From Johannesburg: Private Soweto & Apartheid Museum Tour

Johannesburg , South Africa

From Johannesburg: Private Soweto & Apartheid Museum Tour

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About this experience

Discover South Africa’s history on this private ride from Johannesburg with hotel pickup and dropoff included. Travel in comfort with a professional, English-speaking driver as you explore key sites that shaped the nation. Begin in Soweto, visiting Vilakazi Street, home to two Nobel Peace Prize winners, the iconic Orlando Towers, and the Hector Pieterson Memorial, honoring the 1976 student protests. Continue to the Apartheid Museum, where powerful exhibits and stories trace the country’s journey from oppression to democracy. Fully customizable, your driver can adjust timing and stops to suit your preferences. Conclude with a return ride through Johannesburg, reflecting on the resilience and spirit that define South Africa’s past and present.

Available options

From Johannesburg: Private Soweto & Apartheid Museum Tour

Pickup included

What's included

Hotel pickup and drop-off

Water

WiFi on board

All taxes and handling charges

Fuel and Tolls

Professional English-speaking local driver/informal guide

Hotel or custom pickup and drop-off

Detailed itinerary

Soweto (Vilakazi Street, Orlando Towers & Hector Pieterson Memorial).
Soweto is the heart of South Africa’s struggle for freedom and a place where history and daily life meet. A drive through its bustling streets brings you face to face with powerful landmarks. Vilakazi Street is world-famous for being the only street to house two Nobel Peace Prize winners, Nelson Mandela and Desmond Tutu. You’ll also see the colorful Orlando Towers, now a hub for street art and adventure activities, and stop at the Hector Pieterson Memorial, which honors the students who lost their lives during the 1976 uprising. Together, these sights capture both the spirit of resistance and the vibrant energy of modern Soweto.

Stop 2

Widely considered one of South Africa’s most important museums, the Apartheid Museum offers a deeply moving account of the rise and fall of apartheid. Its 22 permanent exhibition areas use photographs, documents, film footage, and personal accounts to illustrate decades of racial segregation and the country’s path toward democracy. The museum’s design itself tells a story: visitors enter through racially classified gates, immediately confronting the realities of apartheid. A visit here is both sobering and enlightening, providing crucial insight into South Africa’s past and the resilience of its people.

What's not included

Meals and beverages

Tips and Gratuities

Apartheid Museum

Licensed guides available to accompany you inside the attractions

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Specialized infant seats are available

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

For 1–4 people: A comfortable sedan will be assigned to your group.

For 5–7 people: A spacious minivan will be assigned to your group.

Throughout your ride, our drivers serve as informal local guides—sharing stories, history, and local tips at every stop. Please note that drivers are not permitted to enter museums or archaeological areas, but they’ll ensure you make the most of your visit with suggestions and background information before you explore on your own.

Some stops on your itinerary may be closed on the date of travel due to public holidays, maintenance or special events. We recommend verifying opening hours on the attraction’s official website or contacting us before your tour. If a stop is unexpectedly closed, we will try to offer a suitable alternative.

Important notes

Please show this to your driver.

About Johannesburg

Johannesburg, the largest city in South Africa, is a vibrant metropolis known for its rich history, cultural diversity, and bustling urban energy. The city's nickname, 'City of Gold,' originates from its roots in the gold-mining industry, and it offers a unique blend of modern attractions and historical landmarks.

Top Attractions

Apartheid Museum

The Apartheid Museum is a powerful and moving experience that chronicles the history of apartheid in South Africa. It's a must-visit for understanding the country's past.

Historical 2-3 hours R95 (Adults), R75 (Children)

Gold Reef City

Gold Reef City is a theme park built on the site of a former gold mine. It offers a mix of thrilling rides, historical exhibits, and entertainment.

Entertainment Full day R350-R500 (Adults), R250-R350 (Children)

Cradle of Humankind

The Cradle of Humankind is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its significant paleontological and archaeological discoveries, including some of the oldest hominid fossils.

Historical Half day to full day R200-R300 (Adults), R150-R200 (Children)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Bunny Chow

A hollowed-out loaf of bread filled with curry, originally created by Indian immigrants. It's a popular street food in Johannesburg.

Lunch/Dinner Vegetarian and non-vegetarian options available

Braai (BBQ)

A traditional South African BBQ, featuring grilled meats like boerewors (sausage), lamb chops, and chicken.

Dinner Meat-based, vegetarian options limited

Bobotie

A Cape Malay dish made with spiced minced meat and topped with an egg custard. It's a unique and flavorful South African specialty.

Dinner Meat-based, vegetarian options available

Popular Activities

Hiking in the Cradle of Humankind Game drives in Pilanesberg National Park Hot air ballooning over the Magaliesberg Spa treatments in Sandton Picnicking at Zoo Lake Wine tasting in the nearby wine regions Visiting the Apartheid Museum Exploring Soweto

Best Time to Visit

September to November and March to May

These months offer the most pleasant weather, with mild temperatures and lower rainfall. It's an ideal time for outdoor activities and exploring the city.

15°C to 28°C 59°F to 82°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English, Zulu, Afrikaans, Sotho, Tsonga, Tswana, Venda, Xhosa, Ndebele, Southern Sotho
Widely spoken: English, Zulu, Afrikaans
English: Widely spoken

Currency

South African Rand (ZAR)

Time Zone

GMT+2

Electricity

220-240VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution

Johannesburg has a reputation for high crime rates, but many visitors enjoy safe and rewarding experiences by taking necessary precautions. Stick to well-populated areas, avoid walking alone at night, and be cautious with valuables.

Important Precautions:

• Avoid walking alone at night
• Use licensed taxis or ride-hailing services
• Keep valuables secure and out of sight

Getting there

By air

OR Tambo International Airport • 22 km from city center
Lanseria International Airport • 35 km from city center

By train

Park Station, Johannesburg Station

By bus

Park Station, Ellis Park

Getting around

Public transport

Rea Vaya is the city's public bus system, offering affordable and efficient transport. It has dedicated bus lanes to avoid traffic.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Bolt

Rentals

Car, Bike

Neighborhoods

Sandbox Rosebank Braamfontein

Day trips

Pilanesberg National Park

250 km from Johannesburg • Full day

Pilanesberg National Park is a malaria-free game reserve offering excellent wildlife viewing opportunities, including the Big Five (lion, leopard, rhino, elephant, and buffalo).

Soweto

20 km from Johannesburg • Half day

Soweto is a historic township known for its role in the anti-apartheid movement. It offers a unique glimpse into South Africa's past and present.

Cradle of Humankind

50 km from Johannesburg • Half day to full day

The Cradle of Humankind is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its significant paleontological and archaeological discoveries, including some of the oldest hominid fossils.

Festivals

Johannesburg International Film Festival • Late October to early November Johannesburg International Motor Show • Even years, typically in October Africa Day Celebrations • May 25