Pretoria, South Africa

Travelling in Pretoria, South Africa: A Comprehensive Guide

Welcome to Pretoria, the Jacaranda City! This vibrant metropolis offers a rich blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Here’s your ultimate guide to exploring this charming city.

Places to Go

  1. Voortrekker Monument: A historical monument commemorating the Great Trek, an Afrikaner migration between 1835 and 1840. The monument also houses a museum with various exhibitions.
  2. Apartheid Museum: Located in Johannesburg, but definitely worth the visit. It provides a profound understanding of South Africa’s turbulent past during apartheid and its transformation into democracy.
  3. Pretoria City Centre: Visit Church Square, City Hall, and the Paul Kruger Statue. The area is steeped in history and offers a glimpse into Pretoria’s past.
  4. University of Pretoria: With beautiful architecture and lush gardens, the campus is worth exploring.
  5. Pretoria National Botanical Garden: A haven for plant lovers with a diverse collection of indigenous flora.
  6. Aquarium and Reptile World: Home to a variety of marine life and reptiles, perfect for families.
  7. Champion’s Park Zoo: A small zoo featuring local wildlife, ideal for a relaxed day out.
  8. Faithful Johannes Maswanganyi Museum: Learn about the life and times of the influential Tswana leader, Maswanganyi.

Activities

  1. Hot Air Ballooning: Enjoy a sunrise balloon ride over the city for a unique perspective of Pretoria.
  2. Cycling in Groenkloof Nature Reserve: Explore the reserve at your own pace on a bike.
  3. Visit the Jacaranda Tree-lined Streets: In late October and November, the city transforms into a purple paradise with blooming jacarandas.
  4. Art Galleries and Museums: Visit galleries like Pretoria Art Museum and Everard Read to appreciate local art.
  5. Wine Tasting: Day trips to wine estates in Stellenbosch, Franschhoek, or Robertson are easily arranged.

Where to Eat

  1. Manna Ehara Bistro: A popular spot for vegetarian and vegan cuisine.
  2. Rick’s Cafe Americain: An American-style diner offering a variety of dishes.
  3. Oom Samie se Winkel: A traditional South African restaurant serving boerewors and bobotie.
  4. The Dining Room at Steenbok: Enjoy fine dining in a serene setting.
  5. Indulge Bistro & Bakery: Known for its delicious cakes and pastries.
  6. The Local Grill: A steakhouse offering a variety of dishes cooked on an open grill.

Where to Stay

  1. Protea Hotel by Marriott Pretoria Centurion: Conveniently located near shopping centers and business parks.
  2. The Vineyard Hotel: A luxury hotel nestled in the heart of Pretoria, offering elegant rooms and a tranquil garden setting.
  3. Protea Hotel Rietvlei: Located on the banks of the Rietvlei dam, this hotel offers a peaceful retreat.
  4. City Lodge Hotel Hatfield: Centrally located and ideal for business travelers or tourists exploring the city.
  5. African Pride Irene Country House & Spa: A charming hotel set in a beautiful estate offering a tranquil escape from the city.

Things to Know

  1. Currency: The South African Rand (ZAR) is the official currency.
  2. Electricity: The power plugs and sockets are of type M, also known as the “South African 15 amp plug”. The standard voltage is 230 V and frequency is 50 Hz.
  3. Language: English is widely spoken in Pretoria along with Afrikaans.
  4. Time Zone: South Africa is 2 hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT+2).

Transportation

  1. Taxi: Metered taxis are available throughout the city.
  2. Uber: Uber operates in Pretoria, making getting around easy and convenient.
  3. Bus: Gautrain buses connect various parts of the city. Tickets can be purchased at the driver’s desk.
  4. Car Rental: Car rentals are readily available for those who prefer self-drive options.

Tips

  1. Stay Safe: Be aware of your surroundings, especially in unfamiliar areas or at night.
  2. Respect Local Culture: South Africa is a diverse country, and it’s essential to be respectful and open-minded when interacting with locals.
  3. Try Local Foods: Don’t miss out on the opportunity to try traditional South African dishes like boerewors, bunny chow, and bobotie.
  4. Shopping: The Menlyn Maine Shopping Centre offers a range of international brands as well as local retailers.
  5. Climate: Pretoria has a subtropical highland climate with warm summers and cold winters. Pack accordingly.

Enjoy your trip to Pretoria, the Jacaranda City! It’s a place where history, culture, and natural beauty come together to create an unforgettable travel experience.