Salt River murals Cape Town
Cape Town's Salt River is a vibrant outdoor gallery, showcasing stunning large-scale murals by local and international artists.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
Salt River murals Cape Town
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Cape Town's Salt River is a vibrant outdoor gallery, showcasing stunning large-scale murals by local and international artists.
"Immerse yourself in the Mother City's eclectic vibe and history through incredible street art."
🚶♀️ Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to discover the diverse street art. :athletic_shoe:
📅 Book a Guided Tour
Baz-Art offers tours that provide context and history behind the murals. :ticket:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Iconic Salt River Murals
Various streets in Salt River
Vibrant, large-scale murals by local and international artists transforming the neighborhood into an open-air gallery.

Baz-Art Guided Tours
Salt River
Immerse yourself in the Mother City's eclectic vibe and history with knowledgeable guides contextualizing the art.

International Public Art Festival (IPAF)
Salt River
Witness artists at work and discover new, large-scale murals painted during this annual vibrant event.
Planning Your Visit
Explore Salt River's Vibrant Street Art
Best Time to See the Murals
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to discover the diverse street art. :athletic_shoe:
📅 Book a Guided Tour
Baz-Art offers tours that provide context and history behind the murals. :ticket:
Street Art
☀️ Visit During Daylight
Best light for appreciating the vibrant colors and details of the street art. :camerawithflash:
🗺️ Self-Guided Exploration
Grab a map or use online resources to navigate the art-filled streets at your own pace. :world_map:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to discover the diverse street art. :athletic_shoe:
📅 Book a Guided Tour
Baz-Art offers tours that provide context and history behind the murals. :ticket:
☀️ Visit During Daylight
Best light for appreciating the vibrant colors and details of the street art. :camerawithflash:
🗺️ Self-Guided Exploration
Grab a map or use online resources to navigate the art-filled streets at your own pace. :world_map:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Salt River's vibrant street art scene, highlighting the impressive scale and quality of murals by local and international artists. Guided tours by Baz-Art are frequently recommended for their insightful context and historical background, making the experience richer. While the art is a major draw, some visitors note that it's an urban environment requiring awareness.
"Baz-Art has made street art available to all who walk the streets of Salt River and parts of the CBD. The guided walking tours let you immerse yourself in the Mother City, it’s eclectic vibe, history and the wonderful talent so vividly expressed on theses walls by local and international artists. Loved it!"
Claudia Chennells
"Baz-Art organised an incredible Public Art Festival in 2022. We visited the main centre of the festival and were offered a guide at a good price, who took us to see both old and new murals that had been painted during the IPAF festival. Our guide also contextualized a lot of the art and buildings we saw with South African history. It was so worthwhile. Highly recommend!"
Rudi Botha
"Spending time on the streets of Salt River at the Baz-Art International Public Art Festival from 10-14 February 2021. Easy to follow self-guided tour walking & photographing & chatting to international & local street artists whilst they painting 20 additional large-scale murals all over the neighbourhood. Guided tours are also available and can be booked at Baz-Art offices. Well done to the Baz-Art team for an awesome event 👍🏽"
Yassie ZA
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Salt River is easily accessible by car, taxi, or ride-sharing services. Public transport options like MyCiTi buses also serve the area. Many visitors find it convenient to start their exploration near the main hubs of street art activity.
Like any urban area, it's advisable to be aware of your surroundings. Visiting during daylight hours and sticking to well-trafficked areas is recommended. Guided tours can offer a safer and more informed experience.
The murals are spread across Salt River and sometimes extend into Woodstock. While many are within walking distance of each other, comfortable shoes are a must for exploring the various clusters of art.
Many visitors opt for guided tours offered by organizations like Baz-Art, which provide excellent insights and navigation. Alternatively, a self-guided tour using a map or online resources can be very rewarding.
Street parking is available, but can be limited, especially during peak times or events. It's advisable to arrive early or consider using ride-sharing services for easier access.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The murals themselves are publicly displayed on buildings and walls, so no tickets are required for general viewing. However, guided tours offered by Baz-Art do have a fee.
The street art is accessible 24/7 as it's part of the urban landscape. For the best experience and safety, it's recommended to visit during daylight hours.
Tour prices can vary, but reviews suggest they are reasonably priced and offer great value for the historical and artistic context provided. It's best to check the Baz-Art website or contact them directly for current pricing.
While some tours might accommodate walk-ins, it's highly recommended to book in advance, especially during peak seasons or for specific events like the International Public Art Festival, to secure your spot.
The festival itself is often free to attend, with murals displayed throughout the neighborhood. Guided tours during the festival may have a separate cost.
📸 📸 Photography
The best light for photography is typically during the golden hours – shortly after sunrise and before sunset. Midday sun can create harsh shadows, but overcast days can also be great for even lighting.
Many murals are incredibly photogenic due to their scale and vibrant colors. Look for pieces with strong compositions and interesting details. The large-scale works often draw the most attention.
Use a wide-angle lens to capture the full scale of the murals. Consider using a tripod for sharper images, especially in lower light conditions. Experiment with aperture to control depth of field.
During events like the International Public Art Festival, you might have the opportunity to see artists at work. Always be respectful and ask for permission before taking close-up photos of artists.
Generally, photography for personal use is allowed. However, for commercial purposes or if photographing individuals, it's always best to be mindful of privacy and seek permission where necessary.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
When exploring independently, make it a treasure hunt to find specific murals or colors. Pack snacks and water, and ensure everyone wears comfortable shoes for walking. The open-air nature of the art makes it a relaxed way to explore, allowing kids to move around while still being exposed to incredible art and culture.
🎨 Art Enthusiasts & Photographers
Consider visiting during the International Public Art Festival (IPAF) if your timing aligns, as you can witness artists creating new works. For photography, aim for the golden hours for the best light, and be prepared to experiment with different angles and compositions to do justice to the dynamic murals.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Art of Salt River: A Community Canvas
Exploring these murals offers a unique way to experience the city's culture and history. Guided tours, often led by knowledgeable locals, provide invaluable context, explaining the symbolism behind the artwork and the stories of the community. This approach allows visitors to connect with the art on a deeper level, understanding its significance beyond its visual appeal.
For those who prefer to explore independently, a self-guided tour is also highly rewarding. The sheer density and variety of the street art mean that every corner turned can reveal a new masterpiece. It’s an experience that encourages walking, discovery, and appreciation for the creative energy that pulses through Salt River.
Navigating Your Salt River Art Adventure
Guided tours are highly recommended, especially for first-time visitors. Baz-Art offers tours that not only showcase the murals but also delve into the history and socio-political context of the area. These tours are often led by passionate individuals who can offer unique insights that you might miss on your own.
For a self-guided exploration, it's helpful to have a general idea of the areas where murals are concentrated. Many visitors start their journey in the vicinity of the old Salt River Market or along the main thoroughfares. Don't be afraid to wander down side streets; you might stumble upon hidden gems.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit