Heritage Day is recognised nationwide every year. South Africa is full of amazing experiences that allow people to explore different cultures and see and do things that bring the country’s diverse heritages to life.
In celebration of Heritage Day 2022, Airbnb is highlighting a number of special Airbnb Experiences that will transport travellers to the heart of SA’s cultural make-up. Take a look.
The great outdoors
Johannesburg
Soccer has become deeply entrenched in SA culture since its introduction into the country in the 19th century, and South Africans have a deep love for the sport. One of the most authentic ways to experience the SA soccer culture is by playing a soccer match with the locals in Soweto.
KZN
For those who love nature, you can hike and shower at ReserveFalls in Kloof, KwaZulu-Natal. Walk through the “jungle” of the Krantzkloof Nature Reserve and stand in the shadow of the ancient Kloof Plateau near the Molweni and Nkutu Rivers. Those with a more adventurous spirit can cool down in the showers from the falls.
Cape Town
Get your cycling shorts on and pedal your way through the lifestyle, history, and heritage of the vibrant community of Khayelitsha. Cycling in Cape Town’s largest township, you’ll explore local landmarks, chat to home-grown entrepreneurs, and may even get the timing right to attend a local festival.
Gourmet food experiences
Johannesburg
Explore the Tswana culture through locally-brewed beer, traditional kasi-style foods, and local dance. During this Experience, aptly titled ‘Gear up for the Tswana culture’, you will be able to brew your own beer, indulge in locally-inspired foods, and dance to the rhythm of Africa in cultural and gumboot dances.
Cape Town
For centuries, stories have been the most expressive and immersive way to learn about history and heritage. Take an off-the-beaten-track tour of downtown Cape Town in an African food and storytelling tour, that will take your tastebuds from Mali and Ethiopia to authentic African dishes and homemade drinks.
KZN
The SA Indian culture is synonymous with flavour-packed foods including delicious chutneys and spicy curries, as well as exquisite traditional clothing, and so much more. The Indian foodie experience takes you through the ultimate Indian gourmet experience showcasing some of Durban’s most renowned Indian culture and food heritage.
Township explorations
Cape Town
Fresh local ingredients are very important across all of SA’s cultures in the food and beverage space. And townships are taking this to heart. Learn about organic gardening and indigenous plants in a townships indigenous garden experience, and connect with the earth as well as the local community.
KZN
Markets are some of the best ways to explore different cultures, from clothing to food, jewellery to traditional furniture – you can learn so much about heritage through cultural markets. If you’re in KZN, you can explore a vibrant local market with a guide who will show you around the nine markets of Warwick as you explore local beadwork, traditional herbs, and medicines, and pick up some very interesting historical facts about Victoria Street, Brook Street, Berea Station, and more.
Johannesburg
Possibly the most famous township in South Africa, Soweto is steeped in history. A half-day bus tour will take you to explore Soweto’s vibrant personality and culture around the area, from Chris Hani Baragwanath hospital and Hector Pieterson Memorial and Museum, to Vilakazi Street to explore the “hometowns” of former President Nelson Mandela and the Archbishop Emeritus Desmond Tutu.
The art and music scene
Cape Town
Cape Town is known for its jazz culture, with African-American jazz reaching SA in the early 20th century. Explore jazz history and culture through Cape Town Hidden Jazz Nights, where you’ll learn about legends such as Robbie Jansen, McCoy Mrubata, and Winston Mankunku Ngozi while sinking into the mellow vibes of jazz music.
KZN
KZN is the centre of SA’s Zulu culture and heritage, and a big part of that culture is music and dancing. On this authentic tour of the Zulu kingdom, you’ll not only witness traditional dancing from young warriors and maidens, but you’ll also be absorbed into the Zulu traditional music and incredible stories that storytellers will share with you.
Johannesburg
Maboneng is known as the artistic hub of Johannesburg, filled with art galleries, studios, and innovative art pieces. A two-hour guided Maboneng street art tour through the colourful and vibrant streets of Johannesburg’s Maboneng district will introduce you to some talented local artists, teach you about the booming art culture in South Africa, and allow you to experience first-hand how art is changing the local communities.
Something a little different
Johannesburg
Have you ever thought of exploring Johannesburg on a skateboard? It’s quite a different experience skating your way through Marshalltown – where Johannesburg’s origins lie – to see some of the oldest buildings (including an underground bar) in the city. You then carve your way through Newtown, the home of the city’s first-ever multi-racial cultural centre,where you can see some of the most creative and profound graffiti artwork in the city. And don’t worry if you haven’t skated before – you’ll get a lesson as part of the experience!
Cape Town
For coffee lovers who enjoy a more innovative cultural experience, try exploring Cape Town’s history, the aromatic coffee culture of the city, and exploring different parts of the city with unique stories – by e-scooter! The Cape Town E-Scooter Experience gives you a deeper understanding of Cape Town and its surrounding areas, including District Six, Salt River, Woodstock, Bo-Kaap, and the Cape Town CBD.
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