Walking tours offer the smartest way to experience Johannesburg’s most compelling sights. The top routes focus on two key areas: historic Soweto and the rejuvenated city center.
In Soweto, you’ll walk past the essential stops – the Hector Pieterson Memorial and Mandela’s former home – while local guides share authentic insights about apartheid history and township life.
Downtown tours through Newtown and Maboneng showcase the city’s artistic revival, with stops at the iconic Ponte Building and vibrant street art scenes.
Our favorite tours combine skip-the-line access to major sites with opportunities to sample local foods and meet residents.
The flexibility to choose between walking, cycling, or e-scooter options makes these tours accessible for different comfort levels.
Let’s look at Johannesburg’s most rewarding walking tours.
Good To Know
- Soweto Walking Tour with Lunch offers a 99% traveler recommendation and includes a local “Kota” burger and bottled water.
- Soweto by Bike, Walking or E-scooter tours provide an opportunity to explore Soweto’s history and culture, with stops at key highlights and lunch.
- Innercity Walking Tour in Central Johannesburg offers a guided exploration of the city’s true character, with skip-the-line access to landmarks and inclusive of fees, taxes, lunch, and refreshments.
- Johannesburg City Walking Tour boasts a 99% recommendation rate and provides water and lunch, with a maximum of 10 travelers for a personalized experience.
- Johannesburg: Walking Tour of Hillbrow with Lunch ends atop the Ponte City with a classic Hillbrow street fare lunch of pap and chicken, with a 100% recommendation rate.
Soweto Walking Tour With Lunch
If you’re seeking an immersive and engaging way to explore the vibrant Soweto township, the Soweto Walking Tour with Lunch is an excellent choice. With a 99% traveler recommendation and a Badge of Excellence, this tour provides a comprehensive look at the history and culture of this iconic area.
You’ll enjoy a local “Kota” burger for lunch and bottled water, all while being led by a knowledgeable and friendly guide. The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but stroller accessible and near public transportation. With a maximum of 100 travelers, you can expect an intimate and personalized experience. And with free cancellation up to 24 hours before, you can book with confidence.
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Soweto by – Bike, Walking or E-scooter
Exploring Soweto can be experienced in various ways – by bike, on foot, or even by electric scooter. Honest Travel Experience offers these tour options, allowing you to discover the vibrant neighborhood at your preferred pace.
Regardless of your choice, you’ll be accompanied by a local guide who’ll share insights into Soweto’s rich history and culture. The tour includes stops at key highlights, with museum entrance fees and a delicious lunch covered.
Logistics are well-handled, with pickup points available and a maximum of 10 travelers per tour. Whether you prefer a relaxed stroll, an invigorating bike ride, or a fun e-scooter adventure, Soweto has a lot to offer.
Read our full review: Soweto by – Bike, Walking or E-scooter Review
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Innercity Walking Tour
The Innercity Walking Tour offers a unique opportunity to explore Johannesburg’s true character. Guided by locals, you’ll get off the beaten path and see the city through a different lens.
You’ll travel on foot, learning to navigate the public transportation system and gaining skip-the-line access to landmarks. Along the way, you’ll enjoy in-depth commentary and a focus on the city’s culture and history, unlike typical tours.
The tour includes all fees, taxes, lunch, and refreshments, ensuring a hassle-free experience. With a maximum of 20 travelers and a moderate fitness level required, this tour is perfect for those seeking an authentic and immersive Johannesburg adventure.
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Johannesburg Down Town Walking Tour – Maboneng to Newtown
This Johannesburg Downtown Walking Tour offers an immersive journey through the diverse neighborhoods of Maboneng and Newtown. You’ll explore the Ponte Building, a renowned landmark, with entrance included.
The tour lasts around 9 hours and includes bottled water, lunch, and private transportation. With a maximum group size of 20, you’ll enjoy a personalized experience. The tour’s accessibility features make it suitable for wheelchair users, stroller users, and those with service animals.
You can cancel up to 24 hours prior with no charge. At just $51.89, this walking tour provides an excellent value for discovering Johannesburg’s vibrant downtown.
