Soweto and Johannesburg Travel Guide
We spent a short time in Soweto and Johannesburg, South Africa, on our way to Europe, with only a few days available.
Even with limited time, we wanted to understand more about the country we were visiting, not just pass through. We spent two nights in Johannesburg, stayed close to the airport, and planned a half-day visit to explore the city and Soweto.
Johannesburg and Soweto at a Glance
Language
English widely spoken. Afrikaans and local African languages also common.
Currency and Costs
South African Rand (ZAR). Approximate rate: 1 USD ≈ 18 ZAR. Generally good value compared with Europe and Australia.
Payments
Visa and Mastercard widely accepted. Carry some cash for tips and small purchases.
Tipping
10–15% in restaurants. Tipping guides and drivers is customary.
Safety
Busy city. Be aware of surroundings, avoid displaying valuables. Guided visits recommended for first-time visitors.
Connectivity
Reliable mobile coverage. Free Wi-Fi common in hotels, cafés, and shopping centres.
Understanding Johannesburg
Visiting Soweto and Johannesburg with Limited Time
Besides going on safari, we wanted to learn more about South Africa’s history and everyday life.
With only half a day available, visiting Soweto was the most effective way to do this.
We joined a guided visit, which allowed us to cover key sites efficiently while gaining valuable insight from a local guide.
The experience included a drive through parts of Johannesburg, followed by time spent in Soweto itself.
We joined a guided visit, which allowed us to cover key sites efficiently while gaining valuable insight from a local guide.
Key Stops in Soweto
Hector Pieterson Memorial and Museum
The exhibits explain the historical context clearly and respectfully, making it one of the most important places to visit in Soweto, even if time is limited.
Nelson Mandela’s Former Home
We also visited Nelson Mandela’s former home, where he lived with his family from 1946 into the 1990s. The house is small but very informative, filled with photographs and personal objects.
Things to Know Before Visiting Johannesburg and Soweto
1. Trying to See Too Much in One Day
2. Skipping Soweto Due to Time Constraints
Many travellers treat Johannesburg only as a transit point and skip Soweto entirely. Even a half-day visit provides essential insight into South Africa’s recent history and social landscape.
Missing Soweto means missing an important part of understanding the country.
3. Walking Long Distances in Unfamiliar Areas
Johannesburg is not a city where walking between neighbourhoods is always practical or advisable.
Distances are large, pavements can be inconsistent, and traffic is heavy. Using ride-hailing services or joining a guided visit is safer and far more efficient.
4. Underestimating Travel Time Between Sites
Traffic conditions can change quickly, especially during peak hours. Travel times between the airport, city areas, and Soweto often take longer than expected.
Always allow extra time. This is especially important if you have flights, tours, or timed museum visits.
5. Not Allowing Enough Time for Museums and Guided Explanations
Sites such as the Hector Pieterson Memorial and Museum are not places to rush. The exhibitions are informative and emotionally significant, and guided explanations add valuable context.
Allowing enough time makes the visit far more meaningful and rewarding.
Getting Around Soweto
Ride-Hailing (Uber and Similar Services)
Uber operates widely across Johannesburg and is one of the easiest and most practical ways to get around, including airport transfers, moving between suburbs, and travelling to and from Soweto.
Prices are shown upfront in the app, and availability is generally good throughout the day.
Gautrain
The Gautrain is a modern rail service linking OR Tambo International Airport with Sandton and other key areas. It is a good option if you are staying near a Gautrain station or travelling between the airport and Sandton.
The Gautrain does not serve Soweto directly, so it works best in combination with Uber or hotel transfers rather than as a standalone option.
Guided Tours and Transfers
For visiting Soweto, guided tours are one of the most efficient and informative options. Tours usually include transport, key historical stops, and local insight, making them ideal for first-time visitors or travellers with limited time.
Private transfers and shuttle services can also be arranged through hotels or tour companies and are useful for airport transfers or pre-planned excursions.
Car Hire
Car hire is widely available at OR Tambo International Airport and across Johannesburg. It can be useful if you plan to travel beyond the city or continue on to other destinations in South Africa.
For short stays focused on Johannesburg and Soweto, however, most travellers find ride-hailing and guided visits more practical than driving themselves.
Where to Stay for a Visit to Soweto
Lebo’s Soweto Backpackers
Location: Orlando West, Soweto
Price: $–$$
Type: Backpackers / Guesthouse
City Lodge at OR Tambo is one of the most convenient hotels for early departures or late arrivals.
Its direct connection to the airport removes the need for transfers. Travel days feel smoother and less stressful.
Location: Connected to OR Tambo International Airport
Price: $$
Type: Airport Hotel
This modern hotel works well for longer stays in Johannesburg or business trips.
Direct access to the Gautrain makes city travel simple. A car is not necessary.
Location: Sandton, Connected to the Gautrain Station
Price: $$$
Type: City / Business Hotel
Located within the Emperors Palace complex, the Peermont Metcourt Hotel suits travellers who like having restaurants, cafés, and entertainment close by.
It is a comfortable option for one or two nights in Johannesburg before or after a flight.
Location: Emperors Palace, Near OR Tambo International Airport
Price: $$
Type: Airport Hotel within an Entertainment Complex
Once in Joburg
Once in Joburg offers a quieter and more local stay in one of Johannesburg’s creative neighbourhoods.
It suits travellers who prefer a relaxed base away from larger hotels.
Location: Melville, Johannesburg
Price: $$
Type: Boutique Guesthouse
Why Visit Soweto and Johannesburg
Soweto, in particular, leaves a strong impression. Walking through the neighbourhoods and visiting places you have read about makes the stories feel real. Johannesburg adds another layer to the visit, with museums, local markets, and good places to eat.
It is the kind of place that makes you slow down and reflect.
