Taking tours in Johannesburg cuts through the intimidating sprawl of South Africa’s largest city, making its fascinating story accessible and safe for visitors. The most rewarding options focus on three types of experiences: historical tours (Constitution Hill and Apartheid Museum), township exploration (especially Soweto), and downtown discovery (walking or cycling).
The best tours combine comfortable transit with local guides who know the neighborhoods intimately. I especially appreciate the hop-on-hop-off bus for first-time visitors – it’s an efficient way to get oriented. For a deeper cultural connection, small-group walking tours through Soweto stand out, where you’ll meet residents and taste local dishes.
Let’s look at my favorite Johannesburg tours and why they’re worth your time.
Key Points
- Johannesburg offers a diverse range of city tours, including half-day, full-day, and specialized experiences like cycling and hop-on hop-off tours.
- Tours provide round-trip transport, hotel pickup/drop-off, and accessibility features for travelers with mobility challenges.
- Cultural and historical tours immerse visitors in local culture, cuisine, and the city’s significant historical sites and museums.
- Tour prices range from $33.02 to $132.37, catering to various budgets, and offer flexible cancellation policies.
- Unique tour activities include a descent into a gold mine, thrilling rides, and opportunities to contribute to local charities.
Half Day Pretoria City Tour From Johannesburg or Pretoria
Why not explore Pretoria’s colonial history on a half-day city tour from Johannesburg or Pretoria?
This highly recommended tour, with a 96% satisfaction rating, takes you through the city’s key landmarks in an air-conditioned minivan.
You’ll visit the Paul Kruger House Museum, Voortrekker Monument, and the Union Buildings, all while receiving insightful commentary from a knowledgeable guide.
The tour includes round-trip transportation, hotel pickup and drop-off, and free onboard Wi-Fi.
While food and drinks aren’t included, the tour accommodates wheelchair users and most travelers.
However, some past participants have raised concerns about safety and limited access to certain attractions.
Read our full review: Half Day Pretoria City Tour From Johannesburg or Pretoria Review
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Johannesburg My Jozi City & Township Tour With Lunch
Johannesburg, known as the City of Gold, offers a captivating blend of history, culture, and modernity.
The “Johannesburg My Jozi City & Township Tour With Lunch” provides a comprehensive exploration of this vibrant city. The 7-hour tour takes visitors to key landmarks, including Constitution Hill, Soweto, and the Apartheid Museum, offering insights into South Africa’s past and present.
Guests will enjoy a buffet lunch of local African cuisine and have the opportunity to meet and greet locals, seeing the rich diversity of Johannesburg.
With free cancellation and a flexible payment option, this tour is a must-do for anyone seeking to experience the heart of the city.
Read our full review: Johannesburg My Jozi City & Township Tour With Lunch Review
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Johannesburg City Centre Walking Tour
The Johannesburg City Centre Walking Tour offers visitors a captivating exploration of the city’s vibrant heart.
With a 99% traveler recommendation and a Badge of Excellence, this tour is a must-do for first-time visitors.
Led by knowledgeable, flexible, and friendly guides, the tour covers sites rich in culture and history, including Mary Fitzgerald Square, the Workers Museum, and the Maboneng street art centre.
Travelers can engage in engaging discussions about the ongoing significance of these sites and enjoy an authentic local lunch experience at the end of the tour.
Safety is a top priority, with guides ensuring a secure and well-cared-for experience throughout.
Read our full review: Johannesburg City Centre Walking Tour Review
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Joberg in 1 Day: Soweto, Apartheid Museum & City Tour
For those seeking a comprehensive introduction to Johannesburg’s rich history and vibrant culture, the “Joberg in 1 Day: Soweto, Apartheid Museum & City Tour” offers an unparalleled experience.
Priced at $96.32 per person, this 8-hour tour includes hotel pickups and explores key landmarks like the Hector Pieterson Museum, Regina Mundi Church, and Vilakazi Street.
Visitors will also learn about South Africa’s apartheid history at the renowned Apartheid Museum and take a guided tour of Constitutional Hill.
With an overall rating of 4.7/5 based on 397 reviews, this tour promises an informative and engaging glimpse into Johannesburg’s past and present.
Plus, the tour operator donates R50 per booking to the Motsoaledi Day Care Centre, making it a socially conscious choice.
Read our full review: Joberg in 1 Day: Soweto, Apartheid Museum & City Tour Review
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Pretoria Capital City Tour Experience
Offering a comprehensive introduction to the political and cultural heart of South Africa, the Pretoria Capital City Tour Experience provides visitors an immersive exploration of the nation’s administrative capital.
This highly-recommended tour, backed by a Badge of Excellence, showcases key sights like the Voortrekker Monument and Paul Kruger House.
While the tour duration is relatively short at 2-3 hours, the experience is enhanced by knowledgeable guides who offer insightful historical and cultural commentary.
Though some attractions may show signs of limited maintenance, the tour’s overall value is reinforced by overwhelmingly positive traveler reviews praising the guides’ presentations.
