Alexandra Township Rhythm Tour, Johannesburg, South Africa
Alexandra, in Johannesburg, is typical of vibrant township life in South Africa. This hive of activity, with over 400 000 residents, is where you can find out what makes a humming township tick. Just a 5 minute drive from the very upmarket Sandton suburb, with its mansions and corporate offices, Alex, as it is fondly known, could not be more different.
The impact of South Africa’s past is clearly etched in the small homes and shacks of Alex’s people, but what they lack in grandeur is more than made up for in spirit. The friendly attitude of the residents and the extensive knowledge of the Khavha tour guides, will allow you to get a glimpse of African urban life, its food, music, social culture and history.
Down a hearty plate of African cuisine, slake your thirst with traditional home-brewed beer, gyrate to kwaito (a rousing, energetic, contemporary African dance ) with a shebeen queen (owner of an African styled bar) or capture the true camaraderie of sharing a braaied mielie (barbequed corn) around a smoky, tinny drum.
Stock up on unique arts and crafts from the street vendors, who trade all manner of unique curios, and finally, step into the mystic world of ethnic medicine, but be warned, you’ll need a strong stomach for some of the more exotic tonics. Sangomas (traditional healers) sell cures for every ailment imaginable.
A peek into the history of Alexandra reveals that Alex has been home to many luminaries including former President, and South Africa’s favourite citizen, Nelson Mandela. Another icon who once called Alexandra home is world renowned jazz maestro, Hugh Masekela.
Whether you take a day or night tour, lasting about 2-3½ hours, the Alexandra Township of Rhythm Route is a unique, emotional and sensory experience, not easily forgotten. Bicycle tours are also available on request.
Some do’s and don’ts – Do wear walking shoes, and your camera (but, whilst walking, keep it in a shoulder bag if possible). Don’t carry too much cash or flash around expensive jewellery or watches.
KhavhoTours are accredited Alex tour operators: You will be collected from your hotel or guesthouse or Marlborough Gauteng Station (0) 11 070 8373 Mobile: +27 (0)73 2788529
bookings@khavho.co.za or khavho.tours@gmail.com
| More info on the town of Alexandra | More info on the Johannesburg area |
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