Soweto refers to a group of townships about 26.3 kilometers southwest of Johannesburg, South Africa. The name is formed from the first two letters of the words “Southwestern Townships.” The areas include, but are not limited to, Pimville, Diepkloof, Rockville, Orlando West, Chiawelo, Phiri, Dube, Meadowlands, Dobsonville, etc). [Image by Christo Ras]
Soweto is a famous township or settlement in Johannesburg, South Africa. Therefore, it’s unsurprising that tourists want to do things in Soweto. The place is also known for historical events. In 1976, the world witnessed courageous students standing up against using Afrikaans as a medium of instruction during the Student Uprising. The tragic loss of young lives, symbolized by Hector Peterson’s image, drew the attention of a global audience. Within Soweto’s streets, figures like Nelson Mandela, the iconic Rivonia Trialist, and the charismatic Bishop Desmond Tutu left their indelible marks on the path to liberation.
Today, Soweto beckons adventurers, history buffs, and curious minds to embark on a journey like no other. The township has everything from daring exploits that will quicken your pulse to insightful encounters that will expand your understanding.
So, if you want unforgettable things to do in Soweto for a satisfying exploration experience, keep reading. We will explain everything you need to know before visiting Soweto. Let’s jump right into what things to do in Soweto.
Essential Housekeeping Tips for Your Soweto Adventure
Navigating the Path
To facilitate your journey, we’ve gone the extra mile to provide Google Map links for all the addresses you want to explore. No more toggling between apps; with a simple click, you’ll have the addresses open in Google Maps.
Prioritizing Safety
Safety is paramount no matter where you are, and Soweto is no exception. When embarking on your Soweto adventure, keep safety at the forefront of your mind for yourself and your loved ones. While the allure of driving yourself may beckon, consider the option of a guided bus tour for a safer and more immersive experience. Nevertheless, the choice is ultimately yours, and with careful consideration of your options and safety precautions, you can craft the adventure of your dreams.
Tourist Attractions: Places to Visit In Soweto
Are you looking for things to do for fun in Soweto? You should first explore Soweto Tourist attractions. Have a look at the most popular places to explore there.
Vilakazi Street: Home to 2 Nobel Peace Prize Winners
This is the most famous street in Soweto. It’s a hub of tourist attractions, including the historic Nelson Mandela House, the residence of the revered Archbishop Desmond Tutu, and the renowned Sakhumzi Restaurant. You’ll find the Regina Mundi Anglican Church just a stone’s throw away. With such illustrious landmarks, this street rivals famous avenues worldwide, making it an unmissable destination for your Soweto adventure.
Nelson Mandela House
Visits to Nelson Mandela’s house, the former Nobel Peace Prize winner, are defining moments in your trip. As we all know, he rose to international fame during the Rivonia trial in 1967. His famous speech became the face of the ANC’s liberation efforts.
Desmond Tutu House
The Tutu House is historically significant as the former residence of Archbishop Emeritus Desmond Tutu. Desmond Tutu and his family moved into this house in 1975. Vilakazi Street holds the unique distinction of being the only street in the world where two Nobel Laureates have lived. While residing in this house, Desmond Tutu was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for his tireless efforts in the struggle against apartheid. It offers visitors a glimpse into the life of this Nobel laureate and his contributions to the fight for justice and equality.
Soweto itself is a culturally rich township with a complex history. A visit to the Tutu House provides insight into the challenges and living conditions faced by black South Africans during the apartheid era. It can help visitors better understand that time’s social and political context.
Regina Mundi
Regina Mundi is credited as the largest Roman Catholic church in South Africa and one of the most popular Soweto Places to visit. It is in Rockville at 1149 Mkhize Street, Soweto, Gauteng, South Africa. Founded in 1949, it was designed by architect Anthony Noel Errol Slaven. During the Apartheid government, Regina Mundi became a haven for political activists. Political activities and gatherings were banned, so activists met at the church to confuse the police. Police shot at activists following them to the church in 1976 even though there were no fatalities.
Regina Mundi’s previous visitors are the President of the United States of America, Bill Clinton and his wife, Hillary. In 1998, they visited the church and took holy communion there. As part of her tour of the continent, First Lady Michelle Obama visited this historical church. This is where she addressed the Young African Women.
