Top 16 Tours & Things To Do In Johannesburg

Johannesburg is a city that buzzes with stories, contrasts, and vibrant neighborhoods. It’s a place where history and modern life collide in fascinating ways, making it a perfect destination for diverse tours and activities.

Whether you’re interested in walking through Soweto’s streets, learning about apartheid at museums, or spotting Africa’s Big 5 on safari, Johannesburg offers something for every traveler.

I personally love the Soweto /Johannesburg and Apartheid Museum Guided Full Day Tour because it combines history, culture, and local life in one day — plus, it has excellent reviews and a small-group experience.

If you want a broad overview, the Johannesburg Hop-On Hop-Off Bus offers a convenient way to explore major sites at your own pace, including Constitution Hill and the iconic Nelson Mandela Square.

For wildlife lovers, the Pilanesberg Game Safari provides a chance to see the Big 5 just a few hours from the city. Whatever your interests, this list of the 16 best tours and activities will help you make the most of your visit.

1. Soweto /Johannesburg and Apartheid Museum Guided Full Day Tour

Get to know Johannesburg’s highlights on this full-day tour that covers Soweto, Constitution Hill, and the Apartheid Museum. Combining history, culture, and local flavor, it’s perfect for first-time visitors. The tour includes visits to Nelson Mandela House, Hector Pieterson Museum, and Freedom Square, offering a comprehensive look at South Africa’s past and present.

Led by a knowledgeable guide, the group size is limited to 15, ensuring a more personalized experience. The tour also features round-trip hotel pickup and air-conditioned transportation, making logistics easy.

Guests consistently praise the tour for its informative narration and engaging stops, with reviews highlighting its depth and friendliness. If you want a well-rounded introduction to Johannesburg and Soweto, this is a top pick.

Bottom Line: An ideal choice if you want a deep, guided immersion into Johannesburg’s history with excellent reviews and a small-group feel.

2. From Johannesburg: Pilanesberg Nature Reserve Game Safari

For around $158, the Pilanesberg Safari offers a full-day adventure to see Africa’s Big 5 in their natural habitat. Join a ranger in an open vehicle and explore the ecologically diverse reserve, which features the dry Kalahari and lush Lowveld vegetation. This safari provides excellent opportunities for wildlife sightings, including lions, giraffes, cheetahs, hippos, and crocodiles.

Bird enthusiasts will enjoy spotting fish eagles and kingfishers circling the water. The tour includes a delicious lunch overlooking a waterhole, making it a relaxing break in the wilderness.

Guests rave about the experience, noting the guide’s insights and the chance to see animals up close, all within a manageable drive from Johannesburg.

Bottom Line: Perfect for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts wanting a full day of Big 5 spotting without leaving the city area.

3. Early Morning Balloon Safari with Breakfast from Magaliesburg

This hot air balloon safari offers breathtaking aerial views of the Magaliesbergs and the Cradle of Humankind. The hour-long flight provides a peaceful, bird’s-eye perspective on striking landscapes, which is a unique experience compared to ground tours.

The tour includes a post-flight breakfast and a certificate of flight — a great keepsake. The guide provides live commentary on the scenery, adding context to the views.

Reviews highlight the surreal feeling of drifting over the hills and the quality of the breakfast afterward, making it ideal for those seeking a memorable, scenic adventure.

Bottom Line: A fantastic choice for travelers wanting a once-in-a-lifetime view of South Africa’s landscape, combined with a gourmet breakfast.

4. Full-Day Soweto, Apartheid Museum and Lunch Tour

This full-day Soweto and Johannesburg tour dives into South Africa’s complex past. Starting with the Apartheid Museum, it explores the country’s struggles and triumphs. The tour visits Soweto’s most famous sites, including Nelson Mandela House and Hector Pieterson Museum, and ends with a buffet lunch of local dishes.

The small-group format and expert guides ensure an engaging experience. Many reviews praise the tour for its educational value and personal touch.

It’s especially good if you want an immersive history lesson coupled with authentic local cuisine, all within a manageable day.

Bottom Line: Well-suited for history buffs and anyone wanting a deeper understanding of Soweto’s pivotal role in South Africa’s liberation.

