Ultimate Guide: Full Day Soweto and Apartheid Museum Tour in Pretoria

Are you interested in learning about South African history and culture? Look no further than the Full Day Soweto and Apartheid Museum Tour in Pretoria. This comprehensive tour takes you to all the important sights in Soweto, including the Oppenheimer Tower, Vilakazi Street, the Hector Pieterson Memorial, and Nelson Mandela’s house. You’ll also visit the Apartheid Museum for a 2-hour tour. In this ultimate guide, we’ll provide you all the information you need to plan your day trip with ease.

Overview

The Full Day Soweto and Apartheid Museum Tour in Pretoria is a must-do for anyone interested in South African history and culture. You’ll spend the day exploring Soweto, the largest township in Johannesburg, and learn about the country’s tumultuous past. The tour includes convenient hotel pickup and drop-off, so you don’t need to worry about transportation. Your guide will provide engaging commentary throughout the day, so you’ll gain a deeper understanding of the places you visit.

Itinerary

Here’s what you can expect on the Full Day Soweto and Apartheid Museum Tour: Stop 1: Oppenheimer Tower – The first stop on the tour is Oppenheimer Tower, which offers stunning views of Johannesburg. You’ll have the opportunity to take photos and learn about the city’s history. Stop 2: Vilakazi Street – Vilakazi Street is a historic street in Soweto, known for its connection to two Nobel Peace Prize winners – Nelson Mandela and Archbishop Desmond Tutu. You’ll visit Mandela’s former house, which is now a museum, and learn about his life and legacy. Stop 3: Hector Pieterson Memorial – The next stop is the Hector Pieterson Memorial, which commemorates the Soweto Uprising of 1976. You’ll learn about this pivotal moment in South African history and pay your respects at the memorial. Stop 4: Nelson Mandela’s House – The tour continues to Nelson Mandela’s former house, where you’ll learn about his life and legacy. You’ll see the bedroom where he slept and the living room where he entertained visitors. Stop 5: Apartheid Museum – The final stop on the tour is the Apartheid Museum, which traces the history of apartheid in South Africa. You’ll have a 2-hour tour of the museum, which includes exhibits on the rise and fall of apartheid and the ongoing struggle for human rights in South Africa.

What’s Included

The Full Day Soweto and Apartheid Museum Tour includes: – Bottled water to keep you hydrated throughout the day – Hotel/port pickup and drop-off – 2-hour tour of the Apartheid Museum Alcoholic drinks are available for purchase, but not included in the tour package.

Meeting and Pickup Times

The tour offers pickup from various locations, including Air Bnb’s, private homes, and B&Bs. The pickup time is 9:00 AM. Be sure to provide your preferred pickup location when booking the tour.

What to Expect

The Full Day Soweto and Apartheid Museum Tour is a full-day excursion that lasts approximately 9 hours. You’ll be on your feet for much of the day, so comfortable shoes are a must. The tour is not wheelchair accessible, but most travelers can participate. Confirmation will be received at the time of booking.

Book Your Tour Now

The Full Day Soweto and Apartheid Museum Tour in Pretoria is an excellent way to learn about South African history and culture. With convenient hotel pickup and drop-off and an engaging guide, you’ll have a stress-free day exploring Soweto and the Apartheid Museum. Don’t miss this opportunity to deepen your understanding of this fascinating country. Book the tour here and get ready for an unforgettable day.

Frequently Asked Questions about Pretoria, South Africa

If you are planning a trip to South Africa, there is no doubt you must put the city of Pretoria on your list. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about this beautiful city that will help you plan your visit well in advance:

1. Where is Pretoria located?

Pretoria is located in the northern part of Gauteng province in South Africa. The city is situated about 55 km north of Johannesburg and approximately 520 km east of the coastal city of Cape Town.

2. What is the population of Pretoria?

As of 2021, the population of Pretoria is estimated to be around 2.5 million people. The city is one of the fastest-growing cities in South Africa and is home to a diverse range of people.

3. What is the weather like in Pretoria?

Pretoria has a subtropical highland climate, which means that it experiences hot summers and mild winters. The average temperature during summer (December to February) is around 28°C, while during winter (June to August) the temperature averages around 15°C.

4. What are the top tourist attractions in Pretoria?

A visit to Pretoria offers many diverse attractions for tourists, including:

Kruger House Museum

This museum once served as the residence of Paul Kruger, the former president of South Africa. Today, it houses a collection of artifacts and exhibits that tell the story of his life.

Voortrekker Monument

This impressive monument is dedicated to the history of the Afrikaner people and the Great Trek. Visitors can take a lift to the top of the monument for stunning views of the city.

Union Buildings

The Union Buildings are one of the most iconic landmarks in the country and serve as the official seat of the South African government. The impressive structures are surrounded by beautifully landscaped gardens.

Pretoria National Botanical Garden

This garden is home to an extensive collection of indigenous plants and is one of the few national botanical gardens in South Africa.

