Coffeebeans Routes

Coffeebeans Routes is a tour company that focuses on what it calls contemporary urban Africa. Rather than conventional sightseeing, its experiences are built around storytelling and personal encounters, connecting visitors with musicians, artists, poets, entrepreneurs and community leaders. The company is Fair Trade certified and has received an award for responsible tourism, and it now runs experiences in several African cities as well as Cape Town.

In Cape Town the range is broad. Music fans can choose the Jazz Night or Jazz Safari, which introduce the city's jazz tradition through encounters with local musicians. Food lovers can join the Cuisine Safari or the Traditional Foods Walking Tour, which explore the dishes and stories behind Cape cooking. History-focused routes include the Political History Walking Tour, the Revolution Route and the Reconciliation Route, while the Colour of Wine Safari looks at the wine industry from a different angle, and Theatre in the Backyard and the Art Safari focus on creative life.

What sets these tours apart is the access they give to people and places that visitors would rarely reach on their own, and the emphasis on conversation rather than commentary. The experiences suit curious travellers who want to understand Cape Town beyond its scenery, including solo travellers, couples and small groups of friends.

Book ahead through the website, by email or by calling the office, especially for evening experiences such as the jazz routes, which depend on hosts' availability. Ask about pick-up arrangements, timings and what is included when you book, as these vary by experience. Some routes visit townships and residential neighbourhoods, so dress comfortably and follow your guide's advice about photography and etiquette.

Coffeebeans Routes works well alongside more traditional sightseeing. A morning on Table Mountain or at Robben Island followed by an evening jazz route, for example, gives a fuller picture of the city's history and culture than either would alone. The company's experiences also make thoughtful options for a group celebration or a special evening out.

Because many experiences take place in the evening and move between neighbourhoods, check how you will get back to your accommodation at the end, and allow plenty of time in your schedule rather than squeezing a route in before an early flight. Booking a few days ahead also gives the company time to match you with the right hosts.