Indigenous Cultures
It's always about the people, do we sometimes say. But it's true - in your life, you will meet incredible individuals who will mark you forever. Home to over 3000 tribes, the African continent is filled with colourful tribes and cultures ever more diverse. Around 2000 different languages and dialects are spoken on the 'Mother Continent' and few things are as emotive as sharing a dance with Maasai women or being welcomed in a traditional manner. Africa’s people are as a part of the land as the wildlife but, and if you listen to their stories and let them show you their ways, you will be enthralled by incredible diversity that will teach you to see the world from vastly new perspectives.
A few of Africa's Indigenous Cultures...
Cape town
The Cultural Heart of South Africa
The colourful and vibrant city of Cape Town, located in Africa’s southernmost tip, harbours modern day tribes and cultures of every kind, making it one of the more culturally rich and diverse places in South Africa – something that you will be able to taste as you eat your way through this city, famous for its culinary artists. From surfers to hikers, filmmakers to wine lovers, international models to local artisans, Cape Town is an eclectic and buzzing city which has something for everyone. Beautiful beaches offer incredible surfing options, whale watching and snorkelling. The stunning mountains – Table Mountain and the Twelves Apostles, Lion’s Head being the most famous – are perfect for hiking and horse riding, and the fertile Stellenbosch offers wine tasting from some of the most renowned vineyards on the planet. Historic tours bring this city’s fascinating past to life as experienced local guides interpret everything from the days of the very first explorer, Bartolomeu Dias landing on Cape Town’s shores, to the slave trade, to wars fought over city’s strategic location, to apartheid and the present day. And for the keen night animals amongst you, the local nightlife will keep you dancing until the day breaks. Spending time in Cape Town will take you on a truly intellectual, exhilarating, culinary and fascinating journey, that will hopefully have you falling in love with this incredible city.
Omo Valley
Intriguing and Unique
It is here, in southern Ethiopia, that some of the most intriguing tribal traditions exist. Eight tribes dwell in various parts of this relatively small region, yet despite their proximity, tribal appearances and customs differ dramatically. The large lip-plates of the Mursi tribe, the white body paint of the Karo, the red ochre hair and body paint of the Hammer tribe are just some of the unique characteristics that set each of these incredible tribes apart. And traditions vary as much as do appearances. The Hammer tribe is known for bull-jumping ceremonies where a man of age must run across the back of bulls to prove his manhood. The Bodi are recognised by their Ka’el ceremonies where men must gorge themselves for months on milk and blood to become the ‘fattest of the tribe’, and the Mursi for their stick fighting. Diversity is beautiful, and the Omo Valley holds many incredible secrets.
Lalibela
Priests and Rocks Churches
Few towns hold as much historical significance as the northern Christian cities of Ethiopia. Arguably, none of them more than Lalibela. A fascinating history is written in some of the oldest Christian scrolls ever uncovered, equally – and famously- inscribed in the rocks. Lalibela is known for its eleven rock churches, carved downwards into the rock by hand to make them less visible to invading Muslim armies. Some as old as 800 years! Wondering about these deep and dark chasms will certainly challenge your mind as your fingers travel over every chip in the rock. It is said that it took 24 years for some 22 000 people to complete the construction of these beautiful churches. A visit to Lalibela is an intellectual and spiritual experience like no other, and a must-see when visiting Ethiopia.
A Walk with Maasai or Samburu Warriors
Iconic Warriors of East Africa
Tribal culture is an important element of East Africa – Kenya alone is home to 45 different tribes. Often seen as stewards of wildlife due to traditions intertwined with ecosystems, many communities today have jumped onto the conservation bandwagon, protecting wildlife to enhance their livelihoods. Part of this happens through their transmission of intimate knowledge and understanding of nature, inherited from hundreds of years of tradition, to guide people from around the world. Bushwalks or drives with Maasai or Samburu warriors across their territories make for an enriching and fascinating experience, often creating bonds that will never be forgotten. Learn about their traditions, ancestry and rites, as these proud people strive to bring their culture into the 21st century.
The Himba
Tribes of Namibia
In the Kunene region of northern Namibia resides a fascinating people called the Himba tribe. Counting around 50 000 members, the Himba is one of the few African tribes still living in their old ways. In particular, the Himba are often recognised by the application on their skin and hair of otjize, a mix of butterfat and ochre pigment, that holds cleansing properties. They do so as an adaptation to water scarcity in the arid parts of Kaokoland, and to shield themselves from insect bites. The Himba are also known as being extremely friendly, often very eager to share their cultural ways with the world, and an encounter with their people will enrichen any traveller’s journey to Namibia.
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