This small but illuminating state-owned gallery is arguably the most important art repository in the country despite its limited physical dimensions. Only a small portion of the 8,000-strong collection is displayed at any one time. To make up for the lack of space, there's an emphasis on exhibitions, with an ever-changing rotation of new and exciting projects, including international traveling exhibitions, particularly ones with a South African or African connection. A lot of attention is given to showing off a broad cross-section of art from the south of Africa, going both back in time and across genres, so visitors don't leave the gallery with a lopsided view. Recent years have also seen a push to include formerly ignored categories of craft, notably implements and jewelry made by the country's various indigenous peoples. Photography also has gained considerable traction. Time spent in the gallery will depend on the depth and extent of current exhibitions; allow 1 hr. Note: It's a bonus that you will inevitably walk through the Company's Gardens to get to the museum (do walk through after your visit if you missed it coming in). This is the oldest garden in the country, originally established to grow fruit and vegetables for the ships that stopped at the Cape between Europe and the East. If the sun is out, the Gardens are always filled with people of every imaginable walk of life, and from this perspective you can peer into the back of South Africa's Parliament, around which are a number of significant historical buildings.