Things To Do
in Soweto
Soweto, an urban settlement in the Gauteng province of South Africa, is renowned for its pivotal role in the fight against apartheid, notably with the Soweto Uprising of 1976. It is a vibrant township with a rich cultural heritage, showcasing a mix of modern urban life and traditional South African customs, with landmarks such as the Nelson Mandela National Museum attracting visitors from around the world.
Despite challenges, Soweto remains a symbol of resilience and transformation, embodying the spirit and diversity of South African society.
- "Ngiyabonga" - Thank you
- "Unjani?" - How are you?
- "Sawubona" - Hello
- "Kodwa" - But
- "Ngicela" - Please
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $25 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $7 - $20
- ☕ Coffee: $1.50 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1.50
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $40
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Mandela House in Soweto, where you can learn about Nelson Mandela's life. Enjoy a traditional South African breakfast at a nearby café.
Take a guided tour of the Hector Pieterson Memorial, reflecting on the struggles of the youth during apartheid. Explore Vilakazi Street and its vibrant shops.
Dine at a local restaurant known for its authentic Soweto cuisine. Enjoy live music performances that capture the spirit of the township.
Visit the Soweto Theatre to appreciate its modern architecture and possibly catch a local performance or exhibition. Stroll through the nearby gardens for a leisurely morning.
Explore the streets adorned with murals and street art, celebrating the history and culture of Soweto. Stop for lunch at a food market for a taste of local delicacies.
Attend a cultural event or show at the theatre to round off your day. Enjoy dinner at a restaurant featuring local art and entertainment.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and history, particularly related to the anti-apartheid movement.
- Vibrant community life with numerous festivals, art markets, and cultural events.
- Diverse range of local cuisine and street food.
- Availability of various educational and community programs.
- Strong sense of community and resilience among residents.
- High levels of poverty and unemployment in certain areas.
- Challenges with crime and safety concerns.
- Limited access to certain amenities and services compared to more affluent areas.
- Infrastructure issues, including inconsistent public transport options.
- Struggles with educational resources and facilities in some schools.
Best Activities in Soweto
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautiful gardens and hike along the trails with stunning views of the Witpoortjie Waterfall.
Take a guided bicycle tour to explore the historic Vilakazi Street, the only street in the world that has been home to two Nobel Prize winners - Nelson Mandela and Desmond Tutu.
Thrill-seekers can enjoy adrenaline-pumping activities such as bungee jumping and base jumping from the iconic Orlando Towers.
Tours
Uncover the best of Soweto with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Soweto
Visit one of these nice places.
A popular spot for bungee jumping and offering panoramic views of Soweto and Johannesburg skyline.
Provides historical context and compelling photo opportunities, particularly the iconic image of the 1976 Soweto Uprising.
Famous for being the only street in the world that has housed two Nobel Prize winners and offering a vibrant atmosphere with numerous photo spots.
Food in Soweto
Soweto Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A staple dish consisting of maize porridge (pap) with traditional South African sausages (wors), often served with chakalaka, a spicy vegetable relish. Must-try at Sakhumzi Restaurant.
Must-Try!
Also known as steamed bread, this Xhosa delicacy is a soft and fluffy bread traditionally served with a variety of stews. Enjoy at Wandie's Place for an authentic experience.
Originating from the Indian community in Durban, this dish consists of a hollowed-out loaf of bread filled with flavorful curry. Try it at Chaf Pozi for a delicious version.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Soweto better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This iconic street in Soweto is lined with stalls and eateries offering an array of street food, including grilled meats, traditional snacks like amagwinya (vetkoek), and refreshing drinks. Don't miss the vibrant atmosphere and authentic street food experience here.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
It is important to greet people with a handshake and maintain eye contact as a sign of respect in Soweto, South Africa.
Respecting elders is a key cultural norm in Soweto. It is important to address them with courtesy and use titles like 'uncle' or 'auntie' when speaking to them.
When visiting Soweto, it is respectful to dress modestly, especially when visiting local communities or attending cultural events.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Soweto with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Soweto
Ensure a smooth experience
In Soweto, South Africa, tipping is typically expected in restaurants, bars, and for certain services such as tour guides. A standard practice is to tip around 10% of the total bill, although this can vary depending on the quality of service received.
Payment in Soweto, South Africa is predominantly made in cash, although credit and debit cards are becoming increasingly accepted, especially in larger establishments. It's important for visitors to carry cash in smaller denominations for transactions in local markets and smaller vendors.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Soweto.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a great time to visit Soweto as the weather is mild and pleasant. You can expect to see the vibrant Jacaranda trees in full bloom, adding a splash of color to the streets.
Summer is the peak tourist season in Soweto, with warm temperatures and plenty of outdoor events. This is the best time to experience the lively atmosphere and outdoor festivals.
Autumn is another good time to visit Soweto, with mild temperatures and fewer crowds. It's a great time to explore the historical sites and immerse in the local culture.
Winter in Soweto can be chilly, but it's a great time to experience the local indoor attractions, art galleries, and museums. The cooler weather also makes it a good time for walking tours and exploring without the intense heat.
Soweto at Night
Hiking in Soweto
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A stunning national park offering several hiking trails with beautiful landscapes, located about 300 km from Soweto.
A local reserve that provides trails for hiking and enjoying the natural flora and fauna, located within the Gauteng province.
A nature reserve in Roodepoort offering various hiking trails through scenic areas, suitable for nature walks and bird-watching.
A beautiful garden in Roodepoort featuring hiking trails along with rich plant life and stunning waterfalls.
Approximately 60 km from Soweto, this area features numerous hiking trails, rock climbing, and breathtaking views.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Soweto through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Soweto by plane.
Located in Johannesburg, approximately 35 kilometers from Soweto, O.R. Tambo International Airport is the busiest airport in Africa and serves as a major hub for international and domestic flights.
Situated about 45 kilometers north of Soweto, Lanseria International Airport primarily serves domestic flights but also offers a number of international routes.
Approximately 1,400 kilometers from Soweto, Cape Town International Airport is the second-busiest airport in South Africa and offers a wide range of international and domestic flights.
Located approximately 600 kilometers from Soweto, King Shaka International Airport serves the Durban region and includes several international flight options.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority demographic group in Soweto, primarily comprising various ethnicities such as Zulu, Xhosa, and Sotho.
A diverse group with mixed racial heritage, notable in some areas of Soweto.
A smaller community primarily involved in business and trade, with roots tracing back to the 19th century.
A minority group in Soweto, historically linked to apartheid-era governance.
The Soul of Soweto
Discover the essence of Soweto through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Soccer is the most popular sport in Soweto, with a rich history and a passionate following. The area is home to famous teams such as Orlando Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs.
Rugby has a significant presence in Soweto, attracting many fans and players. It is known for promoting teamwork and discipline among youth.
Basketball is gaining popularity, especially among the younger generation, with local leagues and schools encouraging the sport.
Netball is widely played among women and girls in Soweto, with various clubs and schools fostering talent and competition.
Athletics events are popular in Soweto, where schools and communities often organize competitions to celebrate running and other athletic disciplines.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Soweto.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional South African cuisine often features meat-based dishes, many restaurants and cafes in Soweto offer vegetarian and vegan options, such as flavorful vegetable stews, salads, and innovative plant-based creations.
Visitors with gluten restrictions can also find suitable options, with some eateries offering gluten-free bread and maize-based dishes that are naturally free of gluten.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Soweto with these cultural adventures.