Liliesleaf Farm
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Liliesleaf Farm Rivonia

4.5
·678 reviews·Sandton, South Africa

A pivotal heritage site where liberation leaders hid, Liliesleaf Farm offers a profound look into South Africa's anti-apartheid struggle.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more personal

CrowdLow
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Liliesleaf Farm

Liliesleaf Farm Rivonia

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more personal

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A pivotal heritage site where liberation leaders hid, Liliesleaf Farm offers a profound look into South Africa's anti-apartheid struggle.

4.5
(678 reviews)

"Highly educational and interesting, with extremely knowledgeable and engaging guides."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Guided Tours are Key

Don't miss the guided tours! They bring the history to life and offer deep insights.

💳 Student Discount Alert!

Bring your student ID for half-price admission. A great way to save!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Mandela's Underground Room

Mandela's Underground Room

The farmhouse

Step into the space where Nelson Mandela lived and worked in hiding. A poignant reminder of his fight for freedom.

The Farmhouse and Its Secrets

The Farmhouse and Its Secrets

Main farmhouse buildings

Explore the original buildings that served as a crucial hiding place for liberation leaders. Discover the history of the raid.

Instagram
Interactive Heritage Exhibits

Interactive Heritage Exhibits

Museum galleries

Engage with exhibits detailing the farm's role in the liberation struggle and South Africa's history.

Reddit
The Swedish Room

The Swedish Room

Dedicated exhibition space

Learn about Sweden's significant role in the anti-apartheid movement at this special exhibition.

Instagram
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Planning Your Visit

Book Your Tour in Advance

Guided tours are highly recommended for a comprehensive understanding of Liliesleaf Farm's significance. Booking ahead ensures you get a spot, especially during peak times. Many visitors find the tours incredibly educational and engaging. Reddit

Student Discounts Available

If you're a student, don't forget your ID! Liliesleaf Farm offers half-price admission for students, making this historically rich site more accessible. Check their website for current pricing and student verification requirements. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more personal
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoon tours
Why
Tour guides are very knowledgeable
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Once a hiding spot for key members of the liberation movement, Liliesleaf Farm still stands today as an inspiring heritage museum. It was also a favorite stop for traveling lifestyle blogger @cestchristine. Visit the link in our bio to see why, and learn more about Nelson Mandela locations across South Africa. #MeetSouthAfrica #visitsouthafrica #southafrica #thisissouthafrica #liliesleaf #lilies...
visitsouthafrica
167 likes • 0 views

🎯 Guided Tours are Key

Don't miss the guided tours! They bring the history to life and offer deep insights. InstagramReddit

💳 Student Discount Alert!

Bring your student ID for half-price admission. A great way to save! Reddit

Mandela was here...his room, while underground, at Lilliesleaf Farm in Rivonia, Johannesburg...#mandela #longwalktofreedom #lilliesleaf #lilliesleaffarm #rivonia #johannesburg #joburg #gauteng #southafrica #africa #anc #105anniversary #mandelamemorial #theblackpimpernel #lifeontherun #apartheid #southafricaroadtrip2017
danareadsbooks
45 likes • 0 views
Idag öppnade det svenska rummet på museet Lilliesleaf utanför Johannesburg. Lilliesleaf var en farm där ett antal ANC-medlemmar gömde sig under en kort period på 60-talet och greps. Det nya utställningsrummet fokuserar på Sveriges roll i kampen mot apartheid. En av dem som intervjuats för utstāllningsfilmen är Magnus Walan som ägnat större delen av sitt vuxna liv åt civilrättsliga frågor. Han upps...
heddainsweden
43 likes • 0 views

📸 Capture the History

Plenty of photo opportunities to document this important heritage site. Instagram

🍽️ Enjoy the On-site Restaurant

Well-priced food with excellent quality, perfect for a post-tour meal. Reddit

Outside Mandela's little room in Liliesleaf Farm! #liliesleafmuseum #myheritage #myhistory
lulunjapa
24 likes • 0 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Guided Tours are Key

Don't miss the guided tours! They bring the history to life and offer deep insights. InstagramReddit

💳 Student Discount Alert!

