Pretoria , South Africa

Soweto and Johannesburg Tours

Active

(3 reviews)

4h - 10h

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

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Soweto is an iconic township located in Johannesburg, South Africa. Here are some factors that make our Soweto tour unique:
Soweto is steeped in history, from the Soweto Uprising of 1976 to the lives of the many famous residents who have lived there, including Nelson Mandela and Archbishop Desmond Tutu.
Soweto is known for its vibrant culture, with a mix of traditional and modern influences. A tour of Soweto can include visits to museums, markets, and local restaurants to experience the vibrant music, art, and food scenes that are unique to the township.
A Soweto tour offers a chance to experience township life and gain insights into the daily struggles and triumphs of the people who live there
Opportunities to engage with the local community and allow visitors to gain a deeper understanding of the township's social and economic issues and the efforts being made to address them.

Available options

Soweto and Johannesburg Tours

Pickup included

What's included

Private transportation

Bottled water

WiFi on board

Detailed itinerary

Our Soweto tour typically includes a visit to one of the largest and most famous townships in South Africa, located just outside Johannesburg. At a glance of what to expect:
1. Your tour may include a visit to some of Soweto's historic sites, such as the Mandela House Museum, the Hector Pieterson Memorial and Museum, or the Regina Mundi Church, which played an important role in the anti-apartheid movement.
2. You'll have the opportunity to drive through the streets of Soweto, and see the various neighborhoods, such as Orlando West and Vilakazi Street, which is famous for having been the only street in the world to have had two Nobel Prize winners as residents - Nelson Mandela and Desmond Tutu.
3. Experience local culture: A Shebeen (local Pub) or restaurant
4. Learn about apartheid: Your tour guide will give you a detailed history of apartheid and its impact on Soweto and its residents.

If there is time we can also visit the Apartheid Museum or Constitutional Hill.

Stop 2

Apartheid museum tour will take you through the history of apartheid in South Africa, from its origins to its eventual demise. What to expect at a glance:
Introduction: You will receive an introduction to the museum, including its layout and what you can expect to see during your visit.
1. Apartheid history: The museum features exhibits and displays that provide a detailed history of apartheid, including the laws and policies that were put in place to enforce racial segregation and discrimination.
2. Artifacts and exhibits: The museum has a large collection of artifacts and exhibits that help to illustrate the history of apartheid.
3. Interactive exhibits: Allowing visitors to experience what it was like to live under apartheid.
4. Films and documentaries.
5. Reflection and contemplation.
The tour is a powerful and emotional experience that provides a deep understanding of the history of apartheid in South Africa

You will visit the apartheid-era prison, where many anti-apartheid activists, including Nelson Mandela and Mahatma Gandhi, were held.
You will have the opportunity to visit the Constitutional Court, which is now located on the site of the former prison. Your guide will explain the role of the court in South African democracy and how it has contributed to the country's progress since the end of apartheid.
Art and exhibits: The complex also features several art installations and exhibits, including the permanent exhibition called "The Treason Trial," .
This tour is a powerful and educational experience that provides a deep understanding of the history of South Africa and the struggle for freedom and equality.

What's not included

Gratuities

Coffee and/or Tea

Dinner

Alcoholic Beverages

Lunch

Soda/Pop

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

3 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Specialized infant seats are available

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

No alcohol served by the Tour (May be purchased when having a meal at designated and licensed venue, over 18 only)

Meeting point

We can meet guests/travelers at the airport, hotel, bed and breakfast, or lodge, as long as it's pre-arranged and confirmed before arrival.
Arranged beforehand to make it as easy as possible for clients.

About Pretoria

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.

Top Attractions

Union Buildings

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.

Historical 1-2 hours Free

Pretoria National Botanical Garden

This botanical garden is home to a diverse range of indigenous plants and offers beautiful walking trails, picnic spots, and a variety of wildlife.

Nature 2-3 hours R50 for adults, R25 for children

Voortrekker Monument

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.

Historical 1-2 hours R30 for adults, R15 for children

Melrose House

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.

Historical 1 hour R50 for adults, R25 for children

Pretoria Zoo

The Pretoria Zoo is home to a wide variety of animals, including rare and endangered species. The zoo offers educational programs and conservation initiatives.

Nature 2-3 hours R120 for adults, R60 for children

Must-Try Local Dishes

Braai

Braai is a traditional South African barbecue, featuring grilled meats such as boerewors (sausage), lamb chops, and steak.

Dinner Contains meat, can be adapted for various dietary preferences

Bobotie

Bobotie is a sweet and spicy minced meat dish topped with an egg-based custard. It is often served with yellow rice and chutney.

Dinner Contains meat and eggs, can be made with alternative ingredients for vegetarians

Bunny Chow

Bunny Chow is a hollowed-out loaf of bread filled with curry, typically made with chicken, beef, or beans.

Lunch Contains meat, can be made with vegetarian or vegan fillings

Melktert

Melktert is a traditional South African milk tart, featuring a sweet pastry crust filled with a creamy, custard-like filling.

Dessert Contains dairy and eggs, can be made with alternative ingredients for dietary restrictions

Popular Activities

Hiking Water sports Game drives Picnicking Tea at Melrose House Visiting botanical gardens Museum visits Historical site tours

Best Time to Visit

Spring (September to November) and Autumn (March to May)

Spring and autumn offer mild weather, perfect for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The city is also less crowded during these seasons.

15°C to 30°C 59°F to 86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Afrikaans, English, Northern Sotho
Widely spoken: English, Afrikaans
English: Widely spoken

Currency

South African Rand (ZAR)

Time Zone

GMT+2

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe, but exercise caution

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.

Important Precautions:

• Be aware of your surroundings
• Avoid walking alone at night
• Keep valuables secure

Getting there

By air

OR Tambo International Airport • 45 km from city center
Lanzeria Airport • 30 km from city center

By train

Pretoria Station

By bus

Park Station, Pretoria Station

Getting around

Public transport

The PBS offers an affordable and reliable way to get around the city. Buses are frequent and cover most major areas.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Bolt

Rentals

Car, Bike

Neighborhoods

Pretoria Central Hatfield Menlo Park Sunnyside

Day trips

Cullinan Diamond Mine

40 km from Pretoria • Half day to full day

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

60 km from Pretoria • Full day

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

150 km from Pretoria • Full day to overnight

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.

Festivals

Pretoria Jazz Festival • September Aardklop National Arts Festival • October Pretoria Open-Air Arts Festival • November

Pro tips

Visit the Pretoria National Botanical Garden in the spring for the best blooms
Explore the city's cultural and historical sites, such as the Union Buildings and the Voortrekker Monument
Experience a traditional South African braai (barbecue) at a local restaurant or with a host family
Take a day trip to the Cullinan Diamond Mine or Pilanesberg National Park for a unique and memorable experience
Attend a local festival or event, such as the Pretoria Jazz Festival or the Aardklop National Arts Festival