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Unique cultures

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Unique cultures of South Africa

The unique cultures of South Africa have led to it being called the Rainbow Nation, a melting pot of people from very different backgrounds.

Enchanting Zulu villages

Zulu villages in KwaZulu-Natal are an integral part of traditional life as they include all people related to each other by blood, marriage or adoption.

The poignant San heritage

San heritage stretches back more than 100 000 years and it is thought that these small hunter-gatherers were the first human beings in southern Africa.

Museum Africa is currently repositioning itself as a cultural history facility.

Through Museum Africa

Museum Africa lies at the heart of the Newtown Cultural Precinct, offering a view of early Johannesburg and a window into the cultures of South Africa.

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Shangana Cultural Village

The Shangana Cultural Village recounts the story of this fascinating ethnic group through music, dance, theatre and a traditional feast.

Colourful Ndebele Culture

Ndebele culture is renowned for the beautiful dress and accessories of their women as well as the three-dimensional mural art of their homesteads .

South African cultural villages

South African cultural villages celebrate the ethnic diversity of the country by showcasing the traditions and lifestyles of its people.

Ribolla Open Africa Route

The dancers, storytellers and singers to be met along the Ribolla Art Route in Venda offer great insight into rural life in northern Limpopo Province.

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Top South African Township Restaurants

Joe’s Butchery

Fabulous meat and perfect people watching potential combine in this township chisa-nyama barbeque spot deluxe. The place to see and be seen in Johannesburg’s oldest African township. 11th Avenue Alexandra, Johannesburg, Gauteng. 011 443 8943.
Nomalizo Xhoma

The Xhoma family took in the young Nelson Mandela when he first moved to Johannesburg. They will cook you the meals that he ate in the house where it happened. Nomalizo Xhoma, 7th Avenue Alexandra. Prior arrangement essential tel 076 2460352, email nomalizox@mweb.co.za
Kliptown Hotel

Beautiful décor, local flavours and the best chakalaka in South Africa. Don’t miss the homemade ginger cake or the Sunday all you can eat barbeques with live jazz. Walter Sisulu Square, Kliptown, Soweto, Tel 011 527 7300.
Die Rusplek

Chef Patricia Machobani shares the history and flavours of her community who can trace their ancestry to both Chief Mzilikazi and Na-trekkers (freed slaves who followed the Great Trek). 64 Thabo Mbeki Drive, Onverwacht, Pretoria. Tel 076 756 9518
Mzoli’s Place

This chisa-nyama steakhouse hums with high spirits and stylish locals. Plump loin chops, giant ribs and huge T-bones are the order of the day. Shop 3 NY115 & NY108, Gugulethu. Tel 021 638 1355.
Janicky’s Restaurant

If it’s African cuisine you’re after try moatwana chicken foot stew and sip on mqombothi beer. If you fancy Euro-centric comfort food, the roast potatoes are crunchy morsels of heaven. 165 Monroe Street Atteridgeville, Pretoria, Gauteng. Tel 012 373 7804.
Jeya Jazz Corner

Noxolo Sume serves ‘ngudus’ (local slang for beer quarts) and play jazz and blues to adoring fans. If you get peckish there are traditional Xhosa and European style light meals. Sheya Kulati Circle, Cnr Ferguson Road, Avenue A, New Brighton, Port Elizabeth. Tel 041 454 7567.
Max’s Lifestyle Club

Max Mqadi’s regulars include Durban mayor Obed Mlaba so expect super smart and dress to impress. Everything from Zulu classic cuisine to cigars and Moet et Chandon champagne is offered. Area Drive, Section V, Umlazi, KwaZulu Natal. Tel 031 9070461.
Bush Pub

Buck Molakedi serves BaSotho classics such as fermented sorghum Ting and Sechu sa Khoho stew. All menu items go well with beer and good company is always on the menu. Pub 219 Mochera Street, cnr Ngcayiya Rd, Bloemfontein. Tel 051 564 0733.
Alida Bikane Catering and Tavern

Alida Bikane offers both western and classic BaSotho food at her charming tavern in the mountain hamlet of Ladybrand. Service is small town charming and the food is delicious. 1390 Ramohapi Street Manyatseng, Lady Brand, Free State. Tel 082 7109714