In response to persistent concerns from residents, the City of Cape Town has imposed restrictions on large tour buses entering the historic Bo-Kaap neighbourhood.
Picture: Unsplash
This decision addresses issues of traffic congestion and the preservation of the area’s cultural heritage.
Community concerns
Bo-Kaap, renowned for its vibrant culture and colourful architecture, has long been a popular tourist destination. However, residents have expressed frustration over the influx of large tour buses, particularly on Upper Wale Street, which is ill-suited for vehicles with 36 seats or more due to its steep and narrow roads. These buses have been blamed for significant traffic congestion and disruptions to daily life. In January 2025, the Bo-Kaap Civic and Ratepayers’ Association organised protests to highlight the detrimental effects of over-tourism on the community.
ALSO READ: Exploring the rich history of Robben Island beyond Nelson Mandela
New traffic measures
To mitigate these issues, the City of Cape Town, through its Urban Mobility Directorate, has introduced the following measures, explains Travel News.
– Large tour buses – 36+ seaters – are now prohibited from entering Bo-Kaap via Wale Street.
– The existing parking along Buitengracht (south of Wale Street) will be converted into a stop-and-drop facility for buses.
– An existing park embayment along Buitengracht, between Church and Shortmarket streets, will be modified to accommodate three bus bays.
– Smaller tour buses are permitted to use the drop-and-go zone outside the Bo-Kaap Museum on Wale Street and must then proceed to designated parking behind the Schotsche Kloof Civic Centre on Yusuf Drive.
Rob Quintas, mayoral committee member for Urban Mobility, emphasised that these changes are necessary due to the area’s geometric challenges, stating that restricting large tour buses ensures the free movement of general traffic.
Balancing tourism and community wellbeing
This initiative reflects a broader effort to balance the economic benefits of tourism with the quality of life for local residents. By regulating tour bus access, the city aims to preserve Bo-Kaap’s unique character while still accommodating visitors. The move has been met with appreciation from community members who have long advocated for measures to address over-tourism.
Article originally published by Cape Town ETC
Follow us on social media for more travel news, inspiration, and guides. You can also tag us to be featured.
TikTok | Instagram | Facebook | Twitter
ALSO READ: Gate quota system introduced at Kruger National Park for Easter
