soweto tour johannesburg

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Soweto Half Day Tour

Soweto Apartheid Museum and Lunch Tour

Ultimate Johannesburg Tour - R1100 per person sharing

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Johannesburg Tours: Visit the golden city

Johannesburg tours and day trips offer an enticing and exciting insight into the South African city that never stops. Tours from Johannesburg into the surrounds and then back into the City of Gold are available from MoAfrika Tours. Here is what you need to know.

When you are flying in over the city of Johannesburg the first impression that you will get is that the city is made of gold. With a million city lights twinkling brightly below you, you can almost imagine the untouched gold lying deep beneath the surface, the same gold that has been the foundation of the city and contributed to its continued growth over the years. Johannesburg might be South Africa’s leading economic hubs, but it is also growing fast become a leading tourist destination in a nation that is well known for being a tourist hub.

Johannesburg. It is South Africa’s version of the city that never sleeps. There is always something interesting happening here and the people are always on the mood. The vibrancy is infectious and there is always a buzz. Johannesburg’s history has become a massive part of its culture and as a result, the history of the city has worked its way into the tourist attractions. Johannesburg was a vocal point during the uprisings and was often the centre of attention during Apartheid. And a lot of this history is revisited during the  Johannesburg city tours and day trips .

Johannesburg is a stone’s throw away from some exceptionally iconic places. Johannesburg tours will take you on the adventure of a lifetime to some of these unforgettable tourist destinations.

As South Africa’s economic hotspot, this is a city that is always growing and expanding. It is the first stop for many who come to the country to enjoy a holiday. For this reason it makes a lot of sense that Johannesburg be the first stop of your attraction filled holiday to South Africa. There are many  things to do in Johannesburg  and there are many day tours that will take you to all of the must visit places.

Experience the city at its best with Joburg tours

You might have visited Johannesburg before, but did you really see it? With so much to do in the city and so many things to see, there is a good chance that you missed something along the way. The very best way to make sure that you see everything, and the best way to get a real feel for the city, is to sign up for a Johannesburg tour. These tours have become immensely popular in the last few years and today there are a number of tour operators that you can choose to go on your tour with.

While the city of Johannesburg might not be the first place that you think of when you are planning a holiday, it is one of South Africa’s more interesting cities. And who says that a city shouldn’t be explored with the eyes of an intrepid tourist adventurer?

Johannesburg day trips are led by some of the very best in the business, this means your guide is going to have a vast amount of knowledge. They know all about the places they are taking you and when you take a trip from Johannesburg to Soweto on a tour, your guide will be someone who has grown up in the area.

Your  touring options

Day trips around Johannesburg  are certainly the best way to see everything. But at MoAfrika we know the importance of creating tour options that are able to accommodate the needs of all of our guests. For this reason we offer half day tours and full day tours, often dividing the time between the city and another area such as Soweto, Pretoria, or the nearby Lion and Rhino Park.

When time is limited, or perhaps you are looking for a cheaper tour option, the half day Johannesburg tour is likely to stand out as the very best. Taking you to some of the more interesting areas, these tours will give you an interesting insight into the city and its surrounding areas. Regardless of the tour that you choose, you will be able to have a full experience and really get to know the city.

Some of the affordable tour options available from MoAfrika includes the Apartheid Museum tour,  Soweto Tour , the Soweto and Lunch tour, the Soweto and Apartheid Museum tour, the Soweto, Apartheid Museum and Lunch tour, the Rhino and Lion Park tour, and other popular tour options that will take you to the Lesedi Cultural Village and the Elephant Sanctuary. To enjoy the all-round experience then the Johannesburg Tour will take you to all of the sights.

Why MoAfrika?

With our many years of experience, we always offer our clients the very best tours. Our keen guides are always there to make a tour memorable, by taking guests to interesting places while also sharing their knowledge. We have more than 15 years of experience in the touring industry and we have created a fresh approach to touring. Our Johannesburg day tours have been rated as some of the best in the country.

Affordable, interesting tours are exactly what you can expect from our team. Start your adventure in South Africa with a Johannesburg tour! Around 3 hours from the Kruger National Park, your Johannesburg day tour is a taste of the interesting things to do and places to see in South Africa.

You can find us on TripAdvisor!

Top Tours in Soweto, South Africa

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• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Soweto /Johannesburg and Apartheid Museum Guided Full Day Tour

2. Ultimate Johannesburg Tour

3. Half-Day Tour of Soweto Tour

4. Johannesburg and Soweto tour

5. Half Guided Day Tour of Soweto And Apartheid Museum

6. Jo'burg Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour with Apartheid Museum & Soweto

7. Soweto and Johannesburg Exclusive Full Day Guided Tour

8. Guided Bicycle Tour of Soweto with Lunch

9. Soweto Walking Tour with Lunch

10. Johannesburg: Private Cultural Full-Day Tour

11. Soweto Half Day Tour

12. Private Full Day Soweto and Johannesburg Tour from Johannesburg or Pretoria

13. Soweto Township Cultural Tour incl Apartheid Museum and Nelson Mandela House

14. Most authentic, bespoke, small group, SOWETO tour on offer

15. Ultimate Johannesburg Soweto Experience with Apartheid Museum

16. Half-Day Guided Tour of Johannesburg and Soweto Township

17. Private Full Day Johannesburg Historical Tour

18. History Bicycle Tour of Soweto

19. Half Day Guided Tour in Soweto

20. Pretoria, Soweto and Apartheid Museum Guided Day Tour from Johannesburg

21. Full-Day Soweto, Apartheid Museum and Lunch Tour

22. Soweto half day Tour

23. Soweto and Apartheid Museum Day Tour

24. Johannesburg/Soweto & Apartheid museum private tour

25. bicycle tour soweto

26. Johannesburg, Soweto and Apartheid Museum Guided Day Tour

27. 1 Day: Bus & Soweto Combo

28. Soweto and Johannesburg Fun Tours

29. Full Day Johannesburg , Apartheid Museum and Soweto Tour - 8hrs

30. Soweto Tour with Lesedi Cultural Village Day Tour

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Full Day Soweto Tour and Apartheid Museum

Tour Highlights

• Visit Mandela House
• Visit Nelson Mandela Bridge in Town
• Drive through the street of Johannesburg
• Visit Soweto and its environs
• Learn about Apartheid history in Apartheid Museum

We will start our day by visiting key landmarks in Johannesburg City. Our journey will first take us to Constitutional hill tours where we will get to learn about apartheid prisoners.

The Soweto Tour Johannesburg, also known as the Full Day Soweto Tour and Apartheid Museum experience, whisks you on a captivating journey, exploring Johannesburg’s rich past and the vibrant heart of Soweto township.

Our adventure begins with a drive through Johannesburg City, where towering skyscrapers pierce the sky. These modern giants stand as testaments to the city’s prosperous past, many built during the height of the gold rush. Imagine the bustling activity and the dreams that fueled Johannesburg’s rise as you admire these architectural marvels.

Next, we ascend to the Top of Africa, the highest point in Johannesburg. Here, breathtaking cityscapes unfold before your eyes. Capture this unique perspective with photos before our journey takes a more sombre turn. The Apartheid Museum awaits, a powerful institution that serves as a window into South Africa’s dark history of racial segregation. Dedicate three hours to exploring its exhibits, gaining a deeper understanding of the struggles, resilience, and the eventual dismantling of apartheid. This introspective experience will leave a lasting impression.

With a newfound appreciation for South Africa’s journey, we head to Soweto, the vibrant township that played a pivotal role in the fight for freedom. Get ready to be captivated by Soweto’s rich culture and the resilience of its people. This Soweto tour Johannesburg promises a full day of historical reflection and cultural immersion, leaving you with a lasting impression of both Johannesburg and Soweto.

