Johannesburg Guide

Johannesburg Historical Tours

Discover Johannesburg's complex history from gold rush origins to apartheid struggle, exploring sites that shaped South Africa's story

32+ tours
From $60
Half day to full day
Johannesburg Historical Tours

Johannesburg has a complex and powerful history, from its 1886 gold rush birth to its role in South Africa's apartheid struggle and post-apartheid transformation! Historical tours take you through this compelling narrative, visiting sites like the Apartheid Museum, Constitution Hill (former prison, now constitutional court), gold mining heritage sites, and places that tell the story of the city's evolution from mining camp to major metropolis. Expert guides provide context about apartheid, the struggle for freedom, gold mining history, and how Johannesburg became the economic engine of South Africa. These tours offer essential understanding of South African history, from the discovery of gold that created the city to the end of apartheid and the ongoing work of building a new nation, making them crucial for anyone wanting to understand modern South Africa!

Featured Historical Tours Tours

Discover our top picks for historical tours in Johannesburg

Johannesburg Historical, Apartheid Museum & Soweto
From $137.63
Free Cancellation👤Private Tour

Johannesburg(New York of Africa) in South Africa is the second largest city in Africa, in 2016 there were 4.94 million people living in the City of Johannesburg. Joburg, or Jozi as some prefer to call it, offers visitors an experience as unique and diverse as the city itself. Whether you are on business, in search of a cultural encounter, an adrenaline rush or simply want to relax and unwind for a few days, the city of Johannesburg has everything you’re looking for and more! History. Settlement of Johannesburg began in 1886 when gold was discovered in the Witwatersrand by an Australian prospector named George Harrison. The discovery spurred a feverish gold rush as fortune hunters from all over the world descended on the area. Establishment of Soweto and the history of forced removal Soweto uprising 1976

4.9(17)
1h
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Pretoria Historical Tour
From $137.63
Free Cancellation👤Private Tour

Pretoria ,The administrative Capital city of the then ZAR,The Union Of South Africa And the New South Africa. We also Visit The Union Buildings,The President’s State House.There you can have a nice scenery view of the Jacaranda City.

4.2(5)
4 min
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Joburg_Soweto:Apartheid Historical Tour
From $112.61
Free Cancellation👤Private Tour

  Get to understand the influence of the walls inside the highest court in South Africa, The Constitutional court, it is a deeply significant and symbolic site. Learn about the history of the country under the apartheid era at The Apartheid Museum. During this tour you will drive passed the well-known bridge named after the former first black president Nelson Mandela.Indulge in an African Cuisine in Soweto after having walked in the only street that have produced two Novel Price winners.Learn about the shack lifestyle of the poor people,then the 1976 student uprising. Highlights: • Begin your African dream with a drive from the legendary streets of Johannesburg with the tall buildings influenced by the British Empire. • Go to The Constitutional Hill • Go to Apartheid Museum,then Soweto

3.8(4)
8h
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Historical and Cultural Interactive Experience of Soweto
From $98.84
Free Cancellation👤Private Tour

For historical and cultural enthusiast, when on a Soweto tour with us, while visiting historical landmarks like Mandela House museum, Hector Pieterson museum & Walter Sisulu square ,you can also easily find yourself sipping tea in a local home, making friends at a local tavern, or find yourself embracing a child or sharing laughter with children from a kindergarten. Nothing is planned yet memorable human connections are made. Our tour guides do not only share wealth of information, they also share our heritage by taking you to interesting places where you can get to experience our culture through an optional visit to the traditional healer who connects with your ancestors for messages to you. When visiting the healer, you also get to have a home visit while there because she works from home. With us, no tour is the same to the other. We shape it to your interest and needs, and only have one rule. Have fun!

5.0(11)
4h
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Johannesburg and Soweto Historical Half Day Tour
From $95
Free Cancellation👤Private Tour

Johannesburg is often referred to as the CITY OF GOLD and to the locals Jozi, Egoli, or Joburg. Our route covers major points of interest from the South in Soweto past downtown Johannesburg covering first in Soweto - (Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital i.e. The biggest hospital in the Southern Hemisphere; Freedom Square- where the freedom charter was adopted in 1955; Regina Mundi Church alias The people’s parliament; Hector Peterson Museum –covering the 1976 student protests that changed the face of South Africa’s politics; See the houses of Nobel Peace Laureates Nelson Mandela and Desmond Tutu located on the same street). Our Guides are indigenous native South Africans born and bred in and around Johannesburg/Soweto and have lived experiences of the The Good, The bad and The ugly of South Africa's History.

