South Africa's beauty lies in its diversity, earning it the nickname of the "rainbow nation." With 11 official languages, thousands of years of human history, and a unique blend of biodiversity and stunning beaches stretching more than 3000km, there is much to explore. Cape Town offers a dynamic urban oasis with a multitude of cultural activities such as craft markets and world-class restaurants, surrounded by nature, art, and history. The city's multifaceted character can be best experienced by visiting its various world-class and speciality museums. We have curated a list of 5 museums you should visit whether you are a local or a tourist.

1. Zeitz MOCAA

Zeitz MOCAA is one of Cape Town's newest museums opening in 2017. The Zeitz MOCAA is a vast museum housed inside the V&A Waterfront’s historic Grain Silo Complex, featuring an astounding collection of contemporary art. The Zeitz MOCAA’s impressive collection spreads over nine floors and includes a wide array of artistic mediums. The museum has terrific views of Cape Town which is even more reason to go check it out. FUN FACT: Free entry every Wednesday from 10 AM to 1 PM for all African citizens on the representation of your South African ID or African passport.

2. Iziko South African Museum

This is South Africa’s oldest museum, stocked with over a million-and-a-half natural history specimen that have been collected over the last 200 years. Have a look at fossils, man-made tools, and natural specimens that tell the story through its people, plants, and animals—which you may probably be seeing for the first time, including some very different dinosaurs.

3. Robben Island Museum

The small island and prison where former President Nelson Mandela spent 18 years of his 27-year sentence as a political prisoner. It’s not often we get to walk in the same space that once occupied great leaders, but Robben Island gives guests a glimpse into the darker years of the late and great former South African president. You can scroll through Mandela’s cell and learn about the harsh conditions and history of this isolated island that is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

4. Iziko Slave Lodge

 

A powerful museum that tells the history of slavery within South Africa and shares the stories of the many different slaves brought into the country. This museum is housed in an actual former slave lodge that served as an inhumane residence for slaves of the Dutch East India Company. The building’s history adds an unshakable, all-too-real relevancy to the exhibits and space that cannot be ignored.

5. South African Jewish Museum

The Holocaust Museum and the South African Jewish Museum are situated next to the country's oldest synagogue. The rich Jewish heritage of South Africa is explored through interactive exhibits, audio-visual presentations, and historical relics that immediately transport visitors back in time.

The museum scene in Cape Town is nothing short of remarkable, whether you're interested in exploring cultural heritage, interactive exhibits, ancient or contemporary art, or gaining insight into the past lives of Capetonians, there is a museum for you to visit.

For more unique ways to experience South Africa, visit Veldskoen Travel.