Rebel Walk
Fri Jul 5, 17:00 - Wed Jun 30, 22:00
Starbucks @ The Zone in Rosebank
ABOUT
Discover Rebel Walk, a stirring night-time walking experience weaving together Soweto’s history, art, and cultural vision—created for curious travelers seeking something more than ordinary. Starting at the iconic Soweto Theatre, the evening unfolds across four captivating sites, before ending at the vibrant Native Rebels Restaurant for a warm closing celebration. Here's your guided journey:
?? Start – Soweto Theatre
Embark from the Soweto Theatre, a flagship of community creativity and storytelling built in 2012 as a FIFA-legacy project. Its dynamic presence sets the tone for an evening where tradition, resilience, and artistic expression come alive.
KwaKhaya Lendaba – Credo Mutwa Cultural Village
Your next stop is KwaKhaya Lendaba—“the place of stories”—also known as the Credo Mutwa Cultural Village. Created by famed Zulu sangoma Vusamazulu Credo Mutwa between the 1970s and 1980s, this open-air cultural museum is filled with enchanting sculptures, mythical homesteads, and haunting relics. Mutwa’s visionary works—ranging from statues of traditional deities to prophetic depictions of 9/11—invite reflection on African identity and folklore. The site, nestled in Oppenheimer Gardens and restored in recent years, is truly unique.
Climb Up – Oppenheimer Tower
A highlight for those who are up to it: ascend the Oppenheimer Tower, a beacon rising above the gardens. Built in 1957 from bricks sourced from demolished township homes, each of its 49 steps symbolizes a Soweto suburb. From its summit you’ll enjoy sweeping nighttime views over Soweto’s skyline—an unforgettable perspective on place and perseverance.
Credo Mutwa’s Hut
Within the cultural village is Credo Mutwa’s personal hut, a richly decorated space bearing murals and carvings tied to his teachings and prophecies. This intimate stop connects you directly with the man behind the myth—where storytelling, spiritual wisdom, and fine craftsmanship merge.
June 16 Memorial Acre Museum
The journey then takes a solemn turn at the June 16 Memorial Acre Museum, paying homage to the student leaders and young heroes of the pivotal 1976 Soweto Uprising. With exhibits on Tsietsi Mashinini, Hector Pieterson, and other youth activists, the museum grounds offer a moving space for reflection, remembrance, and inspiration.
Finale – Native Rebels Restaurant
You’ll conclude your walk at Native Rebels Restaurant, a local favorite known for its earthy décor, live music, local beer, and rustic bar-menu dinner. Gather under ambient lights to share food, stories, and perhaps live Afrobeat tunes in a space steeped in Soweto’s vibrant community energy.
Why Go on Rebel Walk?
- History Lit by Night: Explore significant landmarks under atmospheric night skies.
- Cultural Immersion: Experience Credo Mutwa’s surreal artistry and spiritual landscape.
- Panoramic Insights: Climb the Oppenheimer Tower for sweeping views and symbolic profundity.
- Reflection & Resonance: Stand at the June 16 Memorial to honour Soweto’s youth-led past.
- Social & Savory: End the night with authentic local cuisine and community vibes at Native Rebels.
Practical Details
- Route Length: 3–5 km at a moderate pace, beginning at Soweto Theatre, winding through Jabavu, then ending at Native Rebels.
- Departure Times:
- 5pm Departure from Rosebank
- Ticket Price: Approximately R950 per person
Booking & Accessibility
Reserve your place through Funk It I’m Walking or Quicket. Tours typically run daily until mid-2025 and may adapt beyond that. Meeting point: Rosebank. Wheelchair accessibility is not confirmed—but guides can advise on suitability.