soweto heritage tour

Soweto Heritage: Tour South Africa’s Historistic Township

Set out on a journey through the vibrant tapestry of Soweto, South Africa’s historically significant township. Discover the essence of kasi life and engage with the community’s rich heritage in a way that transcends mere observation.

As you navigate through the iconic landmarks and learn about the community’s daily rhythms, a deeper understanding of the township’s resilience and cultural significance unfolds.

Stay tuned to unravel the layers of Soweto’s past and present, and to grasp the transformative experiences that await those seeking to connect with this storied destination.

• Engage in authentic kasi life experiences and interact with the local community.
• Explore iconic landmarks like Mandela House and Vilakazi Street, rich in historical significance.
• Contribute positively to the township through responsible tourism practices.
• Immerse in the resilience, creativity , and vibrant culture of Soweto’s inhabitants.

Here's some more nearby activities we've reviewed

• 3 Day Kruger National Park Tour From Johannesburg
• From Pretoria: 4-Day Guided Trip to Kruger Park and Graskop
• Soweto: Private Half Day Tour With Mandy
• Johannesburg: 4-Day Classic Kruger National Park Safari

Tour Details

Embarking on the immersive Soweto Heritage tour offers travelers a unique opportunity to explore the vibrant history and culture of South Africa’s largest township. This experience truly emphasizes culture , allowing visitors to engage in meaningful local interactions.

Interacting with knowledgeable guides provides insights into the community’s rich history, witnessing firsthand the resilience and creativity of local artisans. From exploring significant historical landmarks to tasting authentic kasi cuisine , every moment is a chance to contribute positively to the community.

Engage with the community’s evolution, learn about its past struggles and triumphs, and witness the spirit of its people in this unforgettable journey through Soweto. This tour promises an enriching experience, promoting understanding and appreciation for this historic township.

Enjoy the vibrant cultural tapestry of Soweto by exploring its iconic landmarks and engaging with the local community on a journey filled with history and authenticity.

Local Cuisine : Indulge in traditional kasi dishes, bursting with flavor and heritage.

Community Engagement : Connect with local artisans, hear their stories , and witness their creativity firsthand.

Historic Landmarks : Visit the homes of Nelson Mandela and Desmond Tutu on Vilakazi Street, steeped in rich history.

Positive Impact : Contribute to the community through responsible tourism practices, ensuring a meaningful and sustainable experience.

Included Landmarks

Explore the vibrant and historically significant landmarks included in the Soweto Heritage tour, offering a rich tapestry of South Africa’s cultural heritage.

Explore the architecture of the FNB Stadium, known for hosting the 2010 FIFA World Cup ceremonies.

Discover the origins of Soweto in Diepkloof, enjoying kasi life and strolling through Vilakazi Street.

Admire the iconic Orlando Towers, symbolic landmarks in the Soweto Township.

Visit Vilakazi Street to explore the homes of Mandela and Tutu, steeped in history and cultural experiences .

Lastly, step into the Mandela House, once Nelson Mandela’s residence, now transformed into a significant heritage site with guided tours and multimedia exhibits.

Experience the essence of Soweto’s past and present through these remarkable landmarks.

Tour Experience

As visitors engage with the knowledgeable guides, they gain profound insights into the rich history and vibrant culture of South Africa’s largest township during the Soweto Heritage tour. This experience goes beyond a mere sightseeing tour, offering a deep dive into local engagement and culture .

Local Engagement : Interact with the resilient community members, artisans, and entrepreneurs.

Cultural Immersion : Taste authentic kasi cuisine and witness traditional practices firsthand.

Historical Insights : Learn about the township’s evolution and significant landmarks.

Positive Contribution : Engage in responsible tourism practices that support the community’s growth and development.

Set out on a half-day exploration that promises not only a journey through history but also a meaningful connection with the heart of Soweto.

Museums and Sites

Discover the rich history and cultural significance of prominent museums and sites featured on the Soweto Heritage tour. Enjoy the historical context of Soweto by visiting the Hector Pieterson Museum , dedicated to commemorating the 1976 Soweto Uprising. Regina Mundi, central to Soweto’s history of resistance against apartheid, offers further insights into the community’s struggles and triumphs. Plus, the Soweto Kliptown Youth tour provides optional exploration of living conditions, shedding light on the township’s challenges and resilience. Entry fees are included for Mandela House, Hector Pieterson Museum , and Regina Mundi , ensuring an educational experience that delves into the cultural significance of each site. Join the tour to delve deeper into Soweto’s past and present through these essential landmarks.

Booking Information

The next step in planning your Soweto Heritage tour is to review the Booking Information, ensuring you have all the necessary details to secure your spot and learn about this cultural experience.

• Free cancellation : Enjoy the flexibility of canceling your tour up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
• Payment flexibility : Reserve now and pay later to keep your travel plans flexible.
• Duration : The activity lasts 6 hours; check for available starting times.
• Itineraries : Subject to change, provided for reference.

With free cancellation and payment flexibility , you can book your Soweto Heritage tour with peace of mind, knowing you can adjust your plans if needed. Get ready to explore the rich history and vibrant culture of this iconic township.

Navigate the vibrant streets and landmarks of Soweto with ease by following these straightforward directions. Begin your exploration by heading to Vilakazi Street, where you can learn about the rich cultural heritage of Soweto.

From there, visit iconic landmarks such as the FNB Stadium and Orlando Towers to experience the township’s history firsthand. Engage with local artisans, taste authentic kasi cuisine, and contribute positively to the community’s growth.

Ensure you don’t miss key sites like the Mandela House, Hector Pieterson Museum, and Regina Mundi , each offering unique insights into Soweto’s past and present. By following these directions, you’ll embark on a journey of culture and discovery through South Africa’s most historically significant township.

Here's a few more nearby tours and experiences we have reviewed.

• Johannesburg: Pan-African Cooking & Dinning Experience
• Johannesburg and Soweto Apartheid Full Day Tour
• Private Johannesburg Elephant & Monkey Sanctuary Half Day
• Johannesburg: Affordable 3 Day Kruger Park Safari
• Joburg/Soweto & Gold Reef City Full Day Tour
• Sun City Shuttles From or Tambo Airport

Common questions

Can visitors interact with local residents and participate in community activities during the tour.

Visitors can engage in local activities and interact with residents during the tour, fostering culture. They’ll witness the community’s vibrancy, taste local cuisine , and contribute positively. Engaging with the township enriches the experience.

Are There Opportunities to Purchase Traditional Crafts and Souvenirs Made by Local Artisans in Soweto?

Visitors can purchase traditional crafts and souvenirs made by local artisans in Soweto. These opportunities not only provide unique mementos but also contribute to the economic development of the community, fostering meaningful community interactions and support.

How Does the Tour Support and Contribute to the Economic Development of the Soweto Community?

The tour supports Soweto’s economic empowerment through community engagement , promoting culture and local impact . By showcasing local artisans, cuisine, and historical sites , it contributes to sustainable development, empowering the community and fostering pride in its heritage.

Is Transportation Provided to and From the Starting Point of the Tour, or Do Participants Need to Arrange Their Own Transportation?

Participants need to arrange their transportation to the starting point of the tour. Public transportation options and shuttle services are available. Once there, they will embark on a guided walking tour through the historic township.

Are There Any Specific Dress Code or Etiquette Guidelines That Visitors Should Be Aware of Before Joining the Tour?

Visitors should dress comfortably and respectfully, adhering to cultural norms. Loose, modest clothing is recommended. Be prepared for walking tours and interactions with locals. Embrace the vibrant culture of Soweto with an open mind and heart.

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Experience the vibrant tapestry of South Africa’s history come alive in Soweto’s historic township. Enjoy the rich heritage and resilient spirit of the community as you explore iconic landmarks, taste authentic kasi cuisine, and engage with local artisans.

This transformative journey offers a deep dive into the past and present of Soweto, allowing you to make meaningful connections and witness the evolution of this storied township firsthand.

Don’t miss out on this unforgettable experience!

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• WHAT WE OFFER

Soweto Uprising Heritage Walking Tours is exactly what you think when you read/hear its name; it is a company that conducts walking tours around the heritage sites of Soweto which is one of South Africa's largest townships. From March 2014, Soweto Uprising Heritage Walking Tours company has worked to develop a walking route from June 16 Memorial Acre opposite Morris Isaacson School in White City, Soweto to Orlando West on one of the main routes of the 16 June 1976 Protest March.

We cater for...

© 2018 SOWETO UPRISING HERITAGE WALKING TOURS

NEWSLETTER SUBSCRIPTION

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Check availability

• About this activity

Soweto Heritage: Tour South Africa's Historistic Township

• Free cancellation available
• Mobile voucher
• Instant confirmation
• Selective hotel pickup
• Multiple languages
• Immerse in authentic kasi life, engage with locals for a cultural experience.
• Tour Mandela and Tutu's homes on Vilakazi Street for a unique connection.
• Engage with artisans, local cuisine, and contribute positively to the community.

