Khayelitsha

Sprawled along the N2 to Cape Town, sits one of the largest and fastest growing townships in South Africa. With an eclectic mix of housing developments, both informal and formal, Khayelitsha is home to more than 2 million South Africans.

 “Khayelitsha” translates to “new home” in Xhosa and this was literally what it meant for legal black South Africans in 1983. It was a decision of the then apartheid government, to address the issue of black South Africans still living in different informal and formal settlements in and around the Cape Peninsula and to have them in a single, purpose-built township. 

When one thinks of a tourist destination in Cape Town, Khayelitsha may not be what first springs to mind, as it’s one of the most poverty-stricken areas in the country. With that being said though, Khayelitsha is much more than that and is considered an up and coming neighbourhood, whereby residents have lent a considerable effort towards building up their community with clinics, schools and even its own central business district.   

The recommended way to see this vibrant neighbourhood is via the many tours offered by reputable companies. These vary from half-day, full-day, gospel, cycle, and other themed tours. You can expect to stop at notable attractions such as Lookout Hill, shop at craft and food stalls and have a drink at authentic shebeens (pubs/taverns) with the friendly locals.