The best things to do in Pretoria
Pretoria, also known as Tshwane, is the administrative capital of South Africa and is located in the northern part of the Gauteng province. The city is known for its rich history, beautiful gardens, and wildlife reserves. Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or just looking for a fun day out, there’s something for everyone in Pretoria. Here are some of the top things to do in the city.
Visit the Union Buildings
The Union Buildings are the official seat of the South African government and are an iconic landmark in Pretoria. The buildings were designed by Sir Herbert Baker and were completed in 1913. Visitors can take a guided tour of the buildings to learn about their history and architecture. The gardens surrounding the Union Buildings are also worth a visit and offer panoramic views of the city.
Explore the Pretoria National Botanical Garden
The Pretoria National Botanical Garden is a must-see for nature lovers. The garden covers 76 hectares and is home to over 8000 plant species from all over the world. Visitors can explore the various gardens, including the succulent karoo, the rock garden, and the alpine house. The garden also offers guided tours and has a restaurant on-site.
Visit the Voortrekker Monument
The Voortrekker Monument is a national heritage site that celebrates the history of the Afrikaans people. The monument was built to commemorate the Voortrekkers, who were the early Dutch settlers in South Africa. Visitors can take a guided tour of the monument to learn about its history and architecture. The monument also offers panoramic views of the city and is a popular spot for sunset photography.
Experience wildlife at the Pretoria Zoo
The Pretoria Zoo, also known as the National Zoological Gardens of South Africa, is one of the oldest zoos in the country. The zoo covers 80 hectares and is home to over 300 species of animals. Visitors can see lions, elephants, giraffes, and many other animals in their natural habitats. The zoo also offers guided tours and has a restaurant on-site.
Visit the Freedom Park
The Freedom Park is a national heritage site that celebrates the history of South Africa. The park covers 52 hectares and has several monuments and sculptures that tell the story of the country’s past. Visitors can take a guided tour of the park to learn about its history and architecture. The park also offers panoramic views of the city and is a popular spot for sunset photography.
Enjoy the outdoors at the Rietvlei Nature Reserve
The Rietvlei Nature Reserve is a popular spot for outdoor activities. The reserve covers 4,000 hectares and is home to a variety of animals, including zebras, giraffes, and antelopes. Visitors can go on game drives, take a guided nature walk, or go bird watching. The reserve also has a restaurant on-site.
Visit the Tswaing Meteorite Crater
The Tswaing Meteorite Crater, also known as the Soutpan Crater, is an impact crater that was formed by a meteorite that struck the earth around 220,000 years ago. The crater is located about 40km northwest of Pretoria and is the second-largest meteorite crater in the world. Visitors can take a guided tour of the crater to learn about its history and geology.
