Soweto Half-Day Guided Tour to Mandela's Home and More

Johannesburg , South Africa

Soweto Half-Day Guided Tour to Mandela's Home and More

Active

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

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Explore the rich history and culture of Soweto, South Africa's most famous township, on this engaging half-day guided tour from Johannesburg. Visit Vilakazi Street, where both Nelson Mandela and Desmond Tutu lived, and delve into the powerful stories behind the Hector Pieterson Museum. With a knowledgeable local guide, gain insight into the legacy of apartheid while enjoying the comfort of air-conditioned transport and hotel pickup. This small group tour ensures an intimate experience as you discover iconic landmarks like the Orlando Towers.

- Half-day guided tour of Soweto with hotel pickup included
- Visit Nelson Mandela's home and the Hector Pieterson Museum
- Learn about apartheid's history from a local expert guide
- Small group experience with comfortable air-conditioned transport

Available options

Soweto Half-Day Guided Tour to Mandela's Home and More

Pickup included

What's included

Entry to key attractions (Nelson Mandela House, Hector Pieterson Museum)

Professional guide

Pickup and drop-off from Johannesburg or Pretoria hotels

Transport in a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle

Detailed itinerary

Vilakazi Street is the only street in the world that was once home to two Nobel Peace Prize winners—Nelson Mandela and Archbishop Desmond Tutu. On this tour, you'll stroll through this historic neighborhood and experience the spirit of resistance, resilience, and hope that defined the fight against apartheid. Your guide will share powerful stories and cultural context that bring Soweto’s most famous street to life.

Stop 2

Visit the Hector Pieterson Museum, dedicated to the memory of the 1976 Soweto Uprising. Learn about the student protests that shook the nation and helped spark global pressure against the apartheid regime. Through moving exhibits, photos, and interviews, you'll understand the courage and sacrifice of young people who stood up for their rights—most notably 13-year-old Hector Pieterson, whose tragic death became a turning point in South Africa’s history.

Stop 3

Step inside Nelson Mandela’s former residence on the historic Vilakazi Street in Soweto. Now a museum, Mandela House (8115 Vilakazi Street) offers a powerful and intimate glimpse into the life of South Africa’s most iconic leader.

Originally built in 1945, this modest red-brick home was where Mandela lived with his first wife Evelyn, and later with Winnie Madikizela-Mandela before his imprisonment. Despite its small size, the house is rich with history, filled with original furnishings, family photographs, memorabilia, and historical documents that bring Mandela’s story to life.

Towering over the Soweto skyline, the Orlando Towers are not just a remnant of a former power station—they are now a vibrant symbol of urban renewal and artistic expression. Covered in bold murals and cultural imagery, the towers also host adventure activities like bungee jumping and paintball (optional). Stop here for a photo opportunity and enjoy the energy of one of Johannesburg’s most creative spaces.

ocated on the edge of Soweto, FNB Stadium—affectionately known as Soccer City—is the largest stadium in Africa and a powerful symbol of both sporting excellence and South Africa’s political transformation.

Shaped like a traditional African calabash (clay pot), this architectural masterpiece can seat nearly 95,000 people and is renowned for hosting some of the most iconic moments in recent South African history.

Highlights:
2010 FIFA World Cup Final: The stadium was the flagship venue for the World Cup, hosting both the opening and final matches. It’s where Spain lifted their first World Cup trophy and where the world witnessed Africa shine on a global stage.

What's not included

Food and beverages

Optional gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

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