Historical and Cultural Interactive Experience of Soweto
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Historical and Cultural Interactive Experience of Soweto

Active
(10 reviews)
4h - 5h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

For historical and cultural enthusiast, when on a Soweto tour with us, while visiting historical landmarks like Mandela House museum, Hector Pieterson museum & Walter Sisulu square ,you can also easily find yourself sipping tea in a local home, making friends at a local tavern, or find yourself embracing a child or sharing laughter with children from a kindergarten. Nothing is planned yet memorable human connections are made. Our tour guides do not only share wealth of information, they also share our heritage by taking you to interesting places where you can get to experience our culture through an optional visit to the traditional healer who connects with your ancestors for messages to you. When visiting the healer, you also get to have a home visit while there because she works from home. With us, no tour is the same to the other. We shape it to your interest and needs, and only have one rule. Have fun!

Available options

Historical and Cultural Interactive Experience of Soweto

Pickup included

What's included

Bottled water
All Fees and Taxes
Air-conditioned vehicle

Detailed itinerary

1

10h00: Pickup from Hotel.
10h30: First stop is at the FNB stadium which got a facelift for the 2010 FIFA World Cup. The design concept of the Stadium is the Calabash, or African pot.

This iconic, 87 436-seater is the largest Venue in South Africa, and the Country’s proud Global Colossal located in Nasrec, South of Johannesburg. The Unique Design of FNB Stadium is highly regarded, Internationally. It is often fondly referred to, as the “Calabash” or “African Pot” after being reconstructed in time for the first ever, African World Cup in 2010. Previously known as Soccer City, the Stadium has been the Centre of Historic Events, starting with the First Speech from Former President Nelson Mandela in 1990, a few days after being released from prison where he served 27 years. The venue has hosted the biggest Sports and Music Events, this Country has ever seen. Including performances of Beyonce, Jay-Z , Justin Bieber to name a few

2

11h00: The square is our 2nd stop, this is the site where, on 26 June 1955, the Congress of the People, met to draw up the Freedom Charter, an alternative vision to the repressive policies of the apartheid state. The document emphasised a non-racial society, liberty and individual rights. The Freedom Charter remains the cornerstone of African National Congress policy and is seen by many as the foundation of South Africa's 1996 constitution.
The square has now been declared as a national heritage site. A stone throw away from the square is an informal settlement of Kliptown. Despite the lack of social amenities like minimal running water,poor sanitation, this community live with hope in a loving and welcoming environment they created. An optional walking tour at no costs can be arranged to visit a few homes or a kindergarten. Donations to the place/s visited are always welcomed

3
Stop 3

12h00: 3rd stop is at the Hector Pieterson museum named after the then 12 year old school boy, who was part of the students who marched in protest in Soweto on June 16th, 1976. Hector was the first to be killed. He became the iconic image of the this Soweto uprising , when a newspaper photograph by Sam Nzima – of the dying Hector being carried by Mbuyisa Makhubu rushing for help, was published around the World and caused an uproar and roused anti-apartheid sentiments Globally. What started as protest by students against the Afrikaans language as a medium of instruction at schools instead of their own languages and English, ended up with many students loosing their lives on this day.
The area has been declared a National Heritage Site. Inside you can view exhibits such as television footage of the uprising. It also contains a moving collection of oral testimonies, pictures, audiovisual displays and historical documents relating to the events of 1976.

4
Stop 4

13h00: Get a guided tour inside the house where former South African President Nelson Mandela lived, on and off, for more than 14 years. First with his 1st wife Evelyn Ntoko Mase , then his second wife Winnie Madikizela-Mandela. You will learn about the bitter sweet memories that happened in this house when Winnie was left as the only parent raising their two daughters ,Zenani and Zindzi Mandela
In his landmark autobiography, The Long Walk to Freedom, Mandela describes coming back here in 1990 upon his release after 27 years in prison: 'That night I returned with Winnie [his then-wife] to No. 8115 in Orlando West. It was only then that I knew in my heart I had left prison. For me No. 8115 was the centre point of my world, the place marked with an X in my mental geography.'

5

13h00:Lastly , you can explore this well known street in South Africa's thriving heart of Soweto.
Vilakazi Street is the only street in the world that has had two Nobel Laureates as residents - the late Nelson Mandela and Archbishop Emeritus Desmond Tutu.
The entrepreneurial spirit is alive here , bringing about creative places where you can stop for accessories , African inspired fashion , and homeware. Adding to the energy of this precinct are the performers who sing and dance, found on this street
There is an assortment of restaurants to choose from on this street, where you can have a feast of authentic local Soweto-style buffet - a variety of proudly South African traditional cuisine such as samp and beans, tripe, steamed bread and lots and lots of Meat (pure beef) ,we love our meat as South Africans. Or simply have light western food with a South African flavor to it. All meals estimated at R350pp.

This is the end of the tour, depending on whether you have lunch or not.

What's not included

Lunch
A visit to the traditional healer is an optional extra of R300pp fee, paid in cash to the healer.

Available languages

Guide guide
EN

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0
10 reviews
5★
10
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0

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 13-90
1
Childs
Age 3-12
0
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 15
  • Adult required for booking
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation

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