Simple and worthwhile lunch experiences await in Johannesburg. Two standout options get you right into the local food scene: cycling through Soweto township (where guides lead you to authentic South African meal stops) and cultural township tours with traditional lunch included. I especially love the bike tours – they combine exercise, street-level exploration, and tasty local fare in one memorable outing. The township tours offer similar food quality while adding museum visits and cultural context. Check out our favorite lunch-inclusive tours below.
Key Points
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Sample local cuisine during a traditional South African buffet lunch at the Lesedi Cultural Village to immerse in the region’s diverse culinary heritage.
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Enjoy an authentic lunch at Restaurant Vilakazi on the Soweto Apartheid & Township Tour to gain insight into the daily lives of the local community.
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Experience a 25-minute lunch at a local shop during the Soweto Walking Tour, providing a glimpse into the neighborhood’s different socioeconomic areas.
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Savor a hotel-pickup lunch at a restaurant on the Soweto, Lunch & Apartheid Museum tour to complement the cultural and historical exploration.
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Interact with the local community and learn about their culinary traditions during the Guided Bicycle Tour of Soweto, which includes a lunch stop.
Guided Bicycle Tour of Soweto With Lunch
The Guided Bicycle Tour of Soweto With Lunch offers travelers an immersive exploration of Johannesburg’s iconic township. This half-day tour covers significant historical sites and cultural experiences, including visits to the Hector Peterson Memorial, Nelson Mandela’s house, and local cuisine tastings.
Priced at $45.57, the tour provides a traditional kota sandwich lunch and beer tasting opportunities. With a maximum group size of 15, the knowledgeable and enthusiastic guides, such as Dumisane and Mulalo, deliver historical context and insights.
The tour isn’t suitable for individuals with back issues or serious medical conditions, but it’s stroller accessible. The tour receives overwhelmingly positive reviews for its immersive and enjoyable experience.
Read our full review: Guided Bicycle Tour of Soweto With Lunch Review
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Soweto & Apartheid Museum With Local Lunch
For the immersive Soweto & Apartheid Museum With Local Lunch tour, travelers embark on a 7-to-8-hour journey through Johannesburg’s historic township and the renowned Apartheid Museum.
Available Wednesdays through Sundays, the tour offers hotel pickup and drop-off, guided exploration of sights like the Hector Peterson Memorial and Orlando Towers, and a delicious braai lunch.
Priced at $106.87 per person, the tour is wheelchair accessible and features a live English-speaking guide.
Visitors can reserve their spot without upfront payment and enjoy the flexibility to change travel plans.
This educational and exciting tour provides an insightful look into South Africa’s complex history and vibrant urban culture.
Read our full review: Soweto & Apartheid Museum With Local Lunch Review
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Johannesburg My Jozi City & Township Tour With Lunch
On a 7-hour journey, travelers can explore the vibrant city of Johannesburg, known as the “City of Gold,” through the Johannesburg My Jozi City & Township Tour with Lunch.
Priced at $109.68 per person, the tour includes visits to Constitution Hill, the Apartheid Museum, and Soweto, where they’ll meet locals and learn about the country’s history.
Participants will also enjoy a buffet lunch of local African cuisine at Sakhumzi Restaurant.
The tour is conducted in English, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and flexible booking options.
Comfortable shoes, a camera, and water are recommended, and pickup and drop-off are included.
Read our full review: Johannesburg My Jozi City & Township Tour With Lunch Review
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Johannesburg: Soweto History Tour With African Lunch
Travelers can enjoy the captivating history and vibrant culture of Soweto on this 4-hour guided tour with an African lunch. Priced from $92.81 per person, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now & pay later option.
Highlights include the World Cup Stadium, Orlando Towers, Kliptown and Sisulu Square, Mandela’s House, Hector Pieterson Square, and Winnie Mandela’s House.
Lunch options feature Samkunzi (buffet) or Chad Pozi (shisanyama). The tour accommodates wheelchair users and is available in French and English.
With an overall rating of 4.8/5 based on 12 reviews, this experience promises an immersive and memorable exploration of Soweto’s rich history and culture.
Read our full review: Johannesburg: Soweto History Tour With African Lunch Review
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Soweto Bicycle Tour With Local Lunch
The Soweto Bicycle Tour with Local Lunch offers travelers a captivating way to explore the vibrant township’s rich history and culture.
This 4-hour experience includes a guided bike tour, sightseeing at Soweto Towers, and a shopping and lunch stop on the famous Vilakazi Street. Participants can also opt to visit the Hector Pieterson Museum.
