Best things to do in Pretoria
Find out more about those top places in Pretoria
Pretoria: South Africa's Peaceful Capital Full of Charm and Jacarandas
Looking for a break from the hustle and bustle of the bigger cities in South Africa? Then Pretoria is your perfect retreat. One of the country’s three capitals (it’s the administrative one), Pretoria offers a unique blend of serenity, history, and a touch of floral magic. It's the "Jacaranda City," and with good reason—if you visit during the blooming season, the entire city is awash in stunning purple hues, making it one of the most picturesque places to visit in South Africa.
Why Visit Pretoria?
Pretoria may not have the nightlife buzz of Cape Town or the cultural chaos of Johannesburg, but it has its own special appeal. Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or just someone who appreciates a peaceful getaway, Pretoria is full of top attractions and fun things to do. So, let’s dive into some of the best highlights of this charming capital.
1. Visit the Iconic Voortrekker Monument – A Slice of South African History
A trip to Pretoria wouldn’t be complete without visiting the Voortrekker Monument. This impressive structure commemorates the pioneers who trekked into the interior of South Africa in the 1830s and 1840s. It’s not just a monument; it's an entire historical experience. Climb the monument’s steps for stunning views over the city and explore the fascinating museum inside. Plus, it’s a great place for some sightseeing selfies—just don’t get too close to the bronze statues (they might get jealous of your camera skills).
2. Explore the National Zoological Gardens – A Safari, But in the City
Who says you need to drive miles into the bush to see African wildlife? Pretoria’s National Zoological Gardens offers a glimpse into South Africa’s incredible biodiversity without leaving the city limits. From elephants and giraffes to the elusive cheetah, this zoo is home to a variety of species. It’s a great spot for families, animal lovers, and anyone who enjoys spending time with animals—minus the need for binoculars or a safari guide.
3. Take a Stroll Through the Magnificent Pretoria Botanical Gardens
If you prefer to spend your day surrounded by greenery (and possibly some birds chirping), the Pretoria Botanical Gardens is a must-visit. With over 200 hectares of lush gardens, you’ll feel like you’ve entered your own personal Eden. From the arid regions to the tropical rainforests, the garden showcases the incredible diversity of South Africa’s plant life. Plus, it’s a lovely place to have a picnic or just relax under a Jacaranda tree—it’s the city’s iconic flower for a reason!
4. Union Buildings – A Stunning Architectural Gem
If you're a fan of stunning architecture and panoramic views, the Union Buildings should be at the top of your list. As the seat of the South African government, these impressive buildings are beautifully situated on a hill overlooking Pretoria. The surrounding gardens are perfect for a leisurely stroll, and you can also check out the famous statue of Nelson Mandela, which stands proudly in front of the buildings. It’s an excellent spot for sightseeing and a must-see for anyone visiting Pretoria.
5. The Wonder of Jacaranda Trees – Nature’s Purple Carpet
While you’re in Pretoria, you’ll likely find yourself surrounded by the mesmerizing purple blossoms of the Jacaranda trees. These trees bloom between October and November, and the city turns into a purple-hued wonderland. It’s the perfect time to take a stroll through Church Square, or simply wander around the tree-lined streets and snap a few photos. Trust us, this is top-tier sightseeing material.
6. Visit the Historical Church Square
Church Square is the heart of Pretoria’s historical district and an essential stop for any history enthusiast. The square is home to several impressive historical buildings, including the Old Capitol Theatre and The Palace of Justice, where the famous Nelson Mandela trial took place. It’s a spot where the past and present beautifully collide, and if you time it right, you might even catch some local performers adding their own flair to the atmosphere.
7. Wonderboom Nature Reserve – Pretoria’s Secret Wilderness
If you’re looking for a little bit of adventure, don’t miss out on the Wonderboom Nature Reserve, just a short drive from the city center. The reserve is home to the ancient Wonderboom tree—a giant fig tree believed to be over 1,000 years old! You can enjoy a nice hike through the reserve and catch some beautiful views of the Magaliesberg Mountains. It’s a perfect spot to escape the city buzz and reconnect with nature.
What Else Can You Do in Pretoria?
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Enjoy the local food scene: Pretoria has some excellent restaurants and street food to try, from biltong (South Africa’s answer to jerky) to hearty braais (barbecues) that will make you feel like a local in no time.
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Take a scenic drive to Cullinan: Just outside Pretoria is Cullinan, a small town known for the famous Cullinan Diamond Mine, where the largest gem-quality diamond ever found was discovered. It’s a fun little day trip if you’re looking for something off the beaten path.
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Explore local markets: Pretoria is home to several craft markets where you can pick up unique souvenirs, local artwork, and artisan products. It’s a great way to support local artists and take home a piece of your trip.
Final Thoughts: Pretoria’s Charm Is All About the Pace
Pretoria may not be as fast-paced as Johannesburg or as famous as Cape Town, but its laid-back charm, rich history, and gorgeous gardens make it one of South Africa’s most underrated places to visit. Whether you're exploring the Jacaranda-lined streets, visiting iconic historical sites, or simply relaxing in one of its many parks, Pretoria offers something for everyone. So, take a break from the hustle of the bigger cities and enjoy the calm, green vibe of this hidden gem.
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The Union Buildings
Pretoria being the administrative center of South Africa has the major government offices such the Union Buildings. The Union Buildings form the official seat of the President and the offices of the South African Government – designed by the architect Sir Herbert Baker they have European style outlooks. Asides the buildings another attractive feature include its gardens which are made of various indigenous plants, also statues and memorials including statue of General Louis, Delvitte war memorial and the statue of Nelson Mandela.
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Pretoria Zoo
The beauty of South Africa is usually shown through its wildlife attractions and the Pretoria Zoo offers all of that and more. Known officially as the National Zoological Gardens of South Africa, the 200 acres’ zoo was the brainchild of J.W.B. Gunning in 1899 – and it is recognized as the eighth largest zoo in the World. It is one of Pretoria’s most visited attractions with over 600,000 visitors yearly; its attractions are separated into different sections for the optimal experience.
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Voortrekker Monument
This massive granite structure, was built to commemorate the Voortrekkers who parted ways with the Cape Colony between 1836 and 1854 – they were part of the Great Trek, which saw Dutch-speaking settlers engage in eastward migration through South Africa. The monument designed by Gerard Moerdijk is exceptional in the sense that it is 40 meters high and also has a 40 square meters base. While visiting, be sure to check out the Historical Frieze, which leads to the dome of heroes and the cenotaph.
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Loftus Versfield Stadium
Beautifully setup, the Loftus Versfield Stadium is where most of the major sporting action in the country can be witnessed life. Named after Robert Loftus Versfield, it can hold 51,762 people and it is considered a multi-purpose stadium but is mainly used for soccer and rugby. It is at this stadium that a good number of South African’s great sporting moments were made, and should be visited for its electrical atmosphere during game days.
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Tswaing Meteorite Crater
The most unexpected of all Pretoria’s sites is the Tswaing Meteorite Crater, said to have been around for 220,000 years. Located some 25 miles (40.23 kilometers) northwest of Pretoria, the theory is that a large meteorite crash to the earth to form the large crater. It offers visitors an opportunity to see something different while admiring the scenic views as well as its flora and fauna attractions.