Read our full review: Johannesburg Down Town Walking Tour – Maboneng to Newtown Review
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Johannesburg City Walking Tour
Enjoy the vibrant heart of Johannesburg on this captivating city walking tour. With 78 glowing reviews and a 99% recommendation rate, you’re in for an enriching experience. Stroll through the city center, taking in the sights and gaining insights into the local culture.
You’ll be provided with water, and the tour culminates with a delightful lunch, ensuring you’re energized throughout. Keep in mind the tour isn’t wheelchair-accessible, but strollers are allowed, and it’s near public transportation. With a maximum of 10 travelers, you’ll enjoy a personalized exploration.
Don’t miss this chance to discover Johannesburg’s rich history and modern vibrancy – secure your spot now with the Lowest Price Guarantee.
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JoburgPlaces Understanding Joburg Walking Tour
Discover the vibrant heart of Johannesburg on the JoburgPlaces Understanding Joburg Walking Tour. Recommended by 100% of travelers, this 13-review walking tour offers an insightful exploration of the city.
Led by an in-person guide, you’ll explore Johannesburg’s rich history and culture, starting from the convenient meeting point at 2 Pritchard St. The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, making it inclusive for all.
With a maximum of 20 travelers, you’ll enjoy a personalized experience. Confirmation is provided at booking, and you can cancel up to 24 hours before the start. Don’t miss this opportunity to uncover the essence of Johannesburg through this highly-rated walking tour.
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Johannesburgs Downtown Walking Tour
Explore the bustling heart of Johannesburg on the downtown walking tour, a highly-rated 94% experience offered by Honest Travel Experience. You’ll enjoy the convenience of air-conditioned transportation and a knowledgeable guide who’ll lead you through the city’s iconic landmarks.
Indulge in a delicious included lunch and stay hydrated with bottled water. This tour is accessible for wheelchair users and strollers, and conveniently located near public transportation. With a maximum of 30 travelers, you’ll have a personalized experience. No heart problems or serious medical conditions are required, making it enjoyable for most. You can even cancel up to 24 hours before with no charge, providing flexibility.
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Johannesburg: Walking Tour of Hillbrow With Lunch
Venture into the vibrant neighborhood of Hillbrow on this captivating walking tour. You’ll get an in-depth view into Johannesburg’s history and culture as you explore this iconic area.
The tour ends atop the Ponte City, where you’ll enjoy a classic Hillbrow street fare lunch of pap and chicken with a drink. With 115 glowing reviews and a 100% recommendation rate, this is a must-do experience.
The tour starts at 11 am, meeting at 1 Lily Ave in Berea. Just note it’s not wheelchair accessible and there are some health requirements. At just €43.20 per person, this tour offers excellent value with a lowest price guarantee and free cancellation up to 24 hours prior.
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Johannesburg Street Art & Museum Walking or E-scooter Tour
Embark on an immersive exploration of Johannesburg’s vibrant street art and captivating museums on this comprehensive tour. Recommended by 90% of travelers, this tour offers a unique opportunity to discover the city’s cultural riches.
You’ll enjoy private transportation, a brunch, and a guided experience visiting the Cell Care centre, Newtown Junction, and the Constitution Hill Human Rights Precinct. Suitable for all travelers, except those with back problems or heart conditions, the tour accommodates up to 25 participants and provides wheelchair and stroller accessibility.
Confirm your booking and get ready to learn about Johannesburg’s artistic and historical gems.
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JoburgPlaces Welcome Joburg Walking Tour
The JoburgPlaces Welcome Joburg Walking Tour invites you to discover the city’s beating heart, where historic landmarks and vibrant street life converge. This approximately 2-hour tour, limited to 15 travelers, offers a guided journey through the Gandhi Square Precinct and culminates at the Johannesburg Central Magistrates Court.
Along the way, you’ll enjoy storytelling by your knowledgeable guide and complimentary coffee or tea. While any additional food or drinks are at your own expense, the tour is accessible to wheelchair users, those with strollers, and service animals. With 3 positive reviews, this tour provides an immersive introduction to Johannesburg’s rich history and contemporary culture.
