If you’ve ever wanted to immerse yourself in authentic South African cuisine, AWOL Tours’ African Cooking Experience is a must-do. The adventure begins with the Cultural Township Tour, where you’ll pedal or walk through the vibrant streets of Masiphumelele, learning about local history, culture, and daily life while taking in the sights and sounds of the community. It’s a fun and active way to connect with the township before heading into the kitchen.

Next, the culinary portion of the day begins. You’ll begin by harvesting fresh herbs and vegetables directly from the garden, connecting you to the very ingredients you’re about to prepare. Next, you’ll learn how to make pap, the staple maize porridge, cooked the traditional way, before moving on to prepare the main meal, with options for either a meat dish or a vegetarian alternative. Finally, it’s time to sit around the table and share the meal together, celebrating the community, culture, and fruits of your own hands.

What makes this experience even more special is that AWOL Tours has sponsored a garden strip as part of the Community Garden Adoption Program through the Masi Creative Hub, providing fresh, nutritious produce to local groups in need. This means that while visitors enjoy the flavours and stories of the township, the community also benefits directly through improved nutrition and food security.

AWOL Tours also supports responsible travel through initiatives like Pack for a Purpose, which invites travellers to bring along a few much-needed supplies in their luggage for local children and families in Masiphumelele. By saving just a little suitcase space, visitors can make a meaningful and lasting impact in the community they are exploring.

Also, by joining the Township Cooking Experience, you don’t just taste amazing food, you also contribute to community upliftment as 10% of tour proceeds go directly to the Masicorp NGO. It’s a chance to enjoy, learn, and contribute, all in one unforgettable experience.