Rock Knysna's Rasta route
2012-07-11 09:18
Heading to the Oyster Festival, but looking for an alternative, intriguing and soulful part of Knysna to explore?
Why not visit or overnight at Judah Square, the town's very own Rastafarian community?
A member of the community, Brother Zebulon Afrikaner, has begun offering tourists the opportunity to experience a taste of Rastafarian life with the introduction of tours, Tourism Update reports.
According to South African Tourism "Knysna has the largest Rastafarian community in South Africa, consisting of around 30 Rasta families living peacefully and very colourfully."
Located within the Khayalethu township, Judah Square is recognizable by the brightly painted houses and eco-friendly vibe.
During a tour of the community you'll visit a tabernacle and learn about Rasta culture, their beliefs around materialism and spiritualism and their chilled way of life through expert guides, Zebs and his brother Maxie. It is interesting to hear how this religion found its way from Ethiopia to the furthest reaches around the world.
Judah Square is also the venue for the annual Rastafarian Earth festival, which kicks off with a big celebration every July 23 and involves live bands, ceremonies and plenty of activities.
Find out more about the experience in Tourism Update's digi-mag.