Johannesburg and Soweto Private Guided Tour with Shebeen Lunch. in Pretoria, South Africa
Pretoria, South Africa

Johannesburg and Soweto Private Guided Tour with Shebeen Lunch.

Outty Ranking 59 4.8 · 6 traveler reviews8 hoursFrom $332
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Outty Ranking

59/100

Worth a Look. Our proprietary evaluation. How we score

Traveler rating

4.8/5

Based on 6 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

Quick answer

Is Johannesburg and Soweto Private Guided Tour with Shebeen Lunch. worth booking?

Johannesburg and Soweto Private Guided Tour with Shebeen Lunch. is a 8-hour experience in Pretoria, South Africa, from $332 per person. It scores 59 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Worth a Look”, based on a 4.8/5 rating across 6 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.

Outty Ranking
59 / 100
Rating
4.8/5 (6)
Duration
8 hours
From
$332 per person

This tour is private just for you with our guide. Johannesburg is the only major city in the world built because of an underground resource, gold instead of a river or port. For over 100 years it was the world's biggest producer of the yellow metal. Johannesburg and the township of Soweto together make up arguably Africa's most interesting city, least of all because of the vast diversities in race, culture, and wealth of its inhabitants. During this full-day private tour, your informative guide highlights places and events that changed the cultural and political landscape of South Africa and in some cases the world. See the former homes (both old and recent) of Nelson Mandela and spend time exploring the Apartheid Museum. Your customizable itinerary includes lunch on vibrant Vilakazi Street in Soweto. Changes can be made to add going down a gold mine, seeing Gandhis home, who, during his 20 years in South Africa he became the human rights activist we know him as today.

What you get

    About this experience

    This tour is private just for you with our guide. Johannesburg is the only major city in the world built because of an underground resource, gold instead of a river or port. For over 100 years it was the world's biggest producer of the yellow metal. Johannesburg and the township of Soweto together make up arguably Africa's most interesting city, least of all because of the vast diversities in race, culture, and wealth of its inhabitants. During this full-day private tour, your informative guide highlights places and events that changed the cultural and political landscape of South Africa and in some cases the world. See the former homes (both old and recent) of Nelson Mandela and spend time exploring the Apartheid Museum. Your customizable itinerary includes lunch on vibrant Vilakazi Street in Soweto. Changes can be made to add going down a gold mine, seeing Gandhis home, who, during his 20 years in South Africa he became the human rights activist we know him as today.

    What's included

    Included

    • Hotel pickup and drop-off
    • Bottled water
    • Professional guide
    • Lunch
    • Local taxes

    Not included

    • Alcoholic drinks (available to purchase)
    • Souvenirs and curios
    • Gratuities

    What you'll see and do

    1. Apartheid Museum

      The Apartheid Museum traces the history of this abhorrent form of South African society but also celebrates our emergence out of it into a brave multicultural democracy that still strives to attain equality of opportunity fro all its citizens . It has been described as a masterpiece of Museum design. There is incredible depth to the exhibits and the multi media narratives they illustrate and although they do create a feeling of sadness at the injustices committed spirits are raised by the stories of heroic South Africans who fought and died to create a pathway to something better. You can easily spend the whole day here and still not see it all but 2 hours will give you a good overview of what it was like to live here during these bad old days.There is a book and curio shop focusing on relevant items, and a coffee bar serving light meals. Next to it indigenous grasses and plants are grown to give a glimpse of what this area of the "veld" would have looked like before Joburg existed.

      120 minutes here · Admission included

    2. Hector Pieterson Memorial

      The killing of a 12-year-old child by police firing on demonstrating school children is commemorated here along with the 70 or more others who died on that fateful but momentous day on the 16th of June 1976. The date is now our National Youth Day and a public holiday. There is a large African crafts market next to it if you want to buy some souvenirs.

      30 minutes here

    3. Vilakazi Street

      Lunch will be at a popular restaurant on Vilakazi Street where you will sample the local fare. Here also you will find the previous homes of two Nobel Peace Prize winners: Desmond Tutu and Nelson Mandela.

