Johannesburg’s bike tours offer a unique way to experience the city’s rich history and diverse culture.
Our favorite options include the Soweto tour, which combines biking with insights into the area’s apartheid-era struggles, and the inner-city excursion, showcasing urban renewal and vibrant street art.
For nature lovers, the Cradle of Humankind tour is a must, blending cycling with ancient history.
These tours provide an intimate look at Johannesburg’s past and present, allowing visitors to cover more ground than on foot while still engaging with local communities.
Check out our top picks for the best bike tours in Johannesburg below.
Top Tours
- Soweto Exploration Tours offer a personalized cycling experience to iconic landmarks like Vilakazi Street and Mandela House, with inclusive features like transportation, museum fees, and lunch.
- Johannesburg Inner City Tours provide half-day or full-day bike or tuk-tuk tours, offering a small-group exploration of the city’s transformation, with cost of $79.35 per person.
- Cradle of Humankind Cycling provides a private cycling excursion in a renowned game reserve, featuring a high-quality Trek cycle and air-conditioned vehicle with WiFi.
- East City Cycle Tour is a guided bike ride through neighborhoods like Doornfontein and Maboneng, offering a full-day tour with bike and helmet rental, and complimentary lunch.
- Johannesburg Guided Bike Tour covers approximately 10km, showcasing the city’s history and culture, with a duration of 2-3.5 hours and minimal elevation, suitable for various fitness levels.
Soweto by – Bike, Walking or E-scooter
Set out on a captivating exploration of Soweto with the flexibility to choose your preferred mode of transportation – bike, walking, or e-scooter.
This tour offers a rundown of the historically significant sights, including Vilakazi Street, FNB Stadium, Mandela House, and Hector Pieterson Museum and Memorial. Experience the local history, development, and future prospects of Soweto and South Africa through the eyes of a knowledgeable guide.
The tour includes a visit to key attractions like Mandela House, where you’ll learn about Nobel Peace Prize winners from Soweto. Gain insights into the local food and nightlife, including Meadowlands East Zone 4.
The experience is inclusive of bottled water, bicycle or e-scooter use, local guide, private transportation, museum entrance fees, and lunch.
With a maximum of 10 travelers per tour and pickup points available, this tour provides a personalized and flexible experience.
However, it’s important to note that the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers or those with serious medical conditions.
Read our full review: Soweto by – Bike, Walking or E-scooter Review
Book now: Check availability
Full Day Or Half Day Johannesburg Inner City Bike or Tuk Tuk Tour
Explore Johannesburg’s vibrant inner city on a full-day or half-day bike or tuk-tuk tour. This highly-rated experience, recommended by 100% of travelers, offers a unique way to discover the city.
For $79.35 per person, you’ll enjoy bike rentals, bottled water, coffee/tea, private transportation, and lunch.
The tour departs from the Living Room Jozi in the Main Change Building, with an important note to meet on the ground floor to avoid confusion.
The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and isn’t recommended for those with back problems, pregnant travelers, or those with serious medical conditions, as a moderate fitness level is required.
While free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour, you can also reserve now and pay later.
With a maximum group size of 30 travelers, this small-group experience provides an intimate way to explore the city by bike or tuk-tuk.
Read our full review: Full Day Or Half Day Johannesburg Inner City Bike or Tuk Tuk Tour Review
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Cycling The Cradle of Humankind in Game Reserve
A private cycling excursion in the Cradle of Humankind, just outside Johannesburg, offers a unique opportunity to explore this renowned game reserve.
Tailored to individual fitness levels and preferences, the tour provides a 100% traveler recommendation rate and a Badge of Excellence. Participants can enjoy game viewing while cycling, with the potential to spot giraffes and zebras along the way.
The tour includes a quality Trek cycle with front suspension and disc brakes, as well as an air-conditioned vehicle with free Wi-Fi access. Refreshments, including water, coffee/tea, and a provided lunch, ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience.
The tour also covers the necessary fees, such as the Game Reserve Concession and Cycling Pass.
With flexible pickup locations and an 8:00 AM start time, the tour can be easily accommodated. While not wheelchair accessible, the experience is suitable for most travelers, ensuring a safe and memorable adventure.
Positive reviews highlight the relaxed rides, excellent bike quality, knowledgeable guides, and enjoyable trails.
Read our full review: Cycling The Cradle of Humankind in Game Reserve Review
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East City Cycle Tour
While the private cycling excursion in the Cradle of Humankind offers a unique game reserve experience, the East City Cycle Tour provides a different perspective on Johannesburg’s vibrant neighborhoods.
This guided bike ride takes you through Doornfontein, Jeppestown, Troyeville, Maboneng, and Victoria Yards, showcasing an eclectic mix of artwork, architecture, and urban complexes.
The tour lasts a full day and can accommodate up to 10 travelers. It’s led by knowledgeable guides and includes bicycle and helmet rental, as well as a complimentary lunch.
The starting and ending point is CURIOCITY Backpackers Johannesburg, located in the Maboneng district.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and isn’t recommended for those with certain medical conditions, it does require a moderate level of fitness.
With an overall rating of 4.5/5 based on 3 reviews, the East City Cycle Tour offers a unique and immersive way to explore the diverse neighborhoods of Johannesburg.