Activity location

• Johannesburg
• Johannesburg, Gauteng, South Africa

Meeting/Redemption Point

• Sun, May 5 $53
• Mon, May 6 $53
• Tue, May 7 $53
• Wed, May 8 $53
• Thu, May 9 $53
• Fri, May 10 $53
• Sat, May 11 $53
• Sun, May 12 $53
• Mon, May 13 $53
• Tue, May 14 $53
• Wed, May 15 $53
• Thu, May 16 $53
• Fri, May 17 $53
• Sat, May 18 $53
• Sun, May 19 $53
• Activity duration is 6 hours 6h 6h

What's included, what's not

• What's included What's included FNB Stadium:
• What's included What's included Pass by Soccer City, host of the 2010 FIFA World Cup ceremonies. Its unique design is internationally acclaimed.
• What's included What's included Diepkloof:
• What's included What's included Explore Soweto's origins and kasi life. Walk in the footsteps of legends Mandela and Tutu at Vilakazi Street.
• What's included What's included Orlando Towers:
• What's included What's included Iconic landmarks in Soweto Township, the Orlando Towers stand as a distinctive symbol.
• What's included What's included Vilakazi Street:
• What's included What's included Visit the homes of Nobel laureates Mandela and Tutu. Explore the famous Vilakazi Street.
• What's included What's included Mandela House:
• What's included What's included Former residence of Nelson Mandela, now a significant heritage site with guided tours and multimedia exhibits. Entry fee included.
• What's included What's included Hector Pieterson Museum:
• What's included What's included A National heritage site commemorating the 1976 Soweto Uprising, symbolizing resistance. Entry fee covered.
• What's included What's included Regina Mundi:
• What's included What's included Explore the people's church, Regina Mundi, central to Soweto's history of resistance against apartheid. Entry fee included.
• What's included What's included Soweto Kliptown Youth:
• What's included What's included Optional tour of the Squatter camp, offering insights into the community's living conditions.

What you can expect

Embark on a captivating half-day expedition through the heart of South Africa's largest and celebrated township. Immerse yourself in the tapestry of its fascinating origins and vibrant “kasi” life, gaining profound insights into the resilient spirit of the community. Traverse the iconic Vilakazi Street, where history echoes through the homes of Nobel Peace Prize laureates Nelson Mandela and Archbishop Desmond Tutu.

Our exclusive Rapal Tours and Transfers experience goes beyond mere exploration—it's a transformative journey. Engage with knowledgeable guides who unravel the intricate stories and cultural nuances, providing context to every step. Delve into the community's triumphs and challenges, forming a profound connection with its past and present.

As we navigate the winding streets, you'll witness the resilience and creativity of the local artisans, taste the authentic flavors of “kasi” cuisine, and engage in interactive sessions with community members. Our commitment to responsible tourism ensures that your exploration not only educates but also contributes positively to the township.

This tour serves as a bridge between South Africa's complex history and its triumphant present day, allowing you to witness the evolution of a community against the backdrop of significant historical landmarks. Join us on this extraordinary journey, where every step echoes the spirit of resilience, hope, and transformation that defines South Africa's narrative.

Members save 10% or more on over 100,000 hotels worldwide when you’re signed in

Check availability

• About this activity

Soweto Heritage: Tour South Africa's Historistic Township

• Free cancellation available
• Mobile voucher
• Instant confirmation
• Selective hotel pickup
• Multiple languages
• Immerse in authentic kasi life, engage with locals for a cultural experience.
• Tour Mandela and Tutu's homes on Vilakazi Street for a unique connection.
• Engage with artisans, local cuisine, and contribute positively to the community.

Activity location

• Johannesburg
• Johannesburg, Gauteng, South Africa

Meeting/Redemption Point

• Sun., May 5 CA $72
• Mon., May 6 CA $72
• Tue., May 7 CA $72
• Wed., May 8 CA $72
• Thu., May 9 CA $72
• Fri., May 10 CA $72
• Sat., May 11 CA $72
• Sun., May 12 CA $72
• Mon., May 13 CA $72
• Tue., May 14 CA $72
• Wed., May 15 CA $72
• Thu., May 16 CA $72
• Fri., May 17 CA $72
• Sat., May 18 CA $72
• Sun., May 19 CA $72
• Activity duration is 6 hours 6h 6h

What's included, what's not

• What's included What's included FNB Stadium:
• What's included What's included Pass by Football City, host of the 2010 FIFA World Cup ceremonies. Its unique design is internationally acclaimed.
• What's included What's included Diepkloof:
• What's included What's included Explore Soweto's origins and kasi life. Walk in the footsteps of legends Mandela and Tutu at Vilakazi Street.
• What's included What's included Orlando Towers:
• What's included What's included Iconic landmarks in Soweto Township, the Orlando Towers stand as a distinctive symbol.
• What's included What's included Vilakazi Street:
• What's included What's included Visit the homes of Nobel laureates Mandela and Tutu. Explore the famous Vilakazi Street.
• What's included What's included Mandela House:
• What's included What's included Former residence of Nelson Mandela, now a significant heritage site with guided tours and multimedia exhibits. Entry fee included.
• What's included What's included Hector Pieterson Museum:
• What's included What's included A National heritage site commemorating the 1976 Soweto Uprising, symbolising resistance. Entry fee covered.
• What's included What's included Regina Mundi:
• What's included What's included Explore the people's church, Regina Mundi, central to Soweto's history of resistance against apartheid. Entry fee included.
• What's included What's included Soweto Kliptown Youth:
• What's included What's included Optional tour of the Squatter camp, offering insights into the community's living conditions.

What you can expect

Embark on a captivating half-day expedition through the heart of South Africa's largest and celebrated township. Immerse yourself in the tapestry of its fascinating origins and vibrant “kasi” life, gaining profound insights into the resilient spirit of the community. Traverse the iconic Vilakazi Street, where history echoes through the homes of Nobel Peace Prize laureates Nelson Mandela and Archbishop Desmond Tutu.

Our exclusive Rapal Tours and Transfers experience goes beyond mere exploration—it's a transformative journey. Engage with knowledgeable guides who unravel the intricate stories and cultural nuances, providing context to every step. Delve into the community's triumphs and challenges, forming a profound connection with its past and present.

As we navigate the winding streets, you'll witness the resilience and creativity of the local artisans, taste the authentic flavours of “kasi” cuisine, and engage in interactive sessions with community members. Our commitment to responsible tourism ensures that your exploration not only educates but also contributes positively to the township.

This tour serves as a bridge between South Africa's complex history and its triumphant present day, allowing you to witness the evolution of a community against the backdrop of significant historical landmarks. Join us on this extraordinary journey, where every step echoes the spirit of resilience, hope, and transformation that defines South Africa's narrative.

THE 10 BEST Soweto Historical & Heritage Tours

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• Historical & Heritage Tours
• Cultural Tours
• Up to 1 hour
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• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
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• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

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What travellers are saying.

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A Tour of Soweto – 72 Things You Need to Know

• April 8, 2020

Soweto first came to the attention of the international media when a photograph of a young man carrying a dying 14-year Hector Pieterson during the Soweto Uprising made world headlines.

This heartrending photograph, with his crying sister running alongside, exposed the brutality of the apartheid police and triggered an international movement to intervene in the struggle of Black South Africans who were fighting oppression and the severe domination of the National government.

View our Soweto Tours

Today Soweto has risen from the ashes of apartheid to become a thriving powerhouse in South Africa’s economic landscape. Soweto is rich in history and, while it enjoys the spoils of modern development, the residents of the city pay homage to its roots; safeguarding its historical heritage with museums and statues that honour the great struggle veterans who fought for freedom and Soweto Uprising .

A tour of Soweto takes you past iconic landmarks to the famed Vilakazi Street that is the only known street in the world to boast being the former home of two Nobel Peace Prize winners; Nelson Mandela and Archbishop Desmond Tutu. A knowledgeable guide that was born and bred in Soweto regales tales of historical events that shaped the destiny of this great city. A Soweto tour exposes you to the hardships of daily life of Soweteans, many of which still live in abject poverty; and then moves on to massive urban developments that showcase an upwelling of wealth and prosperity in the region. A highlight of a tour of Soweto includes lunch at a local tavern (street restaurant) where tourists can sample authentic African cuisine and interact with the warm and welcoming patrons.

More about Soweto

Soweto is a township of the city of Johannesburg in Gauteng, South Africa. It borders the historical mining belt in the south in a region previously known as the Witwatersrand Basin and the epicentre of South Africa’s gold rush era.

Its name is an abbreviation of the label South Western Townships, formerly a separate municipality but now incorporated in the City of Johannesburg Metropolitan Municipality. When gold was discovered in Johannesburg, thousands of migrant workers and immigrants descended on the Zuid-Afrikaansche Republic (ZAR) and settled in shanty towns to the south of the city.