Overview of attractions in Johannesburg, Soweto and Apartheid Museum

Constitution hill.

The Full Day Johannesburg, Soweto and Apartheid Museum Tour, included in many Johannesburg tour packages , embarks on a captivating journey, weaving together the rich tapestry of Johannesburg, the vibrant heart of Soweto township, and a profound reflection on South Africa’s path to democracy.

Our exploration begins at a powerful symbol of South Africa’s past – Constitution Hill, a must-see for anyone considering Johannesburg tour packages that include Constitutional Hill and Apartheid Museum visits. This former prison and military fort stands as a testament to the country’s turbulent journey. Spend an hour here, delving into exhibits and learning about the struggles, resilience, and the ultimate triumph of democracy. Immerse yourself in the stories of iconic figures incarcerated here, including Nelson Mandela. Constitution Hill serves as a poignant reminder of the dark days of apartheid and the unwavering spirit that led to its dismantling.

Following this introspective visit, we’ll delve into the heart of Johannesburg. A drive through the city will reveal its towering skyscrapers, a stark contrast to the stories you’ll hear at Constitution Hill. These modern giants stand as testaments to Johannesburg’s prosperous past, built during the height of the gold rush. Imagine the bustling activity and the dreams that fueled Johannesburg’s rise as you admire these architectural marvels. Our journey then takes a more sombre turn as we ascend to the Top of Africa for breathtaking views before arriving at the Apartheid Museum for a deeper understanding of South Africa’s complex history.

Apartheid Museum Tours

Our second stop on the Johannesburg Soweto and Apartheid Museum Tour takes us to a place unlike any other – the Apartheid Museum. Opened in 2001, this dedicated space stands independent from the Gold Reef City complex. The Apartheid Museum serves as a powerful platform for remembering and understanding South Africa’s dark past.

Prepare to be emotionally moved as you journey through the museum’s 22 exhibitions. These aren’t just static displays; they’re powerful narratives brought to life through personal accounts, multimedia installations, and historical artefacts. Gain a firsthand understanding of the daily realities of apartheid, the rise of the resistance movement, and the long road to dismantling this oppressive system.

The Apartheid Museum Tour is more than just a history lesson offered on our Johannesburg packages ; it’s a catalyst for reflection and a celebration of the human spirit’s ability to overcome adversity. This experience will leave a lasting impression on you as you move on to explore the vibrant township of Soweto.

Nelson Mandela Bridge

Before delving into the vibrant heart of Soweto, we’ll take a moment to appreciate Johannesburg’s modern infrastructure with a glimpse of the Nelson Mandela Bridge. This architectural marvel, completed in 2003, is the largest cable-stayed bridge in Southern Africa. Spanning the railway lines and sidings in Johannesburg City, it connects the neighbourhoods of Newtown and Braamfontein. This brief stop on our Johannesburg private tours offers a fascinating contrast from the historical sites we’ve visited and sets the stage for our exciting exploration of Soweto.

Mandela House

Stepping into the heart of Soweto, our next stop is the iconic Nelson Mandela House Museum. Built in 1945, this modest dwelling served as Nelson Mandela’s home from 1946 to 1962, a pivotal period in his life and the fight against apartheid. A dedicated guide will lead us on a 30-minute tour, offering a glimpse into Mandela’s early life and the simplicity in which he chose to live. Here, history comes alive as you stand in the very rooms where this legendary leader strategized and dreamt of a free South Africa.

The Nelson Mandela House Museum perfectly complements the Apartheid Museum visited earlier, offering contrasting perspectives on Nelson Mandela’s life and the struggle for liberation. While the Apartheid Museum sheds light on the oppressive system he fought against, the Mandela House Museum showcases his personal journey and unwavering spirit. This powerful combination is a highlight of our Soweto Township Tours with Apartheid Museum experience.

Hector Peterson Museum

Our next stop on the Johannesburg Soweto Tour with Apartheid Museum experience takes us to the poignant Hector Pieterson Memorial and Museum. Located just two blocks away from the spot where Hector Pieterson, a young student, was tragically shot during the Soweto Uprising of 1976, this museum serves as a powerful tribute to the struggle for equal education and freedom.

Hector Pieterson’s iconic image became a global symbol of the brutality of apartheid, and the museum dedicated to his memory offers a crucial perspective on this pivotal event in South Africa’s history. Here, we’ll embark on a 20-minute guided tour, gaining a deeper understanding of the 1976 youth uprising and the immense sacrifices made by students in the fight against an oppressive regime.

This stop provides a crucial contrast to the Apartheid Museum’s broader focus on the system itself. The Hector Pieterson Memorial and Museum personalised the human cost of apartheid, specifically the impact on the youth. Leaving a lasting impression, this experience will prepare us for our next stop on the vibrant Vilakazi Street.

Vilakazi Street

Our Johannesburg Soweto Tour with Apartheid Museum experience reaches its vibrant climax on Vilakazi Street. This iconic thoroughfare pulsates with a unique blend of history and contemporary energy, making it a highlight of any Soweto tour.

Vilakazi Street holds a Guinness World Record – it’s the only street in the world to have housed two Nobel Peace Laureates! Numbers 8115 and 8118 were once home to Nelson Mandela and Desmond Tutu, respectively. Walking this street allows you to contemplate the legacy of these icons and the power of Soweto to inspire greatness. Here, history isn’t confined to museums; it’s woven into the very fabric of the street.

Beyond its historical significance, Vilakazi Street offers a vibrant snapshot of contemporary Soweto. You’ll encounter a delightful array of shops selling traditional crafts and souvenirs, adding a touch of vibrancy to your experience. This bustling atmosphere provides a welcome contrast to the introspective moments at the Apartheid Museum and Hector Pieterson Museum. Vilakazi Street allows you to appreciate the resilience of the Soweto community, their rich culture, and their ongoing achievements. This experience leaves a lasting impression, encapsulating the complex tapestry of Soweto’s past, present, and future.

Orlando Towers

While the Orlando Towers are an exciting landmark in Soweto, they don’t directly align with the historical and cultural focus of our Soweto and Apartheid Museum Tour. However, if you’re seeking an adrenaline rush after your tour, the Orlando Towers offer a thrilling option!

Located in Soweto, the Orlando Towers stand tall as a testament to Johannesburg’s industrial past and innovative present. Once a functioning coal power station, these towers were remarkably transformed in 2008 into a vibrant entertainment and business centre.

The Orlando Towers hold a unique record – they boast the world’s first commercial bungee jump between cooling towers! This heart-pounding activity is just one of the many adventure experiences offered here. Whether you crave the thrill of the jump, scaling the towers, or simply soaking in the panoramic views, the Orlando Towers cater to a variety of interests.

Bara Taxi Rank

Our journey through Soweto wouldn’t be complete without experiencing its vibrant present. Our next stop is the bustling Bara Taxi Rank, a beating heart of the township’s transportation network.

Completed in 2008 and situated near Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital, the Bara Taxi Rank is a hive of activity. As one of the busiest in South Africa, it connects commuters throughout Soweto and beyond. This is your chance to witness the organised chaos of commuters navigating their journeys, the lively energy of vendors, and the shared experience of getting around this vast township. The sights and sounds – from the colourful taxis to the animated conversations – offer a unique window into the daily rhythm of Soweto.

This stop takes you beyond the typical tourist experience. It’s an opportunity to immerse yourself in the authentic pulse of Soweto, witnessing a crucial part of the township’s social and economic fabric.

Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital

As we conclude our exploration of Soweto, we arrive at the Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital, a landmark that stands as a testament to the township’s spirit of resilience.

A Healthcare Hero: Completed in 1942, Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital is the largest in South Africa. Occupying a vast 70 hectares, it boasts over 3,200 beds and a dedicated staff of approximately 7,000. This crucial institution serves not only Soweto but also functions as a referral hospital for various surrounding areas. It’s also a teaching hospital for the University of the Witwatersrand Medical School, playing a vital role in nurturing future generations of medical professionals.

A Legacy of Chris Hani: Originally named Baragwanath Hospital, it was later renamed in honour of Chris Hani, a prominent South African communist leader assassinated during the apartheid era. This act of renaming reflects the ongoing fight for social justice and equality in South Africa.

Full Day Soweto and Apartheid Museum Tour

You finally made it to Johannesburg and have a free day to explore. There’s so much to see and do, but where do you start? Well, today we’ll take you on an incredible Soweto and the Apartheid Museum tour to discover the history and culture of this fascinating city. With a knowledgeable local guide, you’ll journey to iconic landmarks that played a pivotal role in South Africa’s journey to freedom. From the homes of Nelson Mandela and Archbishop Desmond Tutu to the Hector Pieterson Memorial, you’ll gain perspective into the struggle against oppression. Then it’s on to the Apartheid Museum, where the rise and fall of apartheid comes to life through powerful exhibits and personal accounts. Walk away with a deeper understanding of Johannesburg’s complex past and the resilience of its people. This experience will stay with you long after you return home. So get ready to dive into a day you’ll never forget!

Planning Your Full Day Soweto and Apartheid Museum Tour from Johannesburg

Getting an early start.

To fit everything in, you’ll want to get an early start. Our tour starts around 8 am. Grab a quick breakfast at your hotel or a nearby cafe before meeting your guide. The Soweto guided tour will likely spend most of the day on the road and at attractions, so you’ll want to fuel up!

Must-See Spots

No trip to Soweto is complete without seeing the former home of Nelson Mandela, now the Mandela House Museum. You’ll also want to visit the Hector Pieterson Memorial, dedicated to the 12-year-old who was killed in the Soweto uprising. Other highlights include Regina Mundi Church, Freedom Square, and Vilakazi Street.

Understanding Apartheid

After exploring Soweto, we will head to the Apartheid Museum. This sobering museum documents the history of apartheid in South Africa. You’ll walk through replicas of the racial classification boards used to determine people’s race and see footage of key events. It’s a moving look at the hardships black South Africans faced and the long fight for freedom.

Reflecting on a Meaningful Day

By the end of this full-day tour, you’ll have a newfound understanding of South Africa’s troubled history and a deep appreciation for how far it has come. The resilience of human spirit on display in these places is truly inspiring. Take time to reflect on all you’ve seen and learned. Discovering a full day Soweto and the Apartheid Museum is sure to stay with you for years to come.

Top Sites to See on a Johannesburg Soweto Day Tour Mandela House

No trip to Soweto is complete without visiting the former home of Nelson Mandela. Now a museum, Mandela House takes you on an emotional journey through the life of Madiba. See the tiny house where he lived with his family in the 1940s and 50s and gain insight into what daily life was like under apartheid.

Hector Pieterson Memorial

This poignant memorial and museum honors the victims of the 1976 Soweto uprising. On June 16, 1976, 13-year-old Hector Pieterson was shot dead by police during a protest by Soweto students. The museum contains footage and artifacts from that fateful day, serving as a sobering reminder of the human cost of apartheid.

Take a stroll down Vilakazi Street, the only street in the world where two Nobel Peace Prize winners lived – Nelson Mandela and Archbishop Desmond Tutu. Soak in the history as you walk past the houses they called home. With colorful street art and vendors selling traditional crafts and snacks, Vilakazi Street is also a great place to get a sense of the vibrant culture of Soweto today.

A day discovering Soweto and Johannesburg’s Apartheid Museum will undoubtedly be a moving experience. While South Africa’s history of apartheid was cruel and oppressive, the resilience and spirit of hope demonstrated by leaders like Mandela and Tutu is truly inspiring. By understanding the past, we can work to build a future of equality, justice and human rights for all.

Reflecting on South Africa’s History at the Apartheid Museum

A visit to the Apartheid Museum is a sobering experience, but a necessary one to understand South Africa’s history. As you walk through the museum, you follow the rise and fall of apartheid in chronological order. You start in the early 1900s when racial segregation and oppression first began. As you progress through the decades, the policies become more and more unjust until apartheid is in full effect.

You see propaganda videos, read about the forced relocation of non-white South Africans, and learn about the oppressive pass laws that restricted movement. It’s harrowing to see how apartheid infiltrated every aspect of life. Even benches, doors, and elevators were segregated by race.

However, the museum does an excellent job of also highlighting the courageous individuals who fought against apartheid. You learn about Nelson Mandela’s key role and see exhibits on other anti-apartheid leaders like Steve Biko. By the end of the museum, you feel a mix of

emotions – anger at the injustices, sadness for the suffering, but also hope that such a cruel system was ultimately defeated.

A visit to the Apartheid Museum, while difficult, provides insight into how far South Africa has come. It honors the victims of apartheid and celebrates the triumph of democracy and equality. No trip to Johannesburg is complete without visiting this impactful museum. Though apartheid is over, its effects still linger. The museum reminds us of the importance of continuing the fight against racism and injustice in all its forms.

You leave the apartheid museum and Soweto tour with a much heavier heart, but also with a far deeper understanding of South Africa’s complex and tragic history. While the struggles you learned about were unimaginable, the resilience and spirit of the people is incredibly uplifting. Their journey towards reconciliation is not over, but you walk away inspired by the power of the human spirit and the ability to overcome. Visiting these historic sites grounds you in the realities of injustice, yet propels you towards hope and progress. Soweto and the apartheid museum will stay with you, driving you to build a more just and unified world. Though just one day in Johannesburg, the experience shapes you with compassion and purpose.

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• Departure Your establishment in Sandton, Johannesburg or Pretoria
• Departure Time 08:00AM
• Return Time 15:00PM
• Included Entrance fees Bottled Water Snack Pack Driver/guide Fruit Snack Hotel pickup and drop-off
• Not Included Alcoholic drinks (available to purchase) Food and drinks, unless specified Gratuities (optional) Gratuities (recommended)

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Soweto tours, about the tour.

All our Soweto tours are conducted as private tours only; this allows for a personalised, flexible experience for just you and your family / friends / colleagues. You will be collected and dropped off from your preferred address in Johannesburg and as the tour is yours it does allow for some flexibility on pickup and drop off times as well as the length of time (within reason) that you would like to spend in Soweto. So if you want to enjoy lunch at a restaurant, or a drink at a local shebeen, or spend more time in a museum or at the creche we are happy to accommodate these extensions. We will also do our best to accommodate any special requests to suit your interests, just chat your knowledgeable guide or send details via the enquiry form.

