Soweto is a large township southwest of Johannesburg, in the province of Gauteng, South Africa. It is home to millions of residents, and it is a place where the country's recent history can be seen in its streets, neighbourhoods and communities.
Why visit
Soweto stands as a centre of resistance during apartheid. Visitors come to understand how the township shaped the struggle against that system, and how its people lived, organised and held their ground. A visit is less about a single attraction and more about the sense of a place that is still very much alive.
What to expect
- A large, populous area: Soweto is one of the biggest townships in the region, with a population in the millions, so its neighbourhoods vary widely.
- Living history: Much of what makes the township meaningful is the everyday life around it, from homes and local businesses to the people who live there.
- A base within Johannesburg: Because it sits southwest of the city, Soweto is a natural part of a wider visit to Johannesburg and the surrounding Gauteng area.
Planning your trip
Consider going with a guide who knows the area well, and give yourself time to move slowly between places rather than rushing from one point to the next. Approach the visit with respect for the residents, who call this home.