      60 minutes here

    4. South Western Townships

      South West African Townships or Soweto is the home of as many as 2 million South Africans and people of other African nationalities. Its citizens have the illustrious heritage of being at the center of resistance to oppression under colonialism and Apartheid.

      Pass by without stopping

    5. Mandela House

      Visit the Soweto home of Nelson Mandela, now a museum and tribute to his life and role in our progression to a fully representative democracy.

      30 minutes here · Admission included

    6. Constitution Hill Human Rights Precinct

      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 fort that bears testament to a turbulent past. visit the country's Constitutional Court, which endorses the rights of all citizens.

      90 minutes here · Admission included

    7. Johannesburg

      All the way to the centre of the city you'll see a vibrant mixture of cultures before reaching the Carlton Centre, located in what was once Johannesburg's most prestigious business district.

      Pass by without stopping

    8. Houghton Estate

      Following hotel pickup in Johannesburg or Pretoria, your personalized tour of the historic city starts off with a visit to the home Nelson Mandela lived in just prior to his death in the still high wealth suburb of Houghton. From here you cross the “Rand” or to give it its full name the “Witwatersrand”. “rand” means ridge in Afrikaans. This is Johannesburg’s only prominent physical feature, a high ridge that bisects Johannesburg from east to west and to a great extent its wealth. In the past, the wealthy gold barons built their mansions along the ridge giving them a great view to the north where the majority of Joburg’s well-off residents now live. The mansions are still there and we will stop close to the top of the Rand on Munro Drive for the magnificent view they share. Because of its association with the wealthy our currency, the Rand is named after it and we orientate our location in the city in relation to it, West Rand, East Rand, North Rand, Midrand, and so on.

      30 minutes here

    Where it starts and ends

    Hotel pickup

    Pickup is included for all travelers. Pickup begins about 15 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 10 travelers per booking
    Operated by
    Mmilo Tours

    Know before you go

    • Wheelchair accessible
    • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
    • Service animals allowed
    • Specialized infant seats are available
    • Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
    • All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
    • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
    • Children must be accompanied by an adult, a senior or a youth.
    • Minimum drinking age is 18 years

    Photos

    Nelson Mandela Square in Sandton, Johannesburg and Soweto Private Guided Tour with Shebeen Lunch. in PretoriaApartheid Museum: White persons identity card, everyone had to be racially classified. This was easy with some but less easy for those of mixed...Soweto scene, its a busy place!, Johannesburg and Soweto Private Guided Tour with Shebeen Lunch. in PretoriaSmall business thrives in the "informal" settlements., Johannesburg and Soweto Private Guided Tour with Shebeen Lunch. in PretoriaOur highest court the Constitutional Court presides in an unusually conceived chamber full of the beautiful African symbolism of the "lekgotla"...The obsolete power station converted to Africa's biggest work of art bungee jump and pub where you can enjoy our delicious "chisanyama" with your...

    What travelers are saying

    Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 6 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.

    Knowledge and storytelling

    6 mentions

    Reviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.

    The guide

    4 mentions

    Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.

    Traveler reviews

    6 verified traveler reviews for Johannesburg and Soweto Private Guided Tour with Shebeen Lunch.. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

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    J2304IIsandrab · July 2026

    Excellent Experience!

    This tour was an excellent introduction to Johannesburg's history and culture. It's not an upbeat day but it felt important to see everything and something we couldn't have done anywhere near as well or safely without a guide. Soweto and the Constitutional Court were especially sobering. Our guide Wilem was knowledgeable and engaging. I would recommend this tour to anyone visiting Johannesburg for the first time.

