Johannesburg , South Africa

Half-Day Tour of Soweto Tour

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(822 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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About this experience

On this half day tour in Soweto, your guide will take you past all the hotspots in Soweto. The Soweto tour will take you deep into the township culture, so you can enjoy a personal experience of how vibrant and lively this part of Johannesburg really is. Support the local community. R50 per guest booking will be donated to a Local Care Centre.

Available options

Tour Departure

Pickup included

What's included

Hotel drop-off

Local guide

Free Onboard Uncapped WiFi

Hotel pickup

Transport by air-conditioned minivan

Detailed itinerary

On our way to Soweto we pass by the National Football Stadium, which hosted the opening and closing ceremonies of the World Cup 2010. We enter the Diepkloof area, where we will take a walk past vendors selling just about anything.

We set off to the heart of Soweto, driving past Baragwanath Hospital, an enormous taxi rank and the historic suburb of Diepkloof.

Our first stop in Soweto is at Motsoaledi informal settlement. Walk through the sand streets with your guide past local dwellings and a typical informal settlement day care that MoAfrika Tours and all travelers sponsor by visiting through us. Greet and meet the people in the settlement and learn more about their way of life.

We continue on through Orlando West to the hub of Soweto. We stop outside Regina Mundi Church and Freedom Square for a quick overview.

Walter Sisulu Square (Freedom Square), formally known as the Walter Sisulu Square of Dedication, is located in the heart of Kliptown in Soweto, South Africa.

Stop 6

The Hector Pieterson Museum is a large museum located in Orlando West, Soweto, South Africa, two blocks away from where Hector Pieterson was shot and killed 16 June 1976.

We make our way down the vibrant Vilakazi Street,
past iconic monuments and the homes of Nelson and
Winnie Mandela and Archbishop Desmond Tutu.

Stop 8

Time permitting, you have the option of stopping at Nelson
Mandela Museum for a visit (own cost)

Stop 9 Pass by

The morning ends at the massive Soweto Towers. This
tour excludes lunch so grab yourself something to eat
and drink (own cost) from a café, stroll around the craft
market and watch people or join in bungee jumping off
the towers (own cost and time permitting)

What's not included

Alcoholic drinks (available to purchase)

Drinks

Food and drinks

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.7

186 reviews

5★

154

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.8

636 reviews

5★

542

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Child rate applies only when sharing with 2 paying adults

Children must be accompanied by an adult

Important notes

Hotel pickups commence prior to this time, you must contact the local service provider to verify your exact pickup time.

Times are subject to change due to local traffic conditions.

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