African Township Cooking Experience

Discover the rich flavours and culture of Cape Town’s townships on an authentic African cooking experience in Masiphumelele. This hands-on tour invites you to cook traditional South African dishes like pap and Ubuntu stew using fresh produce from community gardens. Guided by local women, you’ll learn the stories and customs behind the food, then sit down to enjoy the meal you’ve helped prepare. The tour also includes a guided walk or cycle through the township, visits to local projects, and supports the community directly.

Discover the true taste of African culture with AWOL Tours’ community-based township cooking experience, departing on request at 10 AM from Chasmay Campus (self-drive options available on request). This immersive tour offers a unique opportunity to cook, eat, and connect with locals in the heart of Masiphumelele township.

The highlight of the tour is a hands-on African cooking lesson hosted at a local community kitchen. Under the guidance of passionate local women, you’ll learn to prepare traditional South African dishes using fresh, seasonal ingredients—many of which are harvested straight from the township’s thriving vegetable gardens.

Your cooking class includes:
* Preparing an Ubuntu Meal with spinach, potatoes, onions, and carrots – a dish rooted in community values of sharing and exchange
* Learning to make Pap, the staple maize porridge, cooked the traditional way
* Harvesting fresh herbs like chives and vegetables directly from the garden
* Cooking a flavourful meat dish (usually chicken); vegetarian options are also available
* Sharing a meal together as a celebration of community and culture

In addition to the cooking experience, your local guide will lead you on a short walking or cycling tour through the township, where you’ll:
* Visit a local crèche (weekdays only) supported by your tour contributions
* Meet local crafters and artists

10% of tour proceeds go directly to the Masicorp NGO, supporting education and skills development in Masiphumelele. Your visit helps provide meaningful income and opportunities for locals, while fostering cultural exchange through food and storytelling.

Included in your tour:
* Guided township tour by a local resident
* Traditional African cooking lesson at a local community garden & kitchen
* Shared lunch with the food you prepare
* 10% donation to Masicorp NGO

Please note that some attractions like the library and pre-school are CLOSED during the week-end and on school & public holidays

This private tour, with options to include transfers  with an AWOL Tour guide meeting you at your hotel and then transferring you to Masiphumelele Township, spanning approx 3-4 hours in duration.

Tours commence at 10 am or can be arranged at your preferred time upon request.

Prices are from R1900 pp excluding transfers minimum 4 guests departing daily Mon – Fri
Prices are  from R2850 pp including transfers minimum 4 guests  available on request

*Prices valid to 31 Oct 2026

Please Enquire for more information or click on below link for immediate reservation