Soweto Travel Guide

Explore the best attractions, food, accommodation, safety, and transportation of Soweto with our comprehensive tour guide.


Soweto, short for “South Western Townships,” is a beloved neighborhood in Johannesburg, Gauteng province, South Africa. It’s where Nelson Mandela, the first black president of the Republic of South Africa, lived for many years. Soweto is a treasure trove of history, culture, and beauty, attracting local and international tourists alike. This comprehensive tour guide will help you discover the best things to see and do in Soweto, where to stay, what to eat and drink, and how to travel safely and comfortably.

Introduction to Soweto

Soweto is a vibrant and diverse neighborhood that was established in the 1930s as a township for black South Africans who were forcibly removed from their homes in Johannesburg’s central business district. Today, Soweto has a population of more than a million people and encompasses dozens of neighborhoods, each with its own unique character, history, and attractions.

List of Places to Visit in Soweto

Soweto is brimming with sights, sounds, and experiences that will leave you inspired and enlightened.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Apartheid Museum: The Apartheid Museum is a world-class museum that documents the rise and fall of apartheid in South Africa. It’s a must-visit for anyone interested in South African history and human rights.

  2. Hector Pieterson Museum: The Hector Pieterson Museum memorializes the Soweto Uprising of 1976, in which hundreds of students protested against apartheid and police brutality. The museum is named after Hector Pieterson, a 12-year-old boy who was shot and killed during the uprising.

  3. Mandela House: Mandela House is the former home of Nelson Mandela and his family. The house is now a museum that showcases the life and times of Mandela, his family, and the struggle against apartheid.

Natural Attractions of Soweto: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Kremetart Park: Kremetart Park is the largest park in Soweto, offering a wide range of recreational facilities, including a soccer pitch, tennis courts, and a playground.

  2. Orlando Towers: The Orlando Towers are two old coal-fired power stations that have been converted into a bungee jump, scuba diving spot, and graffiti canvas. They are a popular attraction for adrenaline junkies and art lovers.

  3. Diepkloof Zone 1 Park: Diepkloof Zone 1 Park is a tranquil park that offers stunning views of Soweto and Johannesburg. It’s an ideal spot for picnicking, hiking, and photography.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Soweto

Soweto offers several scenic hikes and bike rides that cater to varying fitness levels and interests.

  1. Walter Sisulu Square to Freedom Square: This route takes you from Walter Sisulu Square, where the Freedom Charter was signed in 1955, to Freedom Square, a memorial to the 20,000 women who marched in protest against pass laws in 1956.

  2. Soweto Bicycle Tour: The Soweto Bicycle Tour takes you on a guided tour of Soweto’s landmarks, neighborhoods, and parks, giving you a deeper understanding of Soweto’s history, culture, and daily life.

  3. Vilakazi Street Walking Tour: Vilakazi Street is the only street in the world where two Nobel Peace Prize winners, Nelson Mandela and Archbishop Desmond Tutu, lived. The walking tour takes you through the street, showcasing its museums, restaurants, and street life.

Best Things to Do in Soweto: Activities and Tours

Soweto offers a plethora of activities and tours that cater to all interests and budgets.

  1. Soweto Township Tours: Soweto Township Tours offers a wide range of guided tours that showcase the best of Soweto’s history, culture, and lifestyle. You can choose from walking tours, bike tours, bus tours, and private tours.

  2. Soweto Music Festival: The Soweto Music Festival is an annual event that brings together Soweto’s top musicians, dancers, and performers, showcasing the best of traditional and contemporary music.

  3. Skyscraper Tour: The Skyscraper Tour takes you on a helicopter or hot air balloon ride over Soweto, giving you a breathtaking bird’s eye view of the neighborhood’s landscape, architecture, and natural beauty.

