THE SOUL OF MAMELODI

Experience one of Tshwane’s largest townships to see why it is the ‘Home of Jazz’ and why a tour there will leave you inspired.

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Arts and Culture

Experience a cultural mosaic of Africa and the world.

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WILDLIFE AND NATURE

HISTORY

ARTS AND CULTURE

ADVENTURE

MUSEUMS

CUISINE

SHOPPING AND ENTERTAINMENT

Township Tours

Local Township flavour

Tshwane has a long relationship with jazz music and numerous shebeens (pubs) in the townships provide live jazz performances while enjoying a traditional African meal. Include in your township tour a township home stay, lunch or dinner at a local Chesa Nyama, and an excursion to the various local arts and crafts markets.

Nan Hua Buddist Temple

The largest Buddhist temple in Africa

The Nan Hua Buddhist Temple is the largest Buddhist Temple in the southern hemisphere, third largest in the world and the only one in Africa. It is a magnificent sight representing superb architecture with sculptures and interior design incorporating both Eastern and African styles. The temple welcomes all religions and cultures to meditate and relax and it celebrates the Chinese New-year, Festival of Lights and Peace and Dharma functions.

Jazz

The Jazz Capital

The name of one of Tshwane’s largest townships – Mamelodi – means “mother of melodies” and it regularly offers jazz festivals, like the annual Moretele Tribute Jazz concert which takes place annually in August/September. Atteridgeville has more than fifty jazz clubs and nine established jazz bands, giving Tshwane the name “Soul City”.

Ndebele Cultural Village

Immerse in The Ndebele culture

The original residents of the Tshwane valley were the Ndebele. The Ndebele Cultural Village of “Mapoch” is situated 40 km West outside Pretoria where you can live within the community. Soak up the tradional way of life, learn how to make the intricate traditional beaded jewellery or how to paint in the iconic Ndebele motif made famous around the world by the South African artist Esther Mahlangu.

The South African State Theatre

The heart of theatre

The South African State Theatre is host to a colourful variety of entertainment found in the diversity of cultures of South Africa. The State Theatre boasts six modern theatres and regularly presents international blockbusters to local drama, opera and ballet. The Tshwane Youth Arts Festival takes place every August/September on the sought after Opera Stage of the State Theatre Pretoria.