5. Soweto: Walking Tour with a Local Guide and Lunch

For those who prefer a more intimate experience, this walking tour offers a personal look into Soweto’s streets and stories. Led by a native Sowetan, you’ll explore Nelson Mandela’s neighborhood, Hector Pieterson’s memorial, and the vibrant Vilakazi Street. The tour includes tastings of local cuisine, like the famous kota sandwich, and visits to iconic landmarks.

Guests love the authentic atmosphere and the chance to meet locals, with reviews praising the guide’s knowledge and friendliness. It’s perfect for travelers who want to get a true feel for Soweto’s daily life and history.

Bottom Line: An immersive, friendly introduction ideal for those wanting to walk and talk through Soweto’s neighborhoods.

6. Half Guided Day Tour of Soweto And Apartheid Museum

This half-day tour packs a lot into four to five hours. Starting with the Apartheid Museum, it then moves to Soweto for a walking tour of Nelson Mandela’s house and Hector Pieterson’s memorial. With a small group and expert guide, it’s a great option for travelers short on time but eager to cover the major sites. Guests praise the guide’s storytelling and the tour’s educational depth.

It’s a good balance of history and culture, especially if you want to maximize your time and still get a meaningful experience.

Bottom Line: Ideal for those with limited time who still want to understand Soweto’s and South Africa’s history.

7. Ultimate Johannesburg Soweto Experience with Apartheid Museum

This full-day tour is designed for travelers wanting a comprehensive look. Led by a Soweto-born guide, it covers the township’s vibrant streets and key landmarks, including Nelson Mandela’s former home, the Carlton Centre, and Constitution Hill.

The itinerary also includes a visit to the Apartheid Museum for a detailed history lesson. Many reviewers emphasize the guide’s personal insights and local knowledge.

It’s best suited for those wanting an in-depth, personalized experience that combines history, culture, and city sights.

Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers who want a deep dive into Soweto and Johannesburg with a local guide.

8. Soweto Walking Tour with Lunch

This walking tour covers Soweto’s core in four hours. It starts at the Hector Pieterson Museum, then walks through streets where the 1976 student uprising was organized. You’ll visit Mandela’s house and Tutu’s home, and finish with a traditional kota sandwich at Orlando Towers.

The guide is local, knowledgeable, and engaging, and reviews highlight how well the tour captures Soweto’s history. It’s suited for travelers who prefer walking and storytelling and want a meaningful, cultural experience.

Bottom Line: Excellent for those who want to walk, learn, and taste local cuisine in Soweto.

9. Johannesburg: Hop-On Hop-Off Bus with Optional Soweto Tour

The hop-on hop-off bus is a flexible way to see Johannesburg’s main sights at your own pace. With audio commentary in 8 languages, you can explore sites like Constitution Hill, Nelson Mandela Square, and the Apartheid Museum. It includes the option to visit Soweto, making this tour great for travelers who want a mix of convenience and independence.

Many reviews praise its affordability and ease of use, especially for first-timers. It’s perfect if you prefer self-directed exploration over guided tours.

Bottom Line: Best suited for budget-conscious travelers who want a flexible, easy way to see Johannesburg.

10. Half Day Lion Park tour from Johannesburg or Pretoria

This Lion Park tour offers a quick escape into wildlife. It includes round-trip transport and a two-hour safari to see lions, including the rare white lion, as well as wild dogs, hyenas, and cheetahs. The park is a controlled environment, but many reviews note that the animals seem well-cared-for.

It’s great for families or those wanting a brief wildlife encounter in the morning or afternoon. The tour’s focus on animal education makes it both fun and informative.

Bottom Line: An efficient, family-friendly option to see predators and big cats close to Johannesburg.

11. Johannesburg and Soweto: Half Day Tour

This half-day combines city sights with Soweto’s streets. It’s a quick but thorough introduction, including Mandela’s House, Hector Pieterson, and the city’s skyline. It’s ideal for travelers with limited time who want a snapshot of Johannesburg’s story, guided by an engaging local. Guests note the tour’s smooth logistics and insightful commentary.

