LocalPlaces Understanding Johannesburg Walking Tour

The ‘LocalPlaces Understanding Johannesburg Walking Tour’ offers travelers an immersive exploration of the city’s rich history and vibrant culture. Starting at the JSE Newtown, the 4-hour guided tour takes participants through key landmarks, including Mandela & Tambo’s former law office and Gandhi Square, while providing insightful storytelling from knowledgeable guides. Available in both English and Zulu, this engaging experience allows visitors to discover Johannesburg’s architectural gems and dynamic past. Whether you’re a couple, family, or solo adventurer, this tour provides a unique opportunity to delve deeper into the city’s captivating heritage.

This experience made our list of the 16 Best Walking Tours In Johannesburg.

Good To Know

• The 4-hour walking tour provides a comprehensive introduction to Johannesburg’s history, culture, and architectural highlights, including the Wiser West district.
• Storytelling by a knowledgeable guide offers insights into Johannesburg’s opening history and key landmarks like JSE Newtown, Mandela & Tambo’s law office, and Gandhi Square.
• The tour explores the vibrant past and dynamic present of Johannesburg, catering to various traveler types with high satisfaction levels reported.
• Architectural gems from the gold rush and Edwardian eras are showcased, highlighting the city’s financial prowess and anti-apartheid struggle.
• The tour includes exploring the ‘Wiser West,’ Johannesburg’s oldest district, to enhance understanding of the city’s rich heritage.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

According to the article, the LocalPlaces Understanding Johannesburg Walking Tour provides a comprehensive introduction to the city.

It’s a 4-hour walking tour that costs from ₦3,583 per person and is available in English and Zulu.

The tour starts at 17 Diagonal St, Johannesburg, with the main stop at the same location. Guests can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The tour is recommended as a first-time introduction to Johannesburg, offering insights into the city’s history and culture.

Experience and Highlights

The LocalPlaces Understanding Johannesburg Walking Tour provides a comprehensive introduction to the city’s history and contemporary culture.

The tour includes storytelling about Johannesburg’s opening history. Key highlights are the JSE Newtown, the former law office of Mandela & Tambo, the Leaping Impala Sculpture, and Gandhi Square.

Visitors also explore the ‘Wiser West,’ the oldest district of Joburg, admiring architecture from the gold rush and Edwardian era to the present day.

The tour is recommended as a first-time introduction, offering insight into the city’s vibrant past and dynamic present.

Inclusions and Exclusions

The LocalPlaces Understanding Johannesburg Walking Tour includes storytelling and guiding services. Guests will gain insight into the city’s history and culture through the knowledgeable tour guide.

However, the tour doesn’t include transportation to and from the starting point, nor does it cover the cost of any food, drinks, or shopping. Participants are responsible for their own expenses beyond the tour itself.

Meeting Point and Directions

Participants of the LocalPlaces Understanding Johannesburg Walking Tour meet at the JSE Newtown building, the old stock exchange located on the corner of Pritchard and Diagonal Streets.

It’s the concrete building behind the garden, not the diamond-shaped glass building.

To get there, the Uber destination is Franklin (4 Pritchard Street), diagonally across the street from JSE Newtown.

Key things to note:

• It’s the concrete building, not the glass one
• The building is located on the corner of Pritchard and Diagonal Streets
• The Uber destination is Franklin, which is diagonally across the street

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Customer Feedback

One review of the LocalPlaces Understanding Johannesburg Walking Tour provides an overall rating of 5/5.

The reviewer praised the guide’s insightful explanations, which offered valuable insight into the city’s history and culture.

The tour seems to cater to a range of traveler types, including couples, groups, solo travelers, and families.

Customers appear satisfied with the experience, which likely provides a comprehensive introduction to Johannesburg.

The tour’s inclusion of key landmarks like the JSE Newtown and Gandhi Square suggests it offers a well-rounded exploration of the city’s significant sites and attractions.

Johannesburg’s History and Architecture

Johannesburg’s storied past unfolds as the walking tour winds through the city’s oldest district, the ‘Wiser West.’

Architectural gems from the gold rush and Edwardian eras stand testament to the city’s rapid development, juxtaposed against contemporary structures that reflect its evolving identity.

Highlights include:

• JSE Newtown, the former stock exchange building, a prime example of the city’s financial prowess.
• Chancellor House, the former law office of Nelson Mandela and Oliver Tambo, a symbol of the anti-apartheid struggle.
• The Leaping Impala Sculpture, a striking tribute to the city’s natural heritage.
• Gandhi Square and the Gandhi sculpture, a nod to Johannesburg’s diverse cultural influences.

Exploring the ‘Wiser West’

The walking tour takes visitors on a captivating journey through the ‘Wiser West,’ Johannesburg’s oldest district.

Guests admire the area’s remarkable architecture, ranging from the gold rush era to the Edwardian period and modern-day Johannesburg.

The tour highlights key landmarks like the JSE Newtown, once the city’s stock exchange, and the Chancellor House, the former law office of Mandela and Tambo.

Participants also explore Gandhi Square and witness the iconic Leaping Impala Sculpture at the old Anglo American buildings.

This immersive experience provides a deeper understanding of Johannesburg’s rich heritage and evolving cityscape.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Tour Suitable for Children?

The tour appears suitable for children, as it is described as appropriate for families. However, the exclusions do not mention any child-specific inclusions, so parents should consider their child’s interests and ability to walk for 4 hours.

Are There Any Restroom Facilities Along the Tour Route?

The tour information does not specify whether there are restroom facilities along the walking route. However, as a typical city walking tour, it’s likely there will be opportunities to use public restrooms at various stops along the way.

Can I Take Photos During the Tour?

Yes, participants can take photos during the tour. The tour allows visitors to capture the sights and architecture along the route at their discretion. However, participants should be mindful of any restrictions or guidelines provided by the tour guide.

Is the Tour Wheelchair Accessible?

The tour is wheelchair accessible. The starting location and main stops are on level ground, and the guide can accommodate visitors with mobility needs. However, it’s recommended to check with the tour provider for any specific accessibility details prior to booking.

What Should I Bring With Me on the Tour?

One should bring comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, and a camera to capture the sights on this walking tour. Water and light snacks are also recommended, as the tour lasts 4 hours.

The Sum Up

The LocalPlaces Understanding Johannesburg Walking Tour offers an engaging 4-hour exploration of the city’s rich history and culture. Guided by knowledgeable hosts, participants can enjoy Johannesburg’s architectural gems and dynamic past, making it a perfect choice for those seeking to experience the vibrant heart of the city. Whether you’re a couple, family, or solo traveler, this tour provides an insightful and memorable journey through Johannesburg’s past and present.

You can check availability for your dates here: