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.

Places to visit

Key Phrases

Speak like a local

  • "Hello" - Sawubona
  • "Thank you" - Ngiyabonga
  • "Goodbye" - Hamba kahle

Day plans

Spend a day exploring around

day 1

Explore Soweto's History

morning:Start the day with a visit to the Apartheid Museum, a powerful and moving experience. Then, indulge in a hearty breakfast at the Sakhumzi Restaurant, offering delicious traditional South African cuisine.

afternoon:Continue the historical immersion with a guided tour of the Hector Pieterson Museum and Memorial, which provides insight into the 1976 Soweto Uprising. Delight in a late lunch at Wandie's Place, a popular spot known for its grilled meat and vibrant atmosphere.

evening:For a memorable night-out, head to the Soweto Theatre for live performances and cultural events.

day 2

Art and Culture Exploration

morning:Embark on an artistic adventure at the Credo Mutwa Cultural Village, where you can marvel at the renowned artist's iconic sculptures. Then, savor a scrumptious brunch at the Vilakazi Street Cafe, known for its comforting ambiance and delectable food.

afternoon:Immerse yourself in local art at the Ubuntu Kraal Craft Market, where a wide array of unique handmade crafts and artworks are on display. Enjoy a light snack with a view at the Nambitha Restaurant, a cozy eatery with a relaxed atmosphere.

evening:Experience the vibrant Soweto nightlife at Chaf Pozi, a lively spot offering live music and a bustling atmosphere.

day 3

Outdoor Adventure and Relaxation

morning:Embrace nature with a morning hike at the Klipriviersberg Nature Reserve, offering picturesque trails and diverse flora and fauna. Treat yourself to a delightful brunch at the Soweto Hotel and Conference Centre, featuring a tranquil setting and delectable dishes.

afternoon:Unwind at the Mzansi Restaurant, a peaceful spot to enjoy a leisurely afternoon tea and delightful pastries. Then, head to the Soweto Outdoor Adventures for thrilling activities such as quad biking and paintball.

evening:For a relaxing evening, visit the Ubuntu Kraal Brewery for a laid-back vibe and locally crafted beers.

day 4

Culinary Delights and Music

morning:Kick-start your day with a visit to the Lebo's Soweto Backpackers, where you can enjoy a delightful breakfast in their cozy courtyard. Then, stroll through the vibrant Vilakazi Street and explore the enticing food stalls.

afternoon:Savor a lunchtime feast at the popular Sakhumzi Restaurant, known for its mouthwatering buffet and lively atmosphere. After lunch, visit the Soweto Theatre for a dose of cultural performances and art exhibitions.

evening:For a memorable night-out, head to the Soweto Derby Lounge for live music and a vibrant dance floor.

Soweto Famous Food

Must-Try local dishes

Pap and Wors

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!

Ujeqe

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.

Bunny Chow

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.

Food Markets & Street Food

A food market and street food guide

Vilakazi Street

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.

Things to do in Soweto

Unique local experiences...

Pet sitters in Soweto

Relax and unwind while your furry friend enjoys making a new companion!

Popular cities in South Africa

Explore local food, attractions and more!

JohannesburgCape TownGqeberhaPietermaritzburgDurbanPretoriaRustenburgNewcastleEast LondonKatlehongKhayelitshaRandburgRoodepoortMitchells PlainBoksburgBloemfonteinGermistonCenturionKimberleySandtonKlerksdorpBethelsdorpKempton ParkNqutuKroonstadBenoniGeorgePotchefstroomPinetownKrugersdorpMthathaPolokwaneSpringsAlbertonUpingtonWinterveldParowPaarlEmpangeniWitbankUitenhageKwaDukuzaVereenigingWorcesterVanderbijlparkGrahamstownOudtshoornMidrandMiddelburgErmeloRandfonteinStellenboschSasolburgBrakpanThaba NchuKwamhlangaThohoyandouQueenstownVirginiaLadysmithWelkomOdendaalsrusBethalMossel BayRichards BayWellingtonMeyertonQueensburghPhuthaditjhabaBritsHarrismithKokstadKnysnaEdenvaleVryheidKuilsrivierBothavilleParysGrabouwMusinaSchweizer-ReinekeSecundaDespatchVredenburgNigelMmabathoLydenburgSiyabuswaMakanNamakgaleMalmesburyGraaff-ReinetPort ShepstoneLebowakgomoDundeePhokengBeaufort WestMankoengAcornhoekCeresPlettenberg BayWestvillePostmasburgKloofUlundiHumansdorpMondloThabazimbiSaldanhaHeilbronJeffrey’s BayWesselsbronMargateDinokanaLichtenburgFrankfortGiyaniMathibestadPort AlfredMpophomeniFort BeaufortLouis TrichardtStutterheimHennenmanVolksrustuMhlanga RocksJan KempdorpDe AarBultfonteinKa-BungeniCarletonvilleWarrentonNkowakowaHartbeespoortEstcourtRobertsonPampierstadHowickHammanskraalVryburgBronkhorstspruitReitzBarkly WestDouglasIndweItsosengGarsfonteinDeneysvilleSetlagodeAllanridgeGanyesaBallitovilleSomerset EastMiddelburgTaungVredendalStilfonteinMooirivierVredeGlencoeSwellendamVilliersColesbergKingsboroughBethlehemeMuziwezintoRiversdaleBethulieTurffonteinBredasdorpKinrossKrielMontaguAliceMabeskraalBoekenhouthoekSabieSteynsrusZeerustBonnievaleGreytown