Half-Day Small-Group Township Tour South Africa from Cape Town
Cape Town
Z600 | Rating 4.55 / 5 [29 ratings]
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Bucket list experience:
Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa
Townships – undeveloped, sprawling communities of small houses and shacks – are a blight on what is otherwise a gorgeous city. Home to the ‘non-whites’ during apartheid area, they remain a symbol of division and inequality. Aside from a few new satellite dishes, for most residents, not a lot has changed in the post-Apartheid era. Most houses are still made from cobbled-together corrugated iron sheeting for ceilings and walls.
Townships are integral to the city landscape, and to understanding Cape Town’s history, culture and post-apartheid challenges. No wonder then that so-called ‘Township Tours’ have become so popular. They offer a fascinating insight into the realities of life on the socially-depressed Cape Flats.
Perhaps surprisingly, rather than being a depressing experience, they can be uplifting – especially when you witness the ubuntu, meaning the spirit of togetherness, despite the hardships and challenges of daily life. There are many community projects on the go, with opportunities for sponsorship or a donation.
Locals are generally friendly, and you may even get invited into the local ‘pub’ to try some home-made beer.
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Destination Guide >Only visit townships with a reputable organised tour. Tours operators will pick you up from your accommodation. The whole experience will last about 4 hours.
Choose a tour that matches your interests – from cycling through the streets to visiting a jazz musician in their home and enjoying a meal together.
Tours run all year round, seven days a week. Times vary with tour and operator, but morning tours usually depart around 8.30am, afternoon tours around 1.30pm.
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Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa
Hidden away in a private garden, this boutique hotel offers contemporary style and easy access to the popular Camps Bay strip.
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Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa
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Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa
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Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa
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Destination guides including or relevant to this experience
Western Cape, South Africa
Vibrant, multicultural city with dramatic scenery, adrenaline adventure galore, Africa’s best art’s scene and golden beaches and outstanding gastronomy.
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Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa
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Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa
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