Week-Long Itinerary for Soweto

Here’s a sample week-long itinerary for exploring Soweto:

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit the Apartheid Museum and the Hector Pieterson Museum
Day 2 Take a bike tour of Soweto or hike the Walter Sisulu Square to Freedom Square route
Day 3 Visit the Mandela House and the Vilakazi Street museums
Day 4 Explore Kremetart Park and the Orlando Towers
Day 5 Take a private tour of the SAB World of Beer or the Cradle of Humankind
Day 6 Attend the Soweto Music Festival or visit a local shebeen
Day 7 Relax at your hotel or guesthouse or take a day trip to Johannesburg CBD

Food and Drink Scene of Soweto

Soweto is a melting pot of culinary delights that reflect the neighborhood’s diverse ethnicities and cultures.

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Pap and Wors: Pap and Wors is a traditional South African dish made of maize porridge and sausage. It’s a staple of Soweto’s cuisine and can be found in many restaurants and street vendors.

  2. Chesa Nyama: Chesa Nyama is a grilled meat dish that’s popular across South Africa. Soweto has some of the best Chesa Nyama joints in the country, offering a variety of meats, sauces, and sides.

  3. Kota: Kota is a sandwich made with a hollowed-out loaf of bread and filled with meat, cheese, egg, and vegetables. It’s a popular street food in Soweto that’s both delicious and filling.

Local Beverages

  1. Umqombothi: Umqombothi is a traditional beer made from maize, sorghum, and water. It has a sour and slightly bitter taste and is often drunk during social gatherings and ceremonies.

  2. Ama-Lahla: Ama-Lahla is a soft drink made from fermented pineapples. It’s a refreshing and non-alcoholic beverage that’s perfect for hot summer days.

  3. Rooibos Tea: Rooibos Tea is a herbal tea that’s indigenous to South Africa. It’s naturally caffeine-free and has a slightly sweet and earthy taste. It’s an ideal drink for calming the nerves and aiding digestion.

Where to Stay in Soweto: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Soweto offers a wide range of accommodation options that cater to all budgets and preferences.

  1. Soweto Hotel and Conference Center: The Soweto Hotel and Conference Center is a four-star hotel that offers luxurious rooms, world-class amenities, and easy access to Soweto’s attractions.

  2. Soweto Backpackers: Soweto Backpackers is a budget-friendly hostel that offers dormitory-style accommodation, a communal kitchen, and a lively atmosphere.

  3. Soweto Guest House: Soweto Guest House is a charming guesthouse that offers cozy rooms, home-cooked meals, and warm hospitality. It’s an ideal accommodation for solo travelers, couples, and families.

What to Buy in Soweto: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Soweto has a range of interesting souvenirs and local products that make perfect gifts for loved ones or keepsakes for yourself.

  1. African Fabrics: Soweto has many shops and markets that sell colorful African fabrics, including wax prints, kente cloth, and kitenge. These fabrics are ideal for making clothes, bags, and home décor items.

  2. Beaded Jewelry: Beaded jewelry is a signature of South African craftsmanship, and Soweto is a great place to find unique and affordable pieces. The jewelry ranges from simple bracelets and necklaces to intricate mask designs and figurines.

  3. Local Art: Soweto has a thriving art scene, with many galleries, street art murals, and craft markets. You can find a wide variety of art styles, including painting, sculpture, photography, and mixed media.

Local Culture and Customs of Soweto

Soweto is a culturally rich and diverse neighborhood that celebrates its traditions, beliefs, and values.

  1. Ubuntu: Ubuntu is a South African philosophy that emphasizes the interconnectedness of all things and the importance of social harmony and compassion. Soweto embodies the spirit of Ubuntu through its warm and welcoming hospitality, its sense of community, and its respect for diversity.

  2. Indlu Yegugu: Indlu yegugu means “the home of a leopard” in Zulu, and it’s a term of respect and admiration for a person who is seen as a master or a leader. Soweto has many Indlu Yegugu who are respected for their wisdom, generosity, and service to the community.

  3. Kwaito Music: Kwaito is a music genre that originated in Soweto in the 1990s. It blends South African house music with traditional African rhythms and instruments, creating an infectious and danceable sound that reflects the pulse of Soweto’s urban life.

Best Time to Visit Soweto

The best time to visit Soweto depends on your personal preferences and interests.

  1. Summer: Soweto’s summer, which lasts from December to February, is hot and sunny, with occasional thunderstorms. It’s an ideal time for outdoor activities, festivals, and sports events.

