South Africa has much to offer the tourist, both local and international, and one of the things that a tourist must do is go on a township tour. A township is an area, normally close to the nearby town or city, to which non-white South Africans were forcibly moved during the Apartheid era. Townships in South Africa contain much of the history of the struggle against apartheid and have a story to tell about both the past and present South Africa. They are bustling, vibrant pockets of modern day South Africa where stories of poverty, pain and hope live side by side. Tourism brings a much needed income to the townships and no tourist who visits a South African township will leave unchanged. The tourist has not had a true South African experience unless a township tour is included in their itinerary.
What to Expect on a Township Tour
There are many different township tours available and each is as unique as the township in which they are situated. Generally a township tour will include a visit to the local shebeen (tavern) where the tourist will be able to sample local dishes and try out sorghum beer. South African music will be heard and visitors can expect to hear anything from Kwaito to Gospel to local rap or hip-hop artists.
A visit to the sangoma or traditional healer will also be included in the tour. If one is adventurous, an overnight stay in a local bed and breakfast can be arranged and very often this will mean living with a family in the community and experiencing in a very real way what it is like to live in a township. Here the real stories about living under the apartheid government or speak to people and share with them their daily struggle to put bread on the table. Chat with the street children and share their dreams or have an informal football match in the street with the local children.
Soweto and Inanda
One can visit places of historical interest such as Soweto, which played a critical role in the struggle against Apartheid or Inanda, where Mahatma Ghandi led his peaceful resistance movement.Other places of. Be entertained by local dancers or sample a vetkoek and tea in a local shanty made from plastic and corrugated iron. The tourist who wants to give back may possibly also visit a local school or community project where AIDS orphans are being cared for and learn how they can get involved. Finally, bargaining with local traders for beautiful beadwork, sculptures or other local art will definitely be a highlight and the tourist will leave with a tangible reminder of their visit.
South Africa is a wonderful vibrant country and its people are warm, friendly and hospitable. Tourists discover this for themselves by going to visit where the people live and to hear their stories and share their lives. It will be one of the most memorable tours that a tourist can undertake and ranks up there will enjoying the wildlife and natural beauty this country has to offer.
