South Carolina is home to a traditional village (the only one if its kind in the U.S.) based on the culture of an African kingdom found in Nigeria. Founded in 1970 in lower South Carolina near Sheldon and Yemassee, it’s open for tours and often hosts events also worth checking out. At its population height (in the 1970s), it was home to as many as 250 people. Today, it’s estimated to be home to approximately nine families.
Welcome to the African Kingdom of Oyotunji. A sign posted near in the entrance warns visitors they are leaving the U.S. and entering the Kingdom of Oyotunji.
Google Maps/Nate McMurphy
Enter another world as you step within the borders of the 27-acre kingdom.
Google Maps/owen burnett
Tourists from all over the country grace Oyotunji with their presence throughout the year.
Google Maps/Shonda Gethers
Symbolism is big here. Throughout the kingdom there are reminders of the homeland and the Yoruba people honored here.
Google Maps/Marcus Erby
Monthly festivals celebrate a variety of occasions, most all of them revolving around culture of the Yoruban people.
Google Maps/Iyapo Moyende Ngina
The village even has a temple, a popular spot for worship in the African Kingdom or Oyotunji.
Google Maps/Iyapo Moyende Ngina
Since COVID hit in 2020, the only way to visit Oyotunji is to schedule your visit in advance, unless there is a festival scheduled. Daily tours can be scheduled by calling (843) 846-8900.
Google Maps/Chris Elder
Check out the schedule of events here.
Flickr/Tom Woodward
The only one of its kind in America, the African Kingdom of Oyotunji is found in lower South Carolina and accepts tourists every day of the year. You’ll find the entrance to the Kingdom of Oyotunji on US Highway 17 near Sheldon, South Carolina. Learn more about the Kingdom of Oyotunji from its official website, here.
Google Maps/Nate McMurphy
Google Maps/owen burnett
Google Maps/Shonda Gethers
Google Maps/Marcus Erby
Google Maps/Iyapo Moyende Ngina
Google Maps/Chris Elder
Flickr/Tom Woodward
For another little-known community to read about in South Carolina, check out this gypsy camp which is home to the largest population of Irish Travelers in the country!
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Address: Oyotunji African Village, 56 Bryant Ln, Seabrook, SC 29940, USA
