Walking tours in Johannesburg deliver South Africa’s most compelling urban stories. My favorite tours explore Soweto, where Nelson Mandela’s house and the Hector Pieterson Memorial powerfully showcase the anti-apartheid struggle. The artsy Maboneng district, with its brilliant murals and local galleries, gives a perfect slice of modern city life. Food tours through the city markets offer a tasty introduction to South African cuisine. Most tours run 2-4 hours with small groups, making them intimate and manageable. Let’s look at the best walking tours to experience Johannesburg’s vibrant spirit.
Key Points
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Soweto Walking Tour offers an immersive experience exploring historical anti-apartheid sites, including Mandela’s house and Hector Pieterson Memorial, with knowledgeable local guides.
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City Centre Walking Tour showcases Johannesburg’s vibrant heart, visiting landmarks like Mary Fitzgerald Square and Gandhi Square, and includes an authentic local lunch.
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Maboneng Street Art Tour provides an intimate exploration of the area’s vibrant murals and galleries, offering insights into the local artistic scene.
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Walk With Elephants Experience offers a private, hands-on encounter with elephants and monkeys in Pretoria, catering to wildlife enthusiasts.
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Johannesburg City Walking Excursion combines historical landmarks like Nelson Mandela Bridge and Gandhi Square with a local food tasting, providing a comprehensive cultural experience.
Soweto Walking Tour With Lunch
Why not start your Johannesburg adventure with the captivating Soweto Walking Tour with Lunch?
This half-day tour explores the heart of the anti-apartheid movement, offering a chance to visit Nelson Mandela’s house and the Hector Pieterson Memorial.
Led by local guides with personal experiences, the tour provides in-depth knowledge and authenticity.
You’ll sample a kota sandwich, a local burger, and enjoy bottled water.
With consistently high ratings, this tour is a must-do for anyone seeking to understand Soweto’s historical significance.
While not wheelchair accessible, the experience is stroller-friendly and easily accessible via public transport.
Book this tour to embark on an interactive journey that brings Johannesburg’s past to life.
Read our full review: Soweto Walking Tour With Lunch Review
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Soweto Walking Tour
The Soweto Walking Tour offers an immersive exploration of one of Johannesburg’s most vibrant and historically significant neighborhoods. Priced at $53.43 per person, this 4-hour tour provides a live English-speaking guide and is wheelchair accessible.
Highlights include educational experiences, cultural interactions, and opportunities for food and beer tasting. Visitors can expect to visit schools, homes, and local communities, as well as engage in activities like dancing.
While cash is required for various activities, the tour includes entrance fees and tips. With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now, pay later option, this tour offers flexibility and convenience for travelers.
Read our full review: Soweto Walking Tour Review
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Johannesburg City Centre Walking Tour With Lunch
This 4-hour Johannesburg City Centre Walking Tour with Lunch offers an immersive exploration of the vibrant heart of South Africa’s largest city.
Praised for its engaging guides and exceptional value, the tour boasts a near-perfect 99% recommendation rate from travelers.
Covering key landmarks like Mary Fitzgerald Square, Gandhi Square, and the Maboneng street art district, the tour provides a comprehensive understanding of Johannesburg’s rich history and culture.
Capping off the experience, participants enjoy an authentic local lunch, savoring traditional African dishes.
With a maximum of 10 travelers, the tour ensures a personalized and intimate experience.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned explorer, this walking tour is an ideal way to discover the essence of Johannesburg.
Read our full review: Johannesburg City Centre Walking Tour With Lunch Review
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Walk With Me ( Mandela’S Neighbour) Through Soweto Vilakazi
Set out on a captivating 3-hour walking tour through Soweto’s Vilakazi Street, guided by a certified local who was a neighbor of the late Nelson Mandela.
For $56.25 per person, you’ll visit iconic landmarks like Mandela House and Hector Peterson Museum, learning about the area’s rich history and cultural significance.
The tour is wheelchair accessible, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Bring your camera, sun hat, and sunscreen as you explore this remarkable neighborhood and gain insights into South Africa’s past struggles and triumphs.
Check availability and meeting point details on Google Maps.
Read our full review: Walk With Me ( Mandela’S Neighbour) Through Soweto Vilakazi Review
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Maboneng Street Art Walking Tour
In the heart of Johannesburg’s vibrant Maboneng precinct, travelers can enjoy a captivating street art walking tour. Recommended by 98% of visitors, this tour offers an intimate experience with a maximum of 10 participants.
