The Vibrant Heart of Soweto: Vilakazi Street
Discover the rich history and vibrant culture of Vilakazi Street, the only street in the world that hosted two Nobel Prize winners in Soweto, South Africa.
Explore Vilakazi Street, a vibrant and historic thoroughfare in Soweto, South Africa. Renowned for its cultural significance, this street is where both Nelson Mandela and Desmond Tutu lived, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts. Immerse yourself in the local culture, shop for unique souvenirs, and savor delicious street food as you walk down this iconic street.
A brief summary to Vilakazi St
- Soweto, Orlando West, 1804, ZA
Local tips
- Visit during the day for a safer experience and to enjoy the bustling atmosphere.
- Try local street food vendors for authentic South African cuisine.
- Consider taking a guided tour to gain deeper insights into the history of the area.
- Visit the Mandela House early to avoid long queues.
- Bring cash for shopping at local craft stalls and food vendors.
Getting There
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Public Transport (Bus)
To reach Vilakazi Street in Orlando West, Soweto, start by locating your nearest bus station in Johannesburg. Take the bus route that heads towards Soweto; buses like the 48 or 59 are commonly used. Ensure you board a bus that displays 'Soweto' as its destination. After approximately 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic, disembark at the Orlando Stadium stop. From there, head south on Klipspruit Valley Road, then take a left onto Vilakazi Street. You will arrive at your destination shortly.
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Public Transport (Gautrain and Bus)
Begin at the nearest Gautrain station in Johannesburg. Purchase a ticket to the Soweto station. Once you arrive at the Soweto station, exit and locate the bus stop that services Vilakazi Street. Board a local bus that indicates it goes to Orlando West or Vilakazi Street. The bus journey will take around 15-20 minutes. Get off at the Vilakazi Street stop, and you will be right at the location.
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Walking
If you are staying in a nearby area, you can walk to Vilakazi Street. Start by heading towards the main road and locate the nearest bus or taxi stand. If you prefer walking, proceed through the local streets, keeping an eye on signs that direct you to Soweto. It's roughly a 30-45 minute walk from the main attractions in Johannesburg. Ensure to follow the road signs to Orlando West, and you will eventually reach Vilakazi Street.
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Uber or Bolt
For a more direct and comfortable route, consider using a ride-hailing service like Uber or Bolt. Open the app, set your pickup location, and enter 'Vilakazi Street, Orlando West, Soweto' as your destination. The driver will navigate you through the best route, which usually takes around 30 minutes depending on traffic. This is a convenient option especially if you're traveling with luggage or in a group.
Discover more about Vilakazi St
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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Unmissable attractions to see
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Essential places to dine
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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