Africa’s leading contemporary art museum pairs changing exhibitions with the spectacular carved atrium and industrial architecture of the V&A Waterfront’s historic Grain Silo.
Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa is the world’s largest museum dedicated to contemporary art from Africa and its diaspora. Set inside Cape Town’s transformed historic Grain Silo at the V&A Waterfront, it brings ambitious exhibitions together with one of the city’s most remarkable architectural spaces.
Across multiple gallery floors, rotating exhibitions feature established and emerging artists working in painting, sculpture, photography, film, textiles, installation and multimedia. The programme explores identity, history, politics, culture and contemporary African life rather than relying on a single permanent display.
The building is an attraction in its own right. Heatherwick Studio carved the original concrete grain tubes into a soaring central atrium, creating dramatic voids, galleries and viewpoints while retaining the industrial character of the 1920s silo.
Allow two to three hours for the galleries and architecture. The Silo District location makes the museum easy to combine with the Two Oceans Aquarium, Cape Town Diamond Museum, Robben Island gateway and other V&A Waterfront attractions.
Highlights
- The world’s largest museum dedicated to contemporary art from Africa and its diaspora
- Spectacular architecture inside a transformed historic grain silo
- Changing exhibitions by established and emerging African artists
- A dramatic central atrium carved from the original concrete silos
- Multiple gallery floors spanning diverse contemporary media
- A landmark cultural destination in the V&A Waterfront Silo District
Tips
Visit on a weekday morning, then join the 12:30 guided tour if space is available. Allow time to experience the carved atrium as well as the exhibitions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Zeitz MOCAA?
Zeitz MOCAA is the world’s largest museum dedicated to contemporary art from Africa and its diaspora, housed in Cape Town’s historic Grain Silo at the V&A Waterfront.
How long should I allow for my visit?
Most visitors spend two to three hours exploring the galleries and architecture, although art enthusiasts may stay longer.
Are guided tours available?
Yes. Free one-hour tours are offered Monday to Friday at 12:30, subject to capacity. Book with the Front of House team on arrival.
Is Zeitz MOCAA suitable for children?
Yes. Families are welcome, although younger children may engage differently with contemporary art exhibitions. Visitors under 18 receive free admission.
Can I combine Zeitz MOCAA with other Waterfront attractions?
Yes. The museum is within walking distance of the Two Oceans Aquarium, Cape Town Diamond Museum, Robben Island gateway and other V&A Waterfront attractions.