Hector Peterson Memorial and Museum
The Hector Peterson Memorial and Museum is next to our list of best Soweto attractions. The Hector Peterson Memorial and Museum is named after one of the first casualties. Nevertheless, the museum commemorates those people who were shot at by Apartheid government police on the 16th of June in 1976. As the name suggests, the complex comprises the museum and the Hector Petersen Memorial site. The museum is next to the Hector Pietersen Memorial, designated a National Heritage Site. Hector Person represents the face of the 1976 Student Uprising.
As a visitor, you will move along an exciting path and look through strategically placed windows at essential scenes. These include the Orlando Stadium and the police station. Furthermore, you will be able to view television footage of the uprising. The experience contains a moving collection of oral testimonies, pictures, audiovisual displays and historical documents. The museum is located on 8288 Khumalo Street, Orlando West (Soweto).
The FNB Stadium
The FNB Stadium is a historical landmark in the African continent. Because it is currently the largest stadium in the content with a capacity of more than 94,000, interestingly, it’s designed and built in the form of a calabash clay pot. Its current design was designed by HOK Sport (now known as Populous) and Boogertman + Partners. Furthermore, it is the first stadium on the continent to host a FIFA World Cup match.
Additionally, the FNB Stadium is the homeground to the Kaizer Chiefs Football Club. Its games with Orlando Pirates FC are considered among the top football derbies throughout the world. This stadium holds a profound place in history, serving as the backdrop for pivotal moments in the life of Nelson Mandela. On this hallowed ground, Mandela delivered his first public speech following his release from prison. Furthermore, this iconic venue witnessed his poignant final public appearance, marked by his famous words, ‘Please don’t call me; I will call you.’
Additionally, it hosted the official memorial for Mandela before his final resting place in Qunu, Eastern Cape. Notably, this stadium also hosted the funerals of esteemed figures like Chris Hani and Oliver Reginald Tambo. With its rich legacy, this stadium stands as a testament to the indomitable spirit of South Africa.
Things to do in Soweto: Where To Eat In Soweto
What more things to do in Soweto? If you want your taste buds to thank you in Soweto, then this one’s for you. There are several eateries in Soweto located throughout the township.
You may want to try these restaurants for a taste of local cuisine:
Sakhumzi Restaurant
Sakhumzi Restaurant in Soweto is a famous “African restaurant in Soweto.” Also, it is located on a famous street, Vilakazi Street. The Nelson Mandela House is located on the same street. The place is considered the best in class and attracts several local and international patrons. Sakhumzi Restaurant serves authentic African cuisine to delight local, national, and international guests.
Konka
If you want to flex, then Konka is for you. Besides being a pub and grill, this nightclub offers endless opportunities to flex and show off your muscles. It’s possible to enjoy the highest level of luxury with drinks that cost as much as R14,000 (approximately $700). What’s more? Their A la Carte menu includes platters, which could be shared. However, you could also be advised to book a table, which also comes at a price for you and your friends. It is located on Modjadji Street in Pimville.
Excursions in Soweto
Celebrate the essence of Soweto through a diverse range of excursions. Soweto attractions promise an enthralling fusion of culture, history, and exploration. Visitors are invited to uncover the treasures of this iconic township. Here is how you can explore the Sweto in the best possible way.
Soweto MiniBus Taxi Tour
If you want to experience Soweto in a minibus taxi, then the Soweto Tour is for you. A resident will guide the Soweto tour, and you will visit Vilakazi Street, once home to two Nobel Prize winners. It is a must for those curious about the evolution of South African politics.
During this tour, participants will delve into the early political and legal career of Nelson Mandela, tracing the footsteps of Mahatma Gandhi and his pioneering
Passive Resistance (Satyagraha) Movement. Additionally, you’ll explore the legacy of
Nelson Mandela through his Defiance Campaign. This enriching tour experience is available for just R556 (approximately US $25). The tour has daily departures, and the starting point where you catch the ride is at the Gold Reef City Casino. However, this does not include a red bus ticket.
