SOUTH AFRICA
South Africa's standouts.
A shortlist of the 10 cooking classes most worth booking in South Africa, with what each one is like on the day, who runs it, and what it costs.
Cook Cape Malay classics with Faldela in Bo-Kaap, then eat your lunch. Colorful homes, spice tips, recipes shared.
“Such a wholesome experience! It was a big group so there went much individual cooking, but I thoroughly enjoyed learning about Cape Malayan cuisine.”
Cape Town African cooking class at Pahari African Restaurant: learn Sadza, chakalaka, and peanut-butter greens with Caleb & Florence.
“Personal, authentic and memorable were every part of this cooking class. Even walked away with new recipes.”
Cape Town Cape Malay cooking class in Bo-Kaap. Cook a 3-course meal with a local host, then eat your work. 2 hours, lunch included.
“From the moment we stepped into the vibrant Bo-Kaap home, we were welcomed not just as guests, but as friends of the family. Our host radiated warmth and grace, patiently guiding each of us through every step with kindness and quiet confidence. The aromas of the spices filled the air before a single dish was…”
Bo-Kaap walking tour plus a hands-on Malay cooking class in a local home. Fold samosas, make curry and roti, then eat koesisters.
“There are two parts to this activity. The second is the Malay cooking class. If you have the time, you should not miss it. It opens the world of Cape Malay cooking from the inside. The guide really knows her business, and has a great sense of humor. Because of her, the event is a…”
Cook an authentic South African feast in Franschhoek with chef Nicola Spilsbury, enjoy wine pairings, and learn hands-on techniques in a small group.
“Beautiful kitchen space and awesome evening learning about African cuisine, cooking a true feast and having a wonderful time! Would book again anytime”
Cook Cape Town-style African dishes from start to finish with Florence and Caleb, then eat together with drinks, tea, and recipes.
“ha sido espectacular, no solo la clase de cocina, sino toda la explicacion sobre la alimentación y las costumbres de Africa. realmente excepcional, los anfitriones encantadores.”
Cook Cape Malay favorites with Lorette and family in their Cape Town home, then eat what you make—private and hands-on.
“Lorette was an amazing host. So friendly and welcoming. We enjoyed the great food and conversation and would definitely recommend. Outstanding experience!!”
Gqeberha walking tour plus hands-on African cooking: city stories, cook sadza and stews, eat with hosts, small-group pickup.
“Rawson was a very nice guide. We had a lot of fun and he showed us a lot of interessing spots of the city.”
A private Cape Town home-cooking evening with Richard and Gillian: 2-3 South African dishes, braai options, wine, and real local tips.
“Everything you hope you are going to get in this type of food experience: excellent food, lively conversation and a friendly home atmosphere! I highly recommend this tour as a refreshing change from restaurant eating which, much as you love it, does not have the unique circumstances if you are in the right home setting…”
Johannesburg Pan-African cooking class: shop ingredients, cook a starter and main at a local home, then dine and share stories.
“While I think the experience did reflect a locals day-to-day, and the host were extremely friendly, I can’t say it was the experience I expected. It was supposed to start at 4, but we were not actually picked up from the hotel until about 5:40 and the communication for the lateness was barely there. We…”