When the National Party of the former Transvaal Republic came into power, they imposed regulations that sought to separate the White working class citizens from the Bantu (Black African) population and new suburbs were laid out for Burghers (Whites), Coolies (Indians) and Malays (Coloureds). Most of the Black migrant workers had by this stage moved far out of town to the farm Klipspruit (later called Pimville), south-west of Johannesburg. The council had erected iron huts next to Kliptown, the oldest Black residential district of Johannesburg. Soweto as we know it today was laid out on Klipspruit and an adjoining farm called Diepkloof.

It was not unlawful in the former Transvaal Colony for “people of colour” to own property and Blacks were encouraged to buy property in an area that became known as Sophiatown. In 1923, the national government passed the Natives (Urban Areas) Act; with the purpose being too provided improved conditions for residence living in settlements segregated as native urban areas. The Act was used to control access to these townships and to restrict their consumption of “intoxicating” liqueur.

The council by this stage had bought land in the Klipspruit area and the first housing development there became known as Orlando Location. Most of the houses were temporary single-room shelters suitable for single men working at the mines. Towards the end of World War II there was an acute shortage of housing in Johannesburg. Homeless Blacks were encouraged by a political activist to squat on vacant land in the Orlando Location; the squatter camp burgeoned until the City Council’s resistance waned and it was agreed that an emergency camp would be established for close to a thousand families. It was called Central Western Jabavu.

A second wave of land invasions took place in 1945 with some 30 000 squatters congregating west of Orlando. A new emergency camp was established called Moroka and a thousand sites made available for homeless families. It became one of Johannesburg’s worst slum areas; with communal bucket-system toilets and scarce access to running water. Both Moroka and Jabavu shanty camps were demolished in 1955; by which stage there were close to 90 000 inhabitants squatting in the area.

These rural townships received limited resources from the City Council and the inhabitants endured extreme hardships. The settlements were located far from the hub of the gold mining operations and the mine workers had to travel great distances to get to work. The mass settlement region was thrown a lifeline in 1941 when the British government built a military hospital on the road between Johannesburg and Potchefstroom.

It was called The Imperial Military Hospital, Baragwanath. The Transvaal Provincial Administration bought the hospital at the end of the war and created the Black section of Johannesburg (known as the Non-European Hospital). This renowned hospital was renamed Chris Hani-Baragwanath Hospital in 1997, in honour of the struggle veteran who fought alongside Nelson Mandela to bring about democratic change. In 1952, the national government passed the Bantu Services Levy Act which imposed a levy on employers of African labourers.

The levy was used to finance basic services in Black townships. The City Council built 6 500 houses in Jabavu and Mofolo; using a standard design for a low-cost, four-bedroomed, 40 sq/metre house. Another township called Dube Village was established for the “more urbanised and economically-advanced Natives”. Tenants could purchase stands and erect a dwelling that conformed to approved building plans. Match-box houses built during the apartheid era[/caption] Sir Ernest Oppenheimer, a wealthy mining magnate, arranged a loan of £3 million from the mining industry which was used to build an additional 14 000 houses.

The national government, who was growing increasingly bothered by the burgeoning growth of these Black townships, passed the Native Resettlement Act, which permitted the government to remove Blacks from suburbs like Sophiatown, Newclare and Western Native Townships. Displaced Blacks were forcibly removed to Meadowlands and Diepkloof. The City Council launched a competition to find a collective name for all the townships south-west of the central business district of Johannesburg. In 1963, the official name of Soweto was adopted, an abbreviated form of South-Western Townships.

After years of tension between the national government and the independent City Council, the West Rand Administration Board took over the administration control of Soweto; a consequence of the Black Affairs Administration Act that was passed in 1971. The chairman of the board at the time had no idea of the troubled times that lay ahead when he was famously quoted in a newspaper as saying, “The broad masses of Soweto are perfectly content, perfectly happy. Black-White relationships at present are as healthy as can be. There is no danger whatever of a blow-up in Soweto.

In 1976, the Soweto Uprising brought about an extended period of conflict and loss of life. The origins of this tumultuous era started when mass protests erupted when Black residents objected to the government’s policy that forced schools to teach scholars in Afrikaans, rather than their native language. A group of some 10 000 students marched from Naledi High School to Orlando Stadium, a scuffle ensued and the riot police opened fire. Twenty-three schoolchildren died on this tragic day, including Hector Pieterson. Dr Melville Edelstein, a lifelong humanitarian, also died on the first day of what would become known as the Soweto Riots.

A photograph captured by a young newspaper journalist of a dying 14-year boy made international headlines and the impact of the tragic end to the children’s march reverberated around the world. Economic and cultural sanctions were imposed and political activists fled the country to train for a guerrilla resistance. School children marching to Orlando Stadium Soweto and other Black townships became the stage for violent state repression.

The Black inhabitants fought back and the leaders of the struggle movement garnered international support to bring about radical change to the oppressive and severe domination of the apartheid government. In response, the state withdrew financial support for urban development and finally handed Soweto its municipal independence to Black councillors in 1983, in line with the Black Local Authorities Act. The embattled Black councillors struggled to address housing and infrastructural problems and were accused by township residents of benefitting financially from the oppressive regime. Municipal elections were subsequently boycotted and, in the years that followed, a depressing stalemate between the Black residents and the apartheid government prevailed.

The struggle movement gained momentum during the 1980s; educational and economic boycotts were initiated and student bodies were organised. Street committees and civic organisations were established as alternatives to state-imposed structures. Such actions were strengthened by the call issued by African National Congress in 1985 to make the country ungovernable. The state forbade public gatherings and church buildings like Regina Mundi were used for political meetings.

Political unrest finally came to its bitter end when then President FW de Klerk authorised the release of Nelson Mandela and other struggle veterans. The first democratic election was held in 1995 with the ANC winning by a huge majority. Nelson Mandela was elected the first Black president of South Africa and his leadership heralded the dawn of a new democracy.

The people of Soweto

Soweto remains a predominantly Black city; with a multi-cultural mix of Zulu, Sotho, Tswana, Venda and Tsonga inhabitants. The 2011 census estimated it to have a population of close to 1.3 million inhabitants; with some 6 400 inhabitants per square kilometre. Soweto is also home to small communities of Coloured and Asian residents. Historically, Soweto was not allowed to create employment centres and the majority of residents were forced to commute long distances to work in other parts of the city of Johannesburg.

Most commuters today travel the same long route on the popular mini buses whose drivers are notorious for their impatient behaviour. The Soweto Highway, with dedicated taxiways, links Soweto with Johannesburg and Metrorail operates commuter trains along the same route. The N1 Western Bypass skirts the eastern boundary of Soweto, taking commuters to the outlying suburbs of Johannesburg. The majority of residents still live in the old “matchbox” houses that were built by the apartheid government or the four-roomed houses built as cheap accommodation for the Black migrant workers and their families. Vacant land has attracted a mass of homeless people who endure squalid conditions in iron shanty huts. Trees and shrubs planted by the City Council in greenbelts between the suburbs add some aesthetic appeal to settlements that are otherwise quite depressing.

Hostels that were built by the apartheid government for single men working on the mines are a prominent feature on the Soweto landscape. Many have been improved and are home to young couples and families. Music is the lifeblood of young Soweteans and the city is renowned as the founding place for Kwaito and Kasi Rap, a hip-hop genre that is unique to South Africa. Soweto reverberates to a musical beat that is a combination of house music, American hip-hop and traditional African music.

Many of the popular songs tell the tale of oppression and the people’s will to fight for freedom and equality. Nothing gets the people of Soweto more excited than watching a game of soccer at the FNB Soweto Stadium, especially if it is a match between the two rival soccer teams. The city is divided between Kaizer Chief and Moroko Swallows supporters. On match day, the city vibrates with the deafening sound of Vuvuzelas; a plastic trumpet that gives off an ear-splitting sound after a heavy blow. The FNB Soccer Stadium is one of South Africa’s largest stadiums. The combined spending power of the people of Soweto is estimated to be in the region of R4.5 billion. It really is a numbers game, with the vast majority of residents classified as low-income earners. Private initiatives have tapped into this goldmine of accumulated wealth and massive urban developments in Soweto have cropped up in recent years. These include the impressive Jabulani Mall and Maponya Mill.

ohannesburg City Council has invested heavily in Soweto, providing improved infrastructure such as street lights and paved roads, and city parks and sports complexes. Isolated pockets of upmarket residential developments are scattered around the city and fine-dining Western-style establishments are gaining in popularity.

Places to Visit on A Tour Of Soweto

A tour of Soweto with a knowledgeable Moafrika Tours guide takes you on a journey through Diepkloof to Soweto’s most famous tourist attraction, the Vilakazi Street Precinct. Vilakazi Street is the only street in the world to have housed two Nobel Peace Prize winners, namely Nelson Mandela and Archbishop Desmond Tutu.

Their former homes are located a short walk from each other. House number 8115 is the former house of Nelson Mandela, the first Black president of South Africa and an iconic figure of the struggle movement. Now known as Mandela House, the simple three-bedroomed home has been carefully restored as a living museum. Mandela moved into the house with his first wife, Evelyn Mase, in 1946. He lived there for a short time after his release from prison with his second wife, Winnie Mandela, until he took up residence in the presidential home in Houghton.