Bring your student ID for half-price admission. A great way to save! Reddit

📸 Capture the History

Plenty of photo opportunities to document this important heritage site. Instagram

🍽️ Enjoy the On-site Restaurant

Well-priced food with excellent quality, perfect for a post-tour meal. Reddit

🚗 Secure Parking Available

Worry-free parking is provided for visitors. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.5
(678 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Liliesleaf Farm for its profound educational value and the exceptional quality of its guided tours. The knowledgeable and kind guides are frequently highlighted as making the experience deeply engaging and insightful. While some find it a bit pricey, the historical significance and the well-preserved nature of the site are considered well worth the admission. Reddit

"This was a very educational and well explained tour by the tour kind. He was so kind and accommodating. I recommend visiting here as it’s one of the most important places in history and has the same elements from the day of the raid in 1964."

Keisha D'souza

"Very educational and interesting. Q showed us around and was extremely knowledgeable and engaging. He was an excellent ambassador."

Louise Hillier

"A historically rich site, and a major turning point in South Africa's history. Great interactive tours. Subtle architecture with considerable preservation. Quite expensive - bring with student cards for half price!"

Liam Gabriel Ullrich

What People Like

Educational guided tours
Knowledgeable guides
Historical significance

What People Dislike

Can be expensive

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Liliesleaf Farm is located in Rivonia, Johannesburg. You can reach it by car, taxi, or ride-sharing services. It's a well-known heritage site, so most navigation apps will guide you directly there. Reddit

While direct public transport routes might be limited, you can take a taxi or ride-share from a nearby Gautrain station or bus stop. It's advisable to check local transport schedules for the most convenient options. Reddit

Yes, Liliesleaf Farm offers secure and ample parking for visitors, making it convenient for those arriving by car. Reddit

The site has made efforts to be accessible, but some older structures might present challenges. It's best to contact them directly to inquire about specific accessibility features. Reddit

Depending on traffic, the journey from central Johannesburg to Liliesleaf Farm typically takes around 30-45 minutes by car. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Liliesleaf Farm is generally open daily, but it's always best to check their official website for the most up-to-date opening hours and any potential holiday closures. Reddit

Admission fees apply, with different rates for adults and children. Students can often get a discounted rate with a valid ID. Reddit

While walk-ins are often accepted, booking guided tours in advance is highly recommended to secure your spot and ensure a comprehensive experience. Reddit

Yes, student discounts are available with a valid student card. It's worth checking their website for any other special offers or group rates. Reddit

Admission typically includes access to the museum exhibits and grounds. Guided tours are often an additional, but highly recommended, component of the visit. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The guided tours are exceptionally well-explained and provide invaluable context. Many visitors find them essential for understanding the farm's historical significance. InstagramReddit

Most visitors spend 2-3 hours at Liliesleaf Farm to fully appreciate the exhibits and take a guided tour. Reddit

Yes, guided tours are a highlight of the Liliesleaf Farm experience, led by knowledgeable guides who share detailed historical accounts. InstagramReddit

You can see Nelson Mandela's underground room, the original farm buildings, interactive exhibits on the liberation struggle, and the Swedish Room. Instagram+2

While the historical content is serious, older children and teenagers can find the exhibits engaging and educational. The interactive nature of some displays can help keep them interested. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, Liliesleaf Farm has a well-regarded restaurant offering excellent food at good prices, making it a convenient spot for lunch or a snack. Reddit

The restaurant offers a menu with a variety of dishes, often including local South African cuisine. It's known for its quality and pleasant dining atmosphere. Reddit

Generally, it's best to consume your own food in designated picnic areas if available, or to patronize the on-site restaurant. Policies can vary, so it's wise to check. Reddit

Most restaurants in South Africa offer vegetarian options, and often vegan choices. It's recommended to check the menu or ask staff upon arrival. Reddit

The restaurant typically operates during the farm's opening hours, often serving lunch and sometimes light snacks. Confirming their specific hours is advisable. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Photography is generally permitted for personal use within Liliesleaf Farm, allowing you to capture the historical significance of the site. Instagram

While personal photography is usually allowed, professional or commercial photography might require special permission. Always be respectful of other visitors and the historical context. Instagram

The exterior of the farmhouses, Mandela's room, and the various exhibition spaces offer compelling photographic opportunities. The grounds themselves are also picturesque. Instagram

