Way back in years, I was traveling the lovely South Africa and Jo-burg, how they call the huge city of Johannesburg.
After many other places we finally visited some parts of Soweto.
picture by dash.mediaupdate.co.za
Soweto - is the largest black township in South Africa. The Vilakazi Street, the tourist Mecca of Soweto and - for sure - I had to go there.
This is where Sakhumzi opens its doors to anyone and everyone - from locals, to tourists and even corporate groups. Sakhumzi is a restaurant with true ‘kasi’ flavour. Kasi, meaning township - a vibrant community welcoming everyone in for lively local tunes and authentic home cooked Soweto food!
In 2015, I had the unforgettable experience of exploring Soweto with my friend from university time. Let’s call him „IG“, he act as my guide and we had such a lovely time. He grew up in the area and was eager to show me his Soweto—the lively neighborhoods, the local flavors, and the vibrant street life.
Sure, that sounds like a interesting trip
We started our day visiting his childhood spots, weaving through bustling markets and colorful murals, and ended up at the renowned Sakhumzi Restaurant, where he promised I'd get a true taste of Soweto’s soul.
See more at their actual website at https://www.sakhumzi.co.za/
At Sakhumzi, IG made sure I sampled the best of South African cuisine. He got us a feast: steaming pap, spicy chakalaka, tender grilled meats, and his personal favorite, mogodu (tripe stew). He laughed as he watched me try mogodu for the first time, a taste that took a bit of courage on my part! But the food was incredible, each dish offering a glimpse into Soweto’s rich culinary traditions. Sharing these dishes with my friend felt like being welcomed into a family.
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We had as well this mixed platter of lovely local food from the buffet as we couldn’t stop enjoying but at the end I felt it was a bit to much food at all.
I won’t lie, being the only white person in the restaurant initially made me feel a bit out of place. Yet with my local friend by my side, I felt more comfortable, like I was part of his world, experiencing his culture from an insider’s perspective. As we ate and laughed with those around us, that initial awkwardness quickly faded. His friends at nearby tables greeted me warmly, and soon enough, I felt like just another guest at the lively, packed restaurant. By the end of the night, I was left with gratitude for the openness of everyone I’d met and the shared humanity that overpowered any differences.
picture by joburgetc.com
The iconic Soweto Towers, named originally the „Orlando Power Station“ was closed in 1998. Now is has been transformed into an adventure hub, attracting thrill seekers from all around the world. Visitors to the old towers can experience adrenaline pumping activities like bungee jumping, paintball, and climbing at the huge building, all while taking in panoramic views of Soweto’s unique landscape.
Together, Sakhumzi Restaurant and Soweto Towers create an unforgettable experience for me. A
great to explore the cultural and adventurous sides of this iconic township of Soweto.
picture by Homocosmicos
Soweto in 2015 was alive with transformation, and my friend pointed out the changes as we walked. What was once the center of resistance during apartheid had become a place that celebrated both its history and its future. Local businesses were growing, art and music filled the streets, and Soweto’s youth brought fresh energy to every corner. Vilakazi Street, where both Desmond Tutu and Nelson Mandela once lived, had become a thriving, welcoming hub for both locals and travelers. It was clear Soweto was redefining itself, finding a balance between honoring its past and embracing new possibilities.
picture by sabcnews.com
See a view from Jo-burg pictured from the entertaining system of my plane to that town.
As someone who loves discovering new places and cultures, my day in Soweto was more than just a visit; it was an eye-opening journey. IG’s guidance made it even more meaningful, grounding me in his community and showing me the pride and resilience of the people. Moments like this remind me why I travel, not just to see new sights, but to understand the stories, challenges, and triumphs of those I meet. Each meal, each handshake, and each new friend are reminders of the universal connections that link us all, no matter where we come from.
I felt more like a real visitor and not a tourist which reflects to the few own pictures I shot during this „visit“ - see the source of all the others I researched for this post by the information about the source. Some might be newer or older as my visit from 2015.
Funny enough I saw an old cool German car on the street. I guess this „Exclusive“ model of a VW Golf was a special build of that owner.
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@worldmappin - yeah!Sure, this location and all my tasteful memories have to be on my map.
See the location with the link at the comments.
The next days we went further south to visit lovely Capetown for some days.
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@Detlev loves HIVE
