Things to Do at Apartheid Museum

Complete Guide to Apartheid Museum in Johannesburg

About Apartheid Museum

The Apartheid Museum in Johannesburg stands as one of the world's most powerful and moving testimonies to the triumph of the human spirit over adversity. Opened in 2001, this internationally acclaimed museum tells the story of South Africa's apartheid era through a complete collection of photographs, film footage, artifacts, and interactive displays that chronicle the rise and fall of apartheid and the country's journey to democracy. The museum's design itself is symbolic, with visitors randomly assigned different racial classifications at entry, experiencing firsthand the arbitrary nature of apartheid's racial categorization. Through 22 individual exhibition areas, the museum presents the complex history of institutionalized racism, resistance movements, and the eventual transition to democracy, making it an essential destination for understanding South Africa's past and present.

What to See & Do

The Race Classification Entrance

Experience the museum's powerful opening exhibit where visitors are randomly assigned racial categories, immediately immersing you in the apartheid experience

Nelson Mandela Exhibition

Explore the life and legacy of South Africa's most famous freedom fighter through personal artifacts, photographs, and multimedia presentations

The Hanging Nooses Display

A haunting installation of 131 nooses representing political prisoners executed during apartheid, serving as a stark reminder of the regime's brutality

Interactive Timeline Gallery

Navigate through South African history from 1948 to 1994 using touch screens, archival footage, and historical documents that detail key apartheid events

The Democracy Gallery

Witness the transition to freedom through exhibits covering the negotiations, elections, and early years of democratic South Africa

Practical Information

Opening Hours

Tuesday to Sunday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM (last entry at 3:30 PM). Closed on Mondays, Christmas Day, and Good Friday

Tickets & Pricing

Adults: R65, Students/Pensioners: R50, Children (4-18): R45, Children under 4: Free. Group discounts available for 10+ people. Online booking recommended

Best Time to Visit

Weekday mornings for fewer crowds. Allow extra time during Heritage Month (September) and Human Rights Day (March 21) when local interest peaks

Suggested Duration

3-4 hours for a complete visit, minimum 2 hours for highlights only

Getting There

The Apartheid Museum is located in Ormonde, south of Johannesburg city center, adjacent to this destination. The most convenient access is by car or taxi, with ample parking available on-site. From OR Tambo International Airport, it's a 45-minute drive via the M2 highway. Public transport options include the Gautrain to Park Station followed by a taxi or Uber ride. Many tour operators offer half-day or full-day packages that include transportation from Johannesburg hotels.

Things to Do Nearby

this destination
Theme park and casino complex built around a reconstructed gold mining town, offering rides, shows, and underground mine tours
Constitutional Hill
Former prison complex turned museum and home to South Africa's Constitutional Court, featuring the stories of famous political prisoners
Soweto Township
Historic township offering cultural tours, including visits to Vilakazi Street where both Nelson Mandela and Desmond Tutu lived
this destination
Africa's tallest building offering panoramic views of Johannesburg from the 50th floor observation deck
Museum Africa
complete museum showcasing South African cultural history, art, and heritage in the heart of Johannesburg

Tips & Advice

Book tickets online in advance to avoid queues, especially during peak tourist seasons and school holidays
Bring tissues as the exhibits are emotionally powerful and moving - many visitors find the experience deeply affecting
Wear comfortable walking shoes as the museum involves considerable walking and standing throughout multiple levels
Allow plenty of time and avoid rushing - the museum's impact comes from thoughtful engagement with the exhibits and stories presented

Tours & Activities at Apartheid Museum