For those seeking a concise introduction to Pretoria’s rich heritage, this tour offers an enriching experience.
Read our full review: Pretoria Capital City Tour Experience Review
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Johannesburg: City of Gold Walking Tour
Johannesburg: City of Gold Walking Tour offers visitors a comprehensive exploration of South Africa’s largest city. Priced from $48.43 per person, this 4-hour guided tour showcases famous attractions and hidden gems, including the Maboneng Precinct, Kwa Mai-Mai Traditional Market, and the 50-story Carlton Centre.
Highlights also include Gandhi Square and the Shadow Boxing statue of Nelson Mandela. The tour combines walking with safe public transport, allowing participants to experience the city fully.
Provided by expert local guides, the tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women or those with mobility issues. With an overall rating of 4.9/5, this tour provides a deeply immersive and engaging look at the city’s vibrant culture and history.
Read our full review: Johannesburg: City of Gold Walking Tour Review
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Johannesburg City Half Day Tour
Capturing the essence of Johannesburg, the Johannesburg City Half Day Tour provides a comprehensive exploration of the city’s highlights. Rated 4.6 out of 5 from 8 reviews, the private tour offers exceptional value at $89.32 per person and features key attractions like Constitutional Hill.
Travelers praise the knowledgeable, flexible, and professional guides who bring the city’s recent history and sights to life. The tour includes transportation, refreshments, and lunch, making it a convenient and immersive experience.
With pickup from various hotels, the tour is accessible for most visitors, including those with mobility challenges. The Johannesburg City Half Day Tour is an excellent choice for those seeking a concise yet impactful introduction to this vibrant and complex city.
Read our full review: Johannesburg City Half Day Tour Review
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Johannesburg: Private Guided City Tour With Apartheid Museum
For those seeking a more in-depth exploration of Johannesburg, the Private Guided City Tour with Apartheid Museum provides an immersive experience. Priced from €62.84 per person, this private tour offers flexibility with a pay-later option and free cancellation.
Highlights include a guided tour of the Constitution Hill Human Rights Precinct, sightseeing around the city, and an optional visit to the Apartheid Museum. The tour is accessible for wheelchair users and operates rain or shine.
Travelers praise the knowledgeable guides who provide personalized experiences and valuable insights. With convenient hotel pickups and drop-offs, this tour is an informative and well-rounded way to discover Johannesburg’s history and culture.
Read our full review: Johannesburg: Private Guided City Tour With Apartheid Museum Review
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Johannesburg: Guided Bike Tour of the City
Participants embark on a captivating 2 to 3.5-hour guided bike tour that covers approximately 10 kilometers of Johannesburg’s diverse neighborhoods.
At $52.29 per person, the tour provides excellent value, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Highlights include exploring street art in Braamfontein, visiting the home of jazz in Newtown, and learning about the city’s mining history in Marshalltown.
Riders will also meet local artists in Maboneng and see landmarks like Ellis Park Stadium.
The tour is child-friendly and includes an English-speaking guide, bike, helmet, water, entrance fees, and lunch.
With an overall rating of 4.3/5, the tour is a great way to experience Johannesburg on two wheels.
Read our full review: Johannesburg: Guided Bike Tour of the City Review
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Johannesburg City Walking Excursion
The Johannesburg City Walking Excursion offers a captivating 3.5-hour journey through the diverse neighborhoods of the city. Priced from $33.02 per person, the guided tour showcases the city’s rich history, culture, and current conditions.
Highlights include exploring the Nelson Mandela Bridge, Mary Fitzgerald Square, Chancellor House, Gandhi Square, and the vibrant Maboneng district. Participants will enjoy a local lunch, transportation, and entry tickets, while the tour proceeds regardless of weather conditions.
With an overall 5/5 rating based on 7 reviews, the excursion is praised for its knowledgeable guides and safe, interesting experiences, making it a must-do activity for those seeking to enjoy the heart of Johannesburg.
Read our full review: Johannesburg City Walking Excursion Review
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Johannesburg: Gold Reef City Guided Tour With Hotel Transfer
Priced from $95.22 per person, the Johannesburg: Gold Reef City Guided Tour with Hotel Transfer offers a captivating 5-hour experience that delves into the city’s rich mining history.
Guests are picked up from North West or Gauteng and transported to Gold Reef City, where they’ll descend into a real gold mine and learn about the region’s mining legacy.
The tour includes a 1.5-hour guided exploration, a 30-minute break, and an additional 1.5-hour guided tour.
Visitors can also enjoy the park’s thrilling rides and carnival games, as well as visit the Apartheid Museum and South African National Museum of Military History.
With live guides and hotel transfers, this tour offers a comprehensive and immersive look at Johannesburg’s history and attractions.
