How to Plan Your Johannesburg: Soweto Night Tour

South Africa’s largest township, Soweto, is a must-visit for any traveler to Johannesburg. If you’re looking for an authentic Soweto experience at night, then the Johannesburg: Soweto Night Tour is a perfect opportunity for you.

This tour takes you straight into the heart of Soweto where you immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of the township. From visiting iconic sites to trying local dishes and drinks, this evening tour is packed with unforgettable experiences.

In this article, we provide you with everything you need to know about how to plan your Johannesburg: Soweto Night Tour.

Experience

The Johannesburg: Soweto Night Tour is an evening excursion that takes you to four Shebeens in Soweto, where you can enjoy some local drinks and cuisine. A Shebeen is a traditional bar in townships that serves locally brewed beer and food.

During the tour, you’ll also get to visit historic sites and take a walk down Vilakazi Street, the only street in the world where two Nobel Prize winners lived – Nelson Mandela’s former home and Archbishop Desmond Tutu’s home.

Highlights

– Visit the National Football Stadium City where the opening and closing ceremonies of World Cup 2010 were held.
– Take a walk down Vilakazi Street and see Nelson Mandela’s former home as well as Archbishop Desmond Tutu’s home.
– Enjoy the bustling markets and street vendors selling a wide range of goods.
– Visit four Shebeens in Soweto and experience the local drinks and cuisine.

Tour Inclusions

– Transfers in a comfortable vehicle
– Pickup from your hotel or residence in Johannesburg

Full Description

The Johannesburg: Soweto Night Tour is an evening tour that requires a minimum of two people to operate. The tour starts with a quick pre-departure briefing before you depart to the south-western township of Soweto.

On your way to Soweto, you’ll pass by the National Football Stadium City, where you can see the impressive building that hosted the opening and closing ceremonies of the World Cup in 2010.

You’ll then enter the Diepkloof area, where you can take a walk past vibrant street vendors selling a wide range of goods from clothes to local craft. On Vilakazi Street, you’ll visit Nelson Mandela’s former home, now a museum, and continue to Archbishop Desmond Tutu’s home.

After visiting these iconic sites, your guide will take you to four Shebeens in Soweto. Here you can experience the local atmosphere of the township, enjoy some local drinks, and taste traditional dishes.

The tour includes four free beer glasses of wine or soft drinks per person, and a Shebeen dinner in Soweto. The traditional dinner includes popular dishes such as braai meat, chakalaka, and pap.

How to Book the Tour

Booking the Johannesburg: Soweto Night Tour is easy. You can book it online through GetYourGuide website or app. Simply click on this link to book the tour.

Conclusion

The Johannesburg: Soweto Night Tour is a fantastic opportunity to experience the vibrant culture of Soweto. From visiting iconic sites to enjoying local dishes and drinks, this tour provides you with a deeper understanding of the township’s history and culture. Don’t miss out on this unforgettable experience when you’re next in Johannesburg.

The Most Frequently Asked Questions About Soweto

Whether you’re planning a trip to Soweto, or you’re just curious about this vibrant and diverse city, there are some questions that come up time and time again. In this post, we’ll answer some of the most frequently asked questions about Soweto, from its history to its culture and everything in between.

1. What is Soweto?

Soweto is a township located in the southwest of Johannesburg, South Africa. Originally called South West Townships, it was established in the 1930s to house black South Africans who were displaced from their homes in Johannesburg due to apartheid laws. Today, Soweto is a bustling and vibrant city with a rich history and culture.

2. What is the history of Soweto?

As mentioned earlier, Soweto was established in the 1930s to house black South Africans who were displaced from their homes in Johannesburg, due to the government’s apartheid laws. During apartheid, black people were not allowed to live in the same areas as white people, and Soweto was one of the largest townships created to house black people. In 1976, Soweto was at the heart of the student uprising against the government’s decision to introduce Afrikaans as the medium of instruction in black schools. Hundreds of students were killed during the ensuing protests, and the event is now known as the Soweto Uprising.

3. What is there to see and do in Soweto?

Soweto is a city full of history, culture, and natural beauty. Some popular things to see and do in Soweto include:

• Visit the Hector Pieterson Museum and Memorial
• Explore the Mandela House Museum
• Take a bike tour of the city
• Visit the Orlando Towers and go bungee jumping
• Try traditional South African food at a local restaurant

4. Is Soweto safe for tourists?

Soweto is generally safe for tourists, but like any large city, it’s important to take precautions. Avoid walking alone at night, and make sure to keep your belongings close to you. It’s also a good idea to take a guided tour of the city, as the guides will know the safe areas to visit and the ones to avoid.

5. What is the culture of Soweto like?

Soweto is a city with a strong and vibrant culture. It’s the birthplace of South African music genres like kwaito and house, and it has a thriving art scene. The city is also known for its traditional food, like pap (maize porridge) and chakalaka (a spicy vegetable relish). Soweto is also home to many festivals and events throughout the year, like the Soweto Wine Festival and the Soweto Arts and Craft Fair.

6. What is the best time of year to visit Soweto?

The best time of year to visit Soweto is during the winter months (June – August), when temperatures are mild and the humidity is low. This is also a great time to go on a wildlife safari, as the dry conditions make it easier to spot animals. If you’re interested in attending a festival, like the Soweto Wine Festival or the Soweto Arts and Craft Fair, plan your trip around these events.

7. How do I get to Soweto?

Soweto is located approximately 20 kilometers southwest of Johannesburg, and there are several ways to get there. You can take a taxi, car or bus from Johannesburg. Another option is to take the Gautrain, which is a suburban rail system that connects Johannesburg to Soweto.

Conclusion

Soweto is a city rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. There are plenty of things to see and do in Soweto, from visiting museums and monuments to trying traditional South African food at a local restaurant. With proper precautions, Soweto is generally safe for tourists, and it’s a great destination to add to your travel itinerary. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or just want to experience the vibrant spirit of this unique city, Soweto has something for everyone.