Guided by knowledgeable and passionate experts, the tour takes guests on a journey to explore the neighborhood’s vibrant murals, galleries, and local stories. Travelers can learn about the artists’ inspirations and the significance of the street art, which has played a crucial role in transforming the once-dangerous area.
The tour is stroller-accessible but not wheelchair-friendly, and it’s priced at €35.42 per person with free cancellation up to 24 hours prior.
With consistently excellent reviews, this tour provides a unique cultural insight and an unforgettable exploration of Johannesburg’s thriving art scene.
Read our full review: Maboneng Street Art Walking Tour Review
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Johannesburg: Architectural Walking Tour
Interested in a unique perspective on Johannesburg’s evolution? Explore the city’s rich history through its architecture on this 2-hour walking tour.
Priced from €23.69 per person, the tour takes you to key sites like Mary Fitzgerald Square, Turbine Hall, and Gandhi Square, providing insight into the city’s development.
Led by a live English-speaking guide, the tour is interactive and informative, immersing you in local life.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, you can book now and pay later.
Note that the tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility issues or over 95 years old.
Read our full review: Johannesburg: Architectural Walking Tour Review
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Walk With Elephants Experience Plus Monkey Forest Walk
For those seeking a unique and immersive wildlife experience, the Walk With Elephants Experience plus Monkey Forest Walk offers an unforgettable opportunity to connect with these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.
Located in Pretoria, South Africa, this private tour provides hands-on interaction with elephants and monkeys, including feeding, brushing, and crossing swinging bridges. Rated 5.0 out of 20 reviews, the experience is highly recommended by travelers.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is suitable for most fitness levels, though pregnant individuals or those with certain medical conditions should exercise caution.
Pickup from your hotel and a lowest price guarantee make this wildlife adventure a must-do for nature enthusiasts visiting Johannesburg.
Read our full review: Walk With Elephants Experience Plus Monkey Forest Walk Review
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Soweto Street Food & Beer Walk
This 4-hour Soweto Street Food & Beer Walk takes visitors on a delectable journey through the vibrant heart of Johannesburg’s historic township.
Starting at Vilakazi Espresso, the tour offers a taste of local favorites like amagwinya (fat cakes) and kota (quarter loaves with fillings).
Guests will also visit the Hector Pieterson Museum, sample Soweto-born beer at local restaurants and bars, and explore the iconic Soweto Towers and Vilakazi Street.
With convenient hotel pickup and drop-off options, this tour provides an immersive cultural experience, including learning local greetings and etiquette.
Priced at Kč 869 per person, it’s a must-do activity for anyone seeking to discover the vibrant flavors and sights of Soweto.
Read our full review: Soweto Street Food & Beer Walk Review
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Johannesburg Street Art & Museum Walking or E-scooter Tour
Embarking on the Johannesburg Street Art & Museum Walking or E-scooter Tour, visitors enjoy the vibrant cultural tapestry of the city.
Recommended by 90% of travelers, this 4.5-star rated tour offers a unique blend of coffee/tea, brunch, and the use of Segways or e-scooters.
Exploring Johannesburg’s street art and museums, the tour departs from the Cell Care Centre and ends at the Constitution Hill Human Rights Precinct.
Accessible to wheelchair users and stroller-bound guests, the tour accommodates up to 25 travelers, making it an ideal choice for both individual and group experiences.
With free cancellation and the lowest price guarantee, this tour provides a hassle-free way to discover Johannesburg’s artistic and historical gems.
Read our full review: Johannesburg Street Art & Museum Walking or E-scooter Tour Review
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LocalPlaces Understanding Johannesburg Walking Tour
The LocalPlaces Understanding Johannesburg Walking Tour offers a comprehensive introduction to the city’s captivating history and vibrant urban landscape.
Priced at Kč 1,003 per person, this 4-hour tour explores Johannesburg’s iconic landmarks, including the JSE Newtown, Chancellor House, and Gandhi Square.
Participants can expect to learn about the city’s evolution from the pre-gold rush era to its contemporary regeneration, with a focus on significant historical figures like Mandela and Gandhi.
The tour is conducted in English and Zulu, and with a customer rating of 5/5, it’s a highly recommended way to discover Johannesburg’s rich cultural heritage.
Read our full review: LocalPlaces Understanding Johannesburg Walking Tour Review
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Innercity Walking Tour
Curiocity Backpackers’ Innercity Walking Tour offers an immersive exploration of Johannesburg’s lesser-known cultural and historical gems.
