Private Soweto and Apartheid museum tour
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Private Soweto and Apartheid museum tour

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6h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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About this experience

We give you an opportunity to learn about the liberation struggle in South Africa and the culture of black people in townships, by combining the Soweto and Apartheid museum tours.
In Soweto, we drive through Diepkloof Extension, hostels, and family units, pass Baragwanath hospital, squatter camps/ informal settlements, and Orlando Towers on our way to the Popular attraction-Vilakazi Street where Mandela house is situated.
At Apartheid Museum you do the tour of a series of 22 individual exhibitions
that include film footage, Photographs, Text panels, and Artefacts depicting how Apartheid affected the people of South Africa.
Apartheid museum is also a beacon of hope, you learn how South Africa is coming to terms with its oppressive past and working towards a future that all South Africans can call their own.
You also do the tour of Mandela exhibition where Mandela's extraordinary life is explored through seven themes: CHARACTER, COMRADE, LEADER, PENSIONER, NEGOTIATOR, and STATESMAN.

Available options

Private Soweto and Apartheid museum tour

Pickup included

What's included

Entrance to Apartheid museum
Entrance to Mandela house
Pick up and drop off in an air conditioned vehicle
Guided tour

Detailed itinerary

1

We drive through the Diepkloof extension and stop to view Diepkloof hostels and Family units, as we share information about the housing project which was initiated to move hostel dwellers to family units.
The tour proceeds, and we pass Baragwanath Hospital, the biggest hospital in Southern Africa and the third biggest hospital in the world.

2
Stop 2

Orlando towers are one of the distinctive landmarks in the neighborhoods of Soweto. The towers were cooling towers for the coal-run power station supplying electricity to Johannesburg over 50 years.
The station was closed in 1998 and transformed into an entertainment and sporting center in 2008.
The towers are always
covered with bright colours since they are used by companies to advertise their products.

3

Vilakazi Street is one of the Popular attractions with Historical significance.
It is the only street in the world where two Nobel Prize winners once lived.
The houses of the two Nobel Prize Winners are situated on this street.the late President Mandela and the late Arch-Bishop Emeritus Tutu's houses are situated on this street.
We give you time to browse the flea market selling clothes, artifacts, and curios in case there is a need.
Sakhumzi restaurant is situated on this Popular street close to Mandela house.
The restaurant serves South African Cuisine buffet lunch in the form of dumplings, Rice, Pap, Samp, and Tripe.
Other meals served include Beef stew, Sausages, Chicken, Veggies, Salads and dessert.
Light lunch restaurants are also available.Lunch is Optional.

4
Stop 4

Mandela Museum House in Vilakazi Street Soweto was built in 1945 by the Johannesburg City Council.
Mandela lived in this house before his life imprisonment.
This house provides an effective, efficient, and meaningful experience to all visitors, informing them of the former President Nelson Mandela's story in the context of his life as a whole, in a manner that promotes Human rights,Democracy, Reconciliation,Mutual respect and Tolerance amongst the people of South Africa and International community.
Have an opportunity to view and know where the statesman lived.

5
Stop 5

The structure of the museum outside is symbolic of the events of Apartheid, and how South Africa is getting
into terms with what happened in the past. Outside the museum towards the entrance, you view the 7 pillars that are symbolic of the 7 fundamental values of the country's constitution: Democracy, Equality, reconciliation, diversity, responsibility, respect, and freedom.
At the entrance, practically, one can see and learn how Apartheid policies affected the people of South Africa.
Inside the museum, you do the tour of a series of 22 individual exhibitions
that include film footage, Photographs, Text panels, and Artefacts.
The museum is a beacon of hope, you learn how South Africa is coming to terms with its oppressive past and working towards a future that all South Africans can call their own.
You also do the tour of Mandela exhibition where Mandela's extraordinary life is explored through seven themes: CHARACTER, COMRADE, LEADER, PENSIONER, NEGOTIATOR, and STATESMAN.

What's not included

Items of personal interest at local shops and flea market
Lunch ( Optional )

Available languages

Guide guide
EN

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Important information

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

About Johannesburg

Johannesburg, the largest city in South Africa, is a vibrant metropolis known for its rich history, cultural diversity, and bustling urban energy. The city's nickname, 'City of Gold,' originates from its roots in the gold-mining industry, and it offers a unique blend of modern attractions and historical landmarks.

