Soweto

An unrivalled, urban adventure

One of the main elements that creates the unique, thriving experience we call Joburg is Soweto. This township appeared on the landscape in the 1930s and although having initially been formed under the apartheid regime, has defied all labels and historical connotations and become a city in its own right. It is a place that is full of stories, pictures, culture and life and, quite simply, has to be visited when in town.

Soweto contains some of the most prominent historical links to our country’s apartheid past. Visits to the Hector Pieterson Museum, Vilakazi Street (still proudly the only street in the world on which two Nobel Peace Prize winners have lived) and Regina Mundi Church, will recall stories of life in the township at that time.

Aside from these vivid, historical reminders, one must not forget that Soweto is primarily a residential area, not a museum, and life happens there at a breakneck pace as it continues to evolve under your feet.

There is a massive variety of thing to see and do. This list includes visits to the imposing Orlando East Cooling Towers (complete with a bungee swing) the Sandton City-rivalling Maponya Mall, the Oppenheimer Tower surrounding park, the functioning madness of Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital, the fantastic party scene and shebeen culture, and the sheer excitement and anticipation on the day of a big soccer game at Orlando Stadium or Soccer City.

Soweto is one of the greatest tourist attractions in the country.  It is a place that is able to connect history with both the present and future, education with entertainment and a city with its people and tourists alike. 

For even more great Soweto hot spots, visit Safindit here