Johannesburg Red Bus Tour
Taking a Red Bus for an extensive tour and exploring Soweto Tourist attractions is ideal. This 1-day valid ticket for the hop-on hop-off sightseeing bus tour allows you to see the sights of Johannesburg at your own pace. Additionally, the tour includes a brief 2-hour extension to Soweto. You will be able to visit the FNB Stadium (referred to as Soccer City during the 2010 FIFA World Cup). It’s regarded as a historical landmark. Additionally, it is currently the biggest stadium in Africa. Additionally, you will see Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital, built during the Second World War and is currently the largest in the world.
In addition, there are the famous Orlan do Towers, which are decommissioned electricity generation cooling towers. Today, it is a popular place for bungee jumping and abseiling. In addition, you get to visit the Hector Pietersen Memorial in Orlando West, Vilakazi Street.
Bungee Jumping at the Soweto Towers
How do you bungy jump on a used Electric generation power plant and live to tell the story? To find out, head to the Soweto Towers for an urban bungy jumping experience. It is a kind of experience not to be missed for those with a strong sense of bravery. [Image by DEZALB]
There is no need to visit remote areas in South Africa where cliffs and mountains are. They are located in Klipspruit in Soweto. If you ever get nervous, their excellent staff will make this an unforgettable experience. The staff will gladly assist no matter what you need, whether it’s calming reassurance or the big 1-2-3 when jumping off a suspension bridge with a rubber cord around your feet. It will cost between R600 and R900 for the experience (about US $30 to $45).
Soweto Bicycle Tour
If you want to tour around this famous township in an eco-friendly manner, this option is for you. Besides, you get to meet and interact with the locals. For instance, you can chat and take pictures together. Exercise while enjoying a fantastic experience.
There are two main experiences in this category. One such tour is the Cycle in Soweto, which offers private bike tours. They offer two-hour tours for around R500 (approximately US $25). However, if you want a History Tour, it will last about 4 hours and set you back R600 (approximately US $30). Another bicycle tour is that of Lebo’s Backpackers Tour. Additionally, it offers scooter tours in Soweto.
Soweto Quad Bike Tour
A Soweto Quad Bike Tour (Naledi, Soweto.) is an adventurous and unique way to explore Soweto. The tour duration can vary, but it’s often around 1 to 2 hours, giving you a good overview of the area without being too physically demanding. You’ll typically be provided with the necessary safety gear, including helmets and instructions on operating the quad bike safely.
How to get there in Soweto?
Soweto lies just 26.3 kilometers from Johannesburg, a distance not feasible for a stroll. To reach Soweto, it is recommended that you fly to the Johannesburg (JNB) Airport or the Lanseria Airport. The train and bus from Johannesburg (JNB) to Soweto takes 1h 2m.
For those seeking the freedom to chart their course, renting a car from reputable providers like AVIS, Hertz, Thrifty, or Budget Car Rental is convenient.
Alternatively, consider the guided tours outlined in the ‘Excursions Paragraph’ for a hassle-free and convenient way to explore Soweto. These tours offer curated experiences that allow you to soak in this vibrant township’s essence without worrying about transportation logistics.
Where to Stay In Soweto?
For those craving an immersive stay in Soweto, several backpackers offer a unique and authentic experience. Consider options such as Naledi Backpackers and Quad Bike Adventures, Lebo’s Backpackers and Cycle Tours, and the iconic Soweto Towers. These accommodations provide not just a place to rest your head but an opportunity to immerse yourself in Soweto’s vibrant culture and history.
If you want the experience of staying in Soweto, then there are backpackers offering this experience. These include the Naledi Backpackers and Quad Bike we spoke about, the Lebo’s Backpackers and Cycle Towers, and the Soweto Towers.
How Cisero Inspires with A List of Things To Do in Soweto?
How to find exclusive things to do in Soweto? Or visit hidden Soweto attractions? Whether you’re a curious traveler seeking exciting activities and attractions or simply searching for a memorable experience, look no further than Cisero. The comprehensive guide is your gateway to discovering many captivating things to do and see. Explore our curated recommendations and accurate insights, ensuring your journey has unforgettable moments and adventures.
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