    Response from the operator: Thank you Sandra for your review. Yes we have a sad history, and for many there is still the struggle with the reality of the economics of existing here. But its good you took the time to see these realities for yourself as well as the more adventurous and romantic side of South Africa. Patrick Owner Mmilo Tours

    via Tripadvisor

    Dianne B · December 2022

    Great tour

    Henry was our tour guide and he had a wealth of knowledge. Ver informative in an upbeat interactive manner. Learned a lot of history. Enjoyed tour greatly

    via Tripadvisor

    ChB2016 · September 2018

    Perfect One-Day Jump Start of SA Holiday

    We only had one day planned for Joburg and Soweto and thus Patrick helped us to schedule a perfect day from pick-up at the airport in the morning until early dinner in Soweto. Norman was our guide for the day and he shared fantasic insights in the history of the city and the whole country. Although our time was limited, we definitively enjoyed every second of it and highly recommend it to anyone interested to enjoy a compact city trip of Joburg and Soweto!

    via Tripadvisor

    Diarmuid M · March 2018

    Great day and tour guide

    We had one day in Jo'burg and decided to do a tour of the city with Mmilo tours. This was a great decision.We had just arrived at the hotel and Ntsimane our guide was already waiting on us. He was a knowledgeable guide with great English and explained all about South Africa and Soweto. It was a excellent way to get introduced to the country and culture. He answered all our questions and was flexible with what we wanted to do. I would recommend this tour to anyone visiting Jo'burg.

    via Tripadvisor

    Tomoka U · August 2016

    It was very informative. I was able...

    <p>It was very informative. I was able to recap what happend in the country with regards to apartheid.</p>

    via Viator

    Good to know

    Duration
    8 hours
    Free cancellation
    Up to 24h before
    Minimum age to book
    All ages
    Availability
    Bookable today
    Runs on
    Every day
    Price range
    $332 to $7,340
    Hotel pickup
    Included for all travelers
    Booked in 30 days
    2
    Verdict
    Worth a Look

    Who runs this experience

    Operated by Mmilo Tours, who run 8 experiences we rank across 2 cities, with an average Outty Ranking of 69.5.

    See everything Mmilo Tours runs

    Why this scores 59

    The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.

    Traveler sentiment (30% weight)85
    Review evidence (18% weight)37
    Booking momentum (14% weight)26
    Value for money (12% weight)27
    Listing quality (10% weight)85
    Local standing (8% weight)50
    Booking flexibility (8% weight)100

    Johannesburg and Soweto Private Guided Tour with Shebeen Lunch.: questions travelers ask

    Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Pretoria.

    How much does Johannesburg and Soweto Private Guided Tour with Shebeen Lunch. cost?

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    Prices start at $332 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 Johannesburg and Soweto Private Guided Tour with Shebeen Lunch. take?

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    Plan for about 8 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 Johannesburg and Soweto Private Guided Tour with Shebeen Lunch. worth it?

    +

    It holds an Outty Ranking of 59 out of 100, which we label "Worth a Look". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.8/5 across 6 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 Johannesburg and Soweto Private Guided Tour with Shebeen Lunch.?

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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 Johannesburg and Soweto Private Guided Tour with Shebeen Lunch. suitable for kids and families?

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    Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 8-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.

    How far in advance should I book Johannesburg and Soweto Private Guided Tour with Shebeen Lunch.?

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    Around 2 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 8-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.

    Where does Johannesburg and Soweto Private Guided Tour with Shebeen Lunch. 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?

    +

    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?

    +

    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 Johannesburg and Soweto Private Guided Tour with Shebeen Lunch.?

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    Included: Hotel pickup and drop-off; Bottled water; Professional guide; Lunch; and Local taxes. Not included: Alcoholic drinks (available to purchase); Souvenirs and curios; and Gratuities. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.

    Does Johannesburg and Soweto Private Guided Tour with Shebeen Lunch. include hotel pickup?

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    Yes, pickup is offered for every traveler from 360 listed pickup locations in and around Pretoria. Be ready about 15 minutes before the start time. You can also enter a custom pickup address when booking.

    What languages is Johannesburg and Soweto Private Guided Tour with Shebeen Lunch. offered in?

    +

    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 Johannesburg and Soweto Private Guided Tour with Shebeen Lunch.?

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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 Johannesburg and Soweto Private Guided Tour with Shebeen Lunch. wheelchair or stroller accessible?

    +

    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 Johannesburg and Soweto Private Guided Tour with Shebeen Lunch. 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 Johannesburg and Soweto Private Guided Tour with Shebeen Lunch.?

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    Across 6 reviews averaging 4.8 out of 5, recurring themes include knowledge and storytelling, the guide. Reviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.

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