A short distance away is Tutu House, the former home of his good friend and fellow Noble Peace Prize winner Archbishop Desmond Tutu. Two large metal bull heads have been erected outside Mandela House, entitled The Nobel Laureates. They stand on the corner of Vilakazi and Ngakane Streets, representing the two great men who played such a significant role in the struggle for freedom and democracy.

Another metal structure has been placed on Moema Street that commemorates the Soweto Uprising; it depicts a group of schoolchildren facing a policeman with a growling dog. The impressive structure honours the young children who lost their lives during the student protests of 1976. A memorial wall of slate on the corner of Moema and Vilakazi Streets provides visitors with a quiet place to sit and contemplate the fateful day of 1976 and the events that unfolded in its aftermath. A striking piece of street art is visible where Vilakazi Street intersects with Khumalo Street.

Eight huge grey hands spell ‘Vilakazi’ in sign language. Other murals in the street include one that depicts the scene of 16 June 1976 with police and their vans, and placard-carrying children. Several concrete benches have been livened up with intricate mosaic work and a row of bollards with wooden heads has been placed on the corner of Vilakazi and Ngakane streets.

Hastings Ndlovu’s Bridge was erected on the corner of Klipspruit Valley and Khumalo Road in remembrance of the 15-year old boy who was the first pupil shot when the police opened fire on the schoolchildren. He was rushed to hospital but died of his head wound. A statue of the young Hastings stands sentry on the bridge; dressed in school uniform, smiling and holding his arm up. Storyboards line each side of the bridge that tell the tale of the heroic bravery of young schoolchildren like Hastings.

Various streets, museums and graveyard sights in other parts of the city commemorate Soweto’s turbulent history and tell the silent tale of tragedy, suffering and bravery. This includes the grave of Hector Pieterson at Avalon Cemetery and the Hector Pieterson Memorial and Museum. The memorial site and museum was opened on 16 June 2002 in Orlando West in Soweto, marking the place where Hector was shot. It not only honours the life of Hector but also those that died on that fateful day and in the months following the 1976 Soweto Uprising.

The Department of Environmental Affairs and Tourism awarded R16 million to its development and the Johannesburg City Council contributed an additional R7,2 million to the costs. A blown-up photograph of the dying schoolboy, Hector Pieterson, carried in the arms of a young 18-year old pupil with his crying sister running alongside is the centre-piece exhibit of the museum. The photograph reminds visitors of the agony and suffering these three young school children endured, caught up in a moment of time that changed the destiny of Black citizens of South Africa. Thereafter, a tour of the Hector Pieterson Museum is a fusion of modern technology and cultural history.

The red-bricked museum was erected in Kumalo Street, two blocks away from where Hector was shot on the corner of Moema and Vilakazi Street. Hector’s mother, Dorothy Molefi, lives in a nearby suburb called Meadowlands. She says the family is very proud of the museum and the fact that children can learn about South Africa’s history there. Hector’s father passed away shortly after the museum was opened but at least he lived to see his son’s memory immortalised in this landmark building.

Regina Mundi Church is the largest Roman Catholic Church in South Africa and is found in Rockville, in the middle of Soweto. It is famous for having opened its doors to protesting schoolchildren in 1976 when the apartheid police opened fire on them. Public gatherings were banned by the apartheid government after the Soweto Riots and Regina Mundi Church was used for political meetings. Orlando Towers is a striking landmark in Soweto; painted luminous blue and covered in traditional artwork depicting the historical struggles and the daily life of Soweteans. The Orland Power Station is a decommissioned coal-fired power station that stands out like two sentries overlooking the city of Soweto. The power station was erected at the end of World War II and served the city of Johannesburg for over 50 years.

The mural on Orlando Towers was hand-painted and took 6 months to complete. Orlando Towers is popular among thrill seekers who come from far and wide to bungee jump off it, swing or freefall their way to the bottom. Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital is located in Diepkloof and is the third largest hospital in the world with approximately 3 200 beds for patients. It was built in 1941 by the British Government and served as a military hospital, known then as the Imperial Military Hospital, Baragwanath. Today this extensive medical facility also includes a training college for young doctors and nurses. The end of a tour to Soweto takes tourists past the impressive FNB Soccer Stadium, affectionately known as Soccer City.

The massive stadium was designed to depict the traditional calabash, a hard-skinned squash that is a staple vegetable for traditional African families. The stadium is located in Nasrec, on the outskirts of Soweto. Soccer City is the home ground of Kaizer Chiefs Football Club and hosts national fixtures in the South African Premier Soccer League.

Nelson Mandela chose the FNB Soccer Stadium to make his first speech after he was released from prison in 1990. His memorial service in 2013 was held at the stadium. At the age of 92 years, Nelson Mandela attended the closing ceremony of the 2010 FIFA World Cup Final that was held at the stadium; it was his last public appearance and a fitting end for a man who presided over the birth of a democratic South Africa. Mandela smiled and waved as 85 000 supporters rose to their feet, giving a thunderous welcome to their hero.

The History of Traditional Shebeens in Soweto

Establishments in South Africa selling alcohol without a license goes back to the early Dutch settler days when the Cape Malay slaves were prohibited from selling alcohol and “partaking in too much rivalry”. During the apartheid era, Soweto residents were prohibited from establishing formal businesses and the Native Act restricted the consumption of “intoxicating” liqueur in townships. As would be expected, makeshift taverns called shebeens cropped up and soon became associated with Black townships. They often served as meeting places for political activists.

The word shebeen comes from a combination of the Irish-Gaelic word síbín and the Zulu word shibhile, both meaning ‘cheap’. The economic effects of the Great Depression were devastating to an increasingly poor and landless rural population, forcing huge numbers of Black people to move to urban areas to seek wage-paying jobs. African women struggled to find work in the formal sector and many resorted to applying their traditional skills to making home-brewed beer. These women became known as “shebeen queens”; making and selling a type of beer known as umqombothi to the migrant labourers. Shebeens provided these hardworking men a place to relax and socialise, shrugging off the oppression of life under apartheid rule.

Despite being illegal, shebeens provided the community with a safe place to express their cultural traditions; enjoying their own music, traditional dancing and authentic food. The shebeens were often raided by the apartheid police and owners and patrons found themselves behind bars. Today the traditional shebeens are a fixture of the Soweto social scene but have evolved to cater for a younger, trendier set of both Black and White patrons and international tourists. A visit to a shebeen in Soweto is an incredible experience; not only is it a chance to soak up the ambience of this vibrant city but it is also a chance to pause and remember the hardships and oppression the average person in Soweto experienced before they shared the joy of freedom and equality.

Where to Eat Out In Soweto

The most well-known restaurant in Soweto is Wandie’s Place in Dube. The restaurant operates out of a typical Soweto four-roomed house that once was an illegal shebeen, selling food and drink without a licence. Today it is a vibey, fun hangout that has hosted the likes of Will Smith, Richard Branson and Chris Rock. Food is served buffet-style and includes local cuisine such as umngqusho, morogo and chakalaka.

Wandie’s Place can probably be credited for introducing non-Sowetans to experience authentic African cuisine and started a trend where curious White co-workers – who had never set foot in Soweto – came to the city as a guest of a Black friend for a genuine township experience. The walls of the bar area are plastered with business cards and a quick look at them gives you an idea of how far some people have travelled for a delicious meal at Wandie’s Place.

Sakhumzi Restaurant is located in Vilakazi Street and is the ideal place to eat traditional township cuisine while soaking up the rich historical atmosphere. The restaurant serves up a variety of dishes that includes mogodu (tripe) and ujege (steamed bread). Restaurant Vilakazi is another hugely popular eatery on this famous street, serving up a menu that is described as “South African fusion food”. Popular dishes such as oxtail stew and samp with butternut and spinach are given a classy twist to cater for foreign taste buds.

Nexdor offers tourists uncomplicated, simple but good quality meals. It is situated in the heart of Vilakazi Street and becomes a thriving nightspot after dark. Ntsitsi’s Fun Food is one of Soweto’s most famous street stalls. Situated in Diepkloof, it is famous for its Soweto-style kotas. A kota is a township version of bunny chow; a quarter loaf of bread that is hollowed out and filled with potato fries and Russian sausages or a meat and veggie stew. Ntsitsi has 40 variations of kotas on their menu.

Chaf Pozi is located right below the Orlando Towers. Tourists who have bungee jumped off the towers or just got back from a bicycle ride through Soweto enjoy the relaxed atmosphere with its Soweto-style shebeen décor. Chaf Pozi is famous as a chesa nyama destination. For finer dining, visit the Jazz Maniacs and Rusty’s Bar at the Soweto Hotel. This restaurant is located in a four-star establishment, situated in the middle of the city. The dishes served are a fusion of traditional African cuisine and modern Western cuisine. Walk-in customers are welcome and their food prices are very reasonable, despite the fact that it is a rather posh restaurant. The Sowetalian was established by a chef whose father is Italian and mother is Sotho (from Lesotho). Items on the menu are a fusion of typical township cuisine and authentic Italian dishes. The restaurant is located close to the Regina Mundi Church.

