10 Cultural and Historical Walking Tours in Cape Town Not to be Missed

Looking to dive deep into Cape Town’s rich history and vibrant art scene? These interactive walking tours promise to take you on an engaging journey through the heart and soul of the Mother City. Whether it’s art, architecture, or hidden historical gems that intrigue you, each tour offers a unique, immersive experience on foot.

Discover Cape Town’s charm in a whole new way – year round – with these unforgettable walking adventures!

Explore This Guide to Cape Town’s Best Walking Tours

1. Culture Connect Tours

Specialising in bespoke art and cultural tours, Culture Connect SA offers a personalised journey through Cape Town’s landmarks, galleries, and artist studios.

Most of the tours are led by founder Kate Crane Briggs, though occasionally she hands the reins to other individuals, highly qualified in their respective fields of architecture or landscaping or art etc. Each of the tours encourage intimate conversations, and give behind-the-scenes access to the city’s creative pulse. Walking tours are the norm, but transport is available if needed.

Cost: R350 to R550 | Book via Email | Private tours available

When: Weekdays, 8am to 6pm | Saturday mornings. Check the website for details
Start point: various throughout Cape Town and the Winelands

Website: cultureconnectsa.com/
Tel: +27 (0)72 377 8014 | +27 (0)21 286 5546
Email: [email protected]
Instagram: cultureconnect_sa/
Facebook: CultureConnectSA

2. District Six Coffee & History Tour

This tour blends history with coffee as you explore the iconic District Six. Learn about the area’s rich yet tragic past during the Apartheid regime, its ongoing re-development, and engage in a barista workshop and coffee tasting session. A local taxi ride adds an authentic touch as you make your way back to the city.

Cost: R690pp | Bookings available here

When: Wed & Thurs | 9am | 3 hours duration
Start point: 25A Buitenkant St, Zonnebloem, Cape Town

Website: www.districtsix.co.za/
Tel: 021 466 7200 | 072 640 5704
Email: [email protected]

3. Cape Heritage Tours with Cameron Peters

Join storyteller Cameron Peters every Sunday for an exploration of Cape Town’s hidden historical gems. These donation-based walking tours cover iconic areas like Long Street, Muizenberg, and the CBD, while Peters’ storytelling brings the city’s past to life.

With a passion for (and Phd focus in) film, Cameron Peters’ main drive is the communication of great stories. And so successful is he at sharing the stories that he has collated about the nooks and crannies and characters of Cape Town, that he has regular locals attending his walking tours, as well as curious tourists.

Cost: Donation | Book via Email

When: Every Sunday, 12 noon to 2.30pkm
Start point: Various locations

Email: [email protected]
Instagram: capetownheritagetours/
Facebook: capetownheritagetours/

4. Story Weaver Historical Walking Tour

Ailsa Tudhope, also known as The Story Weaver, takes guests on a captivating journey through Prince Albert’s history. Her tours include intriguing ghost walks and are filled with stories of the town’s heritage and notable figures.

Stroll through Prince Albert on the evening Ghost Walk, hearing tales of past characters and lingering spirits. Or join the Historical Ramble to uncover fascinating stories while admiring diverse architecture. These walks are fun for families and history enthusiasts alike, offering a deeper look into the 250+ year heritage of this charming rural town.

For bookings contact Ailsa on mobile phone or whatsapp on 084 673 1710 or e-mail: [email protected]

Cost: Book via Email or WhatsApp +2784-673-1710

When: According to bookings | 1.5 hours duration
Start point: Outside Fransie Pienaar Museum, Kerkstraat, Prince Albert

5. Stellenbosch On Foot Tours

Stroll through Stellenbosch’s oak-lined streets and Cape Dutch architecture with Stellenbosch On Foot’s art and history tours. Ideal for art lovers, these guided walks explore key galleries and local art initiatives, including the Stellenbosch Outdoor Sculpture Trust exhibit. You’ll also uncover historical gems like the Angel Factory and the ‘Moederkerk’ graveyard.

In addition to walking tours, Stellenbosch On Foot offers Vine Hopper wine tours, ‘scootours’, bicycle rides, 4×4 adventures, and a Private Winelands Tour.

