Missing video
Sorry, this video could not be found.
Township of boxers
Mdantsane, East London
Street scene, Mdantsane Township, East London
© Chris Marais
Did you know?
Mdantsane is also known as a cradle of South African boxing greats.
The Eastern Cape township of Mdantsane is located in a threshold area between East London and King William's Town, in arguably the country's most ecologically pristine province. Vast tracts of virgin land cover much of the Eastern Cape Province, with most of its coastal land proving lush and impenetrable.
It's here that South Africa's No. 1 Son, former President Nelson Mandela, fondly known as Madiba, was born and raised. The original inhabitants of Mdantsane were indigenous people who were forcibly removed from East London's multiracial suburbs in the 1960s in the midst of Apartheid. A dearth of employment followed, since the nearest city was too far to traverse by foot, and public transport was too expensive for most.
Unemployed youngsters formed gangs and roamed the streets, so it comes as no surprise that Mdantsane spawned a clutch of strapping world champion boxers, since this generation had to be brawny for survival's sake. Much later, however, the government subsidised commuting and the situation improved.
Today, Mdantsane township is a vibrant, sprawling quarter, with plenty to fascinate the culture vulture. Visit the memorial to the 1983 Bus Boycott Massacre at Ergeton Station, or drink in some ubuntu - an expression for a people's humanity - at the Mdantsane Arts Centre, a community project that teaches the youth different artistic skills.
Tourists can also experience the township's twilight, by visiting Mdantsane's first dedicated sports bar, the Cornerstone Tavern in NU9. Down a few umqombithis (traditional African home-brewed beer) and hobnob with the animated locals.
Or indulge in a spot of retail therapy at the multi million rand Mdantsane City Shopping Centre, situated in the heart of Mdantsane township. And should you decide to spend the night in the South African township of Mdantsane, be sure to book into a local bed and breakfast.
Travel tips & Planning info
Who to contact
Imonti Tours
Tel: Velile Ndlumbini on +27-83-487-8975
email: info@imontitours.co.za or velile@imontitours.co.za.
Wamalets Tours
Tel: +27 84 581 5172
email: info@wamaletstours.co.za
Buffalo City Municaplity Tourism Office
Tel: +27-43-705-1162
Tumie's Bed & Breakfast
Tel: +27-43-762-3398
How to get here
Take a township tour from East London with any number of tour operators in the area.
Around the area
A city tour of East London's historical sites, including the East London Museum, will have you fascinated for a whole day.
Tours to do
A few East London tour operators take tours to Mdantsane. Take your pick. One of the top operators is Velile Ndlumbini from Imonti Tours - see Contacts for his details.
Get around
Your tour guide, normally a resident of the township, will show you around.
What will it cost
Approximately R350 per person.
Length of stay
A Mdantsane township tour typically lasts about 4 hours, including lunch, but you can tailor-make it to your requirements.
What to pack
Walking shoes, a hat and comfortable clothing. Don't wear too much jewellery.
Where to stay
East London has a pick of hotels, B&Bs and guesthouses. For a full township experience, book into a B&B in Mdantsane itself. You will be collected by your tour guide the following day.
What to eat
Traditional township fare at a shebeen, though Western food is also available for the less adventurous.
Best buys
Crafted ceramics and other collectibles from the Mdantsane Arts Centre.