For the Muslim traveller, Cape Town offers an experience like no other, providing a balance between modernity and tradition. This guide aims to navigate any Muslim traveller looking to have their faith-based needs met from mosques in Cape Town, to appropriate places to stay to discovering the best halaal food around, places of worship, and all about Ramadan.
Table of Contents
Where to Stay 🛏️
Selecting the right accommodation is crucial for a fulfilling travel experience, and Cape Town offers a vast amount of options that cater to the specific needs of Muslim travellers. The areas around Claremont and Rondebosch boast a variety of Muslim-friendly hotels and guesthouses, ensuring proximity to halaal dining options and mosques. The V&A Waterfront area features high-end hotels that accommodate the preferences of any traveller. – matching any income
Lodge 36 on Shaanti
Lodge 36 on Shaanti is an ideal accommodation choice for Muslim travellers exploring Cape Town, providing a strategic location within a short drive of major tourist attractions. The lodge offers a blend of convenience and comfortability with both Bed & Breakfast and self-catering units. Guests can opt for either the 4-sleeper or 2-sleeper units, each has their own kitchens and secure parking areas, catering to everyone.
The establishment boasts conference facilities, allowing business travellers to seamlessly conduct their affairs while in Cape Town. Lodge 36 on Shaanti goes the extra mile by providing additional services such as photographer hires, flower arrangements, audio-visual equipment, and photocopying facilities. Noteworthy for any Muslim traveller, the lodge strictly adheres to Halaal dietary practices for both lunch and dinner. Whether for business or leisure, Lodge 36 on Shaanti offers a practical and accommodating base for those exploring the vibrant city of Cape Town.
Address: Gatesville, Cape Town
Contact Number: 021 637 3286
Taj Cape Town
Taj Cape Town has renowned service, local traditions, and contemporary design, and stands prominently on Wale Street in the heart of Cape Town’s business and leisure district. Positioned in the old city, this 5-star hotel offers a strong sense of place and easy access to South Africa’s premier landmarks and attractions, as well as a variety of shops, galleries, and restaurants. Comprising two heritage buildings, the hotel provides a choice of 176 luxury rooms and suites, all featuring spectacular city views or overlooking Table Mountain.
From the Bombay Brasserie, serving a fusion of classic and contemporary Indian cuisine, to the Mint Restaurant and wood-fired Grill offering all-day dining options, guests can indulge in a variety of culinary delights. The meticulously restored Taj Lobby Bar and Lounge, complemented by the vibrant J Wellness Circle spa, further enhance the overall experience. Taj Cape Town, with its impressive meeting spaces, fully-equipped fitness centre, and luxurious indoor pool, invites guests to immerse themselves in the essence of “Tajness” at the heart of Cape Town.
Address: 1 Waal Straat, corner St Georges Mall, Cape Town City Centre, Cape Town
Website: https://www.tajhotels.com/
Contact Number: 021 819 2000
Book Your Stay At The Taj By Clicking Here! 🛌
The Capetonian Hotel and Restaurant
The Capetonian Hotel stands out as an excellent choice for Muslim travellers seeking a convenient and stress-free stay in Cape Town. Boasting a fully halaal restaurant, the hotel addresses a key concern for Muslim guests, ensuring a dining experience free from alcohol and adhering to halaal dietary practices. This commitment provides Muslim travellers with peace of mind, eliminating the need to compromise on their values and avoiding the common apprehension of potential cross-contamination in busy kitchens. The Capetonian Hotel’s halaal-friendly environment extends beyond just accommodation, offering a thoughtfully curated experience that aligns with the preferences of Muslim guests.
The hotel’s modern, comfortable, and luxurious rooms further enhance the overall stay, providing a perfect retreat for relaxation after exploring Cape Town’s numerous tourist attractions. The 2-bedroom family suite on the 12th floor exemplifies the hotel’s commitment to comfort and convenience. With well-appointed rooms, the amenities, including tea and coffee facilities with a coffee machine, toiletries, a small lounge area in the main bedroom, a desk workstation, and a bar fridge, contribute to a comfortable and enjoyable stay for Muslim travellers at The Capetonian Hotel.
Address: Pier Place, Heerengracht St, Foreshore, Cape Town
Website: https://capetonian.co.za/
Contact Number: 021 405 5670
The Crescent
The Crescent, an upmarket guesthouse in Cape Town, offers a refined and exclusive accommodation experience in the suburb of Pinelands. Purpose-built and managed by its owners, The Crescent caters to both executive and holiday travellers with a hands-on room service approach to hospitality. The commitment to exceptional service sets this guesthouse apart, creating an oasis of calm and serenity for guests, and positioning The Crescent as one of the best destinations.
The guesthouse’s dedication to providing a tranquil environment is evident in its no-smoking policy indoors, complemented by smoking facilities on the balcony. Security is a priority with secure onsite parking, private entrances to rooms and apartments, and electronically accessed perimeter and main entrance doors. The unique feature of structured, room-serviced breakfasts, allowing guests to customize their meals from an extensive list of options, enhances the overall personalized experience. The Crescent distinguishes itself by adhering to a no-alcohol policy on the premises, ensuring a peaceful and alcohol-free environment for guests seeking a distinctive and serene stay in Cape Town.