Herewith costs for our private tours with the basic inclusions:

SOWETO – STANDARD TOUR EXPERIENCE – PRICING AND INCLUSIONS:

Private tour for 1 person:                                         ZAR 2950.00 per person

Private tour for 2 to 3 people:                                 ZAR 1650.00 per person

Private tour for 4 to 6 people:                                 ZAR 1450.00 per person

Private tour for 7 to 10 people or more:               ZAR 1250.00 per person

Price includes

• Private tour experience guarantee for your group only
• Transport throughout in an air-conditioned touring vehicle
• Pickup and drop off from your preferred address in Johannesburg (some outlying pickup points like Pretoria or OR Tambo Airport will carry a surcharge of R 350.00 total extra)
• Services of an expert English-speaking Sowetan guide/driver (other language guides may carry a surcharge, please enquire)
• Entrance fees to the Hector Pieterson Museum (closed on Mondays and some major holidays)
• Entrance fees to the Mandela House Museum (closed on Mondays and some major holidays)
• Other highlights on our tours include: Stop outside Soccer City Stadium / Visit to the Ekukhanyeni Creche (closed on weekends and holidays) and Diepkloof Hostel / Bara Taxi Rank Market walkabout / Orlando Towers / Vilakazi Street / Regina Mundi Church / Kliptown’s Freedom Square / Kliptown Informal Settlement and a  visit to the inspirational Kliptown Youth Programme / Stop at a local restaurant or even Shisanyama (BBQ or Braai spot) – meal at an additional cost payable directly / Visit to a local Shebeen or Tavern – drinks for your own expense
• Our tours are very interactive in that you get out of the vehicle, walk around, meet the locals, experience the culture, see the local informal businesses, this in addition to of course taking the history of this most famous, diverse and fascinating of townships
• Should you wish us to include more elements into the tour pricing, we can include the costs for meals / drinks etc, just let us know what additional pre-paid elements you require
• Should you have a larger group and would like a specific tailor made tour arrangements please advise your details and we will quote you on a tour specific to your group’s requirements

Other Soweto Tours

Soweto Towers Adventure Activities

B&B Accommodation in Soweto

Shebeen and Shisanyama tour

Soweto Country Club Golf Tour

The establishment of Soweto is, like Johannesburg, linked directly to the discovery of Gold in 1885. Thousands of people from around the world and South Africa flocked to the new town to seek their fortunes or to offer their labour.

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Welcome to Mosikare Tours

Soweto edutainment tour, soweto half day tour, lesedi cultural village tour, lion park tour, soweto & apartheid museum tour, soweto and lion park tour, tour soweto with us.

Get to know Soweto in half a day. Soweto is a city of enterprise and cultural interaction. From the famous Township to the emotional Hector Pieterson and Mandela House museums, this day tour promises to be filled with plenty of South African history, culture and memories.

Dive deep into the history of South Africa and Soweto From Touring the famous Soweto Township to the Hector Pieterson and Mandela House museums, this day tour promises to be filled with plenty of South African history.

Lesedi Cultural Village Tour

Situated within the Cradle of Humankind, a visit to South Africa would certainly be incomplete without a visit to Lesedi - the cradle of living African culture. In an informative and entertaining way, Lesedi provides the visitor with a better understanding of the rich cultural background of the traditional peoples of South Africa.

Get to know the city of Johannesburg in a day. From the famous Soweto Township to the wild Lion & Safari Park nestled in the beautiful Magaliesberg mountain range and also within the Cradle of Humankind, a world UNESCO heritage site.

Soweto and Apartheid museum tour

Get to know the city of Johannesburg in a day. From the famous Soweto Township to the emotional Apartheid Museum, and Hector Pieterson and Mandela House musuems, this day tour promises to be filled with plenty of South African history.

Lion Park tour

Situated only 13km from Lanseria Airport and only 40min from Johannesburg, the must-see tourist destination; Lion & Safari Park is nestled in the beautiful Magaliesberg mountain range and also within the Cradle of Humankind, a world UNESCO heritage site.

Affordable Tours. Unforgettable experiences.

Our guides are very well versed in the needs of our clients. They strive to ensure your utmost enjoyment of your Johannesburg and Soweto tours. We are an ethical and a professionally managed local tour operator of day trips from Johannesburg suburbs.

why work with Mosikare Tours?

Great local guides.

• Our prices are competitive, fair and market related.
• We are the best Soweto tour operator of choice based in Soweto.
• We are passionate about what we do and sell.
• Our quick response and turnaround times are good.

Great Customer Service

• We are Soweto tours specialists and know our neighbourhood very well.
• Over 10 years of experience in the travel and tourism industry.
• We are members of the Sandton tourism association.
• We emphasise on delivering good quality service.

Sustainable Tourism

Our attention to detail ensures that our tours are of the highest quality and safe.

Honest, reliable, trustworthy and have integrity.

We use accredited and qualified Soweto tour guides.

We do responsible tourism.

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Soweto Day Tours

Soweto apartheid museum and lunch tour.

• < 4 Hours

From ZAR 1750

Apartheid Museum Tour

From ZAR 1350

2 Hour Soweto Tuk Tuk Tour

From ZAR 700

4 Hour Soweto Tuk Tuk Tour

From ZAR 900

2.5 Hour Soweto Bicycle Tour

4 hour soweto bicycle tour, ultimate johannesburg tour, soweto and lunch.

From ZAR 1500

Soweto and Lion Park

From ZAR 2500

Soweto Night Tour

From ZAR 1800

Soweto Tour

From ZAR 1100

Experience the Best Soweto Township Day Tour with Moafrika Tours

A day tour of Soweto Township offers you the chance to experience the heart and soul of a busy city that is home to over two million people. Township tours offers the opportunity to spend a day with locals and soak up the electric atmosphere of a South African city that has one foot in a turbulent past and one placed firmly in the future.

Soweto is not only the largest Township, but a unique city that vibrates with a sense of hope and optimism for a brighter and better future but continues to pay silent tribute to the price its people paid for their freedom and liberty.

Your Moafrika Tours African tour guide was born and raised in Soweto. He’ll keep you enthralled for a full three hours; driving past sprawling impoverished suburbs that remind us that many have not escaped the shackles of poverty and on to modern urban belts that showcase an upwelling of wealth and prosperity.

You can’t believe how big Soweto is until you’ve spent the day with locals there. Soweto is a smorgasbord of history, culture and authentic living; a quick glimpse of daily life in one of South Africa’s most important cities that will leave a significant imprint on your soul.

Come and explore Soweto in a day on a guided tour. Join Moafrika Tours for a fun day in Soweto; walk in the footsteps of the great Nelson Mandela and his good friend, the Archbishop Desmond Tutu down Vilakazi Street that is the only street in the world to house two Nobel Peace Prize Winners.

Visit the iconic landmarks of Soweto and meet the likes of Hector Pieterson and Hastings Ndlovu; immortalised as symbols of struggle and oppression, and of hope and resilience. A highlight of a day tour of Soweto is lunch at a local tavern (street restaurant) on Vilakazi Street; the lifeblood of South Africa’s most famous tourist destination. Enjoy authentic African cuisine cooked over an open fire, meet the Shebeen Queens and the Kwaito-loving warm-hearted people of Soweto.

Where is Soweto?

Soweto is located south-west of Johannesburg, the biggest city and economic capital of South Africa. It is also the city travellers to South Africa arrive in if they fly into OR Tambo International Airport.  Soweto Township is a sprawling cluster of suburbs once called “townships” and was created in the 1930s as a resettlement area for Black people when the then-government set up segregated residential areas. The name Soweto is an acronym for South Western Township. Orlando was the first township; followed by Doornkop, Klipriviersoog, Diepkloof, Klipspruit and Vogelstruisfontein.

The growth of the Soweto population has been phenomenal, particularly in the period 2001 to 2011. It’s now the largest township and biggest black urban settlement in Africa and, although many of its inhabitants are still considered “poor”; they have a combined buying power of over R4 billion.

The Johannesburg City Council has invested heavily in Soweto; improving its infrastructure, roads and properties. Large belts of impoverished areas merge seamlessly with affluent sections in Soweto; with an eclectic mix of street markets and corrugated shebeens, and fancy shopping malls, hotels for accommodation and entertainment centres.

