Soweto: Hop-On Hop-Off Bus, City Tour and Apartheid Museum

Starting a tour of Johannesburg and Soweto often sounds like a mammoth task, but this package from City Sightseeing South Africa makes it surprisingly manageable—and deeply rewarding. It’s a well-curated experience that combines the convenience of a hop-on hop-off bus with an immersive guided tour of Soweto’s most iconic sites.

What we love about this package? First, the flexibility of riding an open-top double-decker bus, allowing us to soak up city views at our own pace. Second, the depth of insight from knowledgeable guides who bring Soweto’s history to life, especially at the Mandela House and Hector Pietersen Memorial. Third, the value for money—at just $46, it offers access to major attractions that would otherwise require separate tickets and transportation hassles.

That said, one potential consideration is that some stops, like the museums, might be rushed if you’re trying to do everything in a day. Still, for anyone wanting a broad overview of the city and township without breaking the bank, this tour hits the sweet spot. It’s especially suited for first-time visitors, history buffs, or anyone wanting a curated experience with local insights.

Contents show

Key Points

Flexible Transportation: Hop-on hop-off bus allows you to explore Johannesburg at your own pace.
Authentic Soweto Tour: A 2-hour guided small-group tour led by a local Soweto resident offers genuine insights.
Iconic Landmarks: Visit Mandela House, Hector Pietersen Memorial, Vilakazi Street, and Orlando Towers.
Educational and Moving: Learn about South Africa’s apartheid history at the Apartheid Museum and Constitution Hill.
Great Value: For $46, you get access to multiple attractions, guided tours, and scenic views.
Limited Entry Tickets Included: The tour price doesn’t cover entry fees, so plan accordingly if you wish to visit attractions inside.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Johannesburg and Soweto: What You Can Expect

This experience packs a lot into one day, blending city sightseeing with a focus on Soweto’s vibrant history and culture. Expect a combination of self-guided exploration on the bus and a more intimate, guided journey through Soweto’s streets and landmarks.

Want to see more of Johannesburg? Here are other city tours we've reviewed

The Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Experience

We loved the way the double-decker bus offers panoramic views of Johannesburg. The audio commentary adds context to what you’re seeing, from the stylish Melrose Arch to the historic Mining District. The bus stops at key locations such as the Mandela Foundation, Constitution Hill, and the Newtown Market (on Saturdays), giving you the freedom to explore as long as you like.

Reviewers consistently praise the convenience of this method. One said, “Very good way to see a lot of the city if you have limited time,” and another noted, “This was the best way to get around Johannesburg,” highlighting how valuable this flexible approach is for busy travelers.

The Soweto Guided Tour: Deepening Your Understanding

The 2-hour small-group tour of Soweto, guided by a local Soweto resident, is a highlight. Guides like DT and others are described as “excellent,” with a “great amount of knowledge.” They take you to key sites like Mandela House at Vilakazi Street, Desmond Tutu’s home, and Hector Pietersen Memorial, sharing stories that make the history real and personal.

Many reviews underscore how well-organized and engaging this part of the tour is. Romina praised the “excellent” guidance, and Jodie mentioned how her guide was “very informative,” making the experience both educational and emotionally impactful.

You’ll visit famous landmarks such as Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital—the largest in the world in 1997—and see Orlando Stadium and Orlando Towers, which are not just landmarks but symbols of the township’s resilience. One reviewer even described the Orlando Towers as a place to see the world’s highest Suspended Catch Air Device (SCAD) freefall, adding a dash of thrill to the trip.

Visiting Vilakazi Street and Mandela House

Standing in front of Mandela House, you get a visceral sense of Mandela’s humble beginnings and his fight for freedom. The house is now a museum, and many guests feel that seeing it in person offers a powerful connection to history. Desmond Tutu’s residence nearby is another meaningful stop. While some reviewers wish for more time inside these sites, they agree that just being there feels special.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Cultural and Historic Highlights

The Hector Pietersen Memorial is more than just a sculpture; it’s a tribute to a pivotal moment in South Africa’s history—the 1976 Soweto Uprising. Visitors often comment on how touching and meaningful these memorials are, providing a deeper understanding of the apartheid struggle.

