Ponte Experience: Overlook Johannesburg from the 51st Floor and Explore its History

Survey the metropolitan expanse of Johannesburg from the 51st floor while immersing in the narrative of the edifice and its nearby areas. Subsequently, explore the heart of the construction to acquire an alternate viewpoint.

Duration: 1 hour
Cancellation: 24 hours
Highlights
  • Ponte City Apartments - Ponte Tower held the title of the Tallest Residential Building in Africa from 1975 - 2017. At 173m tall with a hallow core, it is a brutalist architectural sight to behold.
What's Included
  • Expert local guide
Location
1 Lily Ave
Lily Avenue
Entrance to the tower is at the end of lily avenue, it looks like a dead end but the black entrance gate is on the left. Tell security you are here from Dlala Nje and they will point you to the welcome centre
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Customer Ratings
4.9
(184 Ratings)
5 stars
4 stars
3 stars
2 stars
1 star
Odyssey66739056575
Aug 1, 2025
A Tale of the Two Cities: From an Urban Slum to Modern Landmark - From watching horrors programmes abour the building and reading heart wrenching stories in popular media, Ponte City was definitely on my TO NEVER VISIT LIST…I then ended up there…The building has undergone an incredible transformation, and a significant part of its positive story is thanks to the work of a social enterprise called Dlala Nje. Dlala Nje (meaning "just play" in isiZulu) operates from the building and is dedicated to challenging the negative perceptions of Ponte and the surrounding Hillbrow neighborhood. They run tours and experiences that offer an authentic look at the area's vibrant culture, history, and the daily lives of its residents. All profits from these tours are funneled directly into their community centers for local children. A list of movies filmed there includes: * District 9 (2009) * Chappie (2015) * Resident Evil: The Final Chapter (2016) Dlala Nje's presence has helped turn Ponte City into a beacon of urban renewal, demonstrating how community-focused initiatives can be a powerful force for change. This place is a must visit!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Liztn720nx
Jul 24, 2025
- Interesting building , great reflection on society. Cynthia was a informed and welcoming tour guide and you money goes to a good cause. Don't hesitate to go!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Curious21880041089
Jul 14, 2025
Ponte City is Ponte Love - explore the place where people make the difference - Where does one go to encounter Johannesburg as a Newbie to the city? Go straight to Ponte City, talk to the Dlala Nje people and experience what Joburg is like. It covers all the important history from 1970 until today. Once you get into it and listen to Dlala Nje, watch how they go about, experience their warmth and kindness you know most of the stories you heard just buy tourits. People (= Dlala Nje) make the difference. Back then in March last year I immediately knew I wanted to come back. The venue on the 51st floor just accomodates perfectly a birthday party. Size, style, facilities - but the most important the staff made us feel at home. They accomodated every need we had and were the perfect host. You can not put it in words: go there, experience how people stand up, make it happen, empower themselves and others. It is real. It is Dlala Nje. Ponte Love.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Benbp7319sd
Jun 28, 2025
Great experience - Very captivating tour of an interesting building. Great views! The community project is awesome. They are changing kids lives!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Y1133adjb
Jun 26, 2025
Awesome Experience. - Extremely well organised and safe. We really enjoyed the experience. Dlala Nje staff were all super friendly and helpful.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Brendanlc1656ts
Jun 18, 2025
Beautiful views of the city - Probably some of the most unique brutality architecture you'll see on the continent. With some fascinating history as well.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
K8374wvbrettd
Jun 17, 2025
An Amazing Experience - An absolute must do in the city - run by a charitable foundation with an incredible cause and an amazing bunch of people. The tour was very well run and organized, with our guide being very knowledgeable as well as passionate about what she does. I would highly recommend it to anyone, local or from abroad!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Sharon
Jun 8, 2025
A unique must do… - This unique experience is a must for anyone who wants to visit this iconic building and get in some steps at the same time. Well organized team ensures that you have the best time which includes a breakfast on floor 51. You don’t need to be super fit either. Great mix of young and old participants with varying fitness levels.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
529nicholasr
Jun 2, 2025
Secure parking & safe visit - Great, safe visit to the top and bottom of Ponte. History of the building and the society within which it was created. Secure parking within the tower, no need to get public transport - there's nothing on the website or TA to let people know that you can park. Amazing photos from below.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Nomad21245885115
Apr 21, 2025
Ponte Tower: A View You'll Never Forget! - The Ponte Tower tour was an incredible experience. Alvaro was incredibly warm, welcoming, and deeply knowledgeable about Ponte and the history of Johannesburg. His insights helped us connect the dots and gain a deeper understanding of how the city developed over time. If you’re feeling hesitant—don’t be. The moment you drive onto the premises, you feel very safe. Just a heads-up: if you have a fear of heights, prepare yourself—it’s all part of the unforgettable adventure!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
From $29
up to 15 guests
1 - Adult
Cancellation: Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start of your experience (local time).