History of Soweto

After the Soweto Uprisings and an intense liberation struggle, the city of Soweto has risen from the ashes of apartheid to become a thriving powerhouse in South Africa’s economic landscape. It started as a temporary settlement for gold field works that arrived on mass during the gold rush era looking for work in the 1880s.

Johannesburg became overcrowded and to eradicate the “black spots” in the city, the government of the Transvaal Government transplanted the migrant workers and their families to shanty towns on the outskirts of town. Numbers burgeoned, and conditions were appalling; finally leading to the people organising themselves and embarking on the squatter’s movement of 1944.

Soweto Township gained some degree of independence in 1983 when the collection of townships shifted from being controlled by the Johannesburg City Council to electing its own Black councillors in the Black Local Authorities Act passed by the government.

The councillors were not given financial resources to run Soweto and housing and infrastructure was not addressed, creating a very unhappy and restless environment.

Another bizarre apartheid-era law was that formal employment was not allowed in Soweto. Residents had to commute long distances to places of work; often leaving home before the sun came up and getting home long after dark. Informal markets sprang up in Soweto and we saw the birth of illegal shebeens (township bars) and the infamous Shebeen Queens.

A long and turbulent time followed as the people of Soweto gathered themselves into a powerful struggle movement that would eventually see the end of oppression and suffering and the dawn of democracy.

The great Nelson Mandela and Desmond Tutu, along with liberation heroes far and wide, relentlessly pursued freedom and equality for all and their heroism is immortalised in the many landmarks and features found today in Soweto.

 Why you should visit Soweto?

But you will also find that Soweto is a city of contrasts; it is rich in history, which is one reason to visit Soweto, but it is also home to an exciting new generation that embraces a heady mix of authentic African traditions and modern lifestyles. Soweto has some of the best restaurants in Johannesburg, the nightlife is great, and the people are warm-hearted and welcoming.

It is a multi-cultural city with a predominantly Black population; but you’ll hear everything from Zulu and Sotho to English and Tsonga being spoken on the streets. It is a melting pot of culture, especially among the youngsters who have their own Soweto slang, dress style and gait that makes them uniquely Sowetean.

The people of Soweto exude a cosmopolitan sense of style and there is a lot of Western influence in their modern lifestyles; but on Vilakazi Street, which is the lifeblood of the city, there is still a strong sense of Soweto in everyone you meet.

Places to visit on a township tour of Soweto

Make sure that you are wearing comfortable clothes and shoes for exploring, since we’ve picked our favourite things to do in Soweto and hope you get to enjoy them as much as we do.

We can also plan your itinerary with you that will fit into your budget and to make sure your township tour package is full of Soweto hot spots, sightseeing and that you will explore Soweto in the best way possible. You’ll probably have to come back to Soweto for another visit as one day in Soweto is not enough time to experience this incredible, vibey city and its colourful people.

A day tour of popular Soweto attractions:

• Vilakazi Street Precinct, and the famous Vilakazi Street
• The famous house of Nobel Peace Prize winner Nelson Mandela, known as Mandela House,
• The famous house and previous home of Nobel Peace Prize winner Archbishop Desmond Tutu, known as Tutu House,
• Hastings Ndlovu’s Bridge on Khumalo Road
• Hector Pieterson Memorial and Museum
• Regina Mundi Church, largest Roman Catholic Church in South Africa
• Orlando Towers, a decommissioned power station and now a striking city feature
• Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital, third largest hospital in the world
• FNB Soccer Stadium, known as Soccer City

Eating out in Soweto

Soweto has some of the best restaurants in Johannesburg but if you want an authentic African township experience; find a hot spot on Vilakazi Street and enjoy the experience. You can keep it formal and dine in an established restaurant or you can do it the Soweto way with meal at one of the popular taverns (street cafes) where meat is cooked over an open fire and served with delicious authentic side dishes. Quench your thirst with a glass of Soweto’s favourite brew.

A good chesa nyama meal is usually accompanied with a glass or two of umqombothi; a popular traditional home-brewed beer made from sorghum mixed with maize meal, water and yeast and left to ferment.

A few of the most popular places to eat in Soweto are:

• Wandie’s Place in Dube, a typical Soweto 4-roomed house that was once an illegal shebee
• Sakhumzi Restaurant in Vilakazi Street, serving up traditional cuisine in a historical setting Restaurant Vilakazi, for Sowetan fusion food
• Nexdor in Vilakazi Street, for uncomplicated, simple and delicious meals and a hot nightspot
• Ntsitsi’s Fun Food in Diepkloof, famous for its Soweto-style kotas which is a township version of Bunny Chow
• Chaf Pozi next to Orlando Towers; famous as a chesa nyama (hot meat) destination after bungee jumping off the towers
• Jazz Maniacs and Rusty’s Bar at the Soweto Hotel, for fine dining and Soweto-fusion food
• The Sowetalian near Regina Mundi Church; where Sotho and Italy meet

Things to do in Soweto

What to do in Soweto today?

Come back to Soweto for another fun day touring the city as there is so much more to do in the busy city than visiting historical landmarks and eating out in Vilakazi Street.

• Explore Soweto on foot, a bicycle or a funky tuk-tuk. Keep to the main tourist areas if you don’t know the city and you’ll have more fun than you can pack in a day. By booking a half or full-day cycling tour with a local African tour guide, you can discover the real Soweto.
• If that sounds like too much effort, a Soweto tuk-tuk is a fun way to explore the city without having to worry about finding parking at all the spots. At MoAfrika we can arrange for your accommodation in a hotel or guesthouse, transfers and bus tours from Johannesburg, Pretoria, Durban, Cape Town and Port Elizabeth for you to come and experience the best Soweto day Tours.
• Locrate Market in Soweto; the place to be seen with food trucks, live music, poetry readings, craft beer markets and fashion outlets
• Credo Mutwa Cultural Village; consult a traditional Zulu healer and walk through his gallery of prophetic paintings of 9/11
• Soweto Theatre; catch a show at this multi-purpose performing arts centre which showcases theatre, music and dance talent
• Dorothy Nyembe Park; a 26-hectare park with unusual towering sculptures that stand with their arms outstretched, with stunning dams, a bird hide, environmental centre and kid’s playground
• Maponya Mall, massive shopping centre with all the major clothing chains and restaurant outlets
• Mofolo Park, a popular park hosting jazz festivals, gospel choirs, carnivals, street-pop sessions and international artists
• uBantu Kraal Brewery at Mad Mead Brewery; Soweto’s own beer house for tastings of traditional African beer made by the Shebeen Queens
• Walter Sisulu Square in Kliptown; the first-of-its-king shopping and entertainment hub in Soweto

Moafrika Tours is a leading African tour operator of African Tours in South Africa, offering an array of day tours and long-stay tours to South Africa’s most popular destinations. In Johannesburg you can join us for an Apartheid Museum day tour including Constitutional Hill, a Pretoria tour including Voortrekker Monument and the Houses of Parliament, and a Pilanesberg tour or Kruger Park tour for a Big Five safari.

Can’t find the details that you are looking for? Contact MoAfrika, your African tour operator, for affordable  2022/2023  day tour packages. View our trip details, prices and availability for local guided day trips in Gauteng.

Frequently asked questions, what is usually included in soweto day tours, what is it about soweto tours that make it worthwhile.

Soweto is an important historical township that played an instrumental role in South Africa’s fight against apartheid, offering visitors a fascinating window into South Africa’s complex past and present. Exploring Soweto gives visitors an invaluable chance to gain a deep insight into South African society today. Second, these tours provide knowledgeable guides who can offer rich insight and context about each location. Soweto day tours provide visitors with a chance to interact with locals, explore cultural attractions, Their unique historical and cultural insights, convenience, and enriching experiences make Soweto day tours an attractive option for anyone interested in South African history and vibrant communities.

