Half Day Johannesburg and Soweto Guided Tour
Traveler rating
5.0/5
Based on 20 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Half Day Johannesburg and Soweto Guided Tour worth booking?
Half Day Johannesburg and Soweto Guided Tour is a 5-hour experience in Pretoria, South Africa, from $104 per person. It scores 74 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Strongly Recommended”, based on a 5/5 rating across 20 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 74 / 100
- Rating
- 5/5 (20)
- Duration
- 5 hours
- From
- $104 per person
Explore and learn about Johannesburg, the city of history of exclusion and segregation, a cosmopolitan resistance against apartheid. You will discover a land of contrasts and encounters that will leave you inspired and enriched. Visit Soweto, once home to 2 Nobel price winners, Nelson Mandela and Desmond Tutu. Experience the rich cultural heritage of South Africa's townships on a day trip. Meet friendly locals, learn about the vibrant history, and immerse yourself in the colorful atmosphere of these fascinating communities. Music and dance in Soweto on Vilakazi Street showcase a vibrant blend of traditional rhythms and modern fusions, reflecting the country's diverse cultural influences and creative spirit.
What you get
About this experience
Explore and learn about Johannesburg, the city of history of exclusion and segregation, a cosmopolitan resistance against apartheid. You will discover a land of contrasts and encounters that will leave you inspired and enriched. Visit Soweto, once home to 2 Nobel price winners, Nelson Mandela and Desmond Tutu. Experience the rich cultural heritage of South Africa's townships on a day trip. Meet friendly locals, learn about the vibrant history, and immerse yourself in the colorful atmosphere of these fascinating communities. Music and dance in Soweto on Vilakazi Street showcase a vibrant blend of traditional rhythms and modern fusions, reflecting the country's diverse cultural influences and creative spirit.
What's included
Included
- Private transportation
- English speaking Guide
- Bottled water
- In-vehicle air conditioning
Not included
- Lunch
- Personal Purchases
What you'll see and do
Johannesburg
Pick up at your hotel, general introduction and overview of the area
10 minutes here
Houghton Estate
Houghton Estate is one of the most affluent suburbs of Johannesburg. Nelson Mandela lived in neighborhood and he is most famous resident of Houghton Estate. A surprise house can be seen, the house of Nelson Mandela where he lived during his presidency and he died in this house on December 2013.
20 minutes here
A national monument built by Italian prisoners of war captured during the Second World War, The Munro Drive is overlooking the northern suburbs of Johannesburg with a beautiful scenic view of world's largest man made subtropical forest.
10 minutes here
Hillbrow is where the results of influx are foreseen. Johannesburg has been the New York of Africa a home to a huge population of immigrants, if not from foreign shores then from elsewhere in the continent or at least elsewhere in South Africa. As you drive through the different neighborhoods, the contrast makes you feel like you are driving from one country to another.
20 minutes here
Constitution Hill Human Rights Precinct
Infamous century-old prison, now a center with tours and exhibitions on local history and a home to the highest court in the land. Constitution Hill is a living museum that tells the story of South Africa’s journey to democracy. The site is a former prison and military fort that bears testament to South Africa’s turbulent past. Nelson Mandela Mahatma Gandhi, Winnie Madikizela-Mandela and other political leaders where once incarcerated in this prison.
60 minutes here · Admission included
Nelson Mandela Bridge
One of the most striking attractions and famous landmark of Johannesburg. Nelson Mandela Bridge is a relatively new addition to the Johannesburg skyline that has already gained an iconic status. We drive on Nelson Mandela Bridge on the way to New Town. Your guide gives you an orientation tour of Johannesburg, pointing out historic sites and heritage buildings. Johannesburg CBD was once the epicenter of the gold rush era in the late 1800s and is rich in history. It lies atop the continental watershed in a highveld grassland environment, a cosmopolitan metropolis and a city of history of exclusion and segragation, a cosmopolitan resistance against apartheid, a centre of creativity and a thirsty city.
