Things To Do
in Pretoria
Pretoria, located in the northern part of South Africa, is the country's administrative capital. It is known for its jacaranda-lined streets and historic architecture, including the Union Buildings. The city has a diverse population and a rich cultural heritage, with several museums and art galleries showcasing its history.
Pretoria's mild climate and numerous parks make it a popular destination for outdoor activities and relaxing in green spaces.
- "Ngiyabonga" - Thank you
- "Unjani?" - How are you?
- "Sawubona" - Hello
- "Kodwa" - But
- "Ngicela" - Please
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $30 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $25
- ☕ Coffee: $1.50 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1.50
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Voortrekker Monument, an iconic symbol of the city's history. Enjoy the scenic views of the surrounding area as you understand the significance of this landmark.
After lunch, head to the National Zoological Gardens for an afternoon of wildlife exploration. This vast zoo is home to a variety of species and offers an enriching experience for all ages.
Conclude your day at the vibrant Hatfield district, where you can find plenty of dining options. Experience the local nightlife and unwind after a fulfilling day.
Visit the Pretoria Art Museum to explore an impressive collection of South African art. Check out the beautiful surrounding gardens for a relaxing stroll.
Next, explore the historic Union Buildings and its beautifully landscaped gardens. Marvel at the stunning architecture and take photographs in this central location.
End your day with a performance at The State Theatre, where you can enjoy local productions. Grab dinner nearby to complete your cultural experience.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich historical and cultural heritage with numerous museums and monuments.
- Beautiful parks and nature reserves, such as the Pretoria National Botanical Garden.
- A relatively low cost of living compared to other major South African cities.
- Well-developed infrastructure and public transport systems.
- A hub for education with several universities and colleges, including the University of Pretoria.
- High crime rates in certain areas, which can affect safety.
- Limited job opportunities in certain sectors compared to larger cities.
- Traffic congestion can be problematic, especially during rush hour.
- Weather can be quite hot in summer and chilly in winter, which may not appeal to everyone.
- Social and economic disparities exist, leading to unequal access to services.
Best Activities in Pretoria
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautiful hiking trails and stunning views of the city at Groenkloof Nature Reserve.
Enjoy a peaceful day surrounded by indigenous plants and beautiful gardens at the Pretoria National Botanical Garden.
Experience a variety of cycling trails and see diverse wildlife at Rietvlei Nature Reserve.
Relax and enjoy a picnic in the well-maintained gardens surrounding the iconic Union Buildings.
Tours
Uncover the best of Pretoria with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Pretoria
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers panoramic views of Pretoria and is a great spot for photos, particularly at sunset.
Iconic government buildings with meticulously manicured gardens, providing stunning photo opportunities.
Rural landscape with traditional farm buildings and beautiful scenery, perfect for capturing the essence of the area.
Ideal for birdwatching and nature photography, featuring a variety of bird species in a tranquil setting.
Food in Pretoria
Pretoria Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional South African dish consisting of maize porridge (pap) served with grilled meat (vleis), often accompanied by chakalaka (a spicy vegetable relish). It can be found at local braai (barbecue) spots such as Chisanyama.
Must-Try!
Originally from Durban, this dish consists of a hollowed-out loaf of bread filled with curry. It can be enjoyed at eateries like Afro-Boer and the Shikisha restaurant.
A type of sausage made from beef, pork, and sometimes lamb. It's a popular choice at braai stands and local markets, including the Hazel Food Market.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Pretoria better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling market offers an array of gourmet food stalls, including artisanal bread, cheeses, and locally produced meats. It's an ideal place to sample various street foods and homemade treats.
The square hosts a variety of food vendors and street food stalls serving up everything from local delicacies to international cuisine, catering to diverse palates.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Pretoria, greeting is an important part of the culture. It is customary to greet people with a handshake, and in some cases, a slight bow if meeting someone for the first time. It is also important to use titles such as Mr., Mrs., or Dr. when addressing someone until given permission to use their first name.
Respect for elders is highly valued in Pretoria. It is important to show deference and use polite language when speaking to older individuals. When entering a room, it is customary to greet the oldest person first as a sign of respect.
