Ultimate Johannesburg Soweto Experience
FromZAR 2,040
9 hours
Johannesburg South, South Africa
About this activity
Discover Johannesburg's rich history and vibrant culture on this full-day guided tour of Soweto, including visits to the Apartheid Museum and iconic landmarks.
Highlights
- Explore vibrant Soweto township
- Visit the Apartheid Museum
- See Nelson Mandela's former home
- Discover Archbishop Desmond Tutu's residence
- Experience local culture and history
Full description
Dive into the heart of Johannesburg's history and culture with this immersive full-day tour of Soweto. Led by a knowledgeable guide born and raised in the township, you'll explore its vibrant streets, visit the poignant Apartheid Museum, and see the former homes of Nelson Mandela and Archbishop Desmond Tutu. This experience offers a unique glimpse into South Africa's past and present, making it a must-do for history enthusiasts and culture seekers alike.
Included / Excluded
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- Guided tour of Soweto township
- Visit to the Apartheid Museum
- Meals and beverages
Itinerary
1
After pick-ups, we make our way to Constitutional Hill in Braamfontein for a guided tour of this iconic institution. Constitution Hill is a living museum that tells the story of South Africa’s journey to democracy. The site is a former prison and military fort that bears testament to South Africa’s turbulent past. Today, it’s home to the country’s Constitutional Court which endorses the rights of all citizens. We cross over the striking Mandela Bridge on our way into Johannesburg CBD. Named in honour of Nelson Mandela, the 284-metre long bridge is the largest cable-stayed bridge in South Africa and links two significant business districts.
Duration: 2 hoursAdmission: YES
2
We cross over the striking Mandela Bridge on our way into Newtown. Named in honour of Nelson Mandela, the 284-metre long bridge is the largest cable-stayed bridge in South Africa and links two significant business districts. The Mary Fitzgerald Square in Newtown, Johannesburg in South Africa is a public space named after Mary "Pickhandle" Fitzgerald, who is considered to have been the first female trade unionist in the country.
Duration: 15 minAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE
3
Next stop is the Apartheid Museum. It’s a one-of- its-kind museum that showcases South Africa in the turbulent years of the apartheid era. The museum illustrates the rise and fall of apartheid through a series of 22 individual exhibitions that take you on an emotional journey from the heartbreaking struggle for freedom and equality to the ultimate climax of the election of Nelson Mandela, the first Black president of South Africa. It’s mid-day by the time we visit the Apartheid Museum. You can get something to eat and drink at the Truth Café (own cost)
Duration: 2 hoursAdmission: YES
4
Pass by: On our way to Soweto we pass by the National Football Stadium City, which hosted the opening and closing ceremonies of the World Cup 2010.
Admission: NOT_APPLICABLE
5
We leave the museum at about 14h00 and make our way to Soweto, driving past famous landmarks such as the FNB Soccer Stadium, Baragwanath Hospital and the massive Soweto Towers.
Duration: 15 minAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE
6
Our first stop in Soweto is at Motsoaledi informal settlement. Walk through the streets with your guide past street cafés and craft markets to a community centre that MoAfrika sponsors. Greet and meet the people in the settlement and learn more about their way of life
Duration: 20 minAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE
7
Pass by: We continue on through Orlando West to the hub of Soweto. We stop outside Regina Mundi Church and Freedom Square for a quick overview
Admission: NOT_APPLICABLE
8
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.
Duration: 30 minAdmission: YES
9
We make our way down the vibrant Vilakazi Street, past iconic monuments and the homes of Nelson and Winnie Mandela and Archbishop Desmond Tutu.
Duration: 1 hourAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE
10
In Orlando West we visit Vilakazi Street- drive past the former home of Nelson Mandela and past the home of Archbishop Desmond Tutu. You will have an opportunity to read about the Soweto uprising on 16 June 1976. On that tragic day an innocent little boy called Hector Pieterson gave up his life and kick-started the liberation of South Africa.
Duration: 1 hourAdmission: NO
Important information
Know before you book
- Confirm your booking at least 24 hours in advance.
- Check the weather forecast and dress accordingly.
- Ensure your camera or phone is fully charged for the tour.
Know before you go
- Wear comfortable walking shoes for the tour.
- Bring a camera to capture memorable moments.
- Carry local currency for any personal expenses.
Cancellation policy
Free cancellation up to 1 days before the activity starts
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Good to know
- A minimum of 2 adults per booking is required
- Child rate applies only when sharing with 2 paying adults
Traveler reviews
4.9439 reviews
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Johannesburg excellent tour and Khutso excellent guide
Excellent tour. Comprehensive at a very good value. Khutso was our guide. Excellent. Be sure to ask for him. Knowledgeable, dependable, very outgoing.
H143EXralphrMay 14, 2026TRIPADVISOR
Full day in Johannesburg and Soweto
Our guide Carson was amazing. It was a beautiful and emotional full day. A lots of informations to understand what happened. I strongly recommand that tour.
racheldT6212MXMay 11, 2026TRIPADVISOR
Great cultural experience
Nice trip. You can learn many information about the history of South Africa and the current live in Johannesburg. Great guidance by Carson.
Karol MMay 6, 2026TRIPADVISOR
Excellent ride
Excellent Carson was a great quide
Curious41932299668May 6, 2026TRIPADVISOR
Johannesburg experience was great
Tour in Johannesburg and Soweto is definitely worth it. Interesting museums and sights. Tour guide Carson is well prepared and tells interesting stories during the drive through Johannesburg streets
mateuszkF7415CTMay 6, 2026TRIPADVISOR
Additional information
A minimum of 2 adults per booking is required
Child rate applies only when sharing with 2 paying adults