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Private Guided Walking Tour in Johannesburg
Explore Johannesburg’s vibrant heart on a Private Guided Walking Tour tailored to your interests. You’ll meet up at your accommodation or a convenient meeting point, then set off on a personalized adventure through the city.
Along the way, you can customize the tour and enjoy a drink or food if desired. Don’t worry about getting around – the tour includes local transportation. And with wheelchair and stroller accessibility, plus service animals allowed, everyone can join in the fun.
Secure your spot now, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start. This private tour ensures you and your group have an exclusive experience in Johannesburg.
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Joburgplaces East Town Is Alive Walking Tour
Discover the vibrant East Town with JoburgPlaces’ “East Town Is Alive” walking tour. You’ll explore this historical neighborhood with a knowledgeable guide, who’ll share insights into the area’s rich heritage. The tour includes snacks, but food and drinks along the way are at your own expense.
It starts from the JoburgPlaces Hub in Newtown and ends at the Bertrand Café, making it easy to get back. While not wheelchair accessible, the moderate fitness level required ensures an engaging experience. With a private tour, you’ll have the guide’s undivided attention as you learn about Johannesburg’s dynamic East Town.
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Half-Day Walking Tour in Soweto
Set out on a captivating half-day walking tour of Soweto, the vibrant and historically significant township on the outskirts of Johannesburg. Recommended by 100% of travelers, this tour offers a Badge of Excellence as you explore the neighborhood on foot.
Meet at the Soweto Hotel & Conference Centre, and end at the same location. The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, and service animals are welcome. Most travelers can participate, with a maximum of 60 people.
Enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience. Enjoy the rich culture and history of Soweto, and discover why this walking tour is a must-do activity in Johannesburg.
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Soweto: Walking Tour With a Local Guide and Lunch
Although a compact tour, this guided walking experience in Soweto offers an immersive glimpse into the vibrant culture and history of this iconic township. Over 4 hours, you’ll explore landmarks like the Hector Pieterson Memorial, Nelson Mandela’s house, and Vilakazi Street, accompanied by a native Sowetan guide.
Savor local cuisine during lunch and gain a deeper understanding of township life, from the Winnie Mandela House to the informal settlement of Nomzamo Park. With flexible booking and free cancellation, this tour is a versatile way to discover Soweto’s rich heritage. Just keep in mind it’s not suitable for wheelchair users.
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Johannesburg: Local Food Tasting Guided Walking Tour
For a deeper dive into Johannesburg’s vibrant food scene, join this 3-hour guided walking tour that’ll have you exploring the diverse culinary delights of neighborhoods like Yeoville and Maboneng. You’ll taste a variety of local and international foods, with the option to include African beer tasting.
The knowledgeable and adaptable guide will take you on a journey through these fascinating suburbs, providing insights into the flavors and cultures. With a range of meat and vegetarian options, this is an excellent opportunity to try an array of African cuisines.
Transportation to and from the meeting point is available, and the tour includes food samples and water.
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Johannesburg : City Centre Walking Tour
Enjoy the vibrant heart of Johannesburg with this captivating 3-hour walking tour. You’ll discover the city’s hidden gems, admire its striking architecture, and explore its storied history.
Visit iconic landmarks like Gandhi Square, Main Street, and Nelson Mandela Bridge, delving into Johannesburg’s gold mining past, political struggles, and thriving cultural scene. Your knowledgeable local guide will bring the city to life, sharing insights you won’t find in the guidebooks. Along the way, you’ll enjoy bottled water and have the chance to visit the Newtown neighborhood and the renowned Market Theatre.
With rave reviews praising the friendly guides and enriching experiences, this tour is a must for anyone wanting to truly understand the essence of Johannesburg.
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Johannesburg City Walking Excursion
Embark on an enriching 3.5-hour walking tour that unveils the vibrant essence of Johannesburg. You’ll explore the city’s largest metropolis, learning about its history and current conditions from a local guide.