Church Square

Church Square is an open plaza that is home to many historic buildings, including the Palace of Justice and the Old Capitol Theatre.

5. What is the best time to visit Pretoria?

The best time to visit Pretoria is during the spring season (September to November) when the flowering Jacaranda trees turn the entire city into a blur of purple. The weather is pleasant, and the city is buzzing with activity during this time.

6. What kind of food can I expect to find in Pretoria?

Pretoria is known for its cosmopolitan culinary scene, which offers a mix of local and international cuisine. Some of the must-try local dishes include pap (a type of porridge made from maize meal) served with meat or vegetables, biltong (dried and cured meat), and boerewors (South African sausage).

7. What are some tips for staying safe in Pretoria?

As with any city, there are some safety concerns to be aware of when visiting Pretoria. It is generally recommended to avoid walking alone at night, especially in dimly lit areas. It is also advisable to keep valuable belongings out of sight and avoid carrying large amounts of cash.

8. What are the transportation options available in Pretoria?

Pretoria offers a variety of transportation options for tourists, including buses, taxis, and rental cars. The Gautrain, a high-speed train service, connects Pretoria to major cities in Gauteng, including Johannesburg and the OR Tambo International Airport. Buses and taxis are also readily available, but it is recommended to use a reputable service.

9. What are some nearby destinations that I can visit from Pretoria?

Pretoria’s central location makes it an excellent base for exploring nearby destinations. Some of the nearby attractions include:

Johannesburg

The city of Johannesburg is located just a short drive away from Pretoria and offers many tourist attractions, including the Apartheid Museum and Nelson Mandela Square.

Hartbeespoort Dam

This popular recreational area is situated near Pretoria and offers a range of activities, including water sports, hiking, and wildlife spotting.

Magaliesberg Mountains

The scenic Magaliesberg Mountains are located just a short drive from Pretoria and offer hiking trails, nature reserves, and beautiful views.

10. What is the currency used in Pretoria?

The currency used in Pretoria (and the rest of South Africa) is the South African Rand (ZAR). It is always best to exchange your currency at a bank or authorized exchange bureau to avoid any scams. Many ATMs are available in the city for easy access to cash.

Book Your Tour Now

Pretoria offers a variety of tourist attractions and has something to offer for everyone. With the information provided in this FAQ, you can plan your visit to Pretoria well in advance and make the most of your time in the city. Remember to stay safe, carry important documents with you, and indulge in the delicious local cuisine.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Pretoria: A Step-by-Step Guide

Pretoria is a beautiful city located in the northern part of Gauteng province, South Africa. It is a city that offers a unique blend of culture, heritage, and natural beauty. From historic landmarks to natural wonders, Pretoria has something to offer for everyone. In this guide, we will explore some of the best tourist attractions in Pretoria and how you can spend your time in this wonderful city.

1. Visit the Voortrekker Monument

The Voortrekker Monument is one of Pretoria’s most iconic landmarks. This monument was built to commemorate the Voortrekkers who left the Cape Colony in 1835 to settle in the interior of South Africa. It is a must-visit for anyone interested in the history of South Africa. The monument has a museum that showcases the history of the Voortrekkers and their journey.

2. Explore the Pretoria National Botanical Garden

The Pretoria National Botanical Garden is a beautiful garden that is home to a wide variety of plant species. This garden is a great place to relax and unwind while enjoying the beauty of nature. The garden also offers a guided tour that will take you through the various sections of the garden.

3. Go on a Game Drive in the Rietvlei Nature Reserve

The Rietvlei Nature Reserve is home to a wide variety of wildlife species, including giraffes, zebras, and rhinos. Going on a game drive in this nature reserve is a great way to see these animals up close and personal. The nature reserve also has picnic spots that offer a beautiful view of the surrounding landscape.

4. Visit the Union Buildings

The Union Buildings are an iconic landmark in Pretoria. They are the seat of the South African government and are a must-visit for anyone interested in politics or history. The buildings offer a beautiful view of the city of Pretoria and are a great place to take pictures.

5. Explore the Pretoria Art Museum

The Pretoria Art Museum is home to a large collection of South African art. The museum has a collection of both contemporary and traditional art forms. The museum is a great place to learn about the history of art in South Africa.

6. Visit the Church Square

The Church Square in Pretoria is a historic square that is home to a number of landmarks. It is home to the Palace of Justice, which is where Nelson Mandela was tried for treason. The square also has a statue of Paul Kruger, who was the president of the South African Republic from 1883 to 1900.

7. Go on a Hot Air Balloon Ride

Going on a hot air balloon ride is a great way to see the city of Pretoria from a different perspective. The ride offers a beautiful view of the city and the surrounding landscape. The ride is conducted early in the morning, and it is an experience that you will never forget.

Book Your Tour Now

Pretoria is a beautiful city that offers a wide variety of tourist attractions. From historic landmarks to natural wonders, there is something for everyone in this city. By following this guide, you will be able to make the most of your time in Pretoria and experience all that this wonderful city has to offer.