Only ever visited the Soweto Towers or Vilakazi Street? Maybe you’ve just seen parts of Soweto while running the annual Soweto marathon? Well, we’ve dug deep and uncovered Soweto for you. This is your cue to read on before planning your next outing.
A Little History
Soweto is well-known for the Soweto uprising in 1976, but did you know its name originates from an abbreviation of South Western Townships? It is steeped in history with two Nobel Laureates, Nelson Mandela and Archbishop Desmond Tutu, having lived in Vilakazi Street, and the Freedom Charter being signed in Walter Sisulu Square. This Charter eventually gave rise to what we know today as the South African Constitution.
Take A Tour
This rich history intrigued you yet? Us too. So, what’s the best way to get around Soweto and truly experience this historically rich part of Joburg?
Bicycle, Tuk-Tuk or Walking Tour
Why not take a bicycle, tuk-tuk, or walking tour? It’s the best way to truly experience Soweto after all. This way, you can interact with residents and easily get around without getting stuck in any traffic. The tours usually start in Orlando West, and a tuk-tuk tour, for example, will take you to Orlando East, the Hector Pieterson Memorial, Nelson Mandela’s House, and many more. You can also experience a true Kasi lunch like a kota or shisanyama. All the guides are locals and know the area like the back of their hands, so you can know their knowledge is boundless.
Soweto Towers
You may already know about or have seen the Soweto Towers at some point, but did you know these towers are now a mecca for adventure? Yip, if you’re brave enough, you can now bungee jump, freefall or bridge swing from the Soweto Towers at the Soweto Towers Vertical Adventure Centre. Really experienced jumpers can even base jump! But if that’s a bit too much for you, though, then you can always play paintball at the bottom of the Western Tower or just view the stunning skyline from the viewing platform. Whatever tickles your adventurous fancy, Soweto Towers Vertical Adventure Centre has you covered.
FNB Stadium – Soccer City
Another famous landmark of Soweto is, of course, the FNB Stadium or Soccer City. It is also nicknamed “The Calabash” because of its resemblance to a calabash. It was home to the 2010 FIFA World Cup final, and it was the host of Nelson Mandela’s first Johannesburg rally after he was released from prison in 1990. Today, it is the home of Kaizer Chiefs Soccer Club, and many times the famous Soweto Derby between Orlando Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs is played here.
Arts, Culture, and Festivities
Sport and adventure not your thing? Not to worry, Soweto has something for you, too. Soweto has a lively arts and culture scene, and there are many festivals too.
Soweto Theatre
Located in Jabulani, the Soweto Theatre opened in 2012 and is the cultural hub of Soweto. It has three performance areas, aptly named after the three colours of the tiles used to finish the outside of the building: red, blue, and yellow. Some of the events coming to Soweto Theatre include Sophiatown, Sarafina, and South Africa is a Movie. Visit Soweto Theatre’s website for more information and to get your tickets.
Soweto Cheese & Wine Live
As the birthplace of Mandoza and Kwaito, it makes sense that Soweto would also be host to a Cheese & Wine Live that goes beyond cheese and wine. This event not only celebrates local wine brands but also local fashion designers and food businesses. So, if like their slogan says, you’re looking for a real #FamilyAffair local is lekker day out, then make sure you get your tickets for the Soweto Cheese & Wine Live from the Soweto Theatre website.
Soweto TV
Yip, that’s right. Soweto has its own 24h TV station too. Soweto TV began in 2005 and went regional in 2013. They are the largest community television station in South Africa and mainly broadcast from their studios in Vilakazi Street. Whether you’re looking for local talk shows, some music variety, lifestyle shows, or more, Soweto TV has it all. Today, they are available nationally on DStv Channel 251, DTT Channel 322, or StarSat Channel 488.
Joburg locals, culture vultures, sport fanatics or adrenaline junkies, Soweto has something on offer for everyone. This resilient corner of Joburg is not just a township, it’s a vibrant mecca that also boasts the biggest hospital in Africa – the Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital. So, dust off your tekkies or book your seat on a tuk-tuk or bike for your next day out and visit Soweto. We promise it’s a day out you won’t forget anytime soon.
