!Khwa ttu, in Yzerfontein, Western Cape, is currently undergoing an expansion, with the new San Heritage Centre set to open in September.
A collection of artefacts and photographs will be on display at the Heritage Centre, as well as interactive displays and presentations. Furthermore, unfiltered stories on the San people will be given by San guides, coupled with audio and film. Live talks and interactive demonstrations will also be offered.
The Heritage Centre, when complete, will incorporate several of the old farm buildings and an innovative new architect-designed building that follows the natural contours of the surrounding land, with a curved, planted roof. The centre incorporates sustainable measures for lighting, heating and cooling.
General Manager of !Khwa ttu , Michael Daiber elaborates: “The !Khwa ttu San Heritage Centre is a great deal more than a collection of artefacts and historical photos. It's a pioneering initiative that embraces the principle of community curation, led by a team of academics and San consultants from across Southern Africa. Our exhibitions, San-led trails, and guided experiences are designed to engage the body and senses as much as the mind.”
!Khwa ttu was built to honour and tell the stories of the San people, and recently won the international ‘To Do! 2018’ award. The To Do awards honour tourism developments that respect the interests of the local population.
Currently on offer at !Khwa ttu are game drives, guided San walks, hiking trails, and mountain biking routes. In addition, the San guides provide children with the opportunity to learn how to track animals.
On the property is accommodation available for guests, a museum, restaurant, gallery and gift shop.