The tour highlights Soweto’s significance, such as the Walter Sisulu Square and its role in the anti-Apartheid movement. Travelers will interact with locals, taste traditional cuisine, and visit a community project.
While not suitable for those with health conditions or low fitness, this tour provides an immersive cultural encounter in Johannesburg.
Read our full review: Soweto Bicycle Tour With Local Lunch Review
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SOWETO, Lunch and Apartheid Museum
Visitors to Johannesburg can explore Soweto, South Africa’s most famous township, through guided tours that often include lunch and a visit to the Apartheid Museum.
The Soweto: Walking Tour with Local Guide and Lunch is a 4-hour experience that provides an in-depth look at the history and culture of Soweto, followed by a traditional local lunch.
Alternatively, the Joberg in 1 Day: Soweto, Apartheid Museum & City Tour is an 8-hour tour that combines a Soweto visit with the renowned Apartheid Museum.
Both options offer small group sizes, pickup service, and high ratings from past participants, making them excellent choices for a comprehensive Johannesburg experience.
Read our full review: SOWETO, Lunch and Apartheid Museum Review
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Soweto: Cycling Excursion With Lunch
For those seeking a more immersive and active way to explore Soweto, the Soweto: Cycling Excursion with Lunch offers an engaging experience. Priced from $42.18 per person, this 4-hour tour is limited to 10 participants and conducted in English.
Highlights include visiting the Hector Pieterson Memorial, Vilakazi Street, Mandela House, and Orlando Stadium, with an optional visit to an informal settlement and beer tasting.
A included lunch at Vilakazi Street provides an opportunity to savor local cuisine. Led by professional guides who grew up in Soweto, the tour emphasizes authentic experiences and cultural education, allowing visitors to gain valuable insights into the region’s history and current challenges.
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Soweto Walking Tour and Local Lunch
Soweto’s vibrant streets come alive on the Soweto Walking Tour and Local Lunch, an immersive experience that allows visitors to explore the heart of this historic township.
The 4-hour tour, priced at $39.37 per person, includes a guided walk through Soweto’s iconic landmarks and a delicious local lunch. Guests will explore the Mandela House, Hector Pieterson Memorial, and other significant sites, learning about Soweto’s rich history and culture from a knowledgeable local guide.
The optional audio guide further enhances the experience. This tour offers an authentic and insightful glimpse into the daily life of Soweto’s residents, making it a must-do for anyone seeking to enjoy the vibrant spirit of the community.
Read our full review: Soweto Walking Tour and Local Lunch Review
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Lesedi Cultural Village Day Tour Including Buffet Lunch
An immersive cultural experience awaits visitors at the Lesedi Cultural Village, situated just a short drive from Johannesburg. Priced from $126.55 per person, this 5-hour tour offers a deep dive into South Africa’s diverse cultural heritage.
Guests will explore the traditions and lifestyles of the Zulu, Xhosa, Pedi, Basotho, and Ndebele people through guided tours, traditional music and dance performances, and a buffet-style lunch featuring authentic African dishes.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later, this tour provides a convenient and flexible way to take in the rich cultural tapestry of South Africa.
Read our full review: Lesedi Cultural Village Day Tour Including Buffet Lunch Review
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Lesedi Cultural Village With Lunch or Dinner Cultural Food
The Lesedi Cultural Village offers visitors an immersive cultural experience just a short drive from Johannesburg.
For $127.57 per person, the 5-hour tour includes a guided exploration of five ethnic groups, interactive cultural demonstrations, and a traditional South African lunch or dinner.
Highlights include an introduction to drumming, singing and dancing, and insightful commentary from local cultural guides.
The village features authentic dwellings and showcases pottery-making, weaving, beer-brewing, and beadwork.
With an overall 5/5 rating, this tour provides an engaging way to learn about South Africa’s diverse heritage.
Wheelchair accessibility and a marketplace for crafts make the experience accessible and support local artisans.
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Johannesburg: Lesedi Cultural Village Day Tour With Lunch
Travelers seeking an immersive cultural experience just outside Johannesburg can embark on a 5-hour Lesedi Cultural Village day tour.
Priced from $168.74 per person, the private group tour includes a traditional welcome ceremony, exploration of ethnic homesteads, and vibrant cultural performances.
Guests will savor a buffet-style meal featuring South African specialties like stews, grilled meats, and local desserts.
The tour is wheelchair accessible and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Souvenir shopping and drinks are available at an additional cost.
Booking can be done with a reserve now and pay later option, making it a convenient cultural outing.