Address: 3 The Crescent Pinelands Cape Town
Website: http://thecrescentbnb.co.za/
Contact Number: 082 652 6537
Don’t Miss Out On A Stay At The Cresent 🌙
The Twelve Apostles Hotel
Perched along the road connecting Cape Town and Camps Bay with Llundudno Beach and Hout Bay, The Twelve Apostles Hotel and Spa offers a retreat with breathtaking views of Cape Town’s mountain range. Catering to those seeking an escape at the tip of the African continent, the boutique hotel stands as the sole property along this spectacular route, providing an ideal vantage point to witness the sunset over the Atlantic Ocean. Guests can indulge in fine international cuisine, experience first-class service, and luxuriate in the hotel’s award-winning Spa while enjoying the warm vibe of this unique location.
For entertainment, The Twelve Apostles Hotel and Spa offers an in-house cinema with four daily shows, complemented by complimentary popcorn and snacks upon request. Guests can also enjoy the infinity pool with stunning views and another outdoor pool on the premises. The hydrotherapy pool at the spa is available for in-house guests, though bookings are subject to availability. While the hotel’s kitchen is not halaal certified, Muslim guests are accommodated by ordering halaal items upon request. To ensure a seamless experience, guests can coordinate with the head chef beforehand for special arrangements.
Address: Victoria Rd, Camps Bay, Cape Town
Website: https://12apostleshotel.com/
Contact Number: 021 437 9000
Enjoy A Luxurious Stay At The Twelve Apostle Hotel 🏔️
Where to Eat 🍽️
Cape Town offers Muslim travellers a plethora of halaal options in areas such as Bo-Kaap and Woodstock, renowned for their street food and fine dining establishments. The city shows the true essence of Cape Malay cuisine, offering an authentic taste of flavours infused with rich spices. From samosas to gourmet halaal options at trendy restaurants, Cape Town promises a halaal journey like no other.
Atlantic Express Train Restaurant
The Atlantic Express Train Restaurant, located in Sea Point, is a full halaal dining establishment, catering to the preferences of Muslim travellers. Beyond its commitment to halaal practices, the restaurant offers a unique dining experience with an intimate and cosy atmosphere. The professional and friendly service further adds to this exceptional establishment, ensuring visitors enjoy their meals in a welcoming setting. The restaurant’s dedication to serving delectable halaal foods adds an extra layer to the dining experience, making it a noteworthy choice for those seeking good food that suits their dietary preferences.
Atlantic Express Train Restaurant Opening Hours: Monday to Friday from 9 am to 10 pm, Saturday from 8:30 am to 10:30 pm and Sunday from 8:30 am to 10 pm
Address: 1B Regent Rd, Sea Point, Cape Town
Website: https://atlanticexpress.co.za/
Contact Number: 021 271 0527
Saray
Saray Restaurant beckons those to indulge in the flavours of Turkey and Kurdistan, offering a journey that transports taste buds to the vibrant streets of Turkey. From tantalizing kavurma to mouthwatering kofte, the authentic Turkish-Kurdish offerings showcase the richness of these cultural cuisines. Muslim travellers are welcome to savour traditional kebabs and pide, skillfully prepared to perfection, as Saray Restaurant maintains a dedicated commitment to Halaal dining, providing a confident and enjoyable experience aligned with dietary preferences. The restaurant’s dedication to preserving the genuine taste of Turkey creates an authentic atmosphere, allowing Muslim travellers to immerse themselves in Turkish cuisine while relishing the warm and welcoming atmosphere at Saray Restaurant.
Saray Restaurant Opening Hours: Monday to Thursday from 11 am to 11 pm, Friday to Saturday from 11 am to 12 am and Sunday from 11 am to 10 pm
Address: Shop G01 Clocktower Building, S Arm Rd, Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, Cape Town
Website: http://www.saray.co.za/
Contact Number: 066 430 3391
The Bo-Kaap Kombuis
The Bo-Kaap Kombuis stands as a welcoming and family-friendly spot for those seeking to indulge in Cape Malay cuisine in Cape Town. Owned by the Larney family, the restaurant boasts breathtaking views of Table Mountain and the city, providing a pretty backdrop for a true foodie experience. With a commitment to Halaal practices, the Larney family lovingly prepares dishes such as Halaal Fish Curry and Lamb Penang Curry. Including Southeast Asian dishes adds a delightful twist to the menu, offering a unique fusion of culinary influences. As one of the many Halaal restaurants in Cape Town, The Bo-Kaap Kombuis provides Muslim travellers with a distinctive dining option, allowing them to enjoy delectable dishes in a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Bo-Kaap Kombuis Opening Hours: Lunch from Tuesday to Sunday from 12 pm to 3 pm and dinner from Tuesday to Saturday from 6 pm to 10 pm
Address: 7 August St, Schotsche Kloof, Cape Town
Website: http://www.bokaapkombuis.co.za/
Contact Number: 021 422 5446
District Café
Situated on Roodebloem Road in Woodstock, District Café extends a warm welcome to visitors with its inviting atmosphere. As a family-operated Halaal restaurant, District Café stands out for its extensive and diverse menu, offering a range of delights from breakfast options to mouthwatering bagels, tramezzini, quesadillas, and more. The restaurant caters to various tastes, whether one craves a hearty burger, succulent grill, or a sweet treat from their impressive cake selection. District Café’s decor strikes a balance between comfort and sophistication, featuring elegant gold mirrors and window logos that pay homage to its history.