What to Order at A Soweto Restaurant

Chesa nyama or shisa nyama (meaning burnt meat in Zulu) is the same as an American barbecue. Meat bought from the butchery owner is cooked over an open fire and served with traditional side dishes. We’ve compiled a list of traditional township dishes which you should study before you go on a tour of Soweto. Number one on the list is mieliepap (maize meal porridge) or pap as the locals call it.

Pap served for breakfast is more liquid and runny and served with milk, butter, cream and sugar. Meat and vegetable stews are usually served with “ stywe pap ” (Afrikaans for firm). It has a doughy texture and is traditionally eaten with your hands; rolling a piece of pap into a ball and scooping up the meat and gravy like you would a dipping sauce. Pap is dry and fairly unappetising on its own so it is always served with either a meat stew, chakalaka or shebu , which is a sauce made from green vegetables and chillies.

Considering the majority of traditional Africans live on the breadline, anything goes into the sauce; beetroot, carrots, cabbage, onions, potatoes and morogo (a variety of wild weeds collected from the fields). A good chesa nyama meal is usually accompanied with a glass or two of umqombothi ; a popular traditional home-brewed beer made from sorghum mixed with maize meal, water and yeast and left to ferment.

Other side dishes include tripe which is left-over cuts of a carcass, including the liver, kidneys, brains, stomach and lungs. Traditional meat stews are often made from low-quality cuts of meat such as the tongue, tail, feet and head of a cow. Locals love what they call “ walkie-talkies ” which is a traditional dish of grilled or deep-fried feet and heads of chickens. Sweet potato is more popular than the common potato as it is rich in nutrients. It’s usually cooked over an open fire in its skin and then mashed up and served with butter and roasted peanuts and a squirt of honey. Nelson Mandela’s favourite meal was umngqusho .

This is samp which is broken dried maize kernels mixed with red beans. Samp is usually boiled in butter and flavoured with butter, onions, potatoes, chillies, lemon juice, salt and oil. The samp is left to simmer on a low heat until all the ingredients are tender. Morogo is a widely-used term for any combination of edible green leaves, including wild spinach, bean and beetroot leaves. It’s delicious when boiled and served with pap and a braised onion and tomato sauce. If you have a strong stomach, try amanqina which is a spicy, sticky stew made from the hoof of a cow, pig or sheep.

Or try mashonzha which is a dish made from Mopani (common tree) worms. These worms look like caterpillars and are delicious fried, grilled or cooked with chilli and peanuts. If you are battling to choose from the list of foreign-sounding African names for the food items at a Soweto tavern, ask your Moafrika Tours guide to recommend something on the menu that is delicious but won’t make you feel like you’re a contestant on Fear Factor. Cow hoofs, ox tongue, Mopani worms and “walkie-talkies” are not everyone’s thing but you should always trying something once.

What to Drink In Soweto

The local people of Soweto love umqombothi , a traditional beer made from maize (corn), maize malt, sorghum malt, yeast and water. It is rich in Vitamin B and low in alcohol. It certainly is an acquired taste; a thick, creamy beer with a distinctly sour aroma and gritty texture. Amasi (or maas in Afrikaans) is the common word for fermented milk and tastes like cottage cheese or plain yogurt.

It is traditionally prepared by storing unpasteurised cow’s milk in a calabash (dried squash) or hide sack. The milk is left to ferment and soon develops a watery substance called umlaza . The thin liquid is discarded and the remaining thick fermented milk is either drunk on its own or poured over pap (cooked corn flour) or breakfast porridge. A meal of pap and amasi is traditionally served in a clay pot and eaten with wooden spoons.

See more accommodation in Soweto Mageu is a traditional non-alcoholic drink made from fermented mealie pap (cooked corn flour). Traditional women still prepare this much-loved drink at home but it is also available in cartons at most supermarkets. The lactic acid produced during the fermentation process gives the drink a distinctive sour taste, although store-bought mageu is often flavoured and sweetened.

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Soweto Heritage and Cultural Cycle Tour

• Lunch is stews and curries cooked the traditional way – over the fire – served either in a fresh piece of bread called “Bunny Chow”, or with the African popular staple food – pap / maize porridge.
• Use of bicycle
• We pick from any hotel in Johannesburg
• Not wheelchair accessible
• Confirmation will be received at time of booking
• Not recommended for travellers with back problems
• Not recommended for pregnant travellers
• No heart problems or other serious medical conditions
• Most travellers can participate
• This tour/activity will have a maximum of 15 travellers
• For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.

• OliveTree60 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Great Cycle Tour A very enjoyable few hours cycling around Cape Town with our extremely knowledgeable guide, Abi. We stopped at all the key landmarks and Abi gave us such a great insight into the culture and history of the city. Highly recommend! Read more Written 2 May 2024
• Relax57556292079 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Wonderful Vineyard Cycle - Private Tour We had the most wonderful day exploring by bike. The personalised tour was matched to our liking and the pace as we wanted. Wine-tastings were phenomenal and allowed us as a family to relax and take in the vistas. Lastly we enjoyed a farm to fork meal at Mont Rochelle which was so fresh and delicious. Thank you, thank you! Read more Written 25 April 2024
• 392lizzyt 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Perfect hike!! Incredible and perfect day!!! Matt was such a thoughtful and informative guide. He knew the routes well, made it fun and easy for us, and pointed out so many beautiful things along the way. Could not recommend this tour more highly!!! Absolutely fantastic and memories we will have forever Read more Written 19 April 2024
• pbrod9 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Cape Town City tour It was easy to select the ride we wanted and book online. We scheduled our ride for our first full day in CPT to familiarize ourselves with the City. The meeting place is the Radison Blu hotel which is a great location with amazing views. Matt was on time with great bikes. Matt will adjust the route based on the skill of the riders in the group. We left the Radison and rode along the waterfront, thru the City, the V&A waterfront and back to the hotel. It was a great ride and Matt has great knowledge of the history and routes of CPT. We had a great ride, then had a beer at the hotel overlooking the ocean. If we had more time we would have added the cycle wine and dine tour. Read more Written 17 March 2024
• 00lara000 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles A unique experience, absolutely recommendable We had a great day thanks to Skeezo. He gave us a lot of cultural and historical background knowledge, showed us great sides of Cape Town and was always incredibly positive, friendly and courteous to everyone we met. A unique experience! Thank you Skeezo! Read more Written 23 February 2024
• honesta2024 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Great bike ride and tip top tastings I had an excellent morning e cycling up to and around the reservoir, with fantastic views on quiet roads and tracks followed by wine tastings at La Motte and La Bri. The delightful couple running the business were very accommodating and my guide was charming and interesting. I would recommend an outing with this company. Read more Written 3 February 2024
• Cosmopolitan621333 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles A must if you visit Franschhoek and like Biking! Exploring the valley and wineries with Hike and Bike was THE BEST!! We have been to Franschhoek many times and know the area well But doing it with Hike and Bike gave it a Plus Abi our wide was wonderful, professional, knowledgeable and kind. We visited La Bri, Grand Provence and Mount Rochelle all 3 good choices Thank you for a GREAT EXPERIENCE!! Read more Written 30 January 2024
• Bex A 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Book this tour right now! Don’t look any further! This tour was absolutely AMAZING! The hike was gorgeous, so scenic and just the right amount of challenging. Matt our tour guide was so lovely and knowledgeable being a resident of Cape Town and having hiked up table mountain countless times. He even bought cheese & biscuits for us as a snack on the way up. Book this immediately it won’t disappoint Read more Written 14 January 2024
• Edward F 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Excellent half day bike tour of Capetown. Our half day guided bike tour was a great introduction to Capetown and most enjoyable. Our guide Skeezo was really good company, well informed and attentive. My wife and I and would certainly book another of the tours with Bike and Hike if returning to the region. Happy to recommend them. Read more Written 31 December 2023
• geraldgiraffe 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Lion Head Sunset Hike Our second hike with Matt and his team. Can not rate them highly enough. Abi was our guide and he ensured we had an amazing experience. Reaching the top for the sunset and ensured we all returned safely. He was very friendly, good fun and nothing was too much trouble. I would not hesitate to recomnend Matt and his team. Read more Written 11 December 2023
• geraldgiraffe 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles TABLE MOUNTAIN TREK First class. Can not recommend Matt and his team highly enough. Our guide was extremely knowledgeable and friendly and gave us an experience we would have never had on our own. Thank you Read more Written 11 December 2023
• Peter H 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Fantastic! A superb 5hr experience! The value for money is exceptional. Door to door pick up/drop off plus bike hire with Matt (very friendly and helpful), private guide (very knowledgeable, friendly, helpful), x2 vineyard tours with excellent wine tasting experience included and an amazing lunch at Richard Branson's vineyard. 2/2.5hrs of fairly easy riding, with a couple of hills that will give a nice challenge to someone with average fitness. HIGHLY RECOMMEND! Read more Written 19 November 2023
• Companion68508278523 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Absolutely brilliant Professional, informative and fun. Loved every moment. Already planning the next one! Thank you Bike and Hike for the memorable cycle. Read more Written 14 November 2023
• Sunshine42734353655 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Cycling in the Cape Winelands. Great Morning riding our bikes surrounded by the splendour of the Cape Winelands. An easy ride for anybody who has ridden a bicycle on road or trail. The e-bikes certainly help you on the hills which are few. Very well organised tour with beautiful views. Highly recommend trip. Read more Written 14 November 2023
• GrantM948 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Amazing day out on bikes in the constantia winelands If you are looking for a fun way to couple light exercise and a morning out with friends surrounded by beautiful landscapes then this is it! Matt and his team went out of their way to arrange all logistics including fancy e-bikes and an amazing picnic on the lawns to top off an enjoyable and interesting ride along the green belts of Constantia. Cannot recommend this outing highly enough! Read more Written 14 November 2023