Pass by without stopping
Explore the city's early mining history. Old relics of the gold rush such as mining headgear and stamp mills and carts lining up the way, complemented by information boards detailing mining history.
Pass by without stopping
Standard Bank Ferreira Mine Stope
In the basement of the Standard Bank headquarters in downtown Johannesburg, is the Ferreira mine stop. One of the very first prospecting sites in the city. The long forgotten mine entrance was discovered during the construction of Standard Bank building and it has since been preserved as a small museum.
20 minutes here
Maboneng Precinct
This is a newly rejuvenated part of town that was once an abandoned place. With a mix of restaurants, coffee shops, clothing boutiques, art galleries and retail and studio spaces, the Precinct draws the public to the inner city bringing life back into the city.
20 minutes here
FNB Stadium
Drive past this iconic landmark which is currently the largest football stadium in Africa. The stadium hosted the opening ceremony, other matches and the final of 2010 FIFA World Cup.
Pass by without stopping
Diepkloof Park
The area is divided into different sections. Diepkloof Extension is recognized as an upmarket part of Soweto with the most professionals living in the section. It is characterised by formal, owner-built, large Houses, owned by the Black lower and upper middle class. Presently, Diepkloof is characterised by higher than average House Prices as compared to the other Suburbs of Soweto.
20 minutes here
The Chris Hani Baragwanath is a public Hospital considered to be the 3rd largest hospital in the world, occupying around 173 acres (0.70 km2), with approximately 3200 beds and about 6'760 staff members. See the hospital view as we drive past and learn about interesting stories about the hospital.
Pass by without stopping
Orlando Towers
The two cooling towers are a prominent landmark in Soweto. Now used as an entertainment center housing a famous Bungee jump and a barbecue restaurant
Pass by without stopping
The thriving heart of Soweto is one of the most well-known streets in South Africa, Vilakazi Street. While Vilakazi Street may be the only street in the world that can claim to have had two Nobel Laureates as residents - the late Nelson Mandela and Archbishop Emeritus Desmond Tutu. The true electricity of this street comes from those who now call it home, each with their own beautiful stories. Sakhumzi Restaurant is located on Vilakazi Street near the Mandela House Museum. Sakhumzi, which means “building a house”, is popular for its Soweto-style buffet - a variety of proudly South African traditional cuisine such as umngqusho (samp and beans), mogodu (tripe) and dombolo (steamed bread). Travellers can also feast on the range of self-styled signature dishes named after various Soweto locations.
40 minutes here
Explore in a guided tour the exhibits and artefacts in a previous house of the nation's revered former president Nelson Mandela. This house been entrenched as one of South Africa's most significant heritage sites, it tells the tales and stories in sound, film, interpretive panels and guided tours.
20 minutes here · Admission included
Hector Pieterson Museum and Memorial
A self guided tour this Museum chronicling the 1976 Soweto student uprising and named after one of its victims a thirteen year old boy. The museum today is a symbol of resistance against the brutality of the apartheid regime
30 minutes here · Admission not included
Johannesburg
After a fascinating day well spent in Soweto, you will be dropped back at the starting point or your accommodation in Johannesburg
30 minutes here
Where it starts and ends
Hotel pickup
Pickup is included for all travelers. Pickup begins about 30 minutes before departure.
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Languages
- en
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Every day
- Group size
- Up to 13 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Thiya Tours and Safaris
Know before you go
- Wheelchair accessible
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Specialized infant seats are available
- Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
- All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Photos
What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 20 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
The guide
7 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Knowledge and storytelling
7 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
Traveler reviews
20 verified traveler reviews for Half Day Johannesburg and Soweto Guided Tour. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Johannesburg/Soweto overview
I’m thankful I went, but I was unaware I was going to Soweto when I arranged the trip. I was unprepared (both mentally & financially) for that leg of the tour, but thankful I had that experience. My 1st hand exposure (& Lindela’s explanations & extensive knowledge) helped me see past my preconceived misconceptions of this area. In general, Lindela was a fantastic tour guide (both his knowledge & driving skills) were supreme. I enjoyed this tour far more than I had anticipated. I would highly recommend it.
via Tripadvisor
If you are going to book with this company, ask for Vito, and you won't be disappointed...
