Nelson Mandela Museum experiences in Qunu and Mthatha

The Nelson Mandela Museum offers a memorable cultural experience that gives insights into the life of Nelson Mandela, with guided tours and a heritage trail that follow his footsteps. Cultural offerings, such as traditional dance and food, are available by arrangement.

The Nelson Mandela Youth & Heritage Centre – a second component of the Nelson Mandela Museum – in the village of Qunu, where Nelson Mandela’s home is and where he spent his childhood. The museum in Qunu hosts exhibitions, tours and offers accommodation and conference facilities.
The remains of young Nelson Mandela’s primary school where he started Grade One and at which the teacher, Miss Mdingane, gave him the name ‘Nelson’ on his first day of school.
The remains of the old stone church where he was baptised.
The granite ‘sliding’ rock he used to slide down with friends.
The graveyard where his two sons, daughter and parents are buried (not controlled by the Museum).
The pastures where he roamed as a young shepherd.
Nelson Mandela’s original home in Qunu, where his mother presided over three huts.
Nelson Mandela’s private home, where he entertains a steady stream of people from the neighbouring village (not controlled by the Museum)
Traditional activities such as stick fighting and other indigenous games.
The iThemba arts project where the arts and crafts depicting Xhosa culture are practiced, developed and packaged.
The permanent exhibition of gifts and artefacts given to Nelson Mandela by the international and South African communities that are housed in the historic Bhunga Building in Mthatha.
Temporary exhibitions that illuminate Nelson Mandela’s life and times are featured in the Bhunga Building on a regular basis.
Hikes in the village and surrounding area can be arranged. Terms and conditions apply.