District Cafe Opening Hours: Monday to Thursday from 08:30 am to 5 pm, Friday to Saturday from 08:30 am to 11 pm, Closed on Friday from 12:30 pm to 1:30 pm, Kitchen closes 30 minutes before closing time.
Address: 115 Roodebloem Rd, Woodstock, Cape Town
Website: https://www.districtcafe.co.za/
Contact Number: 021 447 3444
Gold Restaurant
Gold Restaurant stands as a destination for a unique foodie experience, offering authentic African food complemented by live music, drumming, dancing, and singing. The restaurant’s 14-course menu provides an exploration of the flavours of Africa. What distinguishes this experience is the excellent service provided by skilled waiters who generously share insights into the cooking techniques and spices woven into each dish, with thoughtful labelling indicating the country of origin for every plate. This interactive dining approach not only tastes great but also serves as an educational exploration of culture, taste, and knowledge, all within Cape Town. Gold Restaurant offers Muslim travellers an opportunity to savour authentic African cuisine while immersing themselves in a rich cultural and culinary experience.
Gold Restaurant Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday 6:30 pm to 11 pm
Address: 15 Bennett St, Green Point, Cape Town
Website: https://goldrestaurant.co.za/
Contact Number: 021 421 4653
Where to Pray 🤲
In Cape Town, finding a suitable place for prayer is convenient, given the many mosques in Cape Town. Visitors have a wide range of options, from local community mosques in Cape Town to historic landmarks. Notable among them are the Auwal Mosque, constructed in 1794, and the Palm Tree Mosque, dating back to 1807, reflecting the deep-rooted Islamic history in Cape Town. The city’s cultural and historical richness is further evident in the Circle of Saints, or the Ring of Kramats, with prominent sites such as the shrine of Sheikh Yusuf. For those seeking precise salaah times in Cape Town, mosques and musallahs provide the necessary information for Fajr at dawn, Maghrib during sunset, and Isha at night, ensuring that travellers can observe their prayers by the designated times.
Muslims adhering to the practice of waking up early for Fajr prayers will find themselves well-catered with the many mosques in Cape Town. Fajr is scheduled at dawn, approximately one and a half hours before sunrise, and while some may choose a split sleep pattern—waking up for Fajr and then returning to rest until work time—others may opt for a consolidated sleep approach, praying Fajr upon waking up. This flexibility allows Muslim travellers to seamlessly integrate their prayer routine into their Cape Town itinerary, ensuring a balance between religious observance and exploration of the city’s culture and history.
About Ramadan 🌙
Ramadan, a significant month for Muslims in Cape Town, involves a dedicated period of fasting, prayer, and spiritual reflection. With mosques like Auwal Mosque and Palm Tree Mosque, the city provides spaces for communal prayers and spiritual engagement. Fasting from pre-dawn to sunset, lasting 29-30 days, is observed with a focus on discipline and positive actions. In Cape Town, mosques, including those at the V&A Waterfront and Canal Walk, facilitate prayer spaces for Muslim residents and visitors. Ramadan’s unique routines include pre-dawn suhur meals, breaking the fast at sunset (iftar), and engaging in charitable activities. The month culminates in the celebration of Eid ul-Fitr, marked by joyous gatherings and expressions of gratitude.
Cape Town stands as an inviting destination for Muslim travellers seeking a blend of modern amenities and traditional experiences. From carefully selecting the right accommodation to indulging in some of the best halaal food, exploring the mosques in Cape Town, and embracing the spiritual experience of Ramadan, this guide aims to equip any Muslim traveller with the tools to make the most of their visit to this extraordinary city. Whether admiring the sunset from Signal Hill or finding oneself in the historical narratives of Bo-Kaap, Cape Town beckons with open arms, promising an enriching and memorable journey for everyone.
FAQ
- What time is Fajr in Cape Town?
Here are the Fajr times in Cape Town. Please note that times are subject to change due to the sighting of the new moon – https://www.vocfm.co.za/salaah-times/ - What are the Salaah times in Cape Town?
Here are the Salaah times in Cape Town. Please note that times are subject to change due to the sighting of the new moon – https://www.vocfm.co.za/salaah-times/ - Maghrib time in Cape Town today?
Times change each day; please find more information here – https://hamariweb.com/islam/cape-town - What time is Isha in Cape Town?
Please find Isha’s times in Cape Town here – https://hamariweb.com/islam/cape-town - Where can I find a Musallah?
V&A Waterfront and Canal Walk facilitate prayer spaces for Muslim residents.
