CULTURAL HERITAGE TOURS

Welcome to our Cultural Heritage Tours, a transformative exploration that delves into the rich tapestry of South Africa's history and culture.

Embark on a journey that transcends time, tracing the footsteps of two legendary individuals who have profoundly impacted the globe: Nelson Mandela and Desmond Tutu.

We invite you to create a custom itinerary for your group or join an upcoming adventure.

WE’VE HAD MEMORABLE JOURNEYS WITH THESE GROUPS:

Trinity Church - New York

Indiana Center for Middle East Peace (Michael Spath)

MEET YOUR TOUR GUIDES AND FACILITATORS FOR THIS TOUR

Rev. Edwin Arrison was a close aide to Archbishop Desmond Tutu and an anti-Apartheid activist during the tumultuous 1980s and 1990s in South Africa. His remarkable knowledge of the lives and roles of Nelson Mandela and Desmond Tutu in the freedom struggle in South Africa is unparalleled. Discussions will include how the Arch’s spirituality of “ubuntu,” non-violent resistance, and joy is applicable in one’s life and to other situations.

Deon Kitching is the founder and owner of Embrace South Africa Tours. Since 2001, he has curated numerous social justice tours for universities and churches. A former pastor and seasoned tour provider for over two decades, Deon’s mission is to create opportunities for social- and learning experiences for students and adults from all ages, to answer the question, “How can we, through tourism, make this world a better place for everyone?”

WHAT CAN YOU EXPECT FROM OUR CULTURAL HERITAGE TOURS?

LIVING HISTORY

Follow in the footsteps of Nelson Mandela and Desmond Tutu, exploring the places that shaped their fight for justice. Visit Mandela’s prison cell on Robben Island and walk the streets where Tutu championed reconciliation.

Our expert guides bring history to life with compelling stories, offering deeper insight into their struggles and triumphs. This immersive journey takes you beyond landmarks, connecting you with the communities that played a vital role in South Africa’s path to freedom.

ENGAGE WITH LOCAL COMMUNITIES

Experience the spirit of Mandela and Tutu beyond the landmarks. Engage with local communities, witness their traditions, and feel the impact of their messages of peace and resilience.

Walk in the footsteps of history, where their courage and compassion shaped a nation. This journey offers a deep cultural connection, inspiring you with the enduring legacy of two remarkable leaders.

DISCUSSIONS, MEETINGS AND SITE-VISITS

Rev. Dr. John de Gruchy, Rev. Dr. Allan Boesak, Fr. Michael Lapsley
Robben Island Maximum-Security Prison, including Nelson Mandela’s cell, led by an ex-prisoner
Desmond and Leah Tutu Legacy Foundation
Long March to Freedom Statues
Johannesburg’s Apartheid Museum
Soweto
District 6 Museum (destroyed by apartheid government in 1960’s)
Drumming with Volmoed Youth; Zwelihle community leaders
Legendary black cyclist, Chessy Pieterse
Pretoria’s Freedom Park

FEATURED SOUTH AFRICAN HIGHLIGHTS

Cape Point & Cape of Good Hope (southwestern tip of Africa)
Southernmost tip of Africa, Cape Agulhas, where the Atlantic and Indian Oceans meet
Sunset catamaran champagne cruise from Cape Town
Table Mountain (one of the “Seven Wonders of Nature” in the world)
Cape Peninsula tour, scenic Chapman’s Peake drive
Penguins at Stoney Point, Bettys Bay
Cape Town’s multi-cultural, brightly-colored Bo-Kaap, oldest residential neighborhood
Wine tasting some of South Africa’s finest wines
Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens
Safari in Bakubung Game Lodge, Pilanesberg Game Reserve

Request a sample itinerary: Cultural Heritage Tours

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Feedback from previous Cultural Heritage Tours

Jean Phillips, Indiana

"My trip to South Africa was the most amazing of my life, renewing my spirit. I witnessed a nation striving to build a true democracy and felt the deep dignity and joy of its people. South Africa embodies 'Ubuntu'—its breathtaking landscapes are matched only by the warmth of its people."
Courtenay King, North Carolina

A group of 15 friends and family traveled to South Africa with Embrace South Africa Tours, and it was an unforgettable experience! Our "In the Footsteps of Nelson Mandela and Desmond Tutu" tour included visits to museums, Robben Island, and inspiring local communities. We explored Cape Town’s stunning landmarks, took a sunset cruise, and enjoyed time in the countryside near Hermanus, hiking and connecting with nature. In Johannesburg, we had impactful social justice experiences and ended with a thrilling safari, seeing elephants, lions, and more. Embrace South Africa Tours offers a well-organized, transformational experience, and I can’t wait to return!
John Gardner, Indiana

For an unforgettable adventure, look no further than Embrace South Africa Tours and their expert team. Discover South Africa’s rich history through the legacies of Nelson Mandela and Desmond Tutu, and experience the resilience that triumphed over apartheid. Explore the stunning beauty of the country’s mountains and coastlines, and feel the warmth of its people, united in hope and the journey to freedom. This is a trip of a lifetime—an extraordinary experience you won’t want to miss!