Bottom Line: Perfect for a quick overview that hits the main sites and stories.

12. Soweto and Johannesburg Exclusive Full Day Guided Tour

This full-day private tour provides an in-depth, personalized experience of both Soweto and Johannesburg. Led by a guide who knows the area intimately, it visits Nelson Mandela Square, Houghton Estate, Constitution Hill, and more. The private format makes it ideal for families or groups wanting customized attention.

Many reviews highlight the professionalism and local knowledge of guides, making it a top choice for travelers seeking an immersive, flexible day.

Bottom Line: Best for those who want a tailored, in-depth experience with a private guide.

13. Jo’berg in 1 Day: Soweto, Apartheid Museum & City Tour

This comprehensive tour packs Johannesburg’s main sights into one day. Starting with the Hector Pieterson Museum, it continues to Vilakazi Street, the Apartheid Museum, and Constitution Hill. The guided experience covers South Africa’s key moments, making it perfect for travelers short on time but eager to learn.

Reviews mention the knowledgeable guide and well-paced itinerary, ensuring you get a meaningful overview without feeling rushed.

Bottom Line: Ideal for eager travelers wanting a full, educational day of Johannesburg and Soweto highlights.

14. Johannesburg Hop-On Hop-Off City Tour with Soweto Option

This hop-on hop-off tour is a flexible way to see Johannesburg’s top sites, including the Nelson Mandela Foundation, Constitution Hill, and the Soweto small group tour pick-up point. The open-top bus allows you to explore at your pace, hopping off or staying on as you wish.

The audio commentary in multiple languages and the option to visit Soweto make it an accessible choice. Many reviews praise the affordability and convenience, especially for those who want to craft their own itinerary.

Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers wanting flexibility and a budget-friendly way to explore.

15. Johannesburg: Full-Day Tour with Soweto and Apartheid Museum

This full-day tour offers a guided overview of Johannesburg’s history and Soweto’s streets. It includes visits to key sites like Nelson Mandela’s house, the Apartheid Museum, and Constitution Hill.

The tour balances city sights with historical insights, suitable for travelers who want a broader understanding of South Africa’s journey. Reviewers mention enthusiastic guides and well-organized logistics, making it a reliable choice.

Bottom Line: For those seeking a comprehensive day combining city and township history.

16. Guided Bicycle Tour of Soweto with Lunch

For active travelers, this bicycle tour explores Soweto on two wheels. Covering about 15 kilometers, it takes you past Vilakazi Street, Lillian Mgoyi’s home, and Hector Pieterson’s memorial. The tour includes a traditional kota sandwich lunch, giving a taste of local flavors.

Many reviews highlight the guide’s support and the fun, energetic way to see Soweto’s neighborhoods. It’s ideal for people comfortable on a bike and wanting an engaging, outdoor experience.

Bottom Line: Great for active travelers eager to explore Soweto on a bike with an authentic local feel.

How to Choose the Best Tour in Johannesburg

When deciding which tour suits your trip, consider your budget, interests, and time constraints. If you want a deep dive into South Africa’s history, the Soweto /Johannesburg and Apartheid Museum Guided Full Day Tour or the Ultimate Soweto Experience will give you rich context and personal stories.

For wildlife lovers, the Pilanesberg Safari offers a chance to see animals in their habitat with a manageable trip out of the city.

Those on a tight schedule may prefer the Half Guided Soweto and Apartheid Museum tour or the Johannesburg city hop-on hop-off, which allow flexibility and self-paced exploration. For active travelers, the Guided Bicycle Tour provides a lively way to experience Soweto’s streets.

Booking early is advisable, especially for popular activities like the balloon safari or private tours. Consider the weather when planning outdoor activities, and match your choice to your fitness level, interests, and how much time you want to spend on each experience.

Johannesburg offers a wealth of tours and activities that can match any travel style — whether you’re after historical insights, wildlife encounters, or culture. From the engaging stories at Soweto to the scenic heights of a balloon safari, there’s no shortage of meaningful ways to explore this dynamic city.

For a truly memorable trip, pick a few options that suit your interests and book early. Your adventure in Johannesburg awaits.