CULTURAL FEATURE: PEOPLE OF THE NORTHERN CAPE
THE KHOISAN PEOPLE OF THE NORTHERN CAPE: SAN HUNTERS
© South African Tourism
The Khoisan people of the Northern Cape are descended from two different tribes. An amalgam of the original San hunter-gatherers and the later-arriving KhoiKhoi, they were virtually annihilated by subsequent settlers. But the Khoisan culture lives on through some of the most compelling rock art on Earth.
Khoisan is a term used by physical anthropologists to distinguish the aboriginal people of southern Africa from their black African farming neighbours.
The original San hunter-gatherer groups lived on this land for about 100 000 years before the arrival of other black people and European settlers. When the pastoral KhoiKhoi appeared 2 000 years ago, they saw people similar to them in physical appearance, but with a different culture. They called these elders of the land ‘the San’, which means ‘people different from ourselves’.
SAN HERITAGE
San heritage lives on through rock art and scientific studies of these gentle hunter-gatherers. The San Bushmen of South Africa were the country’s original inhabitants, and very likely the ancestors of all humanity. Today remnants of these fascinating people can still be found in the Northern Cape.The rich Bushman or San heritage is that of the original people of southern Africa. It is even believed that the genes of the San Bushmen of South Africa predate the rest of humanity, making them our original ancestors.
Nomadic bands lived on the land for approximately 100 000 years before the arrival of other groups. When the pastoral Khoikhoi appeared 2 000 years ago they saw people similar to them in physical appearance, but with a different culture.
CULTURE AND HERITAGE TOURS
History and culture tours are the perfect beginning or end to any business meeting or conference and will help visitors gain insight into the complex history and cultures that make South Africa what it is today. Visit ancient landscapes, explore cultural villages and learn more about the layers that make up the fabric of South Africa’s society.History and culture tours are not only for history buffs, but for anyone with a keen yearning to know more about South Africa’s interesting past.
Why not start at the very beginning with a visit to the Cradle of Humankind World Heritage Site where the famous skull of Mrs Ples was found.
From there make your way to the Mphebatho Museum in Soulspoort (on the border of the Pilanesberg Game Reserve) and find out more about the Bakgatla-ba-Kgafela traditions.
History and culture pre- and post-tours in Limpopo province may include a visit to the famous Modjadji Cycad Reserve – where you will hear all about the legendary Rain Queen of Lobedu. For something a little different make your way to Thohoyandou where the Venda people live and investigate local traditions such as the domba (snake) dance and the myths and legends of Lake Fundudzi and the Vondo Forest (both sacred sites).
KwaZulu-Natal is the heart of the Zulu Kingdom, and guided tours offer insights into Zulu culture. The province is also home to the largest Indian population outside of India, so visit Grey Street in Durban and learn about the local Indian community. Make sure you try out the famous Durban ‘bunny chow’ while you’re at it.
History and culture activities in the Northern Cape will expose visitors to ancient San culture and traditions, and the various aspects of Basotho culture are worth exploring when visiting the Free State province. The Basotho Cultural Village in the Eastern Free State is one of the finest cultural villages in the country.
The Eastern Cape is the heart of Xhosa culture and this province is known for its struggle history – which is not surprising as Nelson Mandela was born here. The Western Cape offers a wealth of opportunity for history and culture lovers – visit the Castle of Good Hope, Robben Island, the District Six Museum or the Bo-Kaap Museum… and that’s just on day one.
History and culture tours offer so much for the traveller seeking a deeper insight into modern-day South Africa and may well inspire your next business gathering.
Who to contact
Maropeng Visitor Centre (Cradle of Humankind)
Tel: +27 (0)14 577-9000
Email: info@maropeng.co.za
Cape Town and Western Cape Information Centre
Tel: +27 (0)21 405-4500
North West Province Tourism
Tel: + 27 (0)18 397-1500
Bushman Council Office
Tel: +27 (0)78 129 6668
Email: bushmancouncil@khomanisan.com
Northern Cape Tourism Authority
Tel: +27 (0)53 832 2657/2643
Email: northerncapetourism@telkomsa.net
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