24 Nov 2014 | By Sun International
8 Great Tours of Johannesburg
Johannesburg has recently been named the 2nd most inspiring city in the world – take that Cape Town! The first most inspiring city according to the 2014 Good City Index is Hong Kong, but that doesn't really matter. All that matters is that Jozi is more inspiring that Cape Town and everywhere else (except Hong Kong). Taking a guided tour is a great way to explore a new city or rediscover an old city with fresh perspective.
Did you know? Johannesburg was founded in 1886 making it one of the youngest major cities in the world.
Next time you're in Jozi check out these 8 Johannesburg tours that are sure to leave you inspired. But remember, these tours aren't only for tourists – Jozi natives, we urge you, rediscover the beauty of your own city.
Ancient Secrets Cultural Walks
Can you keep a secret? Tour-guide-slash-chef, Ishvara Dhyan has a few secrets that he's willing to share. Specialising in culinary walks through the city, Ancient Secrets is a foodie's dream come true. Explore Doornfontein, Jeppestown, Troyeville and Mayfair affectionately known as Little Mogadishu.
MainStreetWalks
Maboneng means "place of light" and this name becomes patently apt if you are lucky enough to go on this inner-city tour. Guided by Bheki Dube, the unofficial king of Maboneng, this tour is great for would-be photographers and graffiti fanatics.
Sophiatown Heritage Tours
Get a glimpse into the lost magic of Sophiatown, explore the Sophiatown Heritage and Cultural Centre and hear the stories of the musicians, writers, artists and activists who called this suburb home.
Did you know? Sophiatown is also know Kofifi or Sof'town.
Bay of Grace Tours
Guided by the charming Raymond Rampolokeng, Bay of Grace Tours is not your usual Soweto tour. Offering bird-watching tours in the wetland areas of Orlando and Moroka Dam, this tour offers a decidedly nuanced perspective on Soweto.
JoburgPlaces inner-city tours
It seems only right that the author of the book JoburgPlaces 2.0, Gerald Garner is the guide for a jam-packed inner-city tour. Sharing the history of the city while exploring Newtown to Maboneng and everything in-between, this tour is a history lesson and cultural adventure rolled into one.
City Sightseeing Bus
You might have seen these bright red buses on your travels overseas, now you can explore a little closer to home from the rooftop of these hop-on hop-off buses. Accompanied by an audio guide, this tour is great for summer afternoons when Joburg seems to bloom at every turn.
Tip: The first bus leaves Park Station at 09h00 and the last bus leaves at 15h40.
Alexandra Bicycle Tours
From the seat of a bicycle, the world whips by as it offers you a refreshing perspective. Explore Alexandra with this one of a kind township tour.
Dlala Nje
Joburg's city suburbs often have an unwarranted bad reputation. Challenge the misconceptions and make your own mind up about Hillbrow, Yeoville and Berea with this inner-city tour.
Tell us: Have you taken a tour of Johannesburg?