From Passion to Profession: Khayelitsha Tour Guide Combines Love for Nature and People

By: Lotshiwe Ntuli
Twitter: Lotshiwe Portia
Email: plotshiwe@gmail.com


         picture: Siyanda Sopangisa


Siyanda Sopangisa, 38, is a dedicated and humble young tour guide who lives in Khayelitsha, Western Cape. He has always adored nature and embraces the chance to connect with people. In 2016, he decided to combine the two by becoming a tour guide. Siyanda took a Tour Guiding course and received his Western Cape qualifications Tour Guiding Badge, making him a certified tour guide in the region. His tour offering is unique as it includes canoeing and paddling in Khayelitsha - a rare opportunity for tourists. However, working in the township comes with its challenges. Illegal dumping is a significant issue, but Siyanda and his community are slowly starting to unite and take action. On weekends, they do clean-ups together and are making significant strides forward. Siyanda remembers a group from Johannesburg visiting in 2018, and during the tour, one visitor asked if he was related to the Rhythm City well-known actor Safoccate. “That actually stuck with me, as it turns out that some of my friends were already calling me Safoccate,” he said. Siyanda ensures that those on his tours have the best experience possible. “When it comes to enjoying nature, that is 100% guaranteed,” he added. Most people love spending time outdoors and connecting with nature. This is a perfect fit for Siyanda’s vision. Siyanda’s tours are safe as he operates in the community he grew up in and has not had any scares since starting his business. As Khayelitsha continues to grow and become more united, Siyanda and his tours are sure to attract even more visitors from around the world

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