Day trips to Soweto

Arguably one of the most politically famous townships in South Africa, Soweto was the centre of resistance from the mid-70s during the apartheid era. It has been home to Nelson Mandela and Archbishop Desmond Tutu. The city is characterised by a vibrant African culture that has, in recent years, become as famous to explore as its historical landmarks. Situated 15 minutes from Johannesburg, Soweto (South Western Township) is a growing destination for tourists wanting to experience township life.

To start, the Hector Pieterson Memorial and Museum is the most popular choice. It is close to the site where 12-year-old Hector Pieterson was shot and died during the Soweto protest of 16 June, 1976. The museum is dedicated to the freedom struggle during apartheid, and has a number of displays that include footage from the 1980 uprisings, and a Casper vehicle, which help to recreate the experience of living under apartheid. The museum charges R25 per adult and R5 for students.

Situated very close to the Hector Pieterson Memorial is the Regina Mundi church and the Mandela Family Museum. Regina Mundi is the largest Catholic church in Soweto and is most famous for doubling as a safe house for political activists during apartheid. Outside is a well-maintained park, a good place for a picnic if you come prepared. Access to Regina Mundi is free to all visitors.

Visit Nelson Mandela’s former house on Vilakazi Street, where Mandela lived after his release from prison in 1990. Now called the Mandela Family Museum, the house was the last location for the famous political activist during apartheid. There is a small collection of memorabilia inside – entrance fee R60.

The most famous restaurant in Soweto is Wandies Place. It initially started as a shebeen (illegal drinking place) in 1981, where the owner Wandi Ndaba also gained quite a reputation for the food he sold to locals. Today, the restaurant hosts an average 100 visitors a day, and serves mostly traditional local cuisine as a buffet.  Make sure you book.

Another interesting destination is Orlando Towers. Once the cooling towers of the largest municipal power station in the southern hemisphere, it has become one of the most popular attractions for adrenaline junkies in Soweto. It boasts bungee jumping (R480), abseiling (R360) and power swing (R260), but you can also don a harness and take a ride to the viewing platform at the top (R60) and take in the great view of Soweto.

Something noticeable from a distance in Soweto is the extraordinary FNB Stadium. Shaped like a calabash (an African gourd), the giant stadium was built for the 2010 Fifa World Cup™ and, with an almost 90 000 capacity, is the largest stadium in Africa. Tours are R80 pp.

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