Which tourist attractions can I expect to visit during Soweto day tours?

On Soweto day tours, visitors can expect to visit an array of popular tourist attractions, such as Vilakazi Street Precinct and Vilakazi Street itself, Mandela House (former home of Nelson Mandela), Tutu House (former residence of Archbishop Desmond Tutu), Hastings Ndlovu’s Bridge on Khumalo Road, Hastings Ndlovu Memorial Bridge on Khumalo Road, Hector Pieterson Memorial and Museum, Regina Mundi Church (the largest Roman Catholic Church in South Africa), Orlando Towers (decommissioned power station turned city feature), Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital (third largest hospital), FNB Soccer Stadium which are all must see attractions.

• +27 (0) 82 506 9641
• +27 (0) 72 783 9787
• [email protected]
• Address: 16 Karen Road, Illiondale, Johannesburg, South Africa

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Copyright © MoAfrika Tours 2024

MoAfrika tours and the Kruger Safari Co. are destination management companies (DMC) and are not entities of the South African National Parks Board (SANparks).

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See the best of Johannesburg in a Day

Hop on our Johannesburg Red Tour at our main departure point in Rosebank and explore the leafy suburbs of Joburg, stopping at all the top attractions along the way, including Melrose Arch and Mandela Foundation before reaching Constitution Hill. From here the Red Tour continues via the inner city to the Mining District, Apartheid Museum and Gold Reef City Theme Park. The next stops are at Newtown, The Playground, Johannesburg Zoo and the Military Museum before heading back to Rosebank. You’ll soon see why Joburg is not only considered Africa’s economic playground but also one of the most wooded cities in the world.

Included is a small group Soweto tour which connects at the Gold Reef City Stop. Hear about 2 of the 20th century’s most famous liberation heroes in the city where they started their legal and political careers. Follow in the footsteps of Mahatma Gandhi and his Passive Resistance (Satyagraha) Movement, and Nelson Mandela with his Defiance Campaign.

* City Sightseeing Tour office , @ The Zone shopping center, Oxford Road, Rosebank (in the pedestrian mall, near KFC and next to Hamley's Toys) * Complimentary hotel shuttle from selected Sandton hotels ( See timetable ) * You can arrive on the "Gautrain" high speed rail link. Use North Exit at Rosebank station and head to the Tour office * Parking available for your car at "The Zone" shopping center - entrance off Oxford Road (Please arrive 15 min before bus departure)

Valid for the day when first presented

Hop On Hop Off at any of the stops along the circular route and simply show the same ticket to board the next bus Switch to the live-guided Soweto tour at Stop 8 (Gold Reef City Casino Hotel). After the 2h tour, you re-join the Hop on Hop Off bus at the same stop to continue your tour and return to Stop 1

Cancellation fee of R20, per ticket cancelled, will be charged.

* Unlimited access to the Red Tour * 2h Tour of Soweto (Live guided by a local Soweto resident)

* Entrance fee into various attractions

Check available dates and pre-book for entry into Gold Reef City Apartheid Museum closed on Monday's and Tuesday's

See the sights of Johannesburg at your own pace with this 1-day valid ticket for the hop-on hop-off sightseeing bus tour. Also included is a 2-hour extension tour of the township of Soweto, described as the “New York of Africa.”

2h Soweto tour Highlights

• FNB Stadium (known as Soccer City during the 2010 FIFA World Cup), the biggest stadium in Africa, is built in the form of a calabash or a Zulu clay pot. Hop off here to visit the South African Hall of Fame
• Diepkloof, a diverse neighbourhood
• Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital, built during the Second World War and the largest hospital in the world
• Bara Taxi Rank, the largest taxi rank in Johannesburg
• Orlando Towers, a colourful landmark popular for bungee and base jumping and abseiling
• Orlando Stadium, the first ever sports facility built for black South Africans in a residential area
• Hector Pietersen Memorial in Orlando West
• Vilakazi Street, the only street in the world in which two Nobel Prize winners have lived
• Visit to the Soweto Brewing Company

Get the Timetable   Tours   Get the Map!

Tour office can be found at:

The Zone shopping center , Oxford Road, Rosebank (in the pedestrian mall, near KFC and next to Hamley's Toys)

Inside the lobby of the Gold Reef Casino Hotel (change point for the Soweto Tour)

+27 21 511 6000 [email protected]

36 Auckland Street, Paarden Eiland, Cape Town, 7420

Copyright © City Sightseeing South Africa 2024

• 071 558 4433/ 072 124 3586
• Enquiry Form
• Johannesburg and Soweto Tour

Tour information

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Highlights of this Tour Include

Constitutional Hill | Johannesburg CBD | Gandhi Square | Vilakazi Street | Mandela House Museum | Baragwanath | Hector Pieterson Museum and Memorial | Kliptown Squatter camp

• Transport with pick up and drop off in the Johannesburg and surrounding areas
• Services of a experienced, qualified and certified guide
• A visit to the Ekukhanyeni Crèche
• Lunch at a local Sowetan Restaurant (excluding drinks)
• A drink at a local Soweto shebeen
• Various sundry expenses linked to the itinerary below

Meals and drinks not mentioned, transfers to area's outside of central Joburg area, items of a personal nature and purchases on tour

Optional extra's

Johannesburg and soweto tour - the details.

The Pick Up & Joburg's Northern Suburbs: Pick up at your hotel / venue in Johannesburg at approximately 09h00 in a luxury vehicle. Get a good overview of the suburbs and some of the City's top schools and universities before heading into Johannesburg CBD and the Newtown area. We take a drive past the last home where Nelson Mandela stayed before his death in Houghton.

Constitutional Hill Onward to Constitutional Hill which is located in Braamfontein one of the original suburbs of Johannesburg. Located here is the modern Constitutional Court which plays the role of protector of South Africans' basic rights. Next door is the Old Fort which was established at the time of the Anglo Boer War and was used by both the Boers and the British. It also became a prison where political prisoners including Nelson Mandela and even Mahatma Gandhi were imprisoned for a time; as well as some of South Africa's most notorious criminals such as Daisy De Melker. We stop off and learn more about the history of these contrasting symbols which have played a fascinating roll in SA history from Colonialism through Apartheid and now on to Democracy.

Downtown Johannesburg and Newtown: Drive through the Johannesburg CBD and Gandhi Square and the Newtown areas which are fantastic examples of Johannesburg's renewal of the city centre to attract people into the city to work, stay and play.

Enter Soweto via Soccer City Into the area of the SOuth WEstern TOwnships, stop outside the magnificent calabash designed Soccer City Stadium on the outskirts of Soweto, where the final of the 2010 Football World Cup was held.

Diepkloof Extension, Hostel and Ekhukhanyeni Creche: Head further into Soweto via the up-market area called Diepkloof Ext where some of the houses can cost in the millions. In complete contrast we visit a large hostel in the area, in days gone by the notorious hostel system was used as single gender accommodation for migrant labourers, it is now used as informal lodgings for family units. Guests will have a chance to step out and explore the hostel, as well as visit the Ekukhanyeni Crèche which is one of KDA Travel/ Soweto.co.za development projects. Sylvia, the teacher will introduce the children who will entertain the guests with some songs. Note - the creche is closed on weekends and over holidays.

