GETTING AROUND JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA

Cultural attractions, a thriving art scene, dining, and nearby safaris are all part of Johannesburg’s appeal. As South Africa’s largest city, it also offers a thought-provoking context to the country’s past and its future. Gautrain rail is helpful for getting around, but despite the growth of its public transit, this is very much a driving city. The best way to explore is with the help of a driver guide, who will provide local insight as you travel to the Apartheid Museum and other attractions. Your guide will also know what restaurants, art galleries, and music spots are Soweto must-sees.

If your Boundless Journeys South Africa adventure tour includes a Johannesburg city tour, please contact us to check your itinerary details so you don’t visit the same sites twice.

THINGS TO DO IN JOHANNESBURG

Hector Pieterson Museum

Gain an understanding of the tragic events that took place on June 16, 1976, during the anti-Apartheid Soweto Uprising. This museum serves as both a powerful educational resource and a memorial. Give yourself time to take in all the photos, videos, and artifacts. They provide a powerful and necessary look at the history and background of the Soweto Uprising. The space is also a moving memorial to Hector Pieterson and all the schoolchildren slain by police during the peaceful protest. While there, museum guides—who include Hector’s sister—are available to answer questions and offer insights.

Mandela House

Step into what was once Nelson Mandela’s home and immerse yourself in his life and that of his family. Mandela and his wife, Winnie, lived here at the time of his arrest, and the space provides context and a fuller understanding of Apartheid. You’ll be able to read through exhibits that chronicle Mandela’s life and excerpts from his autobiography, “A Long Walk to Freedom.” The museum is small but packed with history, so allow for an hour or two.

Apartheid Museum

Offering a comprehensive look at the rise and fall of Apartheid, this museum is an essential visit to better understand a turbulent chapter of South Africa’s history. You’ll take a thought-provoking journey spanning the introduction of Apartheid in 1948 to its abolishment in 1991 through a dramatic collection of photos, videos, and artifacts. The interior design reflects this darkness-to-light narrative—as you move through the museum, its interior grows progressively brighter. Guided tours may be arranged in advance of your visit.

Victoria Yards

Enjoy food, drink, and live music while visiting local artisan studios in this vibrant community hub that was formerly an industrial complex. Lush gardens are an integral part of this inner-city space—you can learn more about the gardens and urban farming through one of several daily free guided tours. There is even a gin distillery on the grounds!

Journey with us to this country’s legislative capital in our Cape Town, South Africa City Guide.