Soweto is a bustling city on the outskirts of Johannesburg that is rich in history and home to almost 2 million inhabitants. Famously home to two Nobel Peace Prize winners, the great Nelson Mandela and Archbishop Desmond Tutu, it was the epicenter of the struggle for freedom and equality in the apartheid era.
A tour of Soweto is an opportunity to learn about South Africa’s turbulent past and have a look into its exciting future. The 2-hour Soweto Tuk-Tuk cultural tour is led by a knowledgeable guide and you’re taken many of the historic sites of the city.
Lunch at the Boma & Outdoor Restaurant at Backpacker’s Lodge in Soweto. Time permitting, the adrenaline junkies have the option of bungee jumping off Orlando Towers.
A buffet can be booked with the Tuk-Tuk tour at an additional R 135 per person.
Mandela House Museum is the best place to learn about the childhood of Madiba. He received a Nobel Peace Prize in 1993 and is still regarded as a South African hero. Archbishop Desmond Tutu’s home is just down the street from Mandela’s and it forms part of the Johannesburg Heritage trail, although it’s not open to the public. Tutu received his Nobel Peace Prize in 1984. Vilakazi Street is the only street in the world that was once home to two Nobel Peace Prize winners.
What used to be cooling towers at a massive power station is now a tourist hotspot. Here you’ll find the world’s highest SCAD freefall and a 100-meter high bungee jumping platform. You don’t have to be a daredevil to visit the Orlando Towers. The paintings on these towers are modern works of art and a great place for a selfie in Soweto.
Lunch at the Outdoor Restaurant is a cultural experience not to be missed on a visit to South Africa. The tastiest stews, known as “potjie” in Afrikaans, and curries are prepared on a fire and served inside a hollowed-out loaf of bread. This is known as a “bunny chow”. You can opt for “pap” instead of bread if you prefer.
You can also opt for a buffet with delicious stews, a traditional barbeque, or “braai” as we call it in South Africa, and side salads. The braai buffet is only available for groups of 5 or more, while the potjiekos buffet can be booked for 1 or more guests.
Your tour guide will be waiting in front of the main gate. He will be holding a tours sign board with the company name logo printed on it.
Pretoria, known as the Jacaranda City for its beautiful purple-blossomed trees, is the administrative capital of South Africa. It offers a blend of historical significance, cultural richness, and natural beauty, making it a unique destination for travelers.
The Union Buildings are the official seat of the South African government and a significant historical landmark. The buildings are an excellent example of Edwardian Baroque architecture.
This botanical garden is home to a diverse range of indigenous plants and offers beautiful walking trails, picnic spots, and a variety of wildlife.
This monumental structure commemorates the Voortrekkers who left the Cape Colony in the 19th century. The monument offers a museum and a tower with panoramic views of Pretoria.
Melrose House is a historic home that served as the headquarters of the British military during the Second Anglo-Boer War. Today, it houses a museum and a tea garden.
The Pretoria Zoo is home to a wide variety of animals, including rare and endangered species. The zoo offers educational programs and conservation initiatives.
Braai is a traditional South African barbecue, featuring grilled meats such as boerewors (sausage), lamb chops, and steak.
Bobotie is a sweet and spicy minced meat dish topped with an egg-based custard. It is often served with yellow rice and chutney.
Bunny Chow is a hollowed-out loaf of bread filled with curry, typically made with chicken, beef, or beans.
Melktert is a traditional South African milk tart, featuring a sweet pastry crust filled with a creamy, custard-like filling.
Spring and autumn offer mild weather, perfect for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The city is also less crowded during these seasons.
South African Rand (ZAR)
GMT+2
220VV, 50HzHz
Pretoria is generally safe for travelers, but it is important to exercise caution, especially in certain areas and at night. Be aware of your surroundings, avoid walking alone at night, and keep valuables secure.
Pretoria Station
Park Station, Pretoria Station
The PBS offers an affordable and reliable way to get around the city. Buses are frequent and cover most major areas.
Available • Apps: Uber, Bolt
Car, Bike
The Cullinan Diamond Mine is famous for being the source of the world's largest diamond, the Cullinan Diamond. Visitors can take a guided tour of the mine and learn about its history and the diamond mining process.
Hartebeestpoort Dam is a popular destination for water sports, fishing, and hiking. The dam is surrounded by beautiful landscapes and offers a variety of outdoor activities.
Pilanesberg National Park is a malaria-free game reserve offering excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing. The park is home to the Big Five (lion, leopard, rhinoceros, elephant, and buffalo) and a variety of other animals.
Price varies by option