Read our full review: Johannesburg: Gold Reef City Guided Tour With Hotel Transfer Review
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Joburg/Soweto & Gold Reef City Full Day Tour
This comprehensive full-day tour offers an immersive exploration of Johannesburg and Soweto, culminating in an exhilarating visit to the renowned Gold Reef City Theme Park.
Priced at $132.37 per person, the 8-hour tour takes visitors through the city’s vibrant landscape, including Vilakazi Street, the Hector Pieterson Museum, and a guided surface mine tour.
Guests can enjoy over thirty rides at the Gold Reef City Theme Park, known for its thrilling attractions.
The tour includes round-trip transfers, entrance fees, bottled water, and lunch.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later, this tour provides a flexible and convenient way to discover the highlights of Johannesburg.
Read our full review: Joburg/Soweto & Gold Reef City Full Day Tour Review
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Johannesburg: Airport Transfer With City & Soweto Tour
Offering a seamless airport transfer and comprehensive exploration of Johannesburg’s highlights, this tour provides an exceptional introduction to the city.
Ideal for first-time visitors, the tour combines a private airport pickup with guided visits to the city center, Soweto, and the renowned Apartheid Museum.
Guests can expect a well-rounded experience, exploring Johannesburg’s rich history, vibrant culture, and iconic landmarks.
The tour’s flexibility allows visitors to customize the itinerary, ensuring they make the most of their time.
With knowledgeable guides, comfortable transportation, and skip-the-line access, this airport transfer and city tour offers a convenient and enriching way to discover the dynamic heart of South Africa.
Read our full review: Johannesburg: Airport Transfer With City & Soweto Tour Review
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Johannesburg: East City Cycle Tour (Oldest Suburb in Joburg)
Cyclists seeking an immersive exploration of Johannesburg’s oldest suburb embark on the East City Cycle Tour. The 2-hour excursion showcases iconic east-side districts, urban developments, and public art.
Participants will witness the vibrant Kwa Mai-Mai traditional healers market and learn about the cultural history of the Maboneng Precinct. The tour also visits historical sites like Jeppestown and Doornfontein before concluding at Victoria Yards and Troyeville.
With a knowledgeable guide, cyclists enjoy a rundown of the city’s east end for $40.45 per person. Though the tour may be slightly shorter than advertised, reviewers praise the engaging guide and excellent value for money.
Read our full review: Johannesburg: East City Cycle Tour (Oldest Suburb in Joburg) Review
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Johannesburg City, Apartheid Museum and Soweto Tour
Visitors embark on a comprehensive 7-hour exploration of Johannesburg, delving into the city’s storied past and vibrant present. Priced at Kč 3,690 per person, the tour includes visits to iconic landmarks like Constitution Hill, Soweto, and the Apartheid Museum, providing a deep dive into the city’s history and culture.
Guided by local experts, the experience allows for engaging with the community and learning about Johannesburg’s evolution from the gold rush era to the present day. Participants can customize their tour with optional lunch and souvenir purchases, while the tour’s accessibility and flexible drop-off locations cater to diverse needs.
Read our full review: Johannesburg City, Apartheid Museum and Soweto Tour Review
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From Johannesburg: Gold Reef City Theme Park and Mine Tour
Situated just outside the vibrant heart of Johannesburg, the Gold Reef City Theme Park and Mine Tour combines thrilling amusement park rides with a captivating exploration of the city’s rich mining heritage.
Priced from $118.33 per person, this 6-hour experience includes a guided tour of the underground mine museum and 3 hours to enjoy the park’s numerous thrill rides, such as the Anaconda, Golden Loop Shuttle, and Tower of Terror.
With pickup and drop-off service available from 19 locations across Johannesburg, this tour offers a convenient and memorable way to learn about the city’s history and modern entertainment.
Certain health and safety restrictions apply, but the small group size ensures a personalized journey.
Read our full review: From Johannesburg: Gold Reef City Theme Park and Mine Tour Review
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Soweto: Hop-On Hop-Off Bus, City Tour and Apartheid Museum
For those seeking to explore Soweto, the historic township of Johannesburg, this comprehensive tour provides an immersive experience. Priced from €37.11, the tour includes a hop-on hop-off bus, the Apartheid Museum, and a 2-hour guided walk led by a Soweto resident.
Highlights include Mandela House, the Hector Pietersen Memorial, and the Orlando Towers. Accessible by shuttle bus or public transport, the tour offers audio guides in multiple languages.
With an overall 4.5/5 rating, reviewers praise the knowledgeable guides and quality of transportation. Suggestions include clearer communication about ticket options and allowing more time in Soweto for a deeper cultural experience.
Read our full review: Soweto: Hop-On Hop-Off Bus, City Tour and Apartheid Museum Review
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The Sum Up
Johannesburg and Pretoria offer a variety of city tours, from half-day excursions to full-day experiences. These tours provide insights into the region’s history, culture, and attractions, including Soweto, the Apartheid Museum, and the Gold Reef City Theme Park. Whether travelers are interested in walking, cycling, or hopping on a bus, there’s a tour option to suit their preferences and interests.