To get around in Soweto, you can use a combination of taxis, buses, and ride-hailing apps, as well as drive yourself with a rental car or private vehicle, taking into account the city's unique transportation landscape.
Quick Facts
Getting There
Soweto is located near Johannesburg, and the main airport serving the area is OR Tambo International Airport (JNB), which is about 30 kilometers from Soweto. You can fly into OR Tambo from major cities around the world, including direct flights from hubs like London, New York, and Dubai. From the airport, you can take a taxi, bus, or shuttle to get to Soweto. Alternatively, you can also enter Soweto by car or bus from other parts of South Africa, with several major highways and roads connecting the city to the rest of the country.
If you prefer to enter Soweto by land, you can take a bus or drive from nearby cities like Johannesburg or Pretoria. There are also several border crossings nearby, including the Beitbridge border crossing with Zimbabwe, but these are generally not used to enter Soweto directly. The city is also accessible by train, with the OR Tambo International Airport train station connecting to the Gautrain network, which links Johannesburg to Pretoria and other surrounding cities.
Domestic Flights
If you need to travel to other parts of South Africa, there are several domestic airlines that operate from OR Tambo International Airport, including South African Airways, Mango, and Safair. These airlines offer flights to major cities like Cape Town, Durban, and Port Elizabeth, as well as smaller towns and regional airports. You can book domestic flights online or through a travel agent, and prices vary depending on the route and time of year, but you can expect to pay around $100-$300 for a one-way ticket.
Trains & Rail
The rail network in Soweto is limited, with no direct trains connecting the city to other parts of South Africa. However, you can take the Gautrain from OR Tambo International Airport to Johannesburg or Pretoria, and then transfer to a bus or taxi to get to Soweto. The Gautrain is a modern and efficient rail network that operates on a limited schedule, with trains running every 10-30 minutes depending on the time of day. You can buy tickets online or at the train station, and prices range from $5-$20 for a one-way ticket.
Buses & Coaches
There are several bus companies that operate in Soweto, including Putco and Rea Vaya, which offer routes to Johannesburg and other surrounding cities. These buses are a affordable and convenient way to get around, with prices starting from around $1-$5 for a one-way ticket. You can buy tickets on the bus or at a ticket office, and buses run frequently throughout the day. There are also several private bus companies that operate from Soweto to other parts of South Africa, including Greyhound and Intercape, which offer more comfortable and luxurious buses with amenities like air conditioning and reclining seats.
City Transport
| Mode | Available In | Cost (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| City Bus | Soweto, Johannesburg | $1-$5 | Putco and Rea Vaya buses operate frequently throughout the day |
| Taxi | Everywhere | $5-$10/km | Minibus taxis are a common mode of transport, but be sure to agree on a price before you start your journey |
| Ride-Hailing | Soweto, Johannesburg | $5-$10 | Uber and Bolt operate in the area, with prices varying depending on the time of day and traffic |
| Tuk-tuk/Rickshaw | Not available | - | Not a common mode of transport in Soweto |
Driving
- To drive in Soweto, you will need a valid driver's license from your home country, as well as car insurance that covers you in South Africa.
- The road quality in Soweto is generally moderate, with some paved roads and others that are dirt or gravel.
- Fuel costs are relatively high in South Africa, with prices ranging from $1-$2 per liter.
- If you plan to rent a car, be sure to choose a reputable company and check the vehicle carefully before you drive away.
- Be aware of hazards like potholes, pedestrians, and livestock on the roads, especially at night or in rural areas.
- It's also a good idea to have a GPS or map with you, as some areas of Soweto can be difficult to navigate.
Transport Tips
- Be sure to agree on a price with your taxi driver before you start your journey, as some drivers may try to overcharge you.
- Use a reputable ride-hailing app like Uber or Bolt, and always check the driver's rating and reviews before you get in the car.
- Avoid carrying large amounts of cash with you, and use a credit or debit card instead.
- Be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas like bus stations or markets.
- Download a map or GPS app on your phone to help you navigate Soweto's streets.
- Consider hiring a private driver or guide if you're not comfortable driving yourself, especially at night or in unfamiliar areas.
- Always wear your seatbelt and follow traffic rules, as the roads in Soweto can be unpredictable.
- Be respectful of local customs and traditions, and avoid taking pictures of people or sensitive areas without permission.