Pretoria, the administrative capital of South Africa, is a vibrant and bustling city filled with history, culture, and natural beauty. Located in the Northern Province of Gauteng, Pretoria is a popular tourist destination, offering a variety of attractions for visitors to explore. From museums and monuments to nature reserves and parks, there is something for everyone in Pretoria. Here are the top 20 places to see in Pretoria, South Africa.
1. Union Buildings
The Union Buildings are the official seat of the South African government and are an iconic landmark in Pretoria. Located on a hill overlooking the city, the Union Buildings were designed by Sir Herbert Baker and completed in 1913. The building is a masterpiece of Edwardian architecture and is a popular tourist attraction.
2. National Zoological Gardens of South Africa
The National Zoological Gardens of South Africa, commonly referred to as the Pretoria Zoo, is the largest zoo in the country. The zoo is home to over 8,000 animals, including lions, tigers, elephants, giraffes, and rhinos. It is also home to a variety of bird species, reptiles, and amphibians.
3. Voortrekker Monument
The Voortrekker Monument is one of the most iconic landmarks in Pretoria. It was built to commemorate the Great Trek of the Voortrekkers, a group of Afrikaners who left the Cape Colony in search of freedom and a new life. The monument stands as a symbol of the Afrikaner spirit and is a popular tourist attraction.
4. Freedom Park
Freedom Park is a memorial park that was built to commemorate the struggle for freedom and justice in South Africa. The park is home to a number of monuments and memorials, including the Wall of Names, which honors those who died in the struggle against racial oppression.
5. Pretoria National Botanical Garden
The Pretoria National Botanical Garden is a beautiful and peaceful oasis in the heart of the city. The garden is home to a variety of plants, trees, and flowers, and is a popular spot for picnics and walks.
6. Church Square
Church Square is the main square in Pretoria and is home to a number of important monuments and buildings, including the Palace of Justice and the Old Raadsaal. The square is a popular spot for tourists and locals alike.
7. Pretoria City Hall
Pretoria City Hall is the administrative center of the city and is an impressive building. The building was designed by Sir Herbert Baker and completed in 1931. It is home to a number of government offices, as well as an art gallery and a museum.
8. Melrose House
Melrose House is a historic mansion that was built in 1886 by George Heys. The house is a popular tourist attraction and is home to a museum that tells the story of the Anglo-Boer War.
9. Kruger House Museum
The Kruger House Museum is the former home of Paul Kruger, the former president of the South African Republic. The house is now a museum that tells the story of Kruger's life and the history of South Africa.
10. National Museum of Natural History
The National Museum of Natural History is a popular tourist attraction in Pretoria. The museum is home to a variety of exhibits, including dinosaur fossils, rocks and minerals, and a butterfly garden.
11. Pretoria Art Museum
The Pretoria Art Museum is a popular tourist attraction and is home to a variety of artwork, including paintings, sculptures, and photographs. The museum also hosts a number of special exhibitions throughout the year.
12. Groenkloof Nature Reserve
The Groenkloof Nature Reserve is a popular spot for nature lovers. The reserve is home to a variety of wildlife, including giraffes, zebras, and antelopes. It is also home to a number of hiking trails and picnic spots.
13. Austin Roberts Bird Sanctuary
The Austin Roberts Bird Sanctuary is a popular spot for birdwatchers. The sanctuary is home to a variety of bird species, including flamingos, pelicans, and storks.
14. Pretoria National Cemetery
The Pretoria National Cemetery is the final resting place for many of South Africa's war heroes. The cemetery is home to a number of monuments and memorials, and is a popular spot for visitors.
15. Sammy Marks Museum
The Sammy Marks Museum is a popular tourist attraction in Pretoria. The museum is home to a variety of artifacts, including furniture, clothing, and photographs that tell the story of Sammy Marks, a prominent businessman and philanthropist.
16. Rietvlei Nature Reserve
The Rietvlei Nature Reserve is a popular spot for wildlife lovers. The reserve is home to a variety of animals, including zebras, giraffes, and antelopes. It is also home to a number of hiking trails and picnic spots.
17. Pretoria Chinese Garden
The Pretoria Chinese Garden is a tranquil oasis in the city. The garden is home to a variety of plants, trees, and flowers, and is a popular spot for picnics and walks.
18. National Cultural History Museum
The National Cultural History Museum is a popular tourist attraction in Pretoria. The museum is home to a variety of artifacts, including tribal masks, pottery, and jewelry, that tell the story of South Africa's cultural heritage.
19. Pretoria Country Club
The Pretoria Country Club is a popular spot for golfers. The club is home to a championship golf course, as well as a variety of other amenities, including a swimming pool, tennis courts, and a restaurant.
20. Voortrekker Monument Nature Reserve
The Voortrekker Monument Nature Reserve is a popular spot for nature lovers. The reserve is home to a variety of wildlife, including zebras, giraffes, and antelopes. It is also home to a number of hiking trails and picnic spots.