Meet Daiyaan Petersén, a proud Kensington local, passionate local historian, and tour guide who’s as obsessed with Cape Town’s culture and stories as he is with a good steak salomi. At just 25, he’s already made it his mission to share the city’s layered history with the world, especially the rich heritage of the Bo-Kaap.
When he’s not leading tours or deep in the archives, you’ll find him strolling through museums, chatting to flower sellers, or tracking down the best food spots across the city. We asked Daiyaan to share his ultimate day out in Cape Town. Here’s how he’d spend it…
Iziko Slave Lodge
For Daiyaan, few places in the city carry as much emotional weight as the Iziko Slave Lodge in the Cape Town City Centre. Originally a home for enslaved people during the colonial era, the building now serves as a reminder of South Africa’s complex past. Permanent exhibitions trace the legacy of slavery, and rotating displays encourage conversations about human rights.
“For me, the Slave Lodge is more than just a museum,” Daiyaan shares. “It’s a vital site of memory – one that helps ensure we never forget a chapter of our history that has often been ignored or forgotten.” One room that holds a special place in Daiyaan’s heart is the Lena van de Caab Room, an evocative space tells the story of Lena, a woman enslaved in the early 1700s.
Location: Corner Adderley Street and Wale Street, Cape Town.
Price: Standard entry: R80. South African locals pay R50 for adults, R30 for children aged 5 to 17 and South African pensioners and students when they present a valid ID. Free entry on Fridays and on commemorative days.
Website: slavery.iziko.org.za/slavelodge/
Adderley Street Flower Market
As South Africa’s oldest flower market, spanning over 150 years, the Adderley Street Flower Market offers a vibrant mix of colour, fragrance, and local character. Located at Trafalgar Place, visitors can stroll through an alleyway covered with fresh blooms, from roses to proteas.
“The best part is meeting the flower sellers,” beams Daiyaan. “They’ll regale you with Cape Town’s most entertaining stories and infectious laughter.” Among them is the legendary Aunty Diela, a familiar face who greets passersby with her infectious laughter. If you ask nicely, the aunties might just “make a plan” to get you the best deal in the market.
Location: 13 Adderley St, Cape Town City Centre,
Price: From R30
Mariam’s Kitchen St George’s Mall
If there’s one spot that tastes like home for Daiyaan, it’s Mariam’s Kitchen. Right in the middle of the city’s hustle, this unassuming local takeaway dishes up some Cape favourites, including flaky salomis, giant gatsbys, Vienna-and-chips parcels, and comforting Cape Malay curries.
Daiyaan went straight for the steak salomi (R95), a must-have when visiting Mariam’s. “It’s vuil dyt,” he laughs, using the Cape slang for greasy, indulgent junk food. “But that’s exactly what makes it so good.” Mariam’s is perfect for a quick bite between errands or a sit-down meal that hits all the right comfort notes.
Location:101 St George’s Mall, Cape Town City Centre
Price: From R7
Website: www.facebook.com/
Kloof Corner
For those craving the outdoors, Daiyaan recommends Kloof Corner as a quick nature escape. Located just off Tafelberg Road, this short but scenic trail takes only about 20 minutes to reach the top, making it ideal for beginners or anyone short on time. Park at the bottom of Tafelberg Road, and follow the clearly marked path to Kloof Corner.
“It’s easily one of the quickest and most accessible hikes in Cape Town, perfect for a midweek adventure or spontaneous sunset mission,” he shares. Once you summit, you’re rewarded with jaw-dropping views of Lion’s Head, the city bowl, and Table Bay stretching out below.
Location: Tafelberg Rd
Price: Free
Website: www.alltrails.com/trail/
Sunset at Kom Walkway
To end the day on a seriously high note, Daiyaan suggests heading out to one of his favourite sunset spots in Kommetjie. He discovered the Kom Walkway by chance while driving past Noordhoek.
“You just keep walking until the boardwalk runs out,” he says, “then you find a quiet spot, sit back, and watch the magic happen. It’s raw. It’s untouched. And it hits differently compared to the usual sunset spots in the city,” he adds.
Location: Lighthouse Rd, Kommetjie
Price: Free, but pack a few snacks to enjoy during sunset.
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