Johannesburg’s drinking tours combine street culture, local brews, and authentic food experiences in one of South Africa’s most dynamic cities. Two standout tours deserve special attention: The well-organized Soweto Street Food & Beer Walk ($35.50) delivers great value with its 4-hour exploration of local landmarks and tastes. I’m especially fond of the intimate A Day Of Soweto Food & Beer Tour ($40.96), which offers a wonderful bicycle-based journey limited to just 10 people, complete with convenient hotel pickup. Both tours expertly balance safety with authentic culture. Let’s explore these top-rated drinking tours in detail.
Good To Know
- The Soweto Street Food & Beer Walk provides an immersive exploration of Soweto’s culinary scene, including iconic landmarks and food tasting.
- The A Day Of Soweto Food & Beer Tour offers a comprehensive experience with a bicycle journey through key attractions and hotel pick-up/drop-off services.
- The Cultural Insights tour provides an introduction to local greetings, art, and music, along with a guided tour of the Hector Pieterson Museum.
- The Soweto tours are designed for moderate fitness levels, accessible for families and solo travelers, and praised for their safety.
- Unique experiences include sampling Soweto Gold beer and exploring local neighborhoods beyond typical tourist paths.
Soweto Street Food & Beer Walk
The Soweto Street Food & Beer Walk offers an immersive exploration of the vibrant township’s culinary and beverage scene. Priced at $35.50 per person, this 4-hour tour takes visitors on a comprehensive journey through the heart of Soweto.
Kicking off at Vilakazi Espresso, the experience includes welcome refreshments, a food tasting, and a guided tour of the Hector Pieterson Museum. Guests then savor street food at a local restaurant and indulge in Soweto Gold beer at neighborhood bars.
The tour also showcases iconic landmarks like the Soweto Towers and Vilakazi Street, the former homes of Nelson Mandela and Desmond Tutu.
Wheelchair-accessible and with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this tour provides an authentic cultural experience, complete with insights into local greetings, art, music, and more.
Optional hotel pickup and drop-off services are available for an additional fee, making this an easily accessible and well-rounded introduction to Soweto’s vibrant heritage.
Read our full review: Soweto Street Food & Beer Walk Review
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A Day Of Soweto Food & Beer Tour
Frequently, visitors to Johannesburg embark on the captivating “A Day Of Soweto Food & Beer Tour” to enjoy the vibrant culture and history of the renowned Soweto township. Priced at $40.96 per person, this 4-hour tour is limited to 10 participants and conducted in English, allowing for an intimate and personalized experience.
The tour starts at 7346 Kumalo St, Vilakazi Street, in Orlando West, and takes guests on a bicycle journey through the neighborhoods, showcasing key attractions like the Hector Pieterson Museum, Mandela House, and the Orlando train station and stadium.
Along the way, travelers enjoy a traditional welcome drink, local food tastings, and two beer stops with a chance to sample authentic brews. The tour includes hotel pick-up and drop-off, as well as shuttle services from Sandton, O.R. Tambo, and Johannesburg hotels.
With a focus on moderate fitness and family-friendliness, the tour is praised for its safety, especially for solo female travelers. Reviewers highlight the guides’ professional insights and the unique opportunity to explore Soweto beyond the typical tourist paths.
Read our full review: A Day Of Soweto Food & Beer Tour Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Alcoholic Beverages on the Tour?
It’s generally not allowed to bring your own alcoholic beverages on drinking tours. Most tour operators provide the drinks as part of the experience. Checking with the specific tour company beforehand is recommended to ensure their policy on outside alcohol.
Are the Tours Wheelchair Accessible?
The tours are generally wheelchair accessible, with many operators providing accommodations for guests with mobility challenges. It’s best to check with the tour company ahead of time to ensure the specific tour you’re interested in can accommodate your needs.
Do the Tours Include Transportation to and From Johannesburg?
Most drinking tours include transportation to and from the tour locations in Johannesburg. The specific details on transportation availability and accessibility should be confirmed with the tour operators prior to booking.
Can I Customize the Food and Beer Choices on the Tours?
Yes, many drinking tour companies in Johannesburg allow customers to customize the food and beer selections on their tours. This provides a more personalized experience to accommodate individual preferences and dietary needs.
What Is the Minimum Age Requirement for the Drinking Tours?
The minimum age requirement for the drinking tours is typically 18 years old. However, it’s best to check with the tour operator as some may have higher age limits or additional restrictions based on local laws and regulations.
The Sum Up
Johannesburg’s drinking tours offer a unique opportunity to explore the city’s vibrant food and beer culture. The Soweto Street Food & Beer Walk and A Day Of Soweto Food & Beer Tour provide an immersive experience, allowing visitors to discover local flavors and brews. These tours are perfect for those looking to explore Johannesburg’s culinary and beverage offerings while learning about the city’s history and community.