The AWOL (Adventure WithOut Limits) Masiphumelele bicycle tour takes place in a Xhosa township based in Cape Town. The AWOL Masiphumelele tour is a new take on conventional township tours, which provides tourists with many opportunities to interact directly with the local Xhosa community and direct their spending into the township.

Community investment and interaction are part of AWOL’s formal Responsibility Policy, and thorough pre-tour information makes reference to appropriate conduct of visitors as well as investment opportunities. Apart from the obvious socio-economic benefits of experiencing township life in this manner, the tour also has a low impact on the environment. AWOL’s environmental strategy targets recycling, reducing levels of energy consumption, indigenous tree planting, as well as support for organic products and sustainable seafood.

AWOL’s Executive Director Sally de Jager was today quoted saying, “We anticipate that FTTSA certification will enhance the sustainability of our tours through ongoing support and advice, as well as increased market exposure, so that we can continually improve our service and responsibilities to the host community.”