Constitution Hill Johannesburg
A historic prison and human rights precinct, now home to South Africa's Constitutional Court. Explore stories of struggle and justice.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more reflective
Constitution Hill Johannesburg
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more reflective
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic prison and human rights precinct, now home to South Africa's Constitutional Court. Explore stories of struggle and justice.
"This prison held political activists, ordinary criminals, and even peaceful protesters. Nelson Mandela, Mahatma Gandhi, and Albertina Sisulu were once lock..."
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking across the expansive grounds. :athletic_shoe:
Book Guided Tours
Enhance your understanding with expert guides. Essential for history buffs! :bustsinsilhouette:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Old Fort Prison
Women's Jail
Step into the chilling cells of this former prison, once holding political activists and ordinary criminals.
The Constitutional Court
Supreme Court of Appeal
Witness the impressive architecture and significant art installations within South Africa's highest court.
Exhibitions on Human Rights
Various galleries
Explore powerful exhibits detailing South Africa's journey through apartheid and its fight for human rights.
Planning Your Visit
Book Tours in Advance
Allow Ample Time for Reflection
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking across the expansive grounds. :athletic_shoe:
Book Guided Tours
Enhance your understanding with expert guides. Essential for history buffs! :bustsinsilhouette:
Allow Plenty of Time
Don't rush; immerse yourself in the history and exhibits. At least 2-3 hours recommended. :clock1:
Check for Events
Constitution Hill hosts various cultural events and festivals. :microphone:
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking across the expansive grounds. :athletic_shoe:
Book Guided Tours
Enhance your understanding with expert guides. Essential for history buffs! :bustsinsilhouette:
Allow Plenty of Time
Don't rush; immerse yourself in the history and exhibits. At least 2-3 hours recommended. :clock1:
Check for Events
Constitution Hill hosts various cultural events and festivals. :microphone:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Constitution Hill for its profound historical significance and the powerful storytelling within its exhibitions, particularly the Old Fort Prison. The Constitutional Court is admired for its architecture and symbolic importance. Some find the experience emotionally challenging due to the sensitive history, and recommend guided tours for deeper understanding.
"One of the best museum experiences I’ve ever had. Constitution Hill gives you a real understanding of South Africa’s history, the struggles, the pain, and the incredible forgiveness that helped build the nation. You truly feel connected to the story, almost like you are part of it. Our group was very moved and emotional throughout the visit. The guides were excellent—organized, knowledgeable, and gave us enough time to explore, reflect, and take photos. A must-visit in Johannesburg!"
Basheer Breama
"The place is a great dive in the history of South Africa’s (in)justice system and its ties to Apartheid. It has great depth of information in the life of prisoners and makes for a reality shock at times. Unfortunately, many of the media such as videos and audio was not working during the visit.
If you can, carve out 3-4h for a full in-depth visit."
Fábio Arcanjo
"Visited Constitution Hill as part of a tour organised by Mo Afrika Tours. We arrived a few minutes late and hopped on to the 10am tour hosted by guide Brenda. I counted 48 people in out group which made it difficult to hear when we were moving in and out of confined spaces. There seemed to be another tour that started after ours that only had 10 people in it.
Despite this, Brenda commanded an audience - she was an amazing storyteller and still had humour and was entertaining despite the seriously depressing subject matter around cell block 4. The tour encompassed the main cells, solitary confinement cells, a Mandela/Gandhi exhibition and then onto the Consitutional Courts where we saw inside the Chambers area and where the justices sit and a huge woven South African flag. Flame of Democracy burns outside. Would have liked to have spent longer here and checked out the cells Mandela was held in but it was just one stop of many on our day tour."
Timeshare Chinchilla
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Constitution Hill is accessible via car, taxi, or ride-sharing services. Many visitors opt for the Hop-On Hop-Off Red Bus, which includes Constitution Hill as a stop, offering a safe and convenient way to explore the inner city. Parking is available on-site.
While Johannesburg's inner city has had safety concerns, Constitution Hill is a well-managed precinct. It's advisable to use reputable transport like the Red Bus or ride-sharing services and stay aware of your surroundings.
For tourists, the Hop-On Hop-Off Red Bus is a popular and safe option for seeing key attractions like Constitution Hill. Ride-sharing apps are also widely used and generally reliable.
Walking to Constitution Hill is possible if you are staying nearby in areas like Braamfontein, but it's generally recommended to use transport for safety, especially if you are unfamiliar with the area.
The address is Kotze Street & Joubert Street, Braamfontein, Johannesburg, 2017, South Africa.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee for Constitution Hill varies depending on the tour. General access to the precinct and some exhibitions might be free or have a nominal fee, but guided tours, which are highly recommended, typically have a specific cost. It's best to check their official website for the most current pricing.
While you can often purchase tickets on arrival, booking guided tours in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak seasons or for specific themed tours, to secure your spot.
Constitution Hill is generally open from Monday to Sunday, with specific hours for tours and exhibitions. It's advisable to check their official website for the most up-to-date opening times, as these can vary.
Yes, Constitution Hill offers various guided tours focusing on different aspects of its history, including the prison, the human rights precinct, and specific exhibitions.
Generally, personal photography for non-commercial use is permitted within Constitution Hill. However, for professional or commercial photography, specific permits and fees may apply. It's best to inquire at the visitor center.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore the historic Old Fort Prison, visit the Constitutional Court with its art, and engage with powerful exhibitions on human rights and South Africa's past. Guided tours are highly recommended for a deeper understanding.
Most visitors recommend spending at least 2-3 hours to fully experience the site, especially if you plan to take a guided tour and explore the exhibitions.
Yes, guided tours are a highlight of the Constitution Hill experience, offering in-depth historical context and insights into the human stories behind the site.
Exhibitions focus on South Africa's struggle for democracy, human rights, and the legacy of apartheid. They are often poignant and thought-provoking.
Constitution Hill strives to be accessible. While some historic areas may present challenges, efforts have been made to accommodate visitors with disabilities. It's advisable to contact them directly for specific accessibility information.
🍽️ 🍴 Food & Dining
Yes, there are usually on-site cafes or restaurants offering refreshments and light meals. It's a good place to grab a bite while you're exploring the precinct.
Picnicking is generally not encouraged within the exhibition areas or courtrooms. However, there might be designated areas where you can consume your own food. It's best to check with the visitor center.
The surrounding Braamfontein area offers a vibrant culinary scene with various cafes, restaurants, and eateries catering to diverse tastes.
📸 📸 Photography
Personal photography for non-commercial purposes is generally allowed within Constitution Hill. However, it's always a good idea to be mindful of other visitors and any specific restrictions in certain areas, like inside the Constitutional Court.
The architecture of the Constitutional Court, the historic prison cells, and the expansive views from certain points offer great photographic opportunities. The art installations also make for striking shots.
Tripods and professional equipment may require special permission or incur fees. It's best to inquire at the visitor center upon arrival to avoid any issues.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🏛️ History Buffs & Culture Seekers
⚖️ Human Rights Advocates
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legacy of the Old Fort Prison
Key figures like Nelson Mandela, Mahatma Gandhi, and Albertina Sisulu were once incarcerated here, making it a site of immense historical significance. The exhibitions within the prison complex are designed to evoke empathy and understanding, highlighting the resilience of the human spirit in the face of oppression.
The Constitutional Court: A Symbol of Justice
The precinct also features a collection of art, including sculptures and murals, that complement the themes of justice, equality, and reconciliation.
Navigating Johannesburg's History with the Red Bus
Travelers often find the Red Bus to be a cost-effective and efficient method for sightseeing, especially in areas where independent travel might feel less secure.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit