With South Africa’s volatile political past, one should approach a township tour experience with great respect. It’s not simply a curiosity expedition. It is a chance for you to enhance your world perspective and get to know someone you might not interact with on a regular basis.

There are a few major townships within the borders of the city. Langa is Cape Town’s oldest black township. Situated just off the N2 highway, about 20 minutes from the city centre, Langa is a popular area for commuters working in the City Centre. The township was established in 1927, after the 1923 Urban Areas Act was enacted. Another township is situated close to it, called Nyanga.

Langa was designated as a neighbourhood for Black Africans long before Apartheid increased in the country. During the Sharpeville massacre in Gauteng (21 March 1960), there were similar fatalities in Langa. This was part of the anti-pass campaign. 50 years later a monument was commissioned in the township to honour those who lost their lives during the struggle.