Vito was OUTSTANDING!! Very personable, knowledgeable, and a joy to be with---HE KNEW HIS BUSINESS!!
via Tripadvisor
Great tour with Vuyo
Vuyo was an excellent guide. Very insightful to all aspects of South African life. Very pleasant and helpful.
via Tripadvisor
An overview of the area
Extremely knowledgeable and personable guide. He was extremely flexible in what he showed us and showed us both the good and the ugly, so we have a much better understanding of the culture, history and the people
via Tripadvisor
Wonderful Small Group Tour
Lucky is a wonderful guide, very knowledgeable, courteous and responsive.
via Tripadvisor
Good to know
- Duration
- 5 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Price range
- $104 to $1,680
- Hotel pickup
- Included for all travelers
- Booked in 30 days
- 7
- Verdict
- Strongly Recommended
Who runs this experience
Operated by Thiya Tours and Safaris, who run 15 experiences we rank across 2 cities, with an average Outty Ranking of 65.1.
See everything Thiya Tours and Safaris runsWhy this scores 74
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Half Day Johannesburg and Soweto Guided Tour: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Pretoria.
How much does Half Day Johannesburg and Soweto Guided Tour cost?
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Prices start at $104 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Pretoria usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does Half Day Johannesburg and Soweto Guided Tour take?
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Plan for about 5 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Pretoria is not rushed.
Is Half Day Johannesburg and Soweto Guided Tour worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 74 out of 100, which we label "Strongly Recommended". That score blends traveler sentiment (5/5 across 20 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Pretoria, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule Half Day Johannesburg and Soweto Guided Tour?
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Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.
Is Half Day Johannesburg and Soweto Guided Tour suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 5-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book Half Day Johannesburg and Soweto Guided Tour?
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Around 7 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Pretoria can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
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Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Pretoria and add a light layer if any part of the 5-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Half Day Johannesburg and Soweto Guided Tour start and how do I get there?
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The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Pretoria within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in Pretoria?
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On Outty we rank every Pretoria experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Soweto Cultural Walking Tour with Lunch, Guided Bicycle Tour of Soweto with Lunch, Johannesburg and Soweto tour. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit Pretoria?
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Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in Pretoria?
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Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
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Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
What is included in Half Day Johannesburg and Soweto Guided Tour?
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Included: Private transportation; English speaking Guide; Bottled water; and In-vehicle air conditioning. Not included: Lunch; and Personal Purchases. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Does Half Day Johannesburg and Soweto Guided Tour include hotel pickup?
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Yes, pickup is offered for every traveler from 647 listed pickup locations in and around Pretoria. Be ready about 30 minutes before the start time. You can also enter a custom pickup address when booking.
What languages is Half Day Johannesburg and Soweto Guided Tour offered in?
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It runs in English. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.
Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Half Day Johannesburg and Soweto Guided Tour?
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Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.
Is Half Day Johannesburg and Soweto Guided Tour wheelchair or stroller accessible?
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The operator notes: Wheelchair accessible; Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller; Specialized infant seats are available; and Transportation options are wheelchair accessible. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.
What happens to Half Day Johannesburg and Soweto Guided Tour if the weather is bad?
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It generally runs rain or shine, so dress for the forecast in Pretoria. Standard cancellation terms apply: free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start.
What do travelers say about Half Day Johannesburg and Soweto Guided Tour?
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Across 20 reviews averaging 5.0 out of 5, recurring themes include the guide, knowledge and storytelling. Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
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