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Soweto Heritage and Cultural Cycle Tour provided by Bike and Hike Day Tours

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Soweto Tours, Day Trips, Accommodation & Corporate Travel

Vhupo Tours is an accredited South African tour operator, specialising in township tours (Soweto Tours), cultural tours, natural heritage tours (safaris), historical tours, trips to Sun City, township accommodation, local transfers and much more.

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Nature tours, soweto tours, natural heritage tours, cultural tours, shuttles, conference & filming, we cater for both groups and individuals.

Our tours include collecting you from and returning you to your hotel or accommodation in Johannesburg Accommodation is available in our own professionally-run Bed and Breakfast in Soweto – offering you the complete township experience.

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Cultural, Heritage, Urban, Wild Safari Tours and Coach Hire, Shuttles, Transfers.

JMT Tours was established in 1997, borne out of a deep love for South Africa and Soweto and the innate desire to tell the story of the beautiful country by founder Joe and Sophie Motsogi.

Joe and Sophie met as students who became activists leading up to and beyond the June 1976 uprising. Theirs was always a desire to go beyond the office job evidenced through the various businesses they started ahead of starting JMT Tours. The onset of democracy opened South Africa to the world and the world to South Africa and with new opportunities arose for many and being the enterprising couple, they are, they saw the opportunity to draw on their experience and that of their peers and the country in general and to tell their story through tours. 

The story continues to be told as it progresses and the country morphs into something newer and fresher. Joe’s legacy continues as Sophie continues with the business with the support and involvement of their 3 children – Tsholofelo, Masego and Motsogi (commonly known as TK in the industry).

Since launch, the company has grown consistently and excelled in the work they do. The family run-business prides itself with being innately passionate about South Africa, being ethical, reliable and knowledgeable.  

All our tours are conducted by registered tourist guides who are constantly attending courses to keep up-to-date with industry affairs. 

Soweto Half Day 

This historic township is known for its diverse ethnic groupings living together in harmony. This is where history was made through student uprisings of 1976 when school children revolted against inferior education.

Soweto & Joburg

This tour takes you through the streets of Houghton where you have a glimpse of Mr. Mandela’s house before proceeding to the Constitution Hill. We then proceed through the Mandela Bridge to the cultural precinct, 

JMT Tours continues to inspire new ways with its energy and seeks out good stories that will restore confidence in the country and keep it in good stead for the years to come and indeed, for generations to come.

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Apartheid museum & soweto tour.

• Tour Type: Day Tour
• Group Size: Min 2
• Johannesburg

Country : South Africa

Diverse in culture, colour and heritage, Johannesburg’s contrasts will capture your heart and awaken your soul. Spend the day exploring Johannesburg, Soweto and surrounds. Visit the internationally acclaimed Apartheid Museum, illustrating the rise and fall of the Apartheid regime in South Africa. Discover the vibrant township of Soweto, home to Mandela House and many more historically significant sites and figures of the struggle.

• Apartheid Museum
• Vilakazi Street
• Mandela House Museum
• Hector Pieterson Museum
• Regina Mundi
• Chris Hani Baragwanath
• Soweto Towers
• Orlando Stadium

R1,800 per person – 2 to 3 guests R1,500 per person – 4 to 6 guests R1,300 per person – more than 6 guests

Cape of Good Hope

Cape Winelands

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Our purpose.

Mandela House strives to be a world-class visitor attraction and a leading centre for the preservation, presentation, and research of the historical heritage and Mandela Family legacy.

Our mission at Mandela House is to maintain an effective, efficient, and meaningful experience for all visitors. We work daily to provide an environment of mutual respect, dignity, and reconciliation in which every visitor relives the story of President Nelson Mandela’s home and his life as a whole.

Every experience should culminate with the sentiment of mutual respect, reconciliation and tolerance amongst South Africans and visitors to the country.

The Mandela House is managed by the Apartheid Museum on behalf of the Soweto Heritage Trust.

Plan your visit.

Follow our easy planning guide and online booking system to visit Mandela House.

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Mandela House and Vilakazi Street are iconic landmarks on the map of South African history. Immerse yourself in the memory of one of South Africa’s most important struggle journeys.

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• Restoration Project
• Mandela Family

8115 Orlando West Soweto 1804 Johannesburg South Africa

[email protected] 011 936 7754

• 071 558 4433/ 072 124 3586
• Enquiry Form
• Mandela Heritage Tour

Tour information

• Not Included
• Other Options

Highlights of this Tour Include..

Mandela House Museum | Hector Pieterson Memorial Museum | Regina Mundi Church* | Baragwanath Taxi Rank walk around | Vilakazi Street |

• Entrance fee to Mandela House Museum
• Experienced, qualified and certified Tourguide
• Entrance fee to Constitutional Hill
• Entrance fee to Lilies Leaf
• Entrance fee to Apartheid Museum
• Delicious lunch with 1 refreshment

Meals and drinks not mentioned, transfers to area's outside of central Joburg area, items of a personal nature and purchases on tour

Optional extra's

Mandela heritage tour - the details.

After pick-up we drive past Mandela's last home before his death situated in Houghton.

Visit Liliesleaf - Liliesleaf aims to bring the events that took place in Rivonia 45 years ago into South Africa's current socio-political context by allowing the original infrastructures to recreate the living and working environment at the time of the raid. The restoration process was a collaborative effort between archaeological findings, oral recollections and archival and historical research to document the history of the liberation struggle for current and future generations.

Constitutional Hill

Onward to Constitutional Hill which is located in Braamfontein one of the original suburbs of Johannesburg. Located here is the modern Constitutional Court which plays the role of protector of South Africans' basic rights.

Next door is the Old Fort which was established at the time of the Anglo Boer War and was used by both the Boers and the British. It also became a prison where political prisoners including Nelson Mandela and even Mahatma Gandhi were imprisoned for a time; as well as some of South Africa's most notorious criminals such as Daisy De Melker. We stop off and learn more about the history of these contrasting symbols which have played a fascinating roll in SA history from Colonialism through Apartheid and now on to Democracy.

We head over the Mandela Bridge to Newtown which is a great example of Johannesburg's Urban upliftment project which aims at bringing more people back in to the city centre to live, work and of course play. Here we walk around the flea markets and soak up the new South Africa in its colourful form.

A delicious lunch will be enjoyed at a restaurant in the Newtown area or at a venue on Vilakazi Street in Soweto.

Apartheid Museum

The tour continues to the origins of Johannesburg where gold was 1st discovered before stopping off at the world renowned Apartheid Museum. The Museum tells about the history of Apartheid from as early as 1804 – 1994. This fascinating interactive modern exhibit takes you on an amazing emotive journey through South Africa's complicated history. [Click here to view the Apartheid Museum]

Enter Soweto via the up-market area called Diepkloof Ext where some of the houses can cost in the millions. In complete contrast we visit a large hostel in the area, in days gone by the notorious hostel system was used as single gender accommodation for migrant laborers, it is now used as informal lodgings for family units.

Soccer City Via Diepkloof Ext

We pass by Soccer City (or FNB Stadium) the amazing football Calabash style stadium which played host to the 2010 Football World Cup as well as other fixtures. You will have an opportunity to take photos of this fantastic structure

Twin Towers

Drive through the Kliptown Squatter camp, on the 'Old Potchefstroom' road, where the twin towers will be found. These towers used to supply electricity to the north of Johannesburg, also known as the Cooling Towers of Soweto.

Freedom Square

We visit Freedom Square where the famous freedom charter was drawn up in 1955 and parts of which still feature in our current constitution.

Regina Mundi & Thokoza Park

Our last stop will be Regina Mundi Church. This is one of the biggest Catholic churches in South Africa. The Reginal Mundi Church is the focal point of much of the struggle in the 70's and 80's and home to the famous Black Madonna and Child painting. This church is also known as "The Parliament of Soweto"

Vilakazi Street

The tour bus will drive through Vilakazi Street, which is the only street in the world where two Nobel Prize winners lived: Nelson Mandela & Desmond Tutu.