Baragwanath: Into the Baragwanath area and stop at the huge taxi rank for a walk about. The Baragwanath Taxi Rank is opposite the largest hospital in the Southern Hemisphere, Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital. Here guests get to soak up the sites, sounds and "smells" of Africa at close quarters - informal open-air butcher shop, herbalists, barbers and market etc. Enjoy a ‘Smilies’ breakfast (the meat of a cow or sheep’s head) and sip on an Omqombothi (traditional beer) at one of the local shebeens.

Hector Pieterson Museum and Memorial Continue past the colourful Orlando Towers the most recognisable landmark in the area and pass through one of the original Soweto suburbs of Orlando East. Pass the upmarket Maponya Mall a great example of Soweto's modernisation.

Onto Orlando West which was a major focus point during the '76 student uprising. Visit the state of the art Hector Pieterson Museum which is a modern interactive museum depicting images and footage of the struggle.

Vilakazi Street & Mandela Visitors Centre

Continue to the famous Vilakazi Street, which is the only street in the world where two Nobel Prize winners lived: Nelson Mandela & Desmond Tutu Visit the Mandela House and Visitors Centre which is filled with many interesting artefacts and memorabilia pertaining to South Africa's greatest icon.

Lunch: A highlight of a visit to Soweto is a delicious lunch at one of the well run restaurants patronized by both tourists and locals alike, offering typical "township" cuisine. Desserts and drinks are not included.

Regina Mundi & Thokoza park: Pop into the Regina Mundi Church, the largest Catholic Church in South Africa and home to the famous Black Madonna Painting. Regina Mundi was known informally as Soweto's parliament during the Apartheid era and formed a major focus of the struggle. Pass by Thokoza Park, a fantastic example of urban renewal and the greening of Soweto.

Kliptown Squatter camp: Continue to the area of Kliptown and stop off at the informal settlement where you will be shown around the poor shanty living conditions of this impoverished community. Meet Thulani Madondo, who runs the Kliptown Youth Project a project in which KDA Travel / Soweto.co.za is very much involved with. Thulani is an inspirational leader who was a finalist in the CNN heroes awards. See the amazing work being done to uplift education and social development amongst the youth from the area and give hope to the future generations coming from these unfortunate circumstances. If Thulani is not there one of his colleagues will show the group around the facility.

Freedom Square: On to nearby Freedom Square and the memorial which commemorates the signing of the Freedom Charter in the 50's, parts of which form part of South Africa's constitution today. Take a walk around the square and take in the interesting symbolic architecture. Pass by some new townhouse and modern flat complexes all set amongst older and much more informal dwellings giving a sense of a melting pot of complete extremes. In many ways Soweto is a microcosm of the entire country's diversity.

Shebeen visit: Pop into a local vibrant shebeen / tavern to enjoy a drink or a round of pool with some of the locals.

Depart Soweto…..

This is an essential trip for anyone interested in the miracle of transformation that is South Africa. We will tailor the trip to your interests and time available. This is much more than just a tour it is a hands-on interactive experience.

Departure & Drop off Points:

· Our standard tours depart from and return to the Rosebank Mall - located in Johannesburg Central-Northern Suburbs.

· Pick up and drop offs from alternate venue’s carry the following supplements. Rates as follows:

o Areas within 15 minutes’ drive of Rosebank (e.g. Melville / Parkview / Greenside / Parkhurst / Illovo / Melrose / Sandton) - No additional charge

o Pick up and drop off in areas outside the above may carry a once off fee of R 450.00

NOTE - The outlying pickup supplements are negotiable for private tours of 5 or more people

This Tour Includes

• Visit Constitutional Hill
• Enter Soweto via Soccer City
• Hostel and Ekhukhanyeni Creche
• Hector Pieterson Museum and Memorial
• Visit a local shebeen with 1 drink included
• Vilakazi Street & Mandela Visitors Centres

Coachtours/ Overland Tours

Garden route, karoo and addo.

8 nights: R 23 000 pp

Departs Cape Town through the Karoo to Addo and returns to Cape Town. Includes 8 nights accommodation and more

Kruger National Park

2 nights: R 9 900 pp

Departs Joburg to Kruger National Park. Includes 2 nights accommodation, Breakfast and Dinner

Wildlife Discovery

4 nights: R 14 990 pp

Departs Joburg thtough Panarama Route, Kruger, St Lucia in northern KZN to Durban. Includes 4 nights accommodation and game drives

South Africa Explorer

12 nights: R 33 900 pp

Departs Joburg to Kruger National Park, Swaziland, KZN, Garden Route finishes in Cape Town. 12 nights/ 13 days

Game Lodge Deals

Clifftop lodge - welgevonden, why book with us, tours since 2001.

We have been organising Tours since 2001 and have dealt with thousands of individuals and groups over the years

Experiential

Our success is founded on our inclusive tour strategy. We have never wanted our guests to sit in a bus and do a drive through tour. We believe you need to experience Soweto, not just observe it.

Excellent Support

When you book with us, you are dealing with humans that you can contact at any time. We ARE NOT a faceless booking engine that are impossible to ask questions about your tour requirements

An "Amazing Race" Team Building

Are you looking for a Team Building Experience that is a little bit different to the oridinary? Our programs are designed to include members of the community directly, from the hosts of some of the sites to the locally made trophies.

Call us to discuss the tour in more detail and how we can talor make it for you or drop us an email with your requirements and goals for the tour and we will contact you with further details.

48 Hours in Johannesburg: Everything You Need To Know, From What To Do To How To Get Around

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Johannesburg – also known as Joburg and Jozi – is the biggest city in South Africa, which is home to many beautiful cities and stunning towns . Johannesburg is also the gateway to the popular safari destination of Kruger National Park . Given its central location and convenient direct flights to Tambo International Airport from big cities around the world, it serves as a connecting hub for travelers on their way to other Southern African countries. But this capital of Gauteng province, and home of Nelson Mandela, offers many interesting attractions for visitors.

Be it culture, history, fine dining, or world-class shopping; there is something for everyone. With a choice of high-end accommodations, cosmopolitan districts, and pleasant weather year-round, this vibrant metropolis makes for a relaxing and illuminating getaway. In this Southern Hemisphere city, days are warm during the summer months between November to February and cool from June to August.

Whether on the way to a Big Five safari or to another Southern African destination, this detailed guide will provide information about the city’s history, top attractions, and safety tips for a wonderful few days in Jozi.

The young city of Johannesburg was founded in 1886 following the discovery of gold. Unfortunately, the burgeoning mining industry laid the foundations of apartheid by the all-white South African government and the institutionalized racial segregation that lasted nearly 50 years, starting in 1948. Great Britain colonized South Africa from 1806-1961, while the Dutch ruled it from 1652. The first post-apartheid democratic elections were held in 1994, inaugurating Nelson Mandela as the president, the country's first Black head of state.

Despite strides made to shed its racial heritage and colonial past, huge imbalances still exist in the city, with many Black South Africans still being shut out from economic opportunities and being ill-prepared by a poor education system.

Visitors looking to learn about the city’s political beginnings and its role in the anti-apartheid movement can arrange a tour around historically prominent locations in Soweto, including Mandela House, Hector Pieterson Memorial, and the Apartheid Museum. For a journey back to the beginning of humankind, a visit to one of the world's richest hominid ancestral sites at Sterkfontein Caves, at the UNESCO World Heritage Site of The Cradle of Humankind, will provide a deeper understanding of our origins , just a short driving distance from Joburg.

Nelson Mandela National Museum

Freedom fighter and Nobel Peace Prize winner Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela was an icon, an anti-apartheid activist, and the first president of South Africa. Before his rise to power as the nation’s first Black head of state, he was imprisoned for 27 years for opposing apartheid. Born in the village of Mvezo in the Eastern Cape, Mandela is from the Xhosa ethnic group and was lovingly called by his clan name, Madiba, in his later years. He became politically involved when he joined the African National Congress in 1944.

