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Flights to Soweto

If you are interested in flights to Soweto, then what you really want is to fly to Johannesburg.
Once you fly into O.R. Tambo International Airport, the airport that serves Johannesburg, Soweto is only a 48-minute drive away.
Soweto, short for South Western Townships, is a vibrant township located in the city of Johannesburg, South Africa.
While Soweto itself does not have its own airport, it is well-served by several major airports in the Johannesburg area, making it easily accessible for travelers.
Flights to Soweto: Airports Serving Soweto
- O.R. Tambo International Airport (JNB): Located approximately 56 kilometers (35 miles) from Soweto, O.R. Tambo International Airport is South Africa’s busiest airport and a major hub for international and domestic flights. It offers a wide range of services and amenities, including numerous airlines operating flights to and from various destinations worldwide.
- Lanseria International Airport (HLA): Situated about 53 kilometers (33 miles) from Soweto, Lanseria International Airport primarily handles domestic flights and some regional flights. It is a convenient option for travelers looking for a less crowded alternative to O.R. Tambo International Airport.
Flights to Johannesburg
Travelers from various parts of the world can find flights to Johannesburg, the nearest major city to Soweto.
Airlines such as Emirates, Air France, and South African Airways offer regular flights to Johannesburg from major cities globally.
For instance, Air France provides flights from Los Angeles to Johannesburg, with a stopover in Paris.
Transportation from Airports to Soweto
Once you arrive at either O.R. Tambo International Airport or Lanseria International Airport, there are several transportation options to reach Soweto:
- Private Transfers: Booking a private transfer in advance can provide a comfortable and direct route to your accommodation in Soweto.
- Public Transportation: Public transport options include trains and buses. For example, from O.R. Tambo International Airport, you can take the Gautrain to Sandton and then transfer to a bus or taxi to Soweto. Alternatively, there are shuttle services and minibus taxis that operate between the airport and Soweto.
Accommodation in Soweto
Soweto offers a range of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences.
From guesthouses and bed-and-breakfast establishments to hotels, visitors can find suitable lodging. It’s advisable to book accommodations in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Attractions in Soweto
Soweto is rich in history and culture, offering several notable attractions:
- Vilakazi Street: This historic street is home to the houses of two Nobel Peace Prize laureates, Nelson Mandela and Desmond Tutu. Visitors can tour their former homes and learn about their contributions to South Africa’s history.
- Hector Pieterson Museum: Dedicated to the memory of Hector Pieterson, a 12-year-old boy who became a symbol of the 1976 Soweto Uprising, this museum provides insights into the struggle against apartheid.
Soweto Vacations Packages
If you are interested in buying both your flights to and accommodation in Soweto as a package deal (it often comes out to being cheaper), check out some Soweto Vacation packages here.
Places to Rent in Soweto
If you are interested in living in Soweto short-term or long-term, you can find a selection of available places–apartments and houses–here.
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Photo credits: Tripadvisor