Savannah: Gullah Geechee Tour and Lunch

If you’re seeking an experience that combines history, culture, and delicious food, the Savannah Gullah Geechee Tour and Lunch offers a compelling glimpse into the African American communities that shaped this city. Running just under three hours, this guided tour blends storytelling, sightseeing, and a hearty Gullah Geechee buffet—delivered with warmth and authenticity by a well-loved guide, Sistah Patt.

One of the things we find most appealing is the way this tour manages to make history come alive through engaging storytelling and vivid narration. The personal touch of Sistah Patt’s storytelling, combined with the chance to explore iconic Savannah landmarks, makes this a memorable and educational experience. That said, a possible consideration is the limited time spent at each stop, which means you won’t be exploring the sites in great depth but rather getting a meaningful overview.

This tour is perfect for history buffs, cultural explorers, and anyone curious about the African roots that influence Savannah today. It’s also a wonderful choice for those who enjoy authentic storytelling paired with good food and a small, intimate group setting.

Key Points

• Authentic Cultural Experience: Focuses on the Gullah Geechee heritage and storytelling.
• Expert Guide: Led by the lively, knowledgeable Sistah Patt, often praised for her engaging narration.
• Historic Landmarks: Includes visits to River Street, Factor’s Walk, Johnson Square, and Second African Baptist Church.
• Tasty Gullah Geechee Cuisine: Features a buffet lunch with traditional Gullah food, although some reviews note it’s more soul food than strictly Gullah.
• Small Group Setting: Limited to 15 participants, making for a more personalized experience.
• Flexible Booking: Reserve now, pay later, and cancel up to 24 hours in advance.

Discovering Savannah’s Gullah Geechee Heritage

This tour offers a meaningful snapshot of how West African tribes, brought into slavery here, left cultural footprints that are still visible today. It begins with a narrated bus ride starting at 10:30 a.m., lasting about an hour, where you’ll pass through Savannah’s iconic sights, such as River Street, Factor’s Walk, and Johnson Square. These areas are teeming with stories of the past—warehouses, ships, and the labor of enslaved Africans who built this city.

What makes this part of the experience standout is the quality of commentary. Reviewers consistently praise Sistah Patt for her ability to convey complex history with warmth and clarity. Michele, for example, notes that “information provided during the Gullah Geechee Tour far surpassed that of previous Savannah tours,” emphasizing how her storytelling brings new insights into the city’s historical fabric.

Landmarks and Learning

The second stop is at the Second African Baptist Church, a site that holds a deep significance for the African American community in Savannah. Here, you’ll enjoy authentic Gullah Geechee storytelling, which, according to reviews, is delivered with heart and expertise. Some guests appreciated the depth of knowledge shared—many found themselves learning surprising details about the community’s resilience and cultural legacy.

Although the tour doesn’t go into extensive depth at each site, it offers a well-curated overview. You’ll learn about the forced migration of West African tribes and their labor in Savannah’s warehouses, giving context to the city’s development.

Food and Entertainment

The highlight for many is the Gullah Geechee buffet lunch, which provides a taste of traditional foods. While some visitors mention that the meal is more akin to soul food, overall, the cuisine is described as delicious and satisfying. A few guests, like Donnette, mention that they didn’t get the traditional Gullah fare due to weather disruptions but still enjoyed local restaurant options afterward.

The storytelling throughout the meal adds a layer of cultural education, making the food part of the experience rather than just a break. Sistah Patt’s engaging delivery keeps the atmosphere lively and warm, leaving many guests feeling more connected to the community’s roots.

The Logistics: What You Need to Know

The tour costs $117 per person, which includes the narrated bus trip, the storytelling at the church, and the buffet lunch. The total duration is approximately 2.5 hours—an ideal length for those wanting a meaningful experience without feeling overextended.

Transportation is comfortable, with a small group capped at 15 participants, ensuring you’re not just another face in a crowd. The meeting point is conveniently located next to The Clyde Coffee Shop, and parking at the Visitors Center is free for the first hour, then $1 per hour afterward, making it easy to plan your arrival.

The tour begins with a narrated drive, giving you a broad overview of Savannah’s African American history and cultural influence. Afterward, you’ll enjoy the storytelling at the church, with a return to the starting point after lunch.

What Travelers Say

Reviewers consistently praise the knowledge and personable nature of Sistah Patt, calling her a “fabulous” and “heartfelt” storyteller. Many mention that they learned more during this tour than in previous Savannah visits. Some highlight the diverse group of attendees—guests have traveled from Utah, Washington, D.C., and other states—and all found the experience enriching.

A few reviews note minor delays or wish for more time exploring Gullah communities directly, but overall, guests find it to be a worthwhile cultural journey. The combination of storytelling, history, and food creates a well-rounded, engaging experience that appeals to a variety of interests.

The Sum Up: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This Savannah Gullah Geechee Tour and Lunch shines in offering an authentic narrative that many visitors might not otherwise encounter. It’s particularly well-suited for those eager to understand the roots of Savannah’s African American community and enjoy a taste of traditional Gullah cuisine in a cozy, small-group setting.

While the sightseeing is somewhat brief, the storytelling more than compensates—meaning you’ll walk away with a deeper appreciation of the resilience, ingenuity, and cultural legacy of the Gullah Geechee people. If you’re interested in history, culture, and good food served with a side of storytelling, this tour is an ideal pick.

It’s also a great choice if you prefer intimate tours led by passionate guides, and it offers excellent value given the inclusion of transportation, storytelling, and a buffet meal. However, those seeking a more extensive exploration of Gullah communities or specific culinary authenticity might want to supplement this experience with additional activities.

FAQ

Is parking available at the meeting point?
Yes, parking at the Visitors Center is free for 1 hour and costs $1 per hour thereafter. The tour starts next to The Clyde Coffee Shop, making it convenient to park nearby.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience is approximately 2.5 hours, with a narrated bus tour, storytelling at the church, and a buffet lunch.

What’s included in the price?
The price of $117 covers the narrated bus tour, storytelling by Sistah Patt, the Gullah Geechee lunch buffet, and the storytelling at the church.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the tour suitable for children or families?
While the tour is designed for adults and history enthusiasts, children interested in culture and history could enjoy it too. Keep in mind the small group size and focus on storytelling.

What language is the tour conducted in?
The tour is conducted in English.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing and shoes suitable for a bus ride and walking around the sites are recommended.

Are there any dietary restrictions to consider for the buffet?
Specific dietary restrictions aren’t detailed, but the buffet features traditional Gullah dishes, which may include soul food-style items. Check with the tour provider if you have concerns.

In summary, the Savannah Gullah Geechee Tour and Lunch offers a thoughtfully curated visit into a vital aspect of African American heritage. With engaging storytelling, impressive landmarks, and a flavorful meal, it’s a meaningful addition to any Savannah itinerary. Perfect for those seeking authenticity and insight, this tour promises to leave you with new knowledge and a deeper appreciation for the city’s cultural tapestry.