Every culture has its own folklore and myths that have been passed on from generation to generation. Because Africa is comprised of hundreds upon hundreds of different cultures, it is consequently celebrated for thousands of mythical stories and folklore.

Many of Africa’s legends and myths encompass common themes, including life after death, world creation and origin, animals, and even the geography of the land. They also often deal with multiple Gods and spirits.

There are also many legends and beliefs that evolve around life after death and the spirits of the ancestors. The San tribesmen, for example, believe that their ancestors who have died turn into stars. Other myths state that ancestral spirits are with humans each day and that ceremonies must be performed to show respect to these relatives.

Below, we’ve outlined just a few stories and myths that have been passed down through the ages in Africa:

Table Mountain Myths: Situated at the tip of Africa is one of the African continent’s most magnificent attractions—Table Mountain. Aside from the spectacular beauty and sheer size of this extraordinary natural formation, Table Mountain has been the focus of several ancient African myths and legends.

Captain Van Hunks and the Devil: Dutch legend has it that the 18^th-century sea captain, Jan Van Hunks, retired to live on Table Mountain with his wife. To seek seclusion, Van Hunks would travel to the top of Table Mountain’s Devil’s Peak where he would rest and smoke his pipe. One day, Van Hunks was met by a stranger who asked the captain to participate in a smoking contest. Since Van Hunks never denied a good match, he agreed to enter the smoking contest with the stranger. After a great deal of tobacco was smoked, the stranger gave up. To Van Hunks’ surprise, the stranger turned out to be the devil, who was not pleased at losing. He vanished along with Van Hunks that night, with the thick cloud of pipe smoke still looming in the air.

Today, visitors to Table Mountain will see a table-cloth-like cloud that covers the top of the mountain. Legend says that this is the devil and Van Hunks continuing their smoking match.

The Battle of Qamata and the Sea Dragons: According to the ancient legend of the Xhosa people, Qamata was the creator of the world. As he was creating the earth, he wanted to form dry land. The dragons beneath the sea were furious with Qamata in his quest to create dry land and began an epic battle. Qamata’s mother, earth Goddess, Djobela, helped Qamata by creating four powerful giants that would protect the earth from the dragons. The giants were defeated by the dragons but wished Djobela to turn them into mountains so that they could continue to protect the land. According to traditional Xhosa beliefs, one of these four giants was turned into Table Mountain.

Animal-Related Myths: Animals serve a large role in the myths and legends of Africa. Many are personified in stories, embodying characteristics such as jealousy, trickery, and greed.

Many West African myths contain animal trickster characters—two of the most popular being a spider and a hare. The spider, Anansi, was portrayed as an animal that could trick even the most fearsome of creatures.

Other myths spotlight animals in a more positive role, such as the San tribesmen’s belief that the praying mantis is responsible for creating words and fire.

Gain a deeper insight into a trip to Africa by visiting our YouTube page.

Amy MacLeod shares her experience on Hills of Africa Travel’s exclusive Soul Safari trip:

“‘How can it be so difficult to talk about a trip to South Africa?’ my friends ask me.  Profound experiences flooded every day of my Soul Safari.  Yet I’m challenged to paint a verbal portrait of the impact this trip has had on my life.  There is a soulful depth and breadth to those experiences.  There is a quality to the impact of what I saw, felt, tasted, smelled, heard and intuited.  The Soul Safari adds up to a life altering experience for me.

I signed up for the Soul Safari because Hills of Africa put together and offered a Safari that included not only a variety of safari events, but also sessions with Ainslie MacLeod, author of The Instruction – Living the Life Your Soul Intended.  A Soul Safari!  I was thrilled at the prospect of combining wildlife and soul in an organic, eco-conscious environment in both the bush and in the city.

African safari tours

My life, on one of the Canadian Gulf Islands, is peaceful, simple and organic – to the extent that I still chop my own wood, eat food out of local gardens and find a trip to any city exhausting.  Obviously, a safari was going to be a bit overwhelming for me, I realized, but I saw that Meredith and Sandy had organized the trip with quality precision and professionalism.  Every detail was looked after – I simply had to follow the itinerary.

