ZULA Soweto Cycle & Cradle of Humankind

ZULA Soweto Cycle & Cradle of Humankind offers an immersive cultural and historical tour that combines the vibrant energy of Soweto with the ancient wonders of the Cradle of Humankind. Visitors can expect to explore iconic landmarks, engage with local artisans, and uncover the evolutionary past that shaped our species. Whether you’re a history buff, a cyclist, or simply seeking a unique adventure, this comprehensive experience is designed to captivate and inspire. With an accessible itinerary catering to various fitness levels, the tour provides an opportunity to delve deeper into South Africa’s rich tapestry of heritage and natural wonder.

This experience made our list of the 5 Best Bike Tours In Johannesburg.

Good To Know

• This 5.5-hour tour offers a guided visit to the Cradle of Humankind and a Soweto Bicycle Tour, showcasing the rich history and vibrant culture of the region.
• The tour includes pickup from multiple locations, a 95-minute guided tour at the Cradle of Humankind, and a Soweto Bicycle Tour visiting iconic landmarks like the Mandela House and Hector Pieterson Memorial.
• Participants can explore local arts and crafts, enjoy a traditional dance show, and purchase unique souvenirs during the Soweto Bicycle Tour.
• The tour is inclusive, with transit insurance, wheelchair accessibility, and a moderate fitness level required for the bicycle tour.
• Key exclusions include alcoholic beverages, local flights, and travel insurance, and strict policies are in place to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all participants.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

This Zula Soweto Cycle & Cradle of Humankind tour offers an immersive 5.5-hour experience.

Priced at €75.43 per person, it provides free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Guests can reserve their spot without upfront payment.

The tour includes pickup options from O.R. Tambo, Sandton, Orlando West, and Soweto.

At the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Cradle of Humankind, guests will enjoy a 95-minute guided tour.

The Soweto Bicycle Tour allows visitors to cycle through the streets, visit Mandela House and Hector Pieterson Memorial, explore an arts & crafts market, and witness a traditional dance show.

Scenic views and lunch are also included, along with transit insurance and wheelchair accessibility.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour begins with a pickup from the specified locations of O.R. Tambo, Sandton, Orlando West, and Soweto.

The first stop is the Cradle of Humankind, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where guests enjoy a 95-minute guided tour.

The highlight of the tour is the Soweto Bicycle Tour, which allows guests to:

• Cycle through the vibrant streets of Soweto
• Visit the Mandela House and Hector Pieterson Memorial
• Explore the local arts and crafts market

The tour also includes scenic views and a traditional dance show, along with a delicious lunch, making it a comprehensive and immersive experience.

Transportation Details

Transit insurance is included for the tour’s transportation. Pickup and drop-off options are available at Sandton and O.R. Tambo. For airport pickups, a branded welcome board will be provided, so be sure to share your flight details in advance. The tour is wheelchair accessible, ensuring accessibility for all participants.

Pickup Locations	Cradle of Humankind Tour	Soweto Bicycle Tour
O.R. Tambo	95 minutes	4 hours
Sandton
Orlando West, Soweto

The transportation arrangements are designed to provide a seamless and comfortable experience throughout the tour.

Inclusions and Exclusions

The tour’s inclusions cover the guided Cradle of Humankind tour, the Soweto bicycle tour, a provided lunch, as well as tips and gratuities.

However, the tour excludes alcoholic beverages, local flights and transfers, and travel insurance.

Some key exclusions include:

• Alcoholic beverages
• Local flights and transfers
• Travel insurance

It’s important to note that participants should be mindful of the fitness level required for the bicycle tour and long distances.

Certain restrictions apply, such as no intoxication, alcohol, drugs, fireworks, or explosive substances.

More Great Tours Nearby

Important Information

Comfortable shoes and clothing are essential for this tour, as you will engage in a bicycle ride through the streets of Soweto.

The tour isn’t suitable for individuals with heart problems, babies under 1 year, those over 280 lbs (127 kg), or those over 95 years of age. A moderate level of fitness is required due to the long distances and bicycle riding.

Guests should also be aware that intoxication, alcohol, drugs, fireworks, or explosive substances are strictly prohibited. These restrictions are in place to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all participants during this immersive experience.

Exploring Soweto

After ensuring their gear and safety, participants embark on the Soweto bicycle tour, a captivating journey through the vibrant streets of this historic township.

They cycle past iconic landmarks, including the Mandela House, where the late Nelson Mandela once lived, and the Hector Pieterson Memorial, honoring the student protests of 1976.

The tour also takes them to a lively arts and crafts market, where they can enjoy the local culture and purchase unique souvenirs.

The tour concludes with a traditional dance show, allowing participants to experience the rich, diverse heritage of Soweto.

• Iconic landmarks like Mandela House and Hector Pieterson Memorial
• Vibrant arts and crafts market for culture and souvenirs
• Traditional dance show to experience Soweto’s diverse heritage

Visiting Cradle of Humankind

Following the tour of Soweto, participants then journey to the Cradle of Humankind, a UNESCO World Heritage Site teeming with ancient fossils and archaeological wonders.

During the 95-minute guided tour, visitors explore the rich history and significance of this remarkable region. They’ll learn about the discoveries of early hominid fossils, including the famous "Mrs. Ples" specimen, which have revolutionized our understanding of human evolution.

The tour also provides insight into the geological formations, cave systems, and diverse wildlife that make the Cradle of Humankind a true treasure trove for scientists and adventure-seekers alike.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Bicycle for the Tour?

The tour does not allow participants to bring their own bicycles. The tour provides bicycles for the Soweto cycling portion, so personal bikes are not permitted. Participants must use the bicycles provided as part of the tour package.

Is There a Minimum Group Size Required for the Tour?

The tour does not have a minimum group size requirement. Customers can book the tour individually or in any group size, as long as the total number of participants falls within the tour’s capacity and restrictions.

Are Professional Photographers Available to Take Photos During the Tour?

Professional photographers are not mentioned as being available during the tour. However, participants are welcome to take their own photos throughout the experience to capture the highlights of the Soweto bicycle tour and Cradle of Humankind visit.

Can I Extend the Duration of the Soweto Bicycle Tour?

Yes, you can extend the duration of the Soweto bicycle tour. There is an additional fee for extending the tour beyond the standard 4-hour length. Speak with the tour operator to discuss options and pricing for a longer cycling experience.

Is There an Option to Purchase Additional Souvenirs During the Tour?

There is an opportunity to purchase souvenirs at the arts and crafts market during the Soweto bicycle tour. Participants can browse and buy local handicrafts, artwork, and other mementos to take home from their experience.

The Sum Up

The ZULA Soweto Cycle & Cradle of Humankind tour offers a unique opportunity to take in the rich cultural heritage and natural history of South Africa. This comprehensive experience combines a guided exploration of the UNESCO-listed Cradle of Humankind with a vibrant cycling tour through the iconic Soweto neighborhood, providing an enriching and accessible adventure for visitors of moderate fitness levels.

You can check availability for your dates here: