Khayelitsha

Khayelitsha is unfortunately South Africa's fastest growing township, but also one of Cape Town's leading tourist destinations. The impression from the outside is pretty grim - many shacks line the outskirts and give no indication of the vibrant culture within. The government has implemented many housing projects to replace shacks with permanent houses.

It is recommended to take a guided township tour as many guides have built up relationships with the township residents and often are residents themselves, able to take you to the most interesting places.

While the townships in Johannesburg and Durban are famous for their historical sites, Cape Town township tours focus on the community projects, training centres, craft centres, shebeens and taverns in Khayelitsha and the surrounding townships, including Langa, South Africa's oldest township.

It is incredible to experience the entrepreneurial energy and community spirit amongst township dwellers. It is similarly heart-warming to visit creches and informal businesses and to see people working together as a community. Everyone greets you with a smile, happy that their way of life is of interest. You are even invited to spend the night in a township B&B. These have been quite popular with foreign tourists!

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