5.0(1)
5h
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Historical Private Tour from Johannesburg to Pretoria
From $596.54
👤Private Tour

Enjoy a private, exclusive tour with your own local guide. Embark on a captivating journey from the lively streets of Johannesburg to the tranquil avenues of Pretoria. This tour isn’t just a travel experience; it’s a personal adventure into the heart of South Africa’s rich history and vibrant culture. In Johannesburg, you’ll feel the pulse of an African metropolis, alive with stories and diversity. Transitioning to Pretoria, let the serene beauty of jacaranda-lined streets and grand historical landmarks enchant you. Stand in awe at the Voortrekker Monument, delve into the past at Kruger House Museum, and witness the grandeur of the Union Buildings. This tour is your gateway to understanding South Africa’s complex tapestry, making you the protagonist in a story of discovery and awe. This is more than a tour; it’s an experience that will linger in your memories, beckoning you back to the heart of South Africa.

5.0(1)
6h
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Why Choose Historical Tours in Johannesburg?

Apartheid Museum

Visit world-renowned museum providing powerful insights into apartheid era and struggle for freedom.

Constitution Hill

Explore former prison turned constitutional court, symbolizing transformation and hope.

Rich History

Discover complex history from gold rush to apartheid to modern South Africa.

Expert Guidance

Knowledgeable guides provide essential context and understanding of historical significance.

Types of Historical Tours in Johannesburg

Apartheid Museum Tours

Focused tours of Apartheid Museum with guided explanations and context about apartheid era.

Apartheid MuseumApartheid historyStruggle for freedomHistorical contextEducational

Constitution Hill Tours

Explore Constitution Hill, former prison and current constitutional court, learning about transformation.

Constitution HillFormer prisonConstitutional courtTransformationHistorical significance

Comprehensive Historical Tours

Full-day tours combining Apartheid Museum, Constitution Hill, and multiple historic sites.

Multiple sitesFull dayComplete overviewHistorical timelineComprehensive

Gold Mining Heritage Tours

Tours focusing on Johannesburg's gold rush origins and mining history.

Gold miningGold rush historyMining heritageOriginsHistorical development

What to Expect on Your Johannesburg Historical Tour

Duration

Half-day historical tours: 3-4 hours. Full-day comprehensive tours: 6-8 hours with multiple sites.

Historic Sites

Visit Apartheid Museum, Constitution Hill, and other sites significant to South African history.

Historical Context

Learn about apartheid, struggle for freedom, gold mining, and Johannesburg's development.

Expert Guidance

Knowledgeable guides provide essential context and explain historical significance.

Emotional Impact

Historical tours can be emotionally powerful - prepare for moving and educational experience.

Photography

Photography allowed at most sites, though some areas may have restrictions.

Expert Tips for the Best Experience

1

Apartheid Museum requires 2-3 hours minimum - plan adequate time

2

Historical tours can be emotionally powerful - prepare accordingly

3

Wear comfortable walking shoes - tours involve significant walking

4

Allow time for reflection at museums - powerful exhibits

5

Combine with Soweto tour for complete historical understanding

6

Guides essential - provide crucial context and understanding

7

Some sites require advance booking - check requirements

8

Respectful approach important - these are significant historical sites

Frequently Asked Questions

Q:What historical sites can I visit in Johannesburg?

A: Johannesburg offers significant historical sites including Apartheid Museum (world-renowned museum about apartheid era), Constitution Hill (former prison, now constitutional court), Gold Reef City (gold mining heritage), Hector Pieterson Museum (in Soweto, about 1976 uprising), and various sites related to gold rush origins and apartheid struggle! Tours visit multiple sites explaining Johannesburg's complex history. Each site provides different perspective on South African history. Guides explain historical context and significance. Essential for understanding modern South Africa!