Being overwhelmed is an understatement.  It is breathtaking to experience the energy of lions walking beside the jeep and elephants playing in a mud hole in front of us on the road.  My heart nearly burst over the acceptance that these incredible creatures displayed.  Something happened to me when I saw wild animals display more dignified acceptance of us than many humans show each other in our world today.

In Cape Town, something happened to me when I felt the energy of Table Mountain.  And when I was accepted into a Muslim home where I was invited to help prepare the meal that we shared.  And when I saw people living in abject poverty maintain a dignified, welcoming demeanor while sharing who they are so openly.  And to see all that they are doing to help their own, and each others’, growth in a variety of healthy ways.

In summary, this was a spiritual experience.

African safari tours

Being back home, if I can be tenacious enough to pick through the profound influences I have been given, I will find threads of new direction.  Some threads have revealed themselves sufficiently to be suspect now.  These revelatory threads appear slowly, not profoundly.  They simply show up when reality hits the road of routine.  I hear myself thinking or speaking with a ‘difference’.   I don’t want to miss those threads.  I ask my soul for the gift of insight and willingness.

Yes, traveling to Africa has been a life altering experience.   It’s simply not easy to absorb it all and I am still working on that.  I am cocooned in the experiences that bombarded my senses.  I am just starting to receive glimpses of inner changes.  These changes are still very much under construction!”

From the Pride of Soul Safari 2009,
Amy MacLeod

It’s truly amazing how your mind can open up and your point-of-view can change with a little background information and some guidance. Whether you’re touring through the internationally-renowned Sistine Chapel or through a historical region rich with deep cultural heritage and mystery, a guided tour is a must if you want to leave with a valuable lasting impression.

Table Mountain in Cape Town, South Africa is one such region where participating in a guided tour is a must. The history behind its existence coupled with the impression it has on you as you observe it first hand, is what makes the strongest impact. It’s amazing how Cape Town can truly speak to you once you begin to understand the cultural heritage and historical background, and how its past has shaped the region into what you see today.

At the end of your tour you’ll leave with a wealth of knowledge you otherwise would have never had if you decided to view the area on your own without a knowledgeable guide. Although many city tours throughout Africa don’t necessarily require a guide, a Cape Town City and Table Mountain tour is highly-encouraged for visitors in the area who want to experience the authenticity of the region.

One of the most highly-acclaimed tour providers in Cape Town is Cape Fusion Tours. Their knowledgeable and friendly guides ensure you discover all the wonderful elements that make Cape Town and Table Mountain historical and cultural icons. On their off-the-beaten-path tours, you won’t be lectured with boring or popularly known facts found in dusty history text books. You’ll get a rare insight into the region’s profound history and its intricate wilderness.

Why take advantage of a guided tour through Cape Town City and Table Mountain? Simple.

• The rich cultural heritage you’ll become acquainted with. Home to some of the world’s most inspirational cultures, a guided tour through Cape Town provides you with the exceptional opportunity to learn about the indigenous people by interacting and observing them in their daily lives. You’ll also discover the stories and legends of past generations from their living relatives. During your tour, you’ll learn about various art forms and their historical and cultural significance, as well as the lifestyle of certain cultures and how those lifestyles came to be.
   
• The opportunity to enjoy a guided view of Table Mountain as you journey up the rocky mountainside in a rotating cable car. Each cable car has the ability to fully rotate, giving you the opportunity to see 360 degrees around you. On your cable car trip you’ll see stunning gardens, death-defying cliffs, and playful dassies—furry brown creatures that live on the mountain whose closest relatives are elephants.

You’ll also learn about the history of the cable car and the grounds beneath you as you venture up the mountainside. And awaiting you at the summit is one of the most stunning and indescribable views in the entire world.  
 
• The safety and convenience factors. Because there are 350 routes up the mountain, having a guided tour is highly recommended, as it can be extremely difficult and sometimes dangerous to navigate the mountain on your own. And not to mention the headache of choosing which path to take, out of the 360 different ones! When you experience Table Mountain on a guided tour, you can rest assure that your family is safe. The elimination of the stresses of getting lost or hurt allows you to relax and truly enjoy your trip.