Mandela House and Visitors Centre

Visit the newly revamped Mandela House and Visitors Centre in famous Vilakazi Street which is filled with many interesting artifacts and memorabilia pertaining to South Africa's greatest icon.

Please note:  We reserve the right to change the itinerary if we feel different venues or options may be better on the day. Tour formats and timings can change dependant on guides, supplier availability and time constraints. If any extra options are included then some of the original tour programme may have to be taken out so we can fit in with time restraints.

Lunch at Maphungubwe can be exchanged for lunch in Soweto. A highlight of a visit to Soweto is a delicious lunch at one of the well run restaurants patronized by both tourists and locals alike, offering typical "township" cuisine. Desserts and drinks are not included.

Depending on where your collection point is, the sequence of the above visits may be amended

This Tour Includes

• Expert tour guide / tour coordinator
• Visit an informal settlement
• A drive past Mandela's last home in Houghton
• A visit to Mandela Bridge
• Regina Mundi Church
• Drive past Diepkloof ext
• Drive past Baragwanath Taxi Rank
• Drive past Maponya Shopping Mall
• Visit Freedom Square
• Drive along Vilakazi Street
• Drive past and see the homes of Nobel peace prize winner Archbishop Emeritus Desmond Tutu and Winnie Madikizela- Mandela, the ex-wife of Nelson Mandela
• Drive past the Soccer City Stadium

Departure and Drop-off points (+Additional charges):

Our standard tours depart from and return to the Rosebank & Sandton Areas - located in Johannesburg Central-Northern Suburbs. Pick up and drop off's from alternate venue's carry the following supplements.

Rates as follows: Areas within 15 minutes drive of Rosebank (e.g. Melville / Parkview / Greenside / Parkhurst / Illovo / Sandton) - No additional charge JHB Eastern Suburbs - R350.00 JHN Far Northern Suburbs - R350.00 Pretoria/Tshwane - R450.00 Airport - R 450.00 & tours requiring pick-ups off flights may have to be booked as a private tour requiring a minimum of 4 passengers

Game Lodge Deals

Clifftop lodge - welgevonden, coachtours/ overland tours, garden route, karoo and addo.

8 nights: R 23 000 pp

Departs Cape Town through the Karoo to Addo and returns to Cape Town. Includes 8 nights accommodation and more

Kruger National Park

2 nights: R 9 900 pp

Departs Joburg to Kruger National Park. Includes 2 nights accommodation, Breakfast and Dinner

Wildlife Discovery

4 nights: R 14 990 pp

Departs Joburg thtough Panarama Route, Kruger, St Lucia in northern KZN to Durban. Includes 4 nights accommodation and game drives

South Africa Explorer

12 nights: R 33 900 pp

Departs Joburg to Kruger National Park, Swaziland, KZN, Garden Route finishes in Cape Town. 12 nights/ 13 days

Why Book with us?

Tours since 2001.

We have been organising Tours since 2001 and have dealt with thousands of individuals and groups over the years

Experiential

Our success is founded on our inclusive tour strategy. We have never wanted our guests to sit in a bus and do a drive through tour. We believe you need to experience Soweto, not just observe it.

Excellent Support

When you book with us, you are dealing with humans that you can contact at any time. We ARE NOT a faceless booking engine that are impossible to ask questions about your tour requirements

An "Amazing Race" Team Building

Are you looking for a Team Building Experience that is a little bit different to the oridinary? Our programs are designed to include members of the community directly, from the hosts of some of the sites to the locally made trophies.

Call us to discuss the tour in more detail and how we can talor make it for you or drop us an email with your requirements and goals for the tour and we will contact you with further details.

9 Best Things To Do In Johannesburg, South Africa

J o’burg, or Jozi as locals affectionately call it, or sometimes E’Goli or the “City of Gold” because of its historical links to gold mining — how much do you know about the city of Johannesburg? Located in the eastern part of the country, Johannesburg is a massive city, the largest in South Africa. It is South Africa’s financial center, a city that has shaped the country’s history and politics, and one that is filled with treasures. 

Often overlooked in favor of other more picturesque parts of South Africa, Johannesburg is often just a stopover for international tourists, being home to O.R. Tambo International Airport, the busiest airport on the African continent. Often the jumping-off point for a safari and mostly enjoyed on a quick layover, Johannesburg is a city of contrasts. On one hand, there’s the poverty and struggles of Soweto, and on the other, there are the glitzy skyscrapers and “super homes” of Sandton, which is often referred to as Africa’s richest square mile. Despite its complicated past, the City of Gold has a lot to offer tourists.

There’s a lot to see, do, and learn here, much more than you may imagine. Read on for my top tips for things to do in Johannesburg.

1. The City Center

A great way to start your Johannesburg experience is by heading into the city center, which is full of historic buildings. The city’s reputation can make it a bit intimidating for solo travel, so a good option for getting a feel for South Africa’s biggest and richest city is by joining the safety and security of a guided walking tour . Visit Chancellor House, where Nelson Mandela and Oliver Tambo set up South Africa’s first black-owned law firm. Get a 360-degree view of Johannesburg from the Carlton Centre, a 50-story skyscraper located in central Johannesburg. Admire heritage buildings on historic Main Street. Visit the Workers Museum and Museum Africa. Get a feel for the hustle and bustle of the people, lifestyle, and culture of this complex city.

2. Constitution Hill

If you’re visiting South Africa, spend some time learning about apartheid — a brutal period of national segregation that lasted 43 years. A visit to Constitution Hill will give you a better understanding of this troubled era.

Constitution Hill was once a notorious complex of prisons, known as “The Fort,” where political activists and ordinary citizens alike were incarcerated throughout the apartheid era. Thousands of men and women — of all races, ages, social statuses, and political beliefs, including Nelson Mandela and Mahatma Gandhi — were imprisoned and tortured here.

Constitution Hill overlooks the city and has been transformed into beautiful, thought-provoking museums focussing on the promotion of human rights. Some interesting exhibits include Number Four Museum (once male prisoner cells), the Old Fort Museum (where the whites-only prison was located), and the Women’s Gaol Museum. You’ll also have the opportunity to enter the still-functioning High Court, if no proceedings are in progress.

Visiting Constitution Hill will give you deeper insights into South Africa’s history and you should pair your visit with a tour of the Apartheid Museum, whose immersive exhibits explore this tragic time in more depth.

3. The Apartheid Museum

The Apartheid Museum will give you glimpses of apartheid, the laws of segregation according to racial groups, and South Africa’s painful journey to freedom.

On arrival, you’ll receive an entry ticket that will randomly classify you as white or non-white and you may only enter through the gate indicated for the race you have been allocated. That’s just to give you a taste of the reality of the past and set the atmosphere for the rest of your visit.

There are two main exhibitions in the Apartheid Museum , The Permanent Exhibition and The Mandela Exhibition, as well as rotating temporary exhibits that explore different aspects of the issue more in depth. The permanent exhibition takes you through some of the painful events of South Africa’s struggle for liberation. The Mandela Exhibition gives you an opportunity to learn about the leading statesman who was at the forefront of the country’s struggle against apartheid, including his time as a prisoner for 27 years.

4. Soweto Township

About 12 miles from Jo’burg center, Soweto is the largest township in South Africa with around 1.3 million inhabitants. During the apartheid regime, Soweto was at the heart of the movement to end apartheid and was a no-go area for tourists. More recently, the South African government has focussed on developing tourism in Soweto, making it a safe, dynamic, and interesting place to visit with some wonderful historical areas to explore, as well as an up-and-coming adventure sports scene.

The best way to experience Soweto is on a guided tour with someone who’ll take you to the main landmarks and tell you about their relevance, including Vilakazi Street, the only street in the world to have housed two Nobel Peace Prize winners (Nelson Mandela and Archbishop Desmond Tutu).

If you’re looking for a different side of the township, check out the activities at Soweto Towers. These striking structures, which were once part of a power station, now serve as an entertainment center and adrenaline-junky paradise. Bungee jumping, from a 328-foot-high suspension bridge, is the big attraction here. You can also try paintball or base jumping.

5. Maboneng Precinct

Another fun thing to do in Johannesburg is take a tour of the “super cool” Maboneng Precinct. Once a rundown part of town, a renovation project has turned it into an up-and-coming neighborhood where you’ll find great restaurants, cafés, bars, boutiques, and art galleries. Maboneng is a Sesotho word meaning “place of lights,” and the name perfectly describes the district. It is Johannesburg’s downtown fashion corner, buzzing lifestyle playground, and one of the city’s major creative hubs. Maboneng is filled with remarkable works of art, beautiful murals, and colorful graffiti.

6. The Walter Sisulu National Botanical Gardens

If you’re looking for something a little more “natural,” you’ll find plenty to enjoy at the Botanical Gardens. There are nine national botanical gardens in South Africa, and the Walter Sisulu , with its 200 acres of greenery and seven gardens of local and international plants, is one of them.

