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Home » Destinations » Africa » South Africa

Friday Flashback: Johannesburg & Soweto

Modified: Mar 4, 2020 · Published: May 28, 2010 by Dave Lee |

The story of Soweto's people is painted on one of the two iconic cooling towers.
The story of Soweto's people is painted on one of the two iconic cooling towers.

When visiting South Africa, it can be tempting to pass on Johannesburg altogether (aka Jo'burg, or Jozi amongst the locals).  It has a reputation of being very dangerous, and lacks the natural beauty of Cape Town.  Still, I found there was more than enough to do to keep me busy for a few days.

Most hostels are in the suburbs, as with any big city, there are legitimate reasons to be concerned about safety. I chose to hire a guide through my hostel, and went on two separate trips around the city with him.  On the second one, his young son even joined us for lunch and a trip atop Africa's tallest building.

  • Touring Soweto and the Apartheid Museum
  • Dare #17 - Completed - Sunday Smiley
  • Johannesburg City Tour
  • Final Thoughts: South Africa and Botswana

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About Dave Lee

Dave is the Founder and Editor in Chief of Go Backpacking and Feastio. He's been to 68 countries and lived in Colombia and Peru. Read the full story of how he became a travel blogger.

Dave at Ahu Ko Te Riku on Rapa Nui (Easter Island), Chile.

Hi, I'm Dave

Editor in Chief

I've been writing about adventure travel on Go Backpacking since 2007. I've visited 68 countries.

Read more about Dave.

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