• The deep insight into Malay Quarter’s fascinating evolution into what it is today. You’ll discover how religious influences, changes of European power, and slavery all worked to shape this region into the place it is today.

• The exciting history of The Castle of Good Hope. This military fort relic, which was built between 1666 and 1669 by the Dutch East India Company, was the main protection for Cape Town and was constantly threatened by outside forces. Capturing the combination of the structure’s fascinating history with the sheer size and intricate architecture of the castle can only be experienced while on a guided tour.

• The beauty and captivating scent of the flower market. Over the past 100 years, flower selling has become a cultural tradition on Cape Town’s Adderley Street. On this walking tour you’ll discover the cultural heritage of Adderley Street and meet vendors known for their friendliness and humor, and you’ll have the opportunity to purchase their vibrantly colored flowers.

• The local crafts and works of art at the Green Market Square. Originally Cape Town’s first fruit and vegetable market, Green Market Square is a sensational place to go for cultural enlightenment. Today, it is a market offering African goods and art, and is surrounded by charming cafés that invite visitors to enjoy a cup of coffee or a glass of wine and socialize. On your guided tour, you’ll uncover the large impact Green Market Square has on the local community, as well as the local economy.

View Part I here.

Night drive: Observe some of South Africa’s most interesting wildlife—at dark. During night drives, you’ll see Africa’s nocturnal wildlife and some of the Big Five at their most active. At night, lions and leopards are frequently spotted on the move or hunting.

Ostrich farm: Visit Western Cape’s Little Karoo for a unique tour through one of its many ostrich farms. During these tours, you’ll observe breeding behaviors and witness how ostrich eggs and feathers are crafted into decorative assortments for the home and stylish accessories.

Port Elizabeth: Filled with an array of stunning beaches, nearby golf courses, boardwalk shopping, a casino, water sport activities, and an aquarium, Port Elizabeth creatively combines relaxation with adventure. And at night, the city comes to life with exciting ghost, graveyard, and cell tours.

Quad Biking: South Africa’s rugged, bumpy terrain has made this country synonymous with quad biker’s paradise. Whether you want to ride through the Drakensberg Mountains or the beaches, the bushveld or the Valley of The Elephants, Mpumalanga wetlands or Kruger National Park, you’re guaranteed to find adventure in the varying terrains of South Africa.

Rust en Vrede: This exceptional estate exclusively produces only red wines and is located in Stellenbosch, South Africa. Their wines include 1694 Classification, Syrah 2006 (which has already sold out), Estate 2005, Shiraz 2005, Cabernet Sauvignon 2006, and Merlot 2008. Their bold, full-bodied reds are a treat to anyone’s itinerary and this estate should not be missed. In 2008, the Rust en Vrede estate’s 1694 Classification wine and the Syrah 2006 wine both received the double golden Veritas Award for excellence.

Swim with the penguins: Not as traditional as swimming with the dolphins, swimming with the penguins offers a completely unique experience if you’re looking to get up-close-and-personal with these adorable little creatures. Boulders Beach on the Cape Peninsula is one of the only places in all of Africa where the African penguin lives and it is a highly-rewarding experience to interact with them in their natural environment.  

Tour Table Mountain: Enjoy a panoramic view of Table Mountain as you journey up the rocky mountainside in a rotating cable car. Each cable car has the ability to fully rotate, giving you the opportunity to see 360 degrees around you. On your cable car trip you’ll see stunning gardens, death-defying cliffs, and playful dassies—furry brown creatures that live on the mountain whose closest relatives are the elephants. Because there are 350 routes up the mountain, having a guided tour is highly recommended, as it can be extremely difficult and sometimes dangerous to navigate the mountain on your own.

uKhahlamba-Drakensberg: As the longest, tallest, and largest mountain range in all of South Africa, uKhahlamba-Drakensberg (meaning “Dragon Mountain”) is a must-see natural phenomena. This World Heritage site has one of the largest collections of Sans rock paintings in all of Africa. On the mountain you can also see a wide variety of plant, bird, mammal, and reptile species, and you can experience exciting activities such as hang gliding, hiking, and rock climbing. 

