Learning Zulu customs Shakaland's guests also learn that traditional Zulu rules of attire relate to the wearer's status. For example, young unmarried women go topless, while women who are married or engaged cover their breasts and their heads. One of Shakaland's most compelling activities is the energetic dancing. It is a working village in the sense that people are actually living here. Our schoolkids go to school in the morning.
People actually have off days and they go home to their homes.
The Zulu way of cooking is also demonstrated Critics say the villages exploit Although the traditions they demonstrate are centuries-old, cultural villages like Shakaland are relatively new. Critics say they exploit the local culture, but supporters believe the villages represent a way to teach while preserving tribal heritage. The debate touches on concerns that the cultures are being preserved for the entertainment of mostly white, wealthy tourists, and some say that many cultural villages are owned by white South Africans who reap the benefits of increasing tourist dollars. At Shakaland, employees get a salary and can make extra money by selling their crafts. Blessing Dube, an employee, said he and his co-workers are happy to show their proud heritage to visitors.