The Orlando Towers, with their colorful murals and the SCAD freefall, show the creative spirit of Soweto. Many travelers enjoy passing by Orlando Stadium, which holds significance as the first sports facility built specifically for black South Africans.

Museum hopping your thing? Check out these other cultural spots we've reviewed in Johannesburg

Practical Details and Pricing

At $46 per person, this tour strikes a commendable balance between affordability and comprehensive coverage. The price includes the hop-on hop-off bus ticket and the guided Soweto tour, but entry tickets to sites like Mandela House or the Apartheid Museum are not included. You might find it worthwhile to budget extra for these if you want to go inside.

Transportation logistics are straightforward. The meeting point is at the Zone Shopping Center in Rosebank, easily accessible by free hotel shuttle from Sandton or the Gautrain station. The shuttle times are designed for convenience, and parking is available if you drive.

The tour operates from around 9 am until late afternoon, giving you plenty of time to explore, shop, or relax after the tour ends. Reviewers have appreciated the clarity on timing, with some noting the need to arrive a bit early to catch the bus.

Authentic Insights from Guests

Many reviewers mention the friendly, knowledgeable guides—a key part of the experience. Shae Islam praised the staff for being “friendly, funny and keeping you entertained,” while Romina’s review highlighted how well-organized and kind the team was, enhancing the overall experience.

Several guests, including Tyler and Martin, shared that they learned new things about Johannesburg, even if they had lived there for years. That speaks to the tour’s ability to reveal overlooked sights and offer fresh perspectives.

Others appreciated the balance of guided and free time, with some mentioning they took extra time at Mandela House or did additional sightseeing after the tour, thanks to the flexible hop-on-hop-off format.

The Sum Up

This combined Johannesburg city and Soweto tour offers a compelling mix of convenient transport, authentic storytelling, and key landmarks. It’s especially suited for travelers who want a broad overview without the hassle of organizing separate tickets and transport. The guided Soweto experience provides meaningful insights into South Africa’s past, while the bus route covers the city’s highlights at a relaxed pace.

For those interested in history, culture, and vibrant neighborhoods, this tour hits the mark. It delivers excellent value for the price and leaves you with a deeper understanding of Johannesburg’s complex story.

While some stops may feel rushed, the overall experience balances convenience with authenticity. If you’re looking for a practical, insightful way to get to know Johannesburg and Soweto, this tour is a great choice—especially if you value friendly guides and scenic views.

FAQ

Are entrance tickets to the museums included?
No, the tour price covers the hop-on hop-off bus and Soweto guided tour, but you will need to purchase separate tickets if you want to enter sites like the Mandela House or Apartheid Museum.

How do I meet the tour?
The meeting point is at the Zone Shopping Center in Rosebank, near Hamley’s Toys and the main bus stop. You can also use the free shuttle from Sandton hotels or the Gautrain station.

Is the Soweto tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, it’s generally suitable for most ages, but keep in mind it includes some walking and museum visits. The guided tour is about 2 hours long and small-group, making it manageable.

Can I hop off the bus at multiple stops?
Absolutely. The hop-on hop-off bus allows you to explore attractions at your own pace before hopping back on the next bus.

How long does the entire tour last?
The city sightseeing bus runs from about 9 am until late afternoon, giving ample time to explore the city and Soweto.

Would I recommend this for a first-time visitor?
Yes, it’s a practical way to see Johannesburg’s main sights and get insight into Soweto’s history, especially if you’re limited on time or prefer guided experiences.

This tour offers a well-rounded, accessible way to understand Johannesburg’s history and culture without feeling overwhelmed. It combines scenic city views, meaningful landmarks, and authentic local stories—all for a fair price. Whether you’re a history buff, a culture explorer, or simply curious about South Africa’s past, it’s an experience worth considering.