  2. Fall: Soweto’s fall, which lasts from March to May, is mild and dry, with moderate temperatures and fewer crowds. It’s a good time for sightseeing, cultural events, and hiking.

  3. Winter: Soweto’s winter, which lasts from June to August, is cool and dry, with occasional frost and mist. It’s an ideal time for safaris, bird watching, and indoor activities.

  4. Spring: Soweto’s spring, which lasts from September to November, is warm and breezy, with colorful flowers and festivals. It’s an ideal time for hiking, bird watching, and cultural events.

Do’s and Don’ts of Soweto

Do:

  1. Respect local customs and traditions, including dress codes, greetings, and taboos.

  2. Embrace the spirit of Ubuntu, by being friendly, helpful, and compassionate to others.

  3. Learn some basic Zulu, Xhosa, or Sotho phrases, as these are the main languages spoken in Soweto.

Don’t:

  1. Engage in reckless behavior or disrespectful actions, such as littering, drinking in public, or taking inappropriate photographs.

  2. Assume that Soweto is a dangerous or impoverished place. Soweto is a vibrant and thriving neighborhood that has a rich culture, history, and lifestyle.

  3. Overlook the smaller neighborhoods and side streets of Soweto, as they often offer hidden gems and surprises.

Safety and Health

Safety in Soweto

Soweto is generally safe for tourists, but it’s recommended to take some basic precautions to avoid any mishaps.

  1. Use common sense when walking or cycling around Soweto, especially at night or in isolated areas.

  2. Don’t carry large amounts of cash or valuables with you, and keep your belongings close and secure.

  3. Follow your guide’s instructions, and avoid venturing into unsafe or unauthorized areas.

Health in Soweto

Soweto has a range of health services, including clinics, hospitals, and private doctors.

  1. Make sure you have adequate travel insurance and vaccinations for South Africa.

  2. Drink bottled or purified water, and avoid tap water, uncooked food, and street food.

  3. Use insect repellent and protective clothing to prevent mosquito bites and other insect-borne diseases.

Getting to Soweto: Transportation Options and Logistics

Soweto is easily accessible from Johannesburg, thanks to its proximity to major roads and public transport.

Airports Near Soweto

The closest airport to Soweto is O.R. Tambo International Airport, which is about 40 kilometers away.

Bus Stations Near Soweto

Soweto is a major bus hub, with several bus companies connecting it to Johannesburg and other cities in South Africa.

Other Options

You can also hire a taxi, a private car, or a shuttle service to get to Soweto from Johannesburg.

How to Get Around in Soweto

Soweto is an ideal neighborhood for walking, cycling, and using public transport.

  1. Walking: Many of Soweto’s attractions are within easy walking distance of each other, and they offer a great way to soak up the neighborhood’s ambiance and energy.

  2. Cycling: Renting a bicycle or joining a bike tour is a fun and eco-friendly way to explore Soweto’s streets, parks, and neighborhoods.

  3. Public Transport: Soweto has an efficient and affordable public transport system, including mini-buses, taxis, and trains.

Where to Go Next from Soweto: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Soweto is an excellent base for exploring Johannesburg and its surrounding areas.

  1. Johannesburg CBD: Johannesburg Central Business District is home to many of South Africa’s top museums, art galleries, and shopping malls, as well as its vibrant nightlife and cuisine scene.

  2. Gold Reef City: Gold Reef City is a theme park and entertainment center that showcases South Africa’s gold mining history and culture. It’s a popular destination for families and adventure seekers.

  3. Kruger National Park: Kruger National Park is one of Africa’s top safari destinations, known for its Big Five game viewing, scenic landscapes, and luxury lodges. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience that’s easily accessible from Soweto.

Conclusion

Soweto is a cultural and historical gem that offers a wealth of experiences and attractions. This comprehensive tour guide has provided you with insights, tips, and recommendations for making the most of your visit to Soweto. From food and drink to accommodation and transportation, Soweto has everything you need for a memorable and enriching journey through South African culture and heritage.

The Soweto Marimba Youth League during a public performance The Soweto Marimba Youth League during a public performance Soweto Mural Soweto Mural Soweto Housing Soweto Housing