Kopanong

Thope Lekau

Thope Lekau and her daughter, Mpoh, entertain you with food, drink and stories of South Africa's checkered history. As a veteran of the anti-apartheid struggle, and a rural development worker during the nineties, she can give you an in-depth view of our emerging society. [Read more] Her rich experiences, combined with her qualifications as a tour-guide, will make your stay in an African township a truly memorable and unique experience. Thope Lekau is an institution in Khayelitsha, and a great role model: In 1999 she won the Tygerberg Municipality Award for outstanding service in the hospitality industry. In 2001 she won a place in the final shortlist of the prestigious 2001 AA Travel Guides Accommodation Award Program. "I decided to open a B&B because I wanted tourists to see and experience the townships. I wanted them to talk to people," Lekau explained after giving a grand tour of her establishment. "I was fed up that tourists saw Khayelitsha from behind glass, from the touring car. Khayelitsha isn't a zoo! I - after having the matter discussed with several tour operators - opened my doors for tea and lunch. And now, now I have a B&B!"

This accommodation provider has taken action to address one or more issues (whether environmental, social or cultural) which will contribute positively to the long term viability of the destination and hence their site displays a Caring for the destination rating.

Detailed description of the Caring for the Destination Initiative:

Everything you find at Kopanong came from the local community, from the crafts to the services - a simple way to make sure that what you spend goes right to the local community, and an excellent way to ensure that you'll receive a truly authentic holiday experience.  Our support of the local Khayelitsha community includes training woman in guesthouse keeping skills, small business management, and catering.  By creating more opportunities for local woman, we are also ensuring a higher level of quality among our community suppliers.  Have an even richer cultural experience, as we can organize volunteering opportunities for interested guests.