Hey Everyone!
Traveling to South Africa was one of the best travel experiences I’ve had since I started traveling. There are a few reasons why I feel that way. The first and most important reason is because I was there for my best friend’s wedding. I think it was a genius idea to have a destination wedding in such an exotic location. Another reason is that as an African American woman, Africa has a special place in my heart. I look forward to having the opportunity to go back and explore more parts of that gorgeous country in the near future.
Cape Town is a stunning city. My friends and I stayed at a residence with a breathtaking ocean view. Aside from being absolutely gorgeous, the city is also rich in history. A history that isn’t pretty. Since the primary reason for my being there was for the wedding, I have to admit, I didn’t get to do much touring. What I did get a chance to do, is what I’ll be sharing with you today. If you ever find yourself traveling to South Africa and end up in Cape Town, there are things you must do while you’re there. I took the liberty of putting these in an order that is meaningful to me. The first, of course, being the most important.
Here they are:
- Robben Island Prison Tour (Price is R300 which is about $20USD) – This guided tour provides a look into the prison where numerous political prisoners were held as a result of apartheid. Included among the list of prisoners was Nelson Mandela, whose cell is part of the tour.
Langa Township Tour (Price is R300 which is about $20USD) – This guided tour tour takes you through one of the oldest townships in South Africa, the township of Langa. During the tour you’ll get to experience the “real” Langa and meet some of the people.
From the left: “The Harvest”, a mural painted by both local and international painters which marks District 6, an historic neighborhood that was home to one of the most infamous FORCED removals in apartheid history. Second, an original pass book which was often called a Dompas, which literally means “Dumb Pass”. These passes were used as a means for segregation.
Inside the Langa Museum where we learned that women were the ones who started the revolution. Women are HIGHLY respected in Langa.
- Greenmarket Square – There’s no price to visit this shopping area but be sure to bring Rand so you can get all of your souvenirs. Bargaining is both expected and fairly easy to do.
Standing in front of Greenmarket Square and enjoying the beautiful handmade, wooden masks
Table Mountain Aerial Cableway (Prices range from R115-R350 which is about $8-$23USD) – Table Mountain is now one of the 7 Natural Wonders of the World. The cableway takes you to the top of the mountain where you can take in the breathtaking views. Price ranges depend on the time you decide to go up and vary from children to adults.
Cheetah Outreach (Prices range from R80-R240 which is about $5-$16USD) – This fantastic group of people are working to save Cheetahs from extinction. During your tour, you will have to opportunity to pet a Cheetah. Price ranges are based on age as well as the type of encounter you choose to have (cub or adult).
There you have it! 5 things you MUST do if you plan on traveling to South Africa. I hope this was helpful!
