DETAILS

FULL LENGTH TOUR DESCRIPTION
Port Elizabeth – the historic hotbed of political and social resistance to Apartheid. This was the first city to elect a non-racial City Council, and this groundbreaking tour will cover both the historical heart of the city and the vibrant black townships. Come face to face with the harsh reality of South Africa’s past and the successes and challenges of the present.

Depart from the quayside and enjoy a brief orientation tour of Port Elizabeth before proceeding to Missionvale, a very poor and undeveloped residential township. From here, continue via the Govan Mbeki Township to the middle class areas of Kwadwesi and Kwa Magxaki.

You will then proceed to the heart of the township via Veeplaas, passing the main trading area, Njoli Square, en route. This will be followed by a refreshment & comfort stop at a local school or day centre, during which you will be exposed to a variety of cultural activities and entertainment.

Thereafter, continue past the hairdressers at the Goniwe Hostel on your way to the gallery of township artists in the squatter camp, Rhamaphosa Village. The different styles of work on display will be explained and you will have the opportunity to purchase crafts directly from the artists. From here, continue to the Emlotheni Memorial Park, recently built to commemorate the death of the first Umkhonto we Sizwe cadres, who were hung by the previous regime in the early sixties.

Before leaving the township, you will also visit the historic Red Location, striking because of its unique architecture and its strong connection to ANC (African National Congress) history.
Return to the quayside after gaining some insight into South Africa’s turbulent past.
 
SHORT LENGTH TOUR DESCRIPTION
This groundbreaking tour will cover both the historical heart of the city and the vibrant black townships, offering insight into the harsh reality of South Africa’s past and the successes and challenges of the present.
 
TIMING BREAKDOWN
00:00 – 00:15 Depart quayside and drive past the Feather Market Centre, the Old Post Office and Donkin Reserve
00:15 – 00:30 Drive to and stop at Native Strangers Location. Guests stay on coach
00:30 – 00:45 Drive to and stop at Livingstone Hospital/Lithuli Square. Guests stay on coach
00:45 – 01:15 Drive to and stop at Govan Mbeki Township. Guests stay on coach
01:15 – 01:35 Drive to and stop at viewpoint in Kwa Magxaki for photo opportunity
01:35 – 02:15 Drive to and stop at Ekaya Arts & Crafts Project
02:15 – 02: 45 Drive to refreshment stop
02:45 – 03:30 Refreshments and interaction with locals including entertainment
03:30 – 04:00 Return to Port Elizabeth Harbour

Approximate duration: 4 hours
 
OPERATIONAL NOTES
- Please wear flat, comfortable walking shoes, a hat & sun block
- Only local currency (South African Rand) is accepted in the crafts building and there is no shipping
- The WC facilities are cleaned prior to your arrival but are very basic
- Please note that most of the sites visited on this tour are part of an African Township, which whilst having extreme poverty is also being uplifted by the government and the local community, making it a place of hope. One needs to be prepared for this aspect of the tour, as it is definitely a “no frills” experience
- Through participating in this tour, you will receive an insight into the local African culture like no other you have ever experienced, and in doing so, will contribute to the economic upliftment so vital for the people of South Africa
- A small donation of pens, paper and other much-needed stationery, will be handed out at the school or day centre
- This tour is not suitable for guests in wheelchairs; however those with walking difficulties can manage this tour with a little assistance

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