Start at The Wing Republic, then discover landmarks like the Nelson Mandela Bridge, Mary Fitzgerald Square, and Gandhi Square. Tour the Chancellor House and Newtown, and ascend to the top of the iconic Carlton Centre.
Marvel at the captivating street art throughout Johannesburg’s Maboneng neighborhood. Along the way, you’ll enjoy a delicious local lunch and transportation during the tour. With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this walking adventure is a must for anyone seeking an authentic Johannesburg experience.
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Johannesburg: Maboneng Walking Tour
Dive into the vibrant Maboneng precinct, a hub of creativity in the heart of Johannesburg. On this 2-hour walking tour, you’ll discover the eastern side of the city, where “Maboneng” means “place of light” in Sotho.
Explore the Cosmopolitan, a stunning heritage building from 1899, and the Drivelines Development, an urban oasis made from upcycled shipping containers. Browse the Kwa Mai-Mai Traditional Healers Market, one of the oldest in the city, for traditional medicines and clothing. End at the Collectors Treasure, the largest second-hand bookstore in the southern hemisphere.
Along the way, learn about Doornfontein’s open-air museum and surrounding cultural hotspots. At just $40.96 per person, this tour offers an unbeatable value, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
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Johannesburg: Downtown Walking Tour Including Ponte Building
Shift your focus from the artistic energy of Maboneng to the architectural marvels of downtown Johannesburg on this captivating walking tour. You’ll skip the ticket line and enjoy the expertise of a live guide as you explore DlalaNje, the iconic Ponte City Apartments, and the Telkom Tower.
Over 2-3 hours, you’ll uncover the diversity and fascinating history of this neighborhood, hearing stories from the locals. The tour includes a pickup from Sandton or Hillbrow and a drop-off back in Sandton. With a safety briefing, guided tours, and an optional lunch, this is the perfect way to discover the heart of Johannesburg.
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Johannesburg: Walking Tour
This captivating 4-hour walking tour offers a comprehensive exploration of Johannesburg’s iconic landmarks and hidden gems. You’ll visit the vibrant Maboneng Precinct, browse the unique wares at Kwa Mai-Mai Traditional Market, and marvel at the panoramic views from the Carlton Centre.
Learn about Mahatma Gandhi’s legacy at Gandhi Square and discover the Collectors Treasury, the largest second-hand bookstore in the Southern hemisphere. Your knowledgeable local guide will bring the city’s rich history to life. Priced at just $49.04 per person, this tour is an excellent value and a must-do for anyone seeking to uncover the authentic heart of Johannesburg.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Are the Safety Precautions During the Walking Tours?
Stay vigilant, stick to designated routes, and heed your guide’s safety instructions. Avoid carrying valuables, and keep your belongings secure. Be aware of your surroundings, and don’t wander off the group. Following these precautions ensures a safe and enjoyable walking tour.
Are the Walking Tours Suitable for People With Mobility Issues?
The walking tours may not be suitable for those with mobility issues. Many routes involve uneven terrain and stairs, which could be challenging. However, some tour operators may offer modified tours or accommodations – it’s best to inquire before booking.
Can I Customize the Walking Tour Itinerary to My Preferences?
Yes, you can often customize the walking tour itinerary to your preferences. Many tour providers are happy to accommodate your needs and interests to ensure you have the best possible experience.
What Is the Cancellation Policy for the Walking Tours?
The cancellation policy typically allows you to cancel or reschedule your walking tour up to 24 hours in advance without penalty. Be sure to check the specific policy for the tour you’ve booked.
Are the Walking Tours Available in Languages Other Than English?
The walking tours are available in various languages besides English. You can inquire about the specific language options when booking your tour to ensure it meets your needs and preferences.
The Sum Up
Johannesburg has a wealth of fascinating walking tours that’ll let you explore its vibrant neighborhoods, rich history, and diverse culture. Whether you’re interested in Soweto’s township life, the city’s downtown revitalization, or the trendy Maboneng district, you’ll find a walking tour to suit your interests. So lace up your walking shoes and get ready to discover the best of Johannesburg on foot.