Upon his marriage to his first wife Evelyn, Mandela moved into a single-story red brick house on Vilakazi Street, Orlando West in Soweto, the largest urban Black complex in the country. He lived at this humble abode with his second wife, Winnie Mandela, and kids until his arrest in 1962.

Visitors have the honor of touring the house, now called the Nelson Mandela National Museum, run by the Soweto Heritage Trust. Inside, rooms with original furnishings and memorabilia of the late Mandela, along with photographs of his family, showcase their spirit of resilience. The walls of this National Heritage site still bear the bullet holes and scorch marks from attacks by apartheid supporters during the time he was imprisoned.

Just a short drive away from the Nelson Mandela House in the suburb of Houghton is Sanctuary Mandela , a newly opened hotel and home of Mandela, towards the end of his presidency. This luxury guest house gives guests a chance to reflect on the freedom fighter’s life and an opportunity to savor dishes prepared by Madiba’s own family and personal chef.

Related: Budget-Friendly Spring Vacation: 10 Affordable, Yet Unique South Africa Hotels Worth Staying At

No trip to Joburg is complete without visiting Soweto. With a population of two million, it is the largest Black city in South Africa. Made up of 37 suburbs, with everything from grand mansions to tin shanties, it’s a place of stark contrasts. Soweto was established in the 1930s as a ghetto for Black Africans working in the gold mines. To say that the city has a tumultuous political history would be an understatement. Johannesburg was the epicenter of campaigns to overthrow the apartheid state, beginning with the 1976 student uprising that spread to the rest of the country.

On a tour of Soweto, in addition to visiting the Nelson Mandela National Museum, visitors can pay their respects to the teenage boy who was shot and killed during the uprisings that took the lives of 170 students at the Hector Pieterson Memorial. The museum tells the story of a pivotal moment in the anti-apartheid movement through films, news, personal accounts, and photographs, most notably the influential image by Sam Nzima of a dead Pieterson, being carried by a young man with his sister by his side.

The youth in Soweto today are still fighting for better education and opportunities. In the suburb of Kliptown, three out of four adults are unemployed. The Kliptown Youth Program , founded in 2007, is a South African-run non-profit providing opportunities for kids to rise out of poverty. On a tour of the brand-new facility, meet the passionate staff that’s bettering the community and learn about their tutoring, athletic, and arts programs that are transforming lives.

Apartheid Museum

Any visitor interested in learning about the dark history of South Africa can spend at least a half day at the Apartheid Museum . Opened in 2001, the museum’s design and multiple exhibits paint a detailed picture of the beginnings of apartheid, the struggle for liberation, and its eventual downfall.

The ruthless apartheid under the white minority rule discriminated against Africans, Indians, and mixed-race individuals. Non-white South Africans were required to live in separate settlements and use separate facilities, with limited contact with whites; interracial relationships were illegal. People of color did not have the right to vote and were relegated to laborer jobs.

The museum is purposefully designed with separate entrances for Whites and Non-Whites, a haunting callback to the discrimination faced by people of color. Upon entry, patrons walk past a row of images of oversized ID cards that individuals were forced to carry, another means of racial classification and segregation.

The large building houses several permanent exhibits, complete with photographs, audio, and video footage about life under structured racism, the 1976 uprisings, and the civil unrest that followed in the 80s. It has sections dedicated to Mandela’s release, his presidency, and the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of 1995, chaired by Archbishop Desmond Tutu.

Cradle Of Humankind

Go way back in time to the origins of humanity at the Cradle of Humankind museum, an hour’s drive from Johannesburg. This paleoanthropological site, boasting UNESCO World Heritage Status, is home to nearly 40% of the human fossils found in the world. The network of limestone caves in the area spanning 47,000 hectares is where around 1,000 humanoid fossils and animal species spanning three to four million years were discovered. Some of the most significant discoveries include Mrs. Ples, Little Foot, and the Taung child.

When the water levels are down, visitors get a rare opportunity to dive deep into history at the world-famous Sterkfontein Caves, one of the excavation sites, to admire the underground formations, lake, and fossils.

The large, striking building that houses Maropeng, the official visitor center for the Cradle of Humankind World Heritage site, is built like an ancient burial mound called a tumulus. It takes patrons through a fascinating journey of the entire history of Earth, starting from the beginning of our universe nearly 14 billion years ago. Interactive displays are fun for the whole family, and the fossil discoveries, life-like depictions of hominids, and exhibits about the history and future of humankind are sure to answer some burning questions for archeology buffs and curious travelers alike.

Related: Here Are The World's Most Recent Archaeological Discoveries

Nelson Mandela Square

After all the touring, it’s tempting to return to the comfort of your hotel room but set aside a few hours to experience one of the largest malls in South Africa. Located in the heart of the swanky district of Sandton, Nelson Mandela Square has plenty of dining and shopping at the famed Sandton City Shopping Centre , featuring 300 global retail brands.

Enjoy delicious curries and savory breads at Raj on the Square Indian restaurant, savor American cuisine at the Hard Rock Cafe, and indulge in Mediterranean cuisine at Pappas on the Square. Before leaving, be sure to snap a picture in front of the iconic statue of Nelson Mandela and spend some time checking out the Out of Africa store for some souvenirs.

Unlike its South African counterpart of Cape Town , Johannesburg carries a perceived notion of being unsafe and dangerous. However, similar to any big city, including ones like New York and Los Angeles, there are pockets of unsafe areas, but it’s a relatively safe place to visit.

“The city is energetic and vibrant, so we wouldn’t want people to completely skip Jozi. It’s rich in experience and natural resources gaining popularity back to the gold rushes,” says Sunit Sanghrajka, Founder of tour operator company Alluring Africa . “There are parts of downtown Los Angeles I would avoid,” he adds. He has been operating in Johannesburg for more than 25 years and hasn’t had any of his guests experience issues with safety.

“You have to take regular precautions as in any city, hide the jewelry and keep your valuables close to you,” he recommends. Alluring Africa works with local tour companies, such as Jarat Tours , that hire knowledgeable guides who are sensitive to the safety of their guests. Jarat Tours is a locally owned and operated guided tour company that organizes customized private luxury tours in South Africa.

“We typically arrange all the logistics and recommendations for our clients. It makes it seamless and takes the worry about being in a new city,” Sanghrajka says. But if you are to do it on your own, he recommends using an official car service like a marked taxi called by the hotel concierge to be safe. As for Uber, he suggests checking the vehicle’s license plate before entering.

Johannesburg offers myriad options , from modern hotels in high rises to elegant suburban sanctuaries surrounded by beautifully manicured gardens and lawns. High-end hotels can be found all over South Africa .

Sanghrajka recommends staying in the suburbs, such as Sandton, Houghton, Rivonia, Morningside, and Melrose Arch “which are walkable and offer a selection of restaurants and shopping areas. One such hotel located in Sandton is the DaVinci Hotel and Suites on Nelson Mandela Square which offers contemporary rooms overlooking the city and is steps away from the Square.

For those looking to escape from the bustling inner city, the Fairlawns Boutique Hotel and Spa, located just outside Sandton, provides a calming respite. With its individually decorated rooms, whimsically curated common areas set in a former manor house, and a Balinese-inspired spa, the Fairlawns is a tranquil place to spend a few nights before venturing onward. The Fairlawns is located 35 minutes from the international airport and ten minutes from the Sandton hub by car. It is family-friendly, has an onsite gym, restaurant, bar, and an outdoor pool. Accommodations include 41 rooms, a cottage, including and the stunning Mandela Suite.