Q:How much do historical tours cost?

A: Half-day historical tours: $60-95 per person including guide and transport. Full-day comprehensive tours: $110-170 per person. Apartheid Museum tours: $55-85 per person. Private historical tours: $120-220 per person. Prices typically include guide and transport. Entrance fees for museums extra ($10-25 per museum). Book through reputable operators with historical knowledge. Tours provide excellent value for understanding South African history. Essential educational experience!

Q:How long does Apartheid Museum take?

A: Apartheid Museum requires minimum 2-3 hours for proper visit, can easily spend 3-4 hours! Museum extensive with powerful exhibits covering apartheid era, struggle for freedom, and transformation. Many visitors find themselves spending longer than planned - exhibits thought-provoking and moving. Allow adequate time - rushing through would miss important experience. Most comprehensive historical tour includes 2-3 hours at museum. Essential Johannesburg experience - worth allocating sufficient time!

Q:What is Constitution Hill?

A: Constitution Hill is historic site where former prison complex now houses Constitutional Court, symbolizing South Africa's transformation! Former prison held many anti-apartheid activists including Nelson Mandela and Mahatma Gandhi. Now home to Constitutional Court protecting human rights. Site includes prison tours, Constitutional Court visits, and exhibits about transformation. Powerful symbol of hope and change. Tours explain historical significance and modern role. Essential visit for understanding South African transformation!

Q:Are historical tours suitable for children?

A: Historical tours educational but can be emotionally intense, especially Apartheid Museum! Older children (12+) can benefit from educational experience with proper guidance. Younger children may find some content difficult or upsetting. Apartheid Museum powerful and confronting. Discuss appropriateness with tour operator based on children's ages and maturity. Some tours offer family-friendly versions. Educational but requires careful consideration for families. Know your children's capacity for confronting history!

Q:What should I wear on historical tours?

A: Comfortable, respectful clothing suitable for walking and visiting museums! Comfortable walking shoes essential - significant walking involved. Modest attire appropriate for respectful historical sites. Light layers as temperatures vary. Weather can be changeable - layers best strategy. Comfort most important - you'll be walking significantly. Dress respectfully for significant historical sites. Practical and comfortable clothing recommended!

Q:Can I take photos at historical sites?

A: Photography generally allowed at most historical sites, but check guidelines! Apartheid Museum allows photography (flash may be restricted). Constitution Hill photography fine. Some areas may have restrictions - guides know current rules. Always respect guidelines at museums and memorial sites. Photography helps remember powerful experience. Guides provide photography guidance. Be respectful when photographing - these are significant historical sites!

Q:Do I need to book in advance?

A: Highly recommended, especially for Apartheid Museum which can be busy! Advance booking ensures availability and saves time. Some tours include museum entrance but confirm when booking. Constitution Hill usually accessible but tours provide better experience. Book through reputable operators for best experience. Peak season (especially school holidays) requires advance booking. Planning ahead ensures smooth experience at significant historical sites!

Don't Miss the Perfect Johannesburg Experience

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Why Visit Johannesburg?

Rich historical significance

Vibrant arts and culture

Diverse food scene

Gateway to African adventures

Modern urban development

Perfect blend of history and progress

Best Time to Visit

Weather

Johannesburg has a subtropical highland climate. Summer (October-March) is warm with afternoon thunderstorms, while winter (May-August) is dry and sunny.

Best Months

April to May and September to October offer pleasant weather with fewer crowds.

Peak Season

December to February brings peak tourist season with warm weather, larger crowds, and higher prices.

Off Season

June to August offers lower prices but cooler temperatures.

Plan Your Johannesburg Trip

Transportation Tips

Car rental is recommended for exploring. Organized tours include transportation, and walking is good in safe areas.

Car Rental Deals in Johannesburg

Rent a car for maximum flexibility and explore at your own pace on Expedia USA.

Where to Stay

Find the perfect accommodation for your Johannesburg adventure. From luxury resorts to cozy hotels, we've got you covered.

Best Hotel Deals in Johannesburg

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Discover the best tours and activities in Johannesburg with AI-powered recommendations tailored just for you.