Cape Town has a very diverse population, there are many different religions, race and ethnic groups.

The townships of Cape Town stand in strong contrast to the wealthier suburbs, economically, culturally and (still) racially. There is a lot of poverty and unemployment, but there is also an amazing warmth and community spirit that is sometimes lacking in richer areas. On a tour of the townships you will see areas that were important in the struggle against apartheid, shop in a craft market and meet local residents. You will find people extremely friendly and glad that you are interested in their lives.

In the days of apartheid, black people were not allowed to live in traditionally white areas and were confined to areas away from the city.

Most residents of Cape Town (about 55%) are of mixed descent and generally speak Afrikaans. These people (referred to as "coloured") also lived in areas separate from the black townships and white areas. Over one million coloured people live in a region known as the Cape Flats.