South Africa

Musical tradition and social justice intertwine in South Africa's struggle to end apartheid. Today, that musical heritage still rings true as the country comes to terms with the past and moves toward a future in which South Africa's people and natural wonders draw learners from around the world. The program starts in the ultra-modern district of Rosebank in Johannesburg, South Africa's largest city. Students start connecting South Africa's past with the present by visiting the Origins Museum at the University of the Witwatersrand, which gives depth to the cultural and historical heritage and origin of all human beings, particularly through its exhibit on the San Bushmen. A visit to the Apartheid Museum and Constitution Hill in Jo-burg bring to life the more recent South African past, while a visit to Soweto, including a stop at the Hector Pieterson Memorial and the Nelson Mandela House, convey the seamless interfacing of the past and present.

A flight will take participants from Jo-burg to the oceanfront town of Port Elizabeth. Here students will experience the struggles of regional townships within a modern city, which continually strives to balance beach tourism with the memory of its rich cultural history. The strong academic tradition of South Africa can be experienced at Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University (enrollment 30,000 and located on a nature reserve) where students will receive part of their instruction.

Next, students will have a chance to explore Africa's largest National Arts Festival in nearby historic Grahamstown, a small university town with a relaxed feel. Of course, no South Africa experience is complete without guided safaris/games drives for all participants —often coming within a few feet of wild animals such as elephants, lions, rhinos, giraffes, zebras, and monkeys. A picturesque, adventuresome drive on the world renowned "Garden Route" along the Pacific and Indian Oceans will take participants from the Eastern Cape to the Western Cape with the vibrant and dynamic city of Cape Town. A climb or cable car ride to “Table Top Mountain” with its breathtaking views, and a ferry to historic Robben Island will conclude this high-impact, educational journey through the history and landscape of South Africa.

Program includes round-trip air transportation from designated US cities to destination and ground transportation to the program sites. No independent air travel is permitted due to program schedule. The US cities will be stated on CCSA web site by the end of September 2017.

Group Travel Required

Estimated Cost: $2199 – $2499 *

This program requires round-trip air transportation from one of CCSA's designated U.S. departure cities.. Ground transportation and any internal air flights are provided by CCSA once in South Africa. Round-trip air transpiration from other cities MAY be considered on a case-by-case basis at an additional cost.