Pretoria is a multicultural city, and it is important to be mindful of the diverse backgrounds and beliefs of its residents. It is important to avoid sensitive topics such as politics, race, and religion unless the conversation is approached with great sensitivity and respect.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Pretoria with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Pretoria
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is common in Pretoria, South Africa, and is usually around 10-15% of the total bill at restaurants and for other services such as hotel staff or taxi drivers.
Payment in Pretoria, South Africa, is commonly made in cash, but credit and debit cards are also widely accepted. It's important to have some cash on hand, especially for smaller vendors and informal markets.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Pretoria.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures, blooming flowers, and the city comes alive with various festivals and events.
Hot and humid weather, perfect for outdoor activities and enjoying the city's vibrant atmosphere.
Mild temperatures, beautiful foliage, and a great time to explore the city's parks and gardens.
Cool and dry weather, but still plenty of indoor attractions and cultural events to enjoy.
Pretoria at Night
Hiking in Pretoria
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular hiking destination within Pretoria, Groenkloof Nature Reserve offers various trails suitable for all skill levels, combined with scenic views and abundant wildlife.
Home to the famous Wonderboom tree, this reserve features easy to moderate hiking trails, beautiful natural scenery, and historical insights.
A lesser-known hiking area that provides a more secluded experience with trails that lead to panoramic views of Pretoria.
An excellent spot for hiking that offers trails through grasslands and around a dam, providing opportunities to see various bird species and wildlife.
A small but beautiful reserve that features various hiking paths through indigenous bush and offers a peaceful escape close to the city.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Pretoria through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Pretoria by plane.
The main international airport serving Johannesburg and the largest airport in Africa, located approximately 50 kilometers from Pretoria.
An international airport situated about 37 kilometers northwest of Pretoria, primarily serving domestic flights but also handling some regional international flights.
Located approximately 400 kilometers northeast of Pretoria, this airport serves as a gateway to the Kruger National Park and surrounding areas with both domestic and international flights.
Located about 1,600 kilometers from Pretoria, this airport is the main international gateway to Cape Town and the surrounding region, serving several international destinations.
Situated roughly 600 kilometers from Pretoria, this airport serves domestic and international flights and is the primary airport for Durban.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group in Pretoria, primarily consisting of individuals from various ethnic groups such as Tswana, Sotho, and Xhosa.
Predominantly of European descent, including Afrikaans-speaking individuals and English speakers.
A group that includes people of mixed race origins, often with roots in the Cape, and with a unique cultural identity.
Includes individuals of Indian and other Asian descents, contributing to the cultural diversity of the city.
This group encompasses various smaller demographics, including immigrants from different countries around Africa and the world.
The Soul of Pretoria
Discover the essence of Pretoria through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Rugby is a highly popular sport in Pretoria, with numerous clubs and schools participating in the sport. The city is home to the Bulls, a professional rugby team that competes in the United Rugby Championship.
Soccer has a significant following in Pretoria, with various local clubs playing in regional and national leagues. The city is also home to teams like SuperSport United, attracting many fans.
Cricket enjoys popularity in Pretoria, with a strong presence at both amateur and professional levels. The city hosts matches at the SuperSport Park, a key venue for domestic and international cricket.
Athletics is widely practiced in Pretoria, with many schools and clubs encouraging participation in various track and field events. The city regularly hosts local competitions and events.
Netball is particularly popular among women and has a strong community presence in Pretoria. Various leagues and school competitions are held throughout the year.
Basketball is growing in popularity, especially among the youth in Pretoria. Local clubs and schools are increasingly participating in tournaments and leagues.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Pretoria.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many eateries in Pretoria cater well to vegetarians and vegans, offering innovative plant-based dishes. Look out for the 'V' or 'VG' symbols on menus indicating vegetarian or vegan choices.
Visitors with gluten intolerance can find an increasing number of restaurants and cafes in Pretoria that provide gluten-free alternatives, from baked goods to main courses.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Pretoria with these cultural adventures.