Cost: R220pp | Bookings available here

When: Mon to Fri, 9am, 11am & 3pm | Sat and Sun, 9am and 11am | Duration 90min
Start point: 47 Church St, Stellenbosch

Website: stellenboschonfoot.co.za/
Tel: +27 84 479 7262
Email: [email protected]
Instagram: stellenboschonfoot/
Facebook: stellenboschonfoot/

6. Juma Art Tours

Led by professional street artist Juma Mkwela, the Juma Art Tours offer a unique look at Cape Town’s vibrant street art scene, particularly in Khayelitsha and Woodstock. As a participant, you’ll not only appreciate the art but also engage in community projects, making it a meaningful and responsible way to tour the city.

Cost: From R750 | Bookings available here

When: Daily, from 10am to 12pm and 1.30pm to 3.30pm
Start point: Khayelitsha and Woodstock, Cape Town. Details provided on booking

Website: www.jumaarttours.co.za/
Tel: 073 400 4064
Email: [email protected]
Instagram: jumaarttours/

7. Hermanus Whale Watching Walking Tour

Although there’s a chance to see whales year-round, whale season is generally considered to start in early June, lasting through to the end of November. And you can witness the world’s largest whale migration on the Hermanus Whale Watching Walking Tour.

From the cliff pathways, it is possible to spot up to 100 Southern Right whales in a day, with breathtaking views and the sounds of these majestic creatures close by. The tour kicks off at the Whale Museum, where a whale expert provides an insightful introduction before guiding guests to the cliffs. Photography is encouraged as the guide shares fascinating whale facts and myths. For a magical twist, join the full moon tour to see whales glowing under the moonlight.

Walker Bay Adventures, the operator, ensures personalized, wheelchair-friendly tours, with a complimentary drink included.

Cost: From R1200pp | R800 per Child | Free for children 4 and under | Booking available here

When: Daily, 9am, 12pm and 3pm slots
Start point: Old Harbour, Marine Dr, Hermanus

Website: https://walkerbayadventures.co.za/whale-watching-walks/
Tel: 082 739 0159
Email: [email protected]
Facebook: WalkerbayAdventures/

8. Free Walking Tours

Free Walking Tours offers tips-based tours without prior booking—just arrive during the designated time slots. Running daily throughout the year, these tours create a relaxed and informative atmosphere while providing local insights on the best places to visit.

The Historic City Tour explores significant figures in Cape Town’s colonial history, while the Bo Kaap Tour showcases vibrant houses and Cape Malay cuisine. The Apartheid to Freedom Tour highlights Cape Town’s role during apartheid, visiting key sites like the ‘apartheid benches’ and the spot where Nelson Mandela gave his first speech as a free man.

Meet at the Motherland Coffee Company in Mandela Rhodes Place, and look for the green umbrellas!

Cost: Free

When: Daily at 9.30am, 11am, 2pm and 4.20pm
Start point: Motherland Coffee Company, Mandela Rhodes Place, cnr Wale St & St George’s Mall, Cape Town City Centre

Website: freewalkingtourscapetown.co.za/
Tel: 076 636 9007
Email: [email protected]
Facebook: capetownfreewalkingtours/

9. Constantia Wine Walk

The Constantia Wine Walk is a private-access tour across three renowned wine farms in the Constantia Valley: Groot Constantia, Klein Constantia, and Buitenverwachting.

Surrounded by stunning mountains, you’ll stroll through enchanting vineyards on private trails, enjoy tastings of 10 exquisite wines, and savour a delicious harvest platter lunch at the final stop. The 6km tour takes about half a day to complete.

Cost: R1000 to R1950 | Bookings available here

When: On request
Start point: Groot Constantia Rd, Constantia, Cape Town

10. The Lion Trail

The Lion Trail is a private, 5-hour guided walk showcasing Cape Town’s unique plant life, from indigenous vegetation to scenic forests and beaches. Enjoy breathtaking views perfect for Instagram, indulge in local cuisine, and conclude with an exhilarating electric scooter ride along the Sea Point promenade.

Led by former Getaway journalist Matthew Sterne, who spent months researching the area’s stories, this tour offers an engaging and memorable experience. This tour reveals the city’s natural wonders and rich history, geology, flora, fauna, and culinary delights. Highlights include: