Cultural Experiences in Namibia and South Africa

The Cape Grace nestled at the foot of Table Mountain

Namibia and South Africa are a great combination for a perfect luxury African vacation. The game viewing is superb and the cultural experiences unforgettable. The accommodation is of a very high standard, competing comfortably with the best hotels in the world. Whether you are planning a luxury African honeymoon, an intimate wedding anniversary, a once in a lifetime family holiday or just a bit of relaxation and pampering far away from the crowds; a personalised African travel itinerary, designed specifically with your interest in mind, is the perfect way to get the best out of your vacation.

The first known musicians of the sub Saharan region were the San people whose language is fille dwith the click sounds and who produced a variety of musical instruments. As the Western cultures settled in the area, different types of music were mixed to create what is the sounds of Afica today. The original music was not lost as it was passed down from one generation to the next and each 'tribe' in Africa still has its own unique musical sounds and history.

Namibia - The Himba People

Namibia has a diverse cultural heritage and is home to one of the most distinct African tribes - the Himba - a group of semi-nomads who live in the Kunene region. The women are easily recognised with their intricate hairstyles and traditional accessories. They also rub their skin with a blend of red ochre and fat which keeps their skin soft and protects it from the harsh desert climate.

One of their most notable rituals is the 'okoruwo' or fire ritual. Their belief is that the fire is a method of contacting the dead and it is kept burning until the death of a headman. When he passes his hut and the fire is destroyed and his family dance through the night in mourning. The following day a mopane tree is lit from the emebers of the old fire, and so the cycle of life continues.

The Serra Cafema Camp is a remote and luxurious camp that sits on the banks of the Kunene River and is often visited by the local Ovahimba tribes. It is the perfect location for those looking to combine a safari and cultural holiday as you will have the opportunity to gain a unique insight into the fauna and flora of the area as you are guided on your activities with an expert guide. You will also be able learn about the Himba peoplestraditional culture and way of life.

South Africa

Kwazulu Natal - Zulu music and culture

There are two distinctive styles of Zulu music. The Makanda - "the Zulu blues" - music of a man walking the long miles to court a bride or to meet with his chief. Music about real life experiences, the joys and sorrows of life and the world around him.

The beautiful music of Isicathamiya which gained international acclaim through the highly talented Ladsmith Black Mambazo' collaboration with Paul Simon. This form of music takes the form of a call and response with a choir led by a main singer who is usually the composer of the songs.

Thanda Private Game Reserve is a luxury Lodge in Northern Zululand that focusses on giving you an authentic Zulu cultural experience. The highlight of which is the Impi dancing. It is a form of dance that is performed pre an dpost battle - a tradition that has been passed down from King Shaka Zulu.

Cape Town - Cape Minstrels' Carnival - 2 January

The annual Kaapse Klopse (Cape Minstrels Carnival) is an annual New Years festival that celebrates the history of the Cape slaves and marks the one day in the year that the slaves were given off by their masters. It is a colourful and flambouyant parade with live music and entertainment. Cape Town is a cosmopolitan city with a diverse and interesting mix of cultures and architecture and there is plenty to delight even the most seasoned of travellers throughout the year. The luxurious Cape Grace Hotel on the waterfront is the perfect base from which to explore this vibrant city and its beautiful winelands.

Mpumalanga

The Shangaans live in areas between the Kruger National Park and the Drakensberg Mountains. Their culture is celebrated at the shangana Cultural Village, a village between the southern Kruger National Park and the Blyde River Canyon. The Shangaan people love music and have developed many musical instruments. A visit to this friendly village is a wonderful opportunity to experience the Shangaans culture and way of life. A night in Mpumalanga is perfect after a great safari experience at Londolozi in the Sabi Sabi Game Reserve.