Pretoria

Introducing Pretoria

Tshwane, formerly known as Pretoria, is the political decision-making center and administrative capital of South Africa, and the main city of Gauteng Province [1]. It is located in the foothills of the Magalie Mountains on the plateau in northeastern South Africa, at an altitude of 1,378 meters, and is only a 40-minute drive from Johannesburg in the north of South Africa.

Tshwane's population is evenly split between white and black. The city spans the Apis River, a tributary of the Limpopo River, and is connected by 12 bridges. The area (including suburban areas) is 592 square kilometers, with a population of approximately 1.9 million. The climate is hottest in January and coolest in July, with average temperatures of 20°C and 11°C, respectively. Annual precipitation is 700 mm, concentrated in the summer (November to April).

Climate and best time to travel

savanna climate

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Union Buildings

The South African government and presidential palace is an imposing granite building designed by Sir Herb Baker. It sits on a hill overlooking Pretoria. In front of the building are neatly landscaped gardens with various monuments and statues. Behind the building are extensive jungle and shrub areas, home to numerous bird species.

Voortrekker Monument

Built in 1838 to commemorate the ancestors of the Boers (African Dutch) who fled the Lipu Peninsula by oxcart to escape British rule and establish their own independent nation. This magnificent building is a landmark in Pretoria. The Hall of Heroes within the memorial features exquisite murals depicting the Great Migration. The adjacent museum displays artifacts from the Great Migration period.

City Hall

The city hall boasts distinctive European-style architecture. Its massive domed clock tower features a unique 32-bell carillon and a massive organ with 6,800 pipes. In front of the city hall stands a statue commemorating the founders of Pretoria, Andries and MW Pretorius.

National Zoological Gardens

Covering 60 hectares, the zoo is home to over 3,500 species of animals, making it one of the largest zoos in the world. A cable car provides access to various attractions within the zoo. The aquarium displays a variety of freshwater and saltwater fish, while the reptile house boasts a wide variety of reptiles and crustaceans. A full half-day is required to view these animals.

State Theatre

South Africa's largest arts complex, it boasts five halls showcasing opera, ballet, drama, choral music, and symphony concerts. World-renowned artists such as Sarah Brightman and the Three Tenors Pavarotti, Domingo, and Carreras have performed here. A flea market is held in front of the theater on Saturday mornings.

Post Office Museum

This is a replica of an old post office building. It displays the history of South Africa's postal service and houses a collection of approximately 75,000 precious stamps.

Church Square

South Africa's most famous square, located in the heart of Pretoria, features a statue of Paul Kruger, the first president of the Republic of South Africa. It's a popular spot for leisure and a stroll.

Kruger House Museum

The official residence of Paul Kruger, the first president of South Africa, was converted into a museum. Kruger's personal belongings and artifacts are on display.

Magnolia Dell

This scenic park, famous for its wood lotus flowers, is located on Queen Wilhelmina Street. Art exhibitions are held on the first and last weekends of each month. Interested works can be purchased on-site.

Pretoria Art Museum

The museum houses a collection of valuable artworks from South Africa and other countries. It also has a library, and hosts occasional art lectures, film presentations from various countries, and other art events. [2]

Transvaal Museum of Natural History

The museum houses a rich collection of mammals, reptiles, insects, amphibians fossils and geological relics.

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Most Popular FAQs for Pretoria

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Pretoria is one of South Africa’s three capitals (executive). It was founded in the 19th century and named after Andries Pretorius. It played a central role in Afrikaner history and the apartheid era. Today, it houses government offices, museums, monuments, and many cultural institutions reflecting South Africa’s diverse history and transition to democracy.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Pretoria is in the Gauteng province, in northeastern South Africa, near Johannesburg. It is accessible by road, rail, and Gautrain. Local transport includes buses, taxis, minibus taxis, and walking in the central precincts. Some attractions are spread out, so a car or organized tour is helpful. ([turn0search14],[turn0search16])

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Museums under Ditsong open daily (Natural History) 07:30 to 16:00; Cultural History is open weekdays 07:30–16:00 ([turn0search1]). The Pretoria Art Museum is open Tuesday to Sunday 10:00 to 17:00, closed Mondays ([turn0search21]). Groenkloof Nature Reserve is open 05:30 to 19:00 in summer and 07:00 to 18:00 in winter ([turn0search33]). The best time to visit Pretoria is during dry, mild months (autumn or spring), avoiding extremes of summer heat or winter.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

The Pretoria Art Museum charges: adults R30, pensioners/students R15, learners R10; Wednesdays all visitors R2 ([turn0search21]). Other museum and monument fees vary and are usually paid onsite. Some guided tours or heritage sites may require booking for groups. The weekly parade at CSIR ICC is a free event (no ticket) ([turn0search25]).