Highlights include the Witpoortjie Waterfall, Birds and Butterfly Garden, Fern Trail, Children’s Garden, Herb Garden, and the impressive array of desert plants in the Succulent Garden. If you’re a theater fan, spend some time in the Shakespeare Garden, which is filled with plants and herbs that were featured in the bard’s plays. The gardens are a great place to unwind and enjoy a bit of nature in the heart of the city.

7. Art Galleries

Located in Joubert Park, Johannesburg Art Gallery is one of the best art spots to visit in Johannesburg. With an impressive collection of art, including prints that date back to the 15th century, it features works of artists such as Dali and Picasso, and a section dedicated to local artists as well. Then, make your way over to the Wits Art Museum . Located on the University of the Witwatersrand Johannesburg campus, the Wits Art Museum houses 15,000 works spanning from the 19th century to the modern day.

Another excellent art venue in the city is the Goodman Gallery which focuses specifically on art with a social justice component. Its exhibits highlight emerging artists who are regarded as having helped shape the landscape of contemporary art in South Africa.

8. Food Tours

Johannesburg is often said to be the foodie capital of South Africa, but if you want to go for something super-traditional, opt for a typical African meal in Soweto, Yeoville, or Maboneng.

South Africa’s rich cultural heritage is reflected in its food and one of the coolest things to do in Johannesburg is to enjoy the cuisine. Local delicacies can include chicken neck, chicken feet, pigs’ trotters, and tripe, all accompanied by the unmissable paap — a ground-maize dish quite similar to polenta. Check out the Taste of Africa food tour which will get you sampling a variety of Pan-African restaurants in the thriving Yeoville neighborhood.

Had enough art, culture, or food and want to stretch your legs — how about teeing off at one of the best golf courses in Johannesburg? The Royal Johannesburg Golf Club , which has been running since 1890, offers two championship-level courses. At the Bryanston Country Club , there are a variety of greens for people of all skill levels, complete with plenty of entertaining water hazards. The links at Observatory Golf Course feature challenging holes and are committed to making the sport affordable for average individuals.

Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, vibrant nightlife, great restaurants, or renowned cultural institutions, Johannesburg boasts a rich history and culture with museums, galleries, and historical sites to explore. A visit to Johannesburg is bound to make your stay in South Africa a memorable one.

Related Reading:

• 5 Luxurious Stays In South Africa Where You Can Sleep Under The Stars
• The Perfect Cape Town, South Africa Getaway For Nature Lovers
• How Visiting South Africa Changed My Life

This article originally appeared on TravelAwaits

Scottie Scheffler to miss Wells Fargo Championship

Awaiting birth of his first child, fedexcup leader hasn’t played since rbc heritage win.

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The resumption of Scottie Scheffler’s record run will need to wait at least another week. Scheffler is not in the field for next week’s Wells Fargo Championship, which was released at 5 p.m. ET on Friday.

The Wells Fargo Championship, the sixth Signature Event of the season, begins Thursday at Quail Hollow Club in Charlotte, North Carolina.

Scheffler has four victories and a runner-up in his past five PGA TOUR starts. That stretch has given him a commanding lead in both the FedExCup and Official World Golf Ranking. It also has occurred while he and his wife Meredith await the birth of their first child.

The PGA Championship will be played at Valhalla Golf Club in Louisville, Kentucky, the week after the Wells Fargo. If Scheffler does play the PGA, it will come after three weeks at home. He has not competed since his victory at the RBC Heritage, which concluded April 22. That win made him the first player since Bernhard Langer in 1985 to win the Masters and RBC Heritage in back-to-back weeks.

Scottie Scheffler continues historic run to win 10th title at RBC Heritage

Scheffler preceded those two victories with a five-shot victory at the Arnold Palmer Invitational presented by Mastercard and a historic performance at THE PLAYERS, where he successfully defended his title by shooting a final-round 64. Scheffler is the first player to win back-to-back PLAYERS Championships.

He also joined Tiger Woods and Jack Nicklaus as the only players to win multiple Masters and PLAYERS, and became the fourth-youngest player to win multiple Masters, behind only Woods, Nicklaus and Seve Ballesteros. Scheffler also won the Masters in 2022.

Only two players have won the year’s first two majors since Nicklaus in 1972: Woods (2002) and Jordan Spieth (2015). While it is assumed Scheffler will play the PGA Championship, his status is not known because of uncertainty around his baby’s due date.

Golfweek’s Adam Schupak reported earlier this week that Scheffler’s parents said the baby has not yet arrived, but Scottie has not publicly shared the due date. Scheffler said at the Masters that he had plans in place to fly home immediately from Augusta National if Meredith, who was home in Dallas, did go into labor. That did not happen, and now the wait is on to see whether Scheffler’s Grand Slam quest can continue.

The Best of South Africa, Botswana, Namibia & Zimbabwe

October 14 - 29, 2025

Group Size: 18 to 25 participants Price: Starting from $12,795 per person double occupancy, $19,490 single occupancy Co-sponsored with: Harvard Exclusive

Trip Overview

This South African adventure features culture, wildlife, natural history, and a three-night Chobe River cruise in Namibia and Botswana, offering uninterrupted views of Chobe National Park. Explore Victoria Falls, one of the Seven natural wonders of the world. Spend two nights at the acclaimed MalaMala Private Game Reserve, an unforgettable five-star African safari experience. Discover the rich natural and cultural heritage of Cape Town.

Schedule by Day

Overnight flight to Johannesburg, South Africa.

Arrive Johannesburg, remainder of the day is at leisure.

Overnight: Fairlawns Boutique Hotel

See Nelson Mandela’s home, Hector Pieterson Memorial, Apartheid Museum. Dinner, with hotel credit, at leisure at hotel.

Meals:  B, L, D

Fly to Kasane, Botswana, then transfer to the Chobe River, entering Namibia. Board the Zambezi Queen and enjoy game viewing.

Overnight: Zambezi Queen

Enjoy river-based safaris for game viewing.

Overnight: Z ambezi Queen

Transfer to Chobe National Park, then transfer to Zimbabwe and Victoria Falls.

Overnight: Victoria Falls Hotel

Meals:  B, L

Morning excursion to Victoria Falls, remainder of day at leisure.

Meals:  B, D

Fly to Cape Town. Afternoon discussion and introduction to Cape Town with David Bristow.

Overnight: V&A Waterfront Hotel

Discover the history of Robben Island and enjoy spectacular views from Table Mountain.

Visit Boulders Beach in Simonstown, explore Cape Point.

Meals : B, L, D

Travel the Stellenbosch Wine Route. Enjoy winetasting, special arranged lunch with wine pairings.

Meals : B, L

Fly to Skukusa Airport, transfer to Mala Mala Private Game Reserve. Afternoon game viewing.

Overnight: Mala Mala

Morning and afternoon game drives.

After morning game drive, transfer to Skukusa Airport. Depart for Johannesburg, then transfer to international flights.

Arrive in the U.S.

* On-tour flights are priced separately and are estimated at $1,250 per person (subject to change)

Accommodations

• Two nights at Fairlawns Boutique Hotel
• Three nights aboard Zambezi Queen
• Two nights at Victoria Falls Hotel
• Four nights at V&A Waterfront Hotel
• Two nights at Mala Mala

What to Expect

This is a full, moderately strenuous program that is at times physically demanding and busy and requires you to be in good health and able to keep up with the group without assistance from tour staff. In order to make the most of what each locale has to offer, days will generally be long, with the daily program often beginning early in the morning and continuing into the early evening. We will cover rugged terrain and walks on daily excursions can range from one to two miles, often on uneven terrain in the warm sun, where handrails are not available. During the time in Johannesburg and Cape Town, travel will be by modern, air-conditioned motor coaches on paved roads. Land-based game drives will be by open-air safari vehicles, which can be dusty and bumpy, and that travelers will need to climb in and out of. The time spent at the game park includes early morning and late afternoon game drives, but there will be time midday to relax and enjoy a slower pace. Water-based game drives will be from small watercraft with chair-style seating; you will need to be able to get into and out of small watercraft with the assistance of tour staff and crew. Aboard the Zambezi Queen , there is no elevator, and you should feel comfortable walking on a rocking surface at times.

We will use commercial aircraft for the four on-tour flights: Johannesburg/Kasane, Victoria Falls/Cape Town, Cape Town/Skukuza, and Skukusa/Johannesburg.

Anyone with a serious medical condition or who has difficulty walking should not consider this trip. Please let us know if you have mobility issues that need special accommodation.

This promises to be a memorable journey, but as with all travel, a flexible attitude, a spirit of adventure, and a willingness to explore new areas will enhance your enjoyment of this program. You do not have to participate in all scheduled activities, except when traveling to the next destination. We are sure you will be pleased with the exciting educational program provided, but we want you to be aware of the pace and activity level.

Study Leader(s)

Mode of travel.

Related Trips

For more information.

Please email [email protected] or call our office at 800-422-1636 or 617-496-0806.