Pretoria, nestled in the Apies River valley and flanked by the Magaliesberg range, is affectionately known as the Jacaranda City for its vibrant purple blossoms in spring. As one of South Africa's three capital cities, alongside Cape Town and Bloemfontein, Pretoria is the administrative heart of the nation and lies a mere 55 kilometers from Johannesburg. The city is characterized by its governmental roles, tidy suburbs, and significant Afrikaner population, and serves as an industrial, educational, and cultural hub with institutions like the University of Pretoria and UNISA.
Visitors to Pretoria can explore historic buildings, monuments, museums, botanical gardens, and nature reserves. The city offers a stark contrast to its bustling neighbor, Johannesburg.
1. Pretoria National Botanic Garden
The Pretoria National Botanic Garden is a serene sanctuary showcasing South African flora, with a diverse collection of trees, plants, and a National Herbarium. Visitors can enjoy nature trails and dine at the lakefront restaurant.
Official site: http://www.sanbi.org/gardens/pretoria
2. Voortrekker Monument
The Voortrekker Monument, a National Heritage site, commemorates the pioneering Boers' northward migration. The monument features a Hall of Heroes and offers panoramic views of Pretoria.
Official site: http://www.vtm.org.za
3. National Zoological Gardens of South Africa
The expansive National Zoological Gardens of South Africa features an aviary, reptile house, and inland aquarium. Visitors can rent golf carts, ride the cableway, and even participate in night tours.
Official site: http://www.nzg.ac.za
4. Ann van Dyk Cheetah Centre
The Ann van Dyk Cheetah Centre is dedicated to wildlife conservation, offering educational tours and close encounters with cheetahs and other African animals.
Official site: http://www.dewildt.co.za/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=21&Itemid=62
5. Union Buildings
The Union Buildings, designed by Sir Herbert Baker, are a government seat and feature terraced gardens with memorials and a statue of Nelson Mandela. The site is a symbol of South African democracy.
6. Freedom Park
Freedom Park commemorates South Africa's struggle for liberation, with memorials, a museum, and the Wall of Names. Guided tours offer insights into the nation's history.
Official site: http://www.freedompark.co.za/
7. Moreleta Kloof Nature Reserve
Moreleta Kloof Nature Reserve offers hiking trails and wildlife viewing near the city center. The reserve is a former dairy farm with a restaurant overlooking a wildlife parade.
Official site: http://moreletakloof.co.za/about/
8. Melrose House
Melrose House is a Victorian mansion where the Treaty of Vereeniging was signed. It now serves as a museum with period furnishings and hosts various cultural events.
9. Ditsong Museums of South Africa
Ditsong Museums of South Africa is a collective of eight national museums, including the Ditsong National Museum of Natural History and the National Museum of Cultural History, showcasing South Africa's rich heritage.
Official site: https://ditsong.org.za/
10. Rietvlei Nature Reserve
Rietvlei Nature Reserve is a tranquil wildlife haven offering game viewing and outdoor activities just outside Pretoria.
Official site: http://rietvlei-reserve.co.za/
11. Kruger House Museum
The Kruger House Museum, once home to President Paul Kruger, displays artifacts from his life and the history of the Transvaal Republic.
12. Horseback Africa
Horseback Africa offers unique experiences like walking with lions and horseback safaris, allowing visitors to interact with wildlife in a conservation-focused setting.
Official site: www.horsebackafrica.com
13. Hazel Food Market
The Hazel Food Market is a bustling European-style market in Menlo Park, offering a variety of local and international foods every Saturday.
14. Pretoria Art Museum
The Pretoria Art Museum, occupying a city block, showcases a vast collection of South African art, including works by renowned artists and contemporary pieces.
Where to Stay in Pretoria for Sightseeing
For accommodation, Pretoria offers luxury boutique hotels like the Menlyn Boutique Hotel, mid-range options such as the Southern Sun Pretoria, and budget-friendly choices like the Holiday Inn Express Pretoria-Sunnypark.