Victoria and Alford Waterfront in Cape Town:  This area is one of the most culturally enriching places to see in Cape Town. With a working harbor, unique seaside culture, five-star restaurants, historical monuments, and world-famous shopping hubs, Victoria and Alford Waterfront has it all.

Walking safari: If you’re looking for an African safari tour that combines an interactive experience with a rich cultural and learning environment, then you’ll want to take part in a walking safari through Kruger National Park, South Africa. On a walking safari, you’ll learn to listen for the distinct callings of South Africa’s wildlife, search for animal markings, and track paths of residential lions and elephants with the invaluable expertise of certified local guides. These highly knowledgeable guides introduce you to the hidden elements of indigenous wildlife that ranges from larger game to intricate wildlife hidden beneath rocks and inside crevasses.

Xhosa People: With a population of around 7 million individuals, the Xhosa people primarily live in the Eastern Cape and are the ancestors of the Nguni, a group that migrated from central and northern Africa to southern Africa. Keeping their traditional culture alive, the Xhosa people provide visitors to the region with a culturally enlightening experience. Watch as they craft exceptional beadwork, perform dance rituals, and speak in the Xhosa language (comprised of clicking sounds).

honeYmoon safari: South Africa is one of the most exceptional places to enjoy a romantic honeymoon safari. With a variety of intimate and luxurious accommodations that provide honeymooners with superior service and care, and a wide spectrum of activities for honeymooners, it’s no wonder South Africa has made a name for itself as the perfect honeymoon destination.

Zulu Traditions: Zulu culture has kept the same traditions passed down from their ancestors including ceremonies, rituals, and old traditions. With the belief that birth, marriage, and death are important times to interact with the ancestors, the Zulu people will sacrifice a variety of items to the ancestors during these moments in life such as home-brewed beer or a slaughtered animal.

View Part I of this post here.

If you’re looking to sink into the calming surroundings of South Africa while enjoying a luxurious stay at one of Africa’s finest accommodations, Kensington Place is the ideal hotel. Celebrated for its lavishly decorated rooms, exquisite services, ideal location, and deluxe amenities, Kensington Place was voted Winner of Traveller’s Choice 2009 in the Luxury Hotel category. It was also featured in the Tatler Travel Guide as the “coolest bolthole in the Cape.”

Experience the unspoiled surroundings of Kensington Place on a South African family safari, or honeymoon safari. The hotel’s perfect location on Table Mountain offers guests a private and quiet place to retreat after a long day on South African safari tours or a day shopping in / exploring Cape Town. Guests are minutes from the best spots in the Cape, making Kensington Place one of Cape Town’s most highly-acclaimed hotels.

Kensington Place guests enjoy . . .

• Spectacular rooms boasting luxurious African contemporary décor, twin / king size bed, lavish en suite facilities, and stunning views of Table Mountain.

• Delectable lunches in the quaint gardens of this delightful hotel.

• Laying on the sundeck and frequently dipping in the lush plunge pool to cool off.

• A fantastic social setting in the evenings at the hotel’s bar and lounge area. Luxurious outdoor seating allows guests to sip flavorful cocktails under the starry African sky.

• Exciting activities, including a trip to the summit of Table Mountain on a cable car, helicopter flights, horseback riding, a trip to the aquarium, and so much more.

• Delightful day trips to Cape Winelands, Cape Town, neighboring beaches, Robben Island, Cape Point, Kirstenbosch, and a wide spectrum of shopping destinations.

• Extraordinary Cape Town dining. The hotel arranges reservations and transportation for guests to their restaurant of choice each night. Cape Town boasts some of Africa’s finest restaurants, and bars and lounges. After a scrumptious meal at a critically acclaimed restaurant, guests can walk to hot nightlife hubs, where socializing and cocktail drinking continues.

Explore a world where sheer beauty, luxurious accommodations, exciting social scenes, and spectacular adventures awaits you. Let Hills of Africa Travel create for you a detailed and personalized itinerary tailored around your every preference. Whether enjoying a South African family safari or honeymoon safari, we ensure you’ll have the trip of a lifetime. Contact us today at (877) 845-4802.  We’re looking forward to making your dreams come true . . .