Township Tours in Cape Town

Over 2.5 million of Cape Town’s inhabitants reside in townships, which are informal urban settlements that stem from the Apartheid era in South Africa. Some of the largest and most populated townships in Cape Town are Langa, Gugulethu and Khayelitsha.

Joining a township tour in Cape Town provides you with valuable insight into how the majority of Capetonians live. Visiting these impoverished communities not only helps support local businesses but gives you a realistic look into the “real” South Africa.

Here's all you need to know about township tours, one of the most captivating sightseeing activities in Cape Town.

What are the best township tours in Cape Town?

Private township tour in Cape Town

See the other side of Cape Town and embrace the opportunity to chat and interact with local township residents and small business owners. This tour aims to give you a clear and objective view of what life is really like in South Africa’s townships.

Your tour begins in District Six, where it all started. You’ll learn about the significant role that this area played in segregation and the forming of Cape Town’s many townships. From District Six, you’ll head to Langa— the oldest township in the city.

Your guide will take you to the Dom Pas Museum as well as the local arts and crafts center in Langa before you make your final stop in Khayelitsha— South Africa’s fastest-growing township. Before you are taken back to your hotel, you’ll enjoy a delicious local meal.

Bicycle township tour in Cape Town

Ride through the peripheral township of Masiphumelele on two wheels, with your friendly local guide leading the way. Explore this culturally-rich community that began as an informal settlement during the Apartheid era and gain insight into the local way of life.

As you ride through the township and visit local homes and businesses, you’ll get to interact with friendly local residents. Some of the tour’s highlights include visiting a daycare, meeting a traditional healer and enjoying a delicious local lunch.

The best part about this bike tour is that a portion of the proceeds goes to a local NGO called Masicorp, which focuses on helping local township residents achieve financial independence.

Arts and culture township tour in Cape Town

Visit Langa, Cape Town’s oldest township, with this small-group tour that focuses on the importance of art and culture within the community. Your local guide leads the way and takes you to the most culturally significant places within the township.

You’ll get to learn how to play the African drum, walk through a local art and craft market and visit the Gugu S’thebe Cultural Centre. You’ll learn how the local transportation system works and the impact that Apartheid had on the community of Langa.

This tour provides a great opportunity to purchase souvenirs made by local artists and craftsmen as you learn more about the township and its fascinating yet tragic history.

Khayelitsha township tour in Cape Town

Khayelitsha is home to over 2.5 million people and is the fastest-growing township in the country. Unlike most other townships, Khayelitsha is centrally located and easy to get to from most suburbs in the city.

This tour focuses on sustainability and leaving a positive impact on the community, and that is why you will be offered the opportunity to volunteer or help paint a mural. It is wonderful to be able to give back to a community that needs it and appreciates it.

Your guide will introduce you to locals and teach you about the area’s traditions, history and culture. You’ll stop at a few eateries throughout the tour and get to taste local coffee and various snacks.

Which places are visited?

Each township tour has a slightly different itinerary, with some tour operators focusing on just one township and other tour operators visiting multiple townships throughout the tour.

Some of the most common township destinations visited in township tours are Langa, Gugulethu and Khayelitsha. District Six is also commonly visited, as this area played a hugely significant role in the beginning of segregation in South Africa.

Once inside the township, your tour guide will take you to various points of interest including museums, arts and craft centers, small businesses and even local homes in some cases. Most tours also stop at a township eatery, where you’ll enjoy a local meal.

The aim of most township tours in Cape Town is to provide you with an understanding of how township residents live. The places that you visit during your tour will provide you with valuable insight, and give you the opportunity to interact with locals.

How much do township tours in Cape Town cost?

A basic township tour in Cape Town costs around US$40 per person. These are typically group tours, but there are some private tours available for this price.

For a more comprehensive township experience, such as the bicycle township tour and other longer tours, you can expect to pay between US$65 and US$100 per person.

Township tours that visit additional locations, such as Robben Island, usually cost upwards of US$100 per person.

What is included?

• Hotel transfers (most tours)
• Entry fees
• Local tour guide
• Lunch (some tours)

Where does it start?

Most tour operators will offer a hotel pickup and drop-off service for your convenience. However, there are a few tours that start at central locations in Cape Town, such as The Silo Hotel.

How long does it last?

The typical duration of a township tour in Cape Town is around 4 hours. However, there are also several full-day township tours available for those looking for a comprehensive township experience.

When is the best time for a township tour in Cape Town?

Most tour participants prefer township tours that take place in the morning and end with a local lunch. A township tour is a great way to start your day in Cape Town, and once the tour is over you’ll still have the rest of the day to explore other parts of the city.

Book your township tour in Cape Town for the beginning of your stay in the city, as these tours act as an informative introduction to Cape Town’s past and present. Your tour guide will also be able to provide you with helpful tips for the rest of your stay in South Africa.

Are there any combos available with township tours in Cape Town?

Robben Island and township tour in Cape Town

Learn about Nelson Mandela’s imprisonment when you visit Robben Island, which is just several kilometers from the mainland. You’ll also visit various townships in Cape Town, where you’ll gain a further understanding of Mandela’s struggle against Apartheid.

Travel tips

• Book your township tour in advance to secure your spot and avoid disappointment.
• Dress casually and wear comfortable walking shoes. Avoid wearing anything flashy or excessive jewelry.
• It is recommended that you don’t give money directly to locals residents. Instead, donate to local charities and NGOs if you wish to help.