Top Attractions

Apartheid Museum

The Apartheid Museum is a powerful and moving experience that chronicles the history of apartheid in South Africa. It's a must-visit for understanding the country's past.

Historical 2-3 hours R95 (Adults), R75 (Children)

Gold Reef City

Gold Reef City is a theme park built on the site of a former gold mine. It offers a mix of thrilling rides, historical exhibits, and entertainment.

Entertainment Full day R350-R500 (Adults), R250-R350 (Children)

Cradle of Humankind

The Cradle of Humankind is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its significant paleontological and archaeological discoveries, including some of the oldest hominid fossils.

Historical Half day to full day R200-R300 (Adults), R150-R200 (Children)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Bunny Chow

A hollowed-out loaf of bread filled with curry, originally created by Indian immigrants. It's a popular street food in Johannesburg.

Lunch/Dinner Vegetarian and non-vegetarian options available

Braai (BBQ)

A traditional South African BBQ, featuring grilled meats like boerewors (sausage), lamb chops, and chicken.

Dinner Meat-based, vegetarian options limited

Bobotie

A Cape Malay dish made with spiced minced meat and topped with an egg custard. It's a unique and flavorful South African specialty.

Dinner Meat-based, vegetarian options available

Popular Activities

Hiking in the Cradle of Humankind Game drives in Pilanesberg National Park Hot air ballooning over the Magaliesberg Spa treatments in Sandton Picnicking at Zoo Lake Wine tasting in the nearby wine regions Visiting the Apartheid Museum Exploring Soweto

Best Time to Visit

September to November and March to May

These months offer the most pleasant weather, with mild temperatures and lower rainfall. It's an ideal time for outdoor activities and exploring the city.

15°C to 28°C 59°F to 82°F

Practical Information

Language

  • Official: English, Zulu, Afrikaans, Sotho, Tsonga, Tswana, Venda, Xhosa, Ndebele, Southern Sotho
  • Widely spoken: English, Zulu, Afrikaans
  • English: Widely spoken

Currency

South African Rand (ZAR)

Time Zone

GMT+2

Electricity

220-240VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution

Johannesburg has a reputation for high crime rates, but many visitors enjoy safe and rewarding experiences by taking necessary precautions. Stick to well-populated areas, avoid walking alone at night, and be cautious with valuables.

Important Precautions:
  • • Avoid walking alone at night
  • • Use licensed taxis or ride-hailing services
  • • Keep valuables secure and out of sight

Getting there

By air
  • OR Tambo International Airport • 22 km from city center
  • Lanseria International Airport • 35 km from city center
By train

Park Station, Johannesburg Station

By bus

Park Station, Ellis Park

Getting around

Public transport

Rea Vaya is the city's public bus system, offering affordable and efficient transport. It has dedicated bus lanes to avoid traffic.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Bolt

Rentals

Car, Bike

Neighborhoods

Sandbox Rosebank Braamfontein

Day trips

Pilanesberg National Park
250 km from Johannesburg • Full day

Pilanesberg National Park is a malaria-free game reserve offering excellent wildlife viewing opportunities, including the Big Five (lion, leopard, rhino, elephant, and buffalo).

Soweto
20 km from Johannesburg • Half day

Soweto is a historic township known for its role in the anti-apartheid movement. It offers a unique glimpse into South Africa's past and present.

Cradle of Humankind
50 km from Johannesburg • Half day to full day

The Cradle of Humankind is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its significant paleontological and archaeological discoveries, including some of the oldest hominid fossils.

Festivals

Johannesburg International Film Festival • Late October to early November Johannesburg International Motor Show • Even years, typically in October Africa Day Celebrations • May 25

Pro tips

  • Explore the city's vibrant markets for unique souvenirs and local flavors
  • Visit the Apartheid Museum for a powerful and moving experience
  • Take a guided tour of Soweto for a deeper understanding of the city's history
  • Discover the Cradle of Humankind for a fascinating journey into human evolution
  • Enjoy the city's diverse culinary scene, from street food to fine dining
From $25 per person

Price varies by option

Adults
Age 18-59
1
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 3
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