Photography inside sensitive historical rooms like Mandela's may have specific guidelines. It's best to observe any posted signs or ask your guide. Instagram

Yes, guides often allow brief moments for photos during tours, especially at key points of interest. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Liliesleaf Farm offers a valuable educational experience for families, particularly for older children and teenagers interested in history. The guided tours can be engaging, with guides often adapting their stories to be more accessible. While the subject matter is serious, the interactive exhibits and the tangible connection to historical figures like Nelson Mandela can capture young minds. Reddit

Consider focusing on the stories of bravery and the fight for justice. The on-site restaurant provides a convenient spot for a family meal, and the secure parking makes arrival stress-free. It's a place where younger visitors can learn about a critical period in South African history in a meaningful way. Reddit

📚 History Enthusiasts

For history buffs, Liliesleaf Farm is an absolute must-visit. This site is central to understanding the South African liberation struggle and the events leading to the Rivonia Trial. The detailed exhibits and expert-led tours provide deep insights into the clandestine operations and the lives of the anti-apartheid leaders. InstagramReddit

Pay close attention to the nuances of the farm's role as a hiding place and operational base. The preservation of Mandela's room and the historical context provided by the guides offer an unparalleled glimpse into this significant era. Don't miss the Swedish Room to explore international connections. Instagram

🚶 Solo Travelers

Solo travelers will find Liliesleaf Farm a deeply rewarding and safe experience. The guided tours are excellent for gaining comprehensive knowledge and connecting with the history. You might even find fellow travelers to share insights with, or enjoy the quiet contemplation of the exhibits. Instagram

Don't hesitate to engage with the guides; they are a wealth of information. The on-site restaurant is also a comfortable place to dine alone. The farm's significance makes it a powerful solo journey into South Africa's past. InstagramReddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Significance of Liliesleaf Farm

Liliesleaf Farm in Rivonia, Johannesburg, is far more than just a historical site; it's a cornerstone of South Africa's struggle against apartheid. This unassuming farm was once a clandestine headquarters for the African National Congress (ANC) and its armed wing, Umkhonto we Sizwe. It served as a vital hiding place for key liberation leaders, including Nelson Mandela, who lived and worked there undercover. The farm's history is inextricably linked to the Rivonia Trial, a pivotal moment where many of these leaders were arrested, leading to their infamous sentences. InstagramReddit

The farm's transformation into a museum and heritage site ensures that this crucial chapter of South African history is preserved and shared. Visitors can explore the original buildings, including Nelson Mandela's modest living quarters, and immerse themselves in the atmosphere of the time. The exhibits meticulously detail the events leading up to the raid, the lives of the activists, and the broader context of the anti-apartheid movement. InstagramReddit

Beyond its direct role in the liberation struggle, Liliesleaf Farm also highlights international solidarity. The presence of the 'Swedish Room' specifically acknowledges the significant support and activism from Sweden against apartheid, showcasing the global dimension of the fight for freedom. Instagram Visiting Liliesleaf Farm offers a profound educational experience, providing a tangible connection to the sacrifices made for democracy in South Africa.

Experiencing Liliesleaf Farm: Tours and Exhibits

The most impactful way to experience Liliesleaf Farm is through its guided tours. The guides are consistently praised for their knowledge, passion, and ability to bring the farm's history to life. They share detailed narratives about the daily lives of the activists, the risks they took, and the events that unfolded on the farm, including the dramatic raid. InstagramReddit Many visitors feel the tours are essential for a deep understanding of the site's importance. Reddit

The museum's exhibits are thoughtfully curated, offering a blend of historical artifacts, photographs, and multimedia presentations. These displays provide context for the farm's role within the larger anti-apartheid movement and South Africa's journey towards democracy. You can explore the various rooms and buildings, each with its own story to tell, from the operational areas to the living quarters. Instagram+1

Beyond the main farmhouse, the grounds themselves hold historical significance. Walking through the property allows visitors to visualize the farm as it was during the 1960s. The site also features a well-maintained restaurant, offering a pleasant place to reflect on the experience and enjoy a meal. Reddit The overall atmosphere is one of quiet contemplation and historical reverence, making it a moving and educational visit.

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