With a focus on authentic experiences, the tour takes travelers on a 40-review, 98% recommended journey through the city on foot. Priced at €47.26 per person, the tour includes skip-the-line access to landmarks, in-depth commentary, and a lunch and refreshment service.
Travelers praise the knowledgeable guides and the opportunity to discover unique local spots, particularly in the Maboneng neighborhood.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s conveniently located near public transportation and suitable for moderately fit individuals.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, the Innercity Walking Tour is an excellent way to experience Johannesburg’s vibrant culture and history.
Read our full review: Innercity Walking Tour Review
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Johannesburg Hidden Gems Walking Tours by (Blackcattourisum)
BlackCatTourism offers an immersive Johannesburg Hidden Gems Walking Tour that showcases the city’s vibrant street art, rich history, and local culture.
Priced at $47.81 per person, the 3.5-hour tour takes participants through the lively Maboneng and Marshalltown neighborhoods.
Highlights include Gandhi Square, the ABSA building, and the fascinating mining history of Marshalltown.
Guests can also opt for an additional stop at the Playground food market and music in Braamfontein.
With no group size limits and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this tour provides a unique and flexible way to discover Johannesburg’s hidden gems.
Read our full review: Johannesburg Hidden Gems Walking Tours by (Blackcattourisum) Review
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Johannesburg: Downtown Walking Tour Including Ponte Building
Frequently, travelers embark on Johannesburg’s Downtown Walking Tour, which includes a visit to the iconic Ponte building.
This tour boasts a perfect 5.0-star rating from 9 reviews and accommodates up to 20 participants. Highlights include private transportation, a delectable lunch, and complimentary bottled water.
Plus, visitors gain exclusive access to the Ponte building, a renowned architectural marvel. The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, and service animals are welcome.
Pickup is conveniently located at the Protea Hotel Fire & Ice in Melrose Arch. Priced at $51.62 per person, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve-now-pay-later option, making it an attractive choice for those exploring Johannesburg’s vibrant downtown.
Read our full review: Johannesburg: Downtown Walking Tour Including Ponte Building Review
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Johannesburg: Walking Custom Tour With a Local Guide
For travelers seeking a more personalized and immersive exploration of Johannesburg, the Walking Custom Tour with a Local Guide offers an attractive alternative to the popular Downtown Walking Tour.
Lasting 3 hours and priced from $73.88 per person, this private experience allows visitors to customize their itinerary and discover the city’s iconic landmarks and hidden gems at their own pace.
Led by a knowledgeable local guide, the tour includes stops at sites like Constitution Hill, Braamfontein, and the Maboneng Precinct, providing valuable historical insights and cultural context.
With flexibility, free cancellation, and convenient hotel pickup, this tour promises an enriching and memorable journey through Johannesburg’s diverse urban landscape.
Read our full review: Johannesburg: Walking Custom Tour With a Local Guide Review
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Bush Babies & Monkey Sanctuary and Elephants Walk Private
The Bush Babies & Monkey Sanctuary and Elephants Walk Private tour offers travelers a unique opportunity to encounter a variety of fascinating wildlife in Johannesburg.
With a 100% recommendation rate from 12 reviewers, this tour provides close-up experiences with monkeys, bush babies, and elephants, along with engaging educational talks on animal behavior.
Priced at $203.61 per person, the tour includes pickup and drop-off, a qualified guide, and all entrance fees.
Highlights include walking alongside elephants and observing monkeys in their natural habitat.
While visibility of the nocturnal bush babies may be limited, the overall experience is praised for its engaging guides and fun, memorable encounters with the animals.
Read our full review: Bush Babies & Monkey Sanctuary and Elephants Walk Private Review
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Johannesburg City Walking Excursion
Discover the heart of Johannesburg through the Johannesburg City Walking Excursion, a captivating 3.5-hour guided tour that immerses visitors in the city’s rich history and vibrant culture.
Priced at $33.75 per person, this walking tour explores iconic landmarks like the Nelson Mandela Bridge, Mary Fitzgerald Square, and Gandhi Square.
Highlights include a guided tour of Chancellor House and Newtown, as well as a visit to the Carlton Centre and the lively Maboneng neighborhood.
With transportation, a local lunch, and entry tickets included, this comprehensive experience offers an unparalleled opportunity to understand Johannesburg’s significance in South African history and its diverse demographic landscape.
Read our full review: Johannesburg City Walking Excursion Review
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Johannesburg: Local Food Tasting Guided Walking Tour
Johannesburg’s Local Food Tasting Guided Walking Tour invites visitors on a delectable journey through the city’s vibrant culinary landscape.
Priced from $53.15 per person, the 3-hour tour explores Yeoville or Maboneng, known for their diverse African cuisines. Participants can savor a variety of local and international dishes, including South African, Ghanaian, Nigerian, Cameroonian, Zimbabwean, and Congolese fare.
The tour also offers an optional African beer tasting. Highlights include visits to local street art, restaurants, and cultural spots, as well as a knowledgeable live guide available in English and French.
While the tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility impairments, it’s wheelchair accessible and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Read our full review: Johannesburg: Local Food Tasting Guided Walking Tour Review
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Walk With Elephants in Their Natural Environment
Although the Johannesburg area may be better known for its vibrant city life, a unique opportunity awaits visitors to walk alongside three majestic elephants in their natural habitat.
This 1-hour walking tour offers a limited group size of eight, ensuring minimal disturbance to the elephants. Participants will be provided with bottled water, tea/coffee, and a muffin, along with hotel pickup and drop-off.
The tour varies based on the elephants’ behavior, providing a one-of-a-kind experience each time. Priced from $179.84 per person, with a 5.0 overall rating, this tour is a must-try for nature enthusiasts visiting Johannesburg.
Comfortable walking shoes are required, and most travelers aged 10 and up can participate.
Read our full review: Walk With Elephants in Their Natural Environment Review
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Walking With Lions
Seeking a thrilling adventure beyond the city’s vibrant streets, visitors to Johannesburg can now walk alongside Africa’s majestic lions in their natural habitat.
This 6-hour experience offers a chance to observe the lions’ behavior and interaction up close. The tour includes transportation, refreshments, and a knowledgeable live guide who can provide insight in English and French.
Participants will visit the North West region, explore a Lion bush deck and dam, and enjoy a guided walk with the lions.
With free cancellation and a reserve now, pay later option, this immersive wildlife encounter is a must for those seeking an unforgettable adventure in Johannesburg.
Read our full review: Walking With Lions Review
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Soweto: Walking Tour With a Local Guide and Lunch
Explore the vibrant culture and rich history of Soweto on this 4-hour walking tour with a local guide. For $39.37, you’ll visit key landmarks like Mandela’s House, Tutu House, and the Soweto Towers.
Gain insights into the 1976 Soweto Uprising and taste traditional local cuisine on Vilakazi Street. With an overall rating of 4.9/5 from 290 reviews, this immersive experience is praised for its knowledgeable guides and valuable glimpse into Soweto’s diverse communities.
Just remember to wear comfortable shoes and bring cash, as the tour operates rain or shine. Wheelchair users should note this tour may not be suitable for their needs.
Read our full review: Soweto: Walking Tour With a Local Guide and Lunch Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is It Safe to Walk Around Johannesburg?
Johannesburg’s safety for walking can vary. Certain areas are generally safer for pedestrians, but caution is advised. Visitors should research neighborhoods, avoid walking alone at night, and follow local safety guidelines to minimize risks and enjoy the city’s sights.
What Should I Wear for the Walking Tours?
When going on walking tours, it’s best to wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes and light, breathable clothing. Dress in layers to account for changes in temperature, and bring sun protection like a hat and sunscreen. Staying practical and prepared will help ensure an enjoyable and safe experience.
Are the Walking Tours Suitable for Children?
The walking tours are generally suitable for children, though some may have age restrictions or be better suited for older kids. It’s best to check with the tour operator beforehand to ensure it’s appropriate for your family.
Can I Take Photos During the Walking Tours?
Yes, visitors can typically take photos during the walking tours. However, it’s important to respect any restrictions or guidelines provided by the tour company to avoid disrupting the experience for other participants.
How Do I Get to the Starting Point of the Tours?
Most walking tour operators provide clear directions on how to get to the starting point. Participants can typically reach the meeting spot by public transport, ride-sharing, or driving and parking nearby. Check the tour details for the specific instructions.
Recap
Johannesburg offers a diverse range of walking tours that cater to various interests. From exploring the vibrant Soweto township to discovering the city’s street art and local cuisine, these tours provide an immersive experience. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or nature, Johannesburg’s walking tours are sure to leave a lasting impression. With knowledgeable guides and unique perspectives, these tours are a great way to experience the city’s rich heritage and modern-day attractions.