll stroll through the Company’s Garden, established by the Dutch East India Company. While it appears serene today, the garden has a history of colonial exploitation and serves as a backdrop to tales of old Cape Town.

The Granary building has served various roles, from a women’s prison to a magistrate’s court. Today, it’s home to the Desmond and Leah Tutu Legacy Foundation. Learn about the darker aspects of its past and its evolution over time

Stop 8

Known for its vibrant nightlife, Long Street also has its share of ghost stories. We’ll visit a historic building reputed to be haunted and hear tales of spectral sightings and eerie occurrences that continue to intrigue locals and visitors alike.

Returning to Greenmarket Square, we end our tour at the Old Town House. This historic building, once the city’s seat of government, holds many secrets and stories of power, corruption, and mystery

What's not included

Please note that lunch is not included in the tour price. Participants are encouraged to enjoy their meal during the lunch break, but they will need to cover their own expenses for this.

Available languages

Guide guide

AR EN

Important information

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Meeting point

We begin our tour at one of Cape Town’s oldest markets. Hear about its transformation over the centuries and the dark stories of the people who once walked these cobblestones

About Cape Town

Cape Town is a stunning coastal city known for its dramatic landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture. Nestled between the iconic Table Mountain and the Atlantic Ocean, it offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cosmopolitan living, and historical significance.

Top Attractions

Table Mountain

Table Mountain is an iconic landmark and one of the New7Wonders of Nature. It offers breathtaking views of Cape Town and the surrounding coastline.

Nature 2-4 hours Moderate (Cableway ticket: R380 return)

V&A Waterfront

The V&A Waterfront is a bustling hub of activity, featuring shopping, dining, and entertainment options. It's a great place to experience Cape Town's vibrant atmosphere.

Entertainment Half day to full day Free to explore, with varying costs for activities and dining

Robben Island

Robben Island is a UNESCO World Heritage Site where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned for 18 years. It's a powerful reminder of South Africa's apartheid history.

Historical 3-4 hours Moderate (Tour ticket: R500 including ferry)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Bunny Chow

A hollowed-out loaf of bread filled with curry, typically made with chicken or lamb. It's a popular street food dish with Indian roots.

Lunch/Dinner Vegetarian options available, but traditionally contains meat.

Cape Malay Curry

A flavorful curry made with spices, herbs, and often includes meat or vegetables. It's a staple of Cape Malay cuisine and is typically served with rice.

Dinner Vegetarian options available, but traditionally contains meat.

Biltong

A dried, cured meat similar to jerky, but with a unique South African flavor. It's a popular snack and can be found in various flavors and cuts.

Snack Contains meat, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.

Popular Activities

Hiking Paragliding Shark cage diving Surfing Mountain biking Beach lounging Spa treatments Wine tasting

Best Time to Visit

November to March

This is the summer season, characterized by warm, dry weather and long daylight hours. It's the peak tourist season, perfect for beach activities, hiking, and outdoor adventures.

18°C to 30°C 64°F to 86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English, Afrikaans
Widely spoken: Xhosa, Zulu
English: Widely spoken

Currency

South African Rand (ZAR)

Time Zone

GMT+2

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution

Cape Town is a generally safe city for tourists, but visitors should be aware of their surroundings and take precautions to protect themselves and their belongings. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and bag snatching, can occur in crowded areas and on public transportation. Violent crime is less common but can occur, particularly in certain neighborhoods and at night.

Important Precautions:

• Avoid walking alone at night
• Be cautious with valuables in crowded areas
• Use reputable transport services

Getting there

By air

Cape Town International Airport • 20 km from city center

By train

Cape Town Station

By bus

Cape Town Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The MyCiTi Bus system is efficient and affordable, with dedicated bus lanes to avoid traffic. It's a popular choice for both locals and tourists.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Bolt

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Cape Town City Centre Camps Bay Bo-Kaap

Day trips

Stellenbosch

50 km from Cape Town • Full day recommended

Stellenbosch is a charming university town in the heart of the Cape Winelands, known for its historic architecture, world-class wine estates, and vibrant student culture. It's a great place to explore South Africa's rich history and indulge in some of the country's best wines.

Hermanus

120 km from Cape Town • Full day recommended

Hermanus is a coastal town known for its stunning whale watching opportunities, beautiful beaches, and scenic coastal walks. It's a great place to escape the city and enjoy some of South Africa's most breathtaking natural landscapes.

Cape Point and Cape of Good Hope

60 km from Cape Town • Full day recommended

Cape Point and the Cape of Good Hope are two of South Africa's most iconic natural landmarks, offering breathtaking views, scenic hikes, and a rich history. It's a great place to explore the country's diverse wildlife and experience the raw beauty of the Atlantic Ocean.

Festivals

Cape Town International Jazz Festival • March (annual) Cape Town Carnival • January (annual) Cape Town Fashion Week • September (annual)

Pro tips

Visit Table Mountain early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and strong winds
Explore the city's diverse neighborhoods, from the vibrant Bo-Kaap to the upscale Camps Bay
Take a day trip to the Cape Winelands to sample some of South Africa's best wines
Visit the V&A Waterfront for shopping, dining, and entertainment options
Take a harbor cruise for stunning views of the city and Table Mountain