Gullah Tours — Attraction in Charleston

We took this tour last Friday and was very excited to learn about the history of the Gullah Geechee people. Unfortunately, this was the most disappointing part of the tour and a missed opportunity given that Mr. Brown is a native. However, to his credit, he taught us a few Geechee words and phrases that was enjoyable. It felt like he wanted to avoid talking about slavery and evidence of gentrification/redlining in Charleston. He didn't think Charleston was being impacted by it, hmmmm? This is a serious problem, who is cutting the check? I was also disappointed he didn't make stops to allow us to get off the bus and take photos; especially since he covered the amazing iron work of Mr. Phillip Simmons around town. Mr. Brown showed us his home and down the street from it was a park with Mr. Simmon's statue; if it wasn't for someone on the tour asking about the statue, he would have kept on driving by. Again, a missed opportunity to stop for photos for someone who was Gullah. As far as customer service, I felt that Mr. Brown was personable and humorous at times. He encouraged us to ask him questions at anytime which was nice but he didn't care to hear anyone talking to each other or making comments about what we saw. I thought it was very rude the way he spoke to two older black women sitting directly behind him. He asked them " do you want to do the tour?" '"Ask me your questions" hopefully, he can be more mindful about how he speak to paying customers and demonstrate courtesy at all times without getting so irritated by people patronizing...

I read the reviews for this tour and they gave me a great deal of insight for how to manage my expectations for this tour. First, it is not a hop on and hop off tour, so go to the bathroom first. It is a riding tour of the city that gives you an overview of the African influence on Charleston's culture and development. The tour guide has a very thick accent, but will slow down and repeat himself if he needs to. The bus was comfortable, the tour was informative, and we enjoyed it.

Here are your tips if you plan to book this tour: Go to the bathroom before getting on the bus. There are no stops along the tour. The guide has a thick accent, so if you do not understand what he is saying, just ask him to slow down and repeat himself. He actually welcomes clarifying questions, so do not be afraid to ask if you do not understand. Just enjoy yourself. It is a two hour overview of the city and the African influences on the city.

The tour guide, Alphonso, is very passionate about African and Gullah history and has a wealth of knowledge to share. Again, if you want a hop on and hop off tour, this is not it. If you want a two-hour overview of the city, then this will work for you.

Again we had a blast, the only down side is that Alphonso did not want to leave the passengers who came late. Alphonso took the time to wait on paid passengers which was nice for them, but annoying to the rest of us who were on time. So, please be courteous to your fellow passengers and be on time.

Manage your expectations and enjoy.

5/5 -...

An Unforgettable Journey into Living History - Don’t Miss This! Alphonso didn’t just give us a tour—he transported us into the heart of Gullah culture with passion, authenticity, and incredible storytelling. In just two hours, I gained a deeper understanding of South Carolina’s rich Gullah heritage than I ever imagined possible. What made this experience truly special was Alphonso’s ability to bring history to life. Hearing him speak Gullah and teaching us phrases in this beautiful language added layers of authenticity you simply can’t get from a textbook or typical tour guide. His knowledge runs deep, but he shares it in a way that’s engaging and accessible to everyone. This isn’t your average historical tour—it’s an immersive cultural experience that will change how you see Charleston and South Carolina. Whether you’re a history buff, curious traveler, or someone looking to understand the real stories behind this region, Alphonso’s tour is absolutely essential. I left feeling not just educated, but genuinely moved by the resilience and richness of Gullah culture. This tour deserves to be at the top of every Charleston visitor’s must-do list. Book it—you...