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

For most museums and monuments in Pretoria, advance booking is not required; walk-in visits are acceptable. For guided tours, performances, or high-volume days (holidays), booking a few days ahead is prudent. For the camera obscura tours (at Sci-Enza) groups of five or more must book ahead ([turn0search10]).

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

Two full days are sufficient to cover major monuments, museums, gardens, and nature reserves. Add extra day(s) if you want to relax, attend events, or explore outskirts. ([turn0search14])

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

• Voortrekker Monument
• Union Buildings and gardens
• Ditsong Museums (Natural History, Cultural History)
• Pretoria Art Museum
• Groenkloof Nature Reserve
• Freedom Park Heritage Site
• St Albans Cathedral
• The Grove mall & entertainment
• Moreleta Kloof Nature Reserve
• Camera Obscura (Sci-Enza)

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Yes — guided city tours in English (and possibly Afrikaans) are common. Museums typically offer guided or staff-curated explanations. Audio guides may be available in larger museums or monuments. Tours of the Voortrekker Monument include guided walks (≈ 2 hours) focusing on history and symbolism ([turn0search11]).

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• From the top of the Voortrekker Monument overlooking Pretoria
• Union Buildings and gardens facing the city center
• Gardens around museums and art museum frontage
• Nature trails in Groenkloof for scenic shots, wildlife, vegetation
• Magnolia Dell Park for floral and creek-side scenes ([turn0search36])
• Rooftops in Arcadia and central Pretoria for cityscape views

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

• Day 1: Start with the Voortrekker Monument & adjacent gardens, then Union Buildings → Ditsong Museums → Freedom Park in afternoon
• Day 2: Pretoria Art Museum → St Albans Cathedral → Groenkloof Nature Reserve hike → end at The Grove or local markets
• Optional: visit Moreleta Kloof or attend Wednesday evening parade at CSIR ICC if timing allows

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

The CSIR ICC square holds a ceremonial parade (flag raising/lowering) on Wednesdays from 21:30 to 22:30 with military band accompaniment, viewable at night ([turn0search25]). Other museums and sites typically close before evening; occasionally special events or exhibitions at galleries may run into evening hours.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

Pretoria sees typical city traffic peaks in mornings and evenings. Museums and attractions are less crowded early in the day or on weekdays (especially midweek). Weekends may draw more locals and tourists to parks and gardens.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

• Museums and major attractions provide restrooms, visitor rooms, and sometimes small cafés or kiosks
• Parks and nature reserves like Groenkloof have benches, picnic areas, shade, and walking trails
• Malls (e.g. The Grove) offer full services: shops, food courts, restrooms ([turn0search12])
• Cafés, restaurants, and shops are dispersed through suburbs and central Pretoria
• Water is safe in developed areas; carry water when walking trails

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

• Many museums are wheelchair accessible or have ramps, especially newer or renovated sections
• Some trails in nature reserves are gentle and suitable for children; more rugged trails may be challenging for mobility-impaired
• Children will enjoy interactive museums, parks, and nature reserves

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

In Pretoria, cards are widely accepted at museums, restaurants, and shops. Some smaller vendors, park entrances, or markets may require cash (South African rand), so carrying some cash is recommended.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

Pretoria offers many dining options, especially in suburbs like Arcadia, Lynnwood, Hatfield, and around The Grove mall. You’ll find South African cuisine, international fare, cafés, and more. Reddit users mention restaurant/café hopping as a highlight. ([turn0search17])

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Yes — many restaurants in Pretoria offer vegetarian/vegan dishes, salads, and plant-based meals. Halal options are available especially in diverse neighborhoods or larger dining venues.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Pretoria has quality lodging in central suburbs (Arcadia, Hatfield, Waterkloof) and close to major attractions. You can stay near the city center for easy access to museums and government buildings, or choose quieter suburban lodges near nature reserves.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

• Ann van Dyk Cheetah Centre (wildlife) ([turn0search5])
• Magaliesberg mountains and scenic areas ([turn0search16])
• National Botanical Garden of South Africa ([turn0search16],[turn0search23])
• Irene Country Club area, historical farms and gardens ([turn0search16])
• The Cradle of Humankind / Sterkfontein Caves via day tour from Pretoria (or from Johannesburg) ([turn0search9],[turn0search14])

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Yes — gift shops in museums, galleries, and souvenirs in malls and markets. Common souvenirs include local crafts, artwork, small sculptures, traditional textiles, beadwork, and books on South African heritage.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

• Intercity buses or coaches to Johannesburg, other Gauteng areas, or national destinations
• Train or Gautrain links to Johannesburg and OR Tambo Airport
• Car hire or private tours to venture into South Africa’s national parks, the Cradle of Humankind, or scenic regions
• Flights from nearby airports (e.g. in Johannesburg) to domestic or international destinations