Read our full review: Johannesburg: Lesedi Cultural Village Day Tour With Lunch Review
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Soweto, Lunch & Apartheid Museum
One engaging tour that allows visitors to explore the vibrant Soweto township, savor a local lunch, and explore South Africa’s complex history is the Soweto, Lunch & Apartheid Museum experience.
Priced from $106.87 per person, this 6-hour tour includes hotel pickup, entry to key sites like the Hector Pieterson Memorial and Apartheid Museum, and a lunch at a local restaurant.
With a small group size limited to 13 participants, the tour offers an intimate and informative experience led by knowledgeable drivers.
Past travelers have praised the tour’s ability to provide a deep understanding of Johannesburg and Soweto’s history, making it a compelling option for those seeking an immersive cultural experience.
Read our full review: Soweto, Lunch & Apartheid Museum Review
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Johannesburg: Soweto Apartheid & Township Tour With Lunch
Delving deep into the vibrant township of Soweto, this 7-hour tour provides an immersive cultural experience that seamlessly combines the exploration of apartheid history with a savory traditional lunch.
Visitors are treated to a guided journey through key sites like the Hector Pieterson Memorial and Vilakazi Street, where they’ll learn about Soweto’s pivotal role in the anti-apartheid movement.
The tour also includes a visit to an informal settlement, offering a firsthand glimpse into the daily lives of local residents.
Capping off the experience is a delightful lunch at Restaurant Vilakazi, where travelers can savor authentic flavors and soak in the lively atmosphere.
Read our full review: Johannesburg: Soweto Apartheid & Township Tour With Lunch Review
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Soweto: Guided Bicycle Tour With Lunch
For those seeking a more immersive experience in Soweto, the Guided Bicycle Tour offers a unique opportunity to explore the vibrant township on two wheels.
Priced at $44.43 per person, the 4-hour tour takes visitors on a cultural journey, stopping at significant sites like the Hector Pieterson Memorial and Mandela House.
Along the way, you will learn about Soweto’s history and engage with the local community.
The tour includes a tasty lunch on Vilakazi Street, allowing travelers to savor the flavors of the area.
With a 4.8/5 rating based on 193 reviews, this bicycle tour provides an excellent value for those eager to delve deeper into Soweto’s rich heritage.
Read our full review: Soweto: Guided Bicycle Tour With Lunch Review
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Soweto: Walking Tour With a Local Guide and Lunch
Embark on an immersive 4-hour walking tour of Soweto and gain a deeper understanding of the vibrant township’s rich history and diverse community.
Led by a knowledgeable local guide, you’ll visit key landmarks like the Hector Pieterson Memorial, Nelson Mandela’s former home, and Desmond Tutu’s house.
Explore the bustling Vilakazi Street, enjoy a 25-minute lunch at a local shop, and gain insight into the daily lives of residents in different socioeconomic areas.
With an authentic experience, traditional cuisine, and valuable community insights, this tour offers a unique opportunity to connect with Soweto’s culture and people.
Priced from $39.37 per person, this highly-rated experience is a must for any visitor to Johannesburg.
Read our full review: Soweto: Walking Tour With a Local Guide and Lunch Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Customize the Lunch Menu to Accommodate Dietary Restrictions?
Many restaurants in Johannesburg offer the option to customize lunch menus to accommodate dietary restrictions. Guests can typically request gluten-free, vegetarian, or other specialized options to suit their needs.
How Do I Get to the Starting Point of the Tour?
To get to the starting point of the tour, guests can check with the tour operator for specific transportation details. Many offer pick-up and drop-off services from central locations, making it easy to access the tour’s starting point.
Are There Any Discounts or Package Deals Available?
Many tour providers offer discounts or package deals for their lunch experiences. Customers can often save money by booking in advance or choosing a combo package that includes multiple activities. It’s worth checking the tour company’s website or inquiring directly for the latest offers.
Can I Book the Tour in a Language Other Than English?
Yes, many tour companies offer the ability to book tours in languages other than English. Travelers can usually select from a variety of language options when reserving their experience to suit their needs.
What Should I Bring on the Tour Besides Comfortable Clothing?
Beside comfortable clothing, it’s a good idea to bring sunscreen, a hat, water, and any necessary personal items. The tour guide can also provide recommendations on what to bring, depending on the specific activities and duration of the tour.
The Sum Up
Johannesburg offers a range of immersive lunch experiences that let visitors explore the city’s vibrant neighborhoods and understand its complex history. From guided bicycle tours of Soweto to walking tours with local guides, these experiences provide an authentic taste of the city’s culture and cuisine. Whether you’re interested in the legacy of apartheid or simply seeking a unique culinary adventure, Johannesburg has plenty to offer.