Read our full review: East City Cycle Tour Review
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Private Apartheid Museum and Soweto Cycling
For those seeking a deeper dive into Johannesburg’s complex history, the Private Apartheid Museum Tour provides an intimate, guided experience through this poignant institution.
Although the tour includes private transportation and admission, customer reviews indicate it may not provide the best value.
The self-guided tour allows you to explore the museum’s 22 exhibition areas at your own pace. Transportation and surfaces are wheelchair and stroller accessible, making it suitable for most travelers.
However, the tour has a disappointing 2.5-star rating, with no 5-star or 4-star reviews. Reviewers cite issues such as an unengaged guide, late arrivals, and a feeling that the cost didn’t justify the experience.
Given the mixed feedback, you may want to consider alternative options, such as using Uber or hotel taxis for transportation to the museum. This could provide a more cost-effective and potentially better-quality experience for exploring this important historical site.
Read our full review: Private Apartheid Museum and Soweto Cycling Review
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Soweto: Bike Tour With a Local Tour Guide
If you’re eager to explore the vibrant township of Soweto, the Soweto Bike Tour with a Local Guide offers an immersive and eco-friendly way to experience the area.
With free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance and the option to pay later, this tour provides the flexibility to accommodate your travel plans. The tour lasts between 2 to 4 hours and is led by a knowledgeable live guide who offers services in English.
The small group size, limited to 10 participants, ensures a more intimate experience. Reviews from previous travelers praise the tour and guide, noting the bike quality as “good enough.”
The guide, Pule, receives specific commendation for his historical explanations. The tour highlights include visiting the Hector Peterson memorial, cycling along the famous Vilakazi Street, and interacting with locals to understand their daily lives.
Explore the homes of notable figures like Nelson Mandela and Archbishop Desmond Tutu, while supporting local small businesses through this eco-friendly cycling experience.
Read our full review: Soweto: Bike Tour With a Local Tour Guide Review
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Johannesburg: East City Cycle Tour
Eager to witness the urban developments transforming Johannesburg’s east-side districts? Look no further than the Johannesburg: East City Cycle Tour. This 2-hour cycling exploration unveils the city’s history, art, and culture, led by a knowledgeable live guide.
You’ll cycle through iconic areas like Jeppestown, rich in historical significance, and the Maboneng Precinct, showcasing urban regeneration and creative energy.
Stop at Doornfontein and Victoria Yards to see community-driven urban development, before concluding in Troyeville, another area shaped by the gold rush.
Along the way, you’ll encounter vibrant local art and community spaces.
With flexible booking and free cancellation up to 24 hours prior, this tour offers a unique perspective on Johannesburg’s evolving cityscape.
Just be sure to have basic cycling skills for a safe and enjoyable experience.
Don’t miss the chance to explore Johannesburg’s east side by bike and learn about the city’s cultural tapestry.
Read our full review: Johannesburg: East City Cycle Tour Review
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Johannesburg: Guided Bike Tour of the City
Enjoy Johannesburg’s dynamic cityscape with the Johannesburg: Guided Bike Tour of the City. This 2-3.5 hour tour covers approximately 10km with minimal elevation, allowing you to explore Bertrams, Ellis Park Stadium, Maboneng, Braamfontein, and Newtown at an enjoyable pace.
The tour is child-friendly and suitable for all fitness levels, providing historical insights into the city’s transformation since the 1990s. You can reserve your spot with no upfront payment, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours prior.
The meeting point is at Biking Bandits in Braamfontein, and you’ll be provided with bikes and helmets for a comfortable, safety-focused ride. The guided exploration features unique storytelling by the host, allowing you to discover key areas like Marshalltown, Jewel City, and Victoria Yards.
With an overall rating of 4.3/5 from participants, this tour promises an unforgettable experience of Johannesburg’s vibrant inner city.
Read our full review: Johannesburg: Guided Bike Tour of the City Review
Book now: Check availability
Common Questions
What Is the Best Time of Year to Take a Bike Tour?
The best time to take a bike tour is when the weather’s mild and dry, typically in spring or fall. You’ll enjoy comfortable temperatures and pleasant conditions for exploring on two wheels.
Can I Bring My Own Bike or Is One Provided?
You can typically bring your own bike, though many tour companies provide bikes for you. Check with the specific tour company to see if they offer bike rentals or if you need to bring your own.
How Challenging Are the Bike Tours Physically?
The bike tours can vary in physical challenge, from leisurely rides to more demanding routes. You’ll want to consider your fitness level and choose a tour that aligns with your abilities.
Are the Tours Suitable for Families With Children?
The bike tours are generally suitable for families with children, as many offer routes tailored for various skill levels. However, you’ll want to confirm the age/fitness requirements to ensure it’s a good fit for your family.
What Safety Precautions Are in Place During the Bike Tours?
The bike tours typically have safety measures like helmets, bike maintenance checks, and guides to monitor the group. You’ll receive a safety briefing before the tour to ensure your comfort and well-being throughout the experience.
Sum Up
Johannesburg offers a diverse range of bike tour options, catering to different interests and preferences. From exploring the historic Soweto township to cycling through the scenic Cradle of Humankind, these tours provide an immersive way to discover the city’s vibrant culture and rich history. Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or a casual explorer, you’ll find a bike tour that suits your needs and enhances your Johannesburg experience.