The Lesedi Cultural Village offers a great opportunity to see a wide range of different African dances, customs and dress, all in one place.

Lesedi - a seSotho word meaning 'light - now features 5 traditional homesteads, each representing a different culture: Pedi, Zulu, Xhosa, Basotho and Ndebele.

It is interesting and well-done, however be warned - it is a purpose-built tourist attraction.  If you are the type of person who is embarrassed by 'gimmicks' and 'shows', then this really is not for you.

There are 2 shows daily - midday and evening.  The evening performance is particularly atmospheric.

The Show

Upon arrival at the Village, about a 45 minute drive away from Sandton, you are greeted by Ndebele singers dressed in traditional African dress.   A brief film shown in the African-style theatre introduces the ancient tribal legends and the cultures of South Africa.

A walk through the 'villages' of the Zulu, Sotho (or Basotho), Xhosa and Pedi people introduces you to their way of life, their customs and their dress. 

The finale is an excellent dance performance, with the African drum beat resounding around you. 

At the end, it is audience participation time ... or else you can pretend to be intently taking photos (as we did).

An excellent and varied hot buffet meal is included, serving up traditional dishes from around the African continent.

Getting There

It is possible to drive yourself there, but it is our recommendation that if you would prefer to see the evening performance, then go with a tour guide, as the drive back to Johannesburg is long and it is not advisable to drive late at night unless you are used to the roads.  

Accommodation is also offered in the 'village huts', and this gives you the opportunity to stay after the tour groups have left and enjoy the fire and the company of your hosts.