· ZA

Pretoria

Pretoria, Gauteng, South Africa

Pretoria: Jacaranda City, Historical Heart, and Urban Oasis Pretoria, affectionately known as the Jacaranda City for its streets draped in vibrant purple blooms every spring, offers visitors a unique blend of history, na…

#Capital City#Government#Historical#Cultural#Urban

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Stay & fly Things to do Videos Practical Guide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Pretoria.

Top Hotels in Pretoria

Top Flights to Pretoria

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Pretoria.

Tours

Union Buildings Tour

Explore the iconic Union Buildings, home to the offices of the President of South Africa.

Voortrekker Monument

Visit this massive granite structure to learn about the history of the Afrikaner people.

Fort Klapperkop

A well-preserved fort offering panoramic views of Pretoria.

Shopping

Hazel Food Market

Enjoy a lively, open-air market offering local and international foods and crafts.

Grove Mall

Shop at one of Pretoria's largest malls featuring top brands and various restaurants.

Menlyn Park Shopping Centre

A renowned shopping destination with a diverse range of stores and eateries.

Outdoor

Pretoria National Botanical Garden

Discover the indigenous flora of South Africa in this serene botanical garden.

Rietvlei Nature Reserve

Experience wildlife and beautiful landscapes in this expansive nature reserve.

Moreleta Kloof Nature Reserve

A tranquil reserve, perfect for hiking and bird watching.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

From travelers

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Pretoria.

Currency

R | ZAR | South African Rand

Population

741651.0

Languages

Afrikaans, English, Sepedi, Tswana

Average weather

Pretoria

Jan

29°18°

Feb

28°18°

Mar

27°16°

Apr

25°12°

May

23°8°

Jun

21°5°

Jul

21°5°

Aug

24°8°

Sep

27°12°

Oct

28°15°

Nov

28°16°

Dec

29°17°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Pretoria.

What people love

Pretoria, located in Gauteng, South Africa, offers several advantages to travelers. Here are some of the pros of traveling to Pretoria:

Rich History: Pretoria is known for its historical significance as the administrative capital of South Africa. Visitors can explore historical landmarks such as the Union Buildings, Voortrekker Monument, and Freedom Park.
Cultural Diversity: The city boasts a rich cultural heritage with a blend of African, European, and Asian influences. Travelers can experience this diversity through local cuisine, arts, and traditions.
Beautiful Gardens and Parks: Pretoria is also known as the "Jacaranda City" due to the thousands of jacaranda trees that line its streets. The city is home to numerous parks and gardens, including the Pretoria Botanical Garden and Burgers Park, offering peaceful retreats in the midst of urban life.
Outdoor Activities: Nature lovers will enjoy exploring the nearby parks and reserves, such as Groenkloof Nature Reserve and Rietvlei Nature Reserve, which offer opportunities for hiking, bird watching, and wildlife viewing.
Shopping and Dining: Pretoria has a vibrant culinary scene with a wide range of restaurants serving local and international cuisine. Visitors can also enjoy shopping at markets, malls, and boutiques offering unique crafts, fashion, and souvenirs.
Convenient Location: Pretoria is centrally located in Gauteng, making it a convenient base for exploring other attractions in the region, including Johannesburg, Soweto, and the Cradle of Humankind.

Overall, Pretoria offers a mix of history, culture, natural beauty, and modern amenities, making it a compelling destination for travelers seeking a diverse and enriching experience.

What to know

Some potential cons of traveling to Pretoria, South Africa, could include:

Safety concerns: Like many cities in South Africa, Pretoria has some areas that may be considered unsafe, especially at night. It is important for travelers to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety.
Traffic congestion: Pretoria is a bustling city with a high volume of traffic, which can lead to congestion and delays, particularly during peak hours. Travelers should plan their routes carefully to avoid getting stuck in traffic.
Limited public transportation: While there are public transportation options available in Pretoria, such as buses and trains, the coverage may not be as extensive as in some other cities. This could make it challenging for travelers to get around without a car.
Language barriers: While English is widely spoken in Pretoria, there are also many other languages spoken in South Africa, such as Afrikaans, Zulu, and Xhosa. Travelers who do not speak these languages may encounter some communication barriers.
High cost of living: Pretoria is known to have a relatively high cost of living compared to other cities in South Africa. Travelers should be prepared for potentially higher prices for accommodation, dining, and other expenses.

Please note that these are general cons and may not apply to every traveler's experience in Pretoria. It is always advisable to conduct thorough research and take necessary precautions when traveling to any destination.

Pretoria, located in Gauteng, South Africa, is one of the country's three capital cities, serving as the executive capital. Its rich history is deeply intertwined with South Africa's broader historical narrative. Here is a detailed overview:

Early History and Founding:

Indigenous Peoples: Before European settlers arrived, the region was inhabited by various indigenous groups, including the Sotho-Tswana people.
Founding: Pretoria was founded in 1855 by Marthinus Pretorius, a leader of the Voortrekkers, and named after his father, Andries Pretorius. Andries Pretorius was a prominent Voortrekker leader known for his role in the Battle of Blood River.

Significant Events:

First Boer War (1880-1881): Pretoria was involved in the conflict between the British Empire and the Boer settlers. The war led to the Pretoria Convention, granting self-government to the South African Republic (ZAR).
Second Boer War (1899-1902): During this war, Pretoria was the administrative capital of the ZAR. It fell to the British in 1900.
Union of South Africa (1910): Pretoria became the administrative capital of the newly formed Union of South Africa.
Apartheid Era (1948-1994): Pretoria was central to the apartheid government, which implemented racial segregation policies. The city hosted many governmental buildings where apartheid laws were enacted.
End of Apartheid (1994): With the first democratic elections, Pretoria remained the executive capital of South Africa.

Historical Figures:

Paul Kruger: Often associated with Pretoria, Kruger was the President of the South African Republic and a prominent Boer leader. His former residence is now a museum.
Nelson Mandela: Although not directly linked to Pretoria, Mandela's 1994 inauguration as the first black president of South Africa took place in the city.

Important Landmarks:

Union Buildings: Designed by Sir Herbert Baker, these are the official seat of the South African government and the office of the President. They are also the site of many significant historical events, including Mandela's inauguration.
Voortrekker Monument: This massive granite structure commemorates the Voortrekkers who left the Cape Colony in the 1830s and 1840s.
Kruger House Museum: The former residence of Paul Kruger, offering insights into his life and South African history.
Church Square: The historic center of Pretoria, featuring a statue of Paul Kruger and surrounded by several historic buildings.
Freedom Park: A memorial to honor those who contributed to the freedom of South Africa, reflecting the country's diverse history.

Modern Day:

Today, Pretoria is a vibrant city known for its academic institutions, such as the University of Pretoria, and as a center for research and development. It continues to play a crucial role in South Africa's political and cultural landscape.