Two-Day Joburg North Soweto Tour

Day 1 – Johannesburg North and Surrounds

08h30 – 08h50
Begin your journey at Nelson Mandela Square, formerly known as Sandton Square, a lively destination that pays tribute to one of the world’s most revered leaders. This iconic public space celebrates the legacy of Nelson Mandela – South Africa’s symbol of freedom and African pride – with a striking statue and historical insights that highlight the significance of his enduring impact.

09h00 – 09h45
Take a walk to the Artyli Gallery situated at the Nelson Mandela Square. This contemporary African art gallery is dedicated to celebrating the creativity and cultural richness of artists from across Africa and the African diaspora. Immerse yourself in its thought-provoking exhibitions and spend approximately 45 minutes engaging with the artworks on display.

10h00 – 11h40
Visit Liliesleaf Farm and step into one of South Africa’s most compelling heritage sites. Once a covert meeting place for senior members of the African National Congress, it played a pivotal role in the anti-apartheid movement and became the scene of a historic police raid in 1963, leading to the arrest of key activists. Today, the Liliesleaf Farm Museum honours this legacy, offering visitors a deeply insightful and powerful experience that secures its rightful place in the nation’s history.

12h00 – 13h15
Enjoy a flavourful lunch break at Moja Café in Sunninghill, a lively eatery renowned for its diverse menu of authentic South African cuisine. From hearty traditional dishes to locally inspired beverages, guests are invited to indulge in a true taste of the nation’s culinary heritage. A must-visit for food enthusiasts craving culture-infused comfort. 13:30 – 14h50 Discover the hidden treasures beneath Johannesburg at Mapatiza Mine Tour and Gecko Jewellers, nestled in the heart of Midrand. This immersive experience takes visitors on a fascinating underground gemstone mine tour, showcasing each stage of the process – from excavation and polishing to the final transformation into dazzling jewellery pieces. Guests can also browse the onsite souvenir store for memorable keepsakes, offering a chance to take home a sparkling token of this unique adventure.

15h20 – 17h30
Set within the serene grounds of The Orchards in Midrand, this four-star graded retreat offers a peaceful blend of luxury accommodation and cultural heritage. Guests will enjoy a refined wine tasting experience hosted by LucMore Wines, held beneath one of South Africa’s oldest and most revered trees – a sacred site where traditional kings once gathered in search of wisdom and tranquility. This unique setting infuses the experience with a sense of history and spiritual calm, making it both unforgettable and meaningful.

18h30
Dinner and Overnight Stay – Riboville Hotel & Restaurant, Waterfall Midrand

Unwind in luxury at Riboville Hotel & Restaurant, an upmarket countryside retreat located within an exclusive equestrian estate complete with polo grounds. Guests will enjoy a delectable dining experience featuring a menu that artfully blends South African flavours with international culinary excellence. After dinner, settle into stylish overnight accommodation where comfort meets sophistication.

Day 2 – Soweto Tour

09h00 – 11:00
Enroute to Soweto our journey begins with a powerful and thought-provoking visit to the renowned Apartheid Museum. Widely regarded as one of South Africa’s most important cultural institutions, the museum offers an unflinching portrayal of the rise and fall of apartheid, chronicling the nation’s struggle for freedom. Through immersive exhibits and personal accounts, it tells a moving story of resilience and the triumph of the human spirit – beginning in 1948 and culminating in the historic election of Nelson Mandela as president in 1994. Only open Wednesday-Sunday.

11h30 – 12h45
Discover Soweto’s vibrant spirit through an unforgettable township tour with local operator Book Ibhoni – offered either on foot or by bicycle. This unique experience not only offers alternative modes of transportation, but also promotes wellness and community upliftment. Through their inspiring initiative, guests who donate a book receive a discounted bicycle tour, supporting literacy while exploring the cultural heartbeat of Soweto. Highlights include visits to the historic Mandela House on Vilakazi Street and the Hector Pieterson Museum and Memorial, commemorating the courageous youth of the 1976 Soweto Uprisings.

13h00 – 14h15
Enjoy a flavourful lunch at 1947, a renowned restaurant in historic Vilakazi Street in Soweto – famously home to two Nobel Peace Prize laureates, the late Archbishop Desmond Tutu and the late President Nelson Mandela. Surrounded by legacy and culture, guests are invited to savour the authentic tastes of proudly South African cuisine and traditional beverages, making this culinary stop a true celebration of heritage.

14h30 – 15h30
Conclude your journey with a visit to the dynamic Soweto Brewing Company, where tradition meets innovation in craft beer production. Guests will enjoy an insightful exploration of the beer brewing process, followed by a tasting session featuring an array of locally inspired flavours enjoyed by both the young at heart and seasoned beer enthusiasts. It’s a spirited finale to a day rich in culture and community.

16h00 – 17h30
Optional: Sundowners, dinner and overnight accommodation at Lebo’s Backpackers in Soweto. 

Contact Details

Nelson Mandela Square
Telephone: +27 11 217 6000
Website: https://nelsonmandelasquare.co.za/

Artily Gallery
Telephone: +27 78 648 8221
Website: www.artyli.com

Lielieslief Museum
Telephone: +2760 996 6363
Website: www.lilieslief.co.za

Moja Café Sunninghill
Telephone: +27 10 109 0806

Mapatiza Mine Tour
Telephone: +27 82 843 7686
Website: https://geckojewellers.co.za

Lucmore Wines, The Orchards Executive Midrand
Telephone: +27 11 023 4933 / +27 815473583
Website: Theorchardsaccomoodation.co.za

Riboville Hotel and Restaurant
Telephone: +27 11 234 2456
Email: gm@riboville.com

Apartheid Museum
Telephone: +27 11 309 4700
Website: https://www.apartheidmuseum.org/

Book Ibhoni
Telephone: +27 82 928 0543
Website: https://bicyclesouth.co.za

1947 on Vilakazi Street
Telephone: +27 11 258 4463

Ubuntu Kraal / Soweto Brewing Company
Telephone: +27 11 982 8290
Website: https://www.ubuntukraal.joburg/

Lebo’s Back packers
Telephone: +27 11 936 3444
Website: www.sowetobackpackers.com

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