Pretoria Capital City Tour from Johannesburg / Sandton, every TUESDAY

Pretoria , South Africa

Pretoria Capital City Tour from Johannesburg / Sandton, every TUESDAY

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About this experience

Embark on a 4.5-hour tour of Pretoria, Capital of the ZAR, the Union of South Africa, the Republic of South Africa and the new South Africa. Stop at the Union Building, home to the president’s office, from where you can delight in a panoramic view of the Jacaranda City.

Available options

Pretoria Capital City Tour from Johannesburg / Sandton, every TUESDAY

Pickup included

What's included

Hotel pickup and drop-off

Driver/guide

Transport by air-conditioned minivan

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

The Voortrekker Monument is located just south of Pretoria in South Africa. This massive granite structure is prominently located on a hilltop, and was raised to commemorate the Voortrekkers who left the Cape Colony between 1835 and 1854.

Stop 2

Pretoria’s Union Buildings, the official seat of the national government, house the offices of the South African president and are located atop the Meintjieskop. An important South African heritage site, the impressive building is surrounded by pretty terraced gardens that offer panoramic views over the city.

The Union Buildings are one of the most recognisable and impressive heritage sights in the city. The 285m-long sandstone building was designed by Sir Herbert Baker in 1910 to mark the Union of South Africa.

Church Square in central Pretoria was the site of the city’s first church, built in 1855. During its early years, the square was used as a marketplace and sports field and today is the grandest civic square in the city and among the great attractions in Gauteng.

For visitors who adore 19th century and early 20th century architecture, Church Square is one of the must-see places to visit in Gauteng. The square is surrounded by historical buildings in varying neo-classical architectural styles, including the impressive Palace of Justice where former president Nelson Mandela and several of his comrades were tried and charged for treason during the infamous Rivonia Trial, the Old Capitol Theatre and the Ou Raadsaal (Old Government) building.

Built in 1886, Melrose House

Stop 5 Pass by

Home of the former President of the ZAR

Pretoria's City Hall

What's not included

Food and drinks

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

1 reviews

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Important information

Service animals allowed

Specialized infant seats are available

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Child rate applies only when sharing with 2 paying adults

Important notes

Hotel pickups commence prior to this time, you must contact the local service provider to verify your exact pickup time.

Times are subject to change due to local traffic conditions.

About Pretoria

Pretoria, known as the Jacaranda City for its beautiful purple-blossomed trees, is the administrative capital of South Africa. It offers a blend of historical significance, cultural richness, and natural beauty, making it a unique destination for travelers.

Top Attractions

Union Buildings

The Union Buildings are the official seat of the South African government and a significant historical landmark. The buildings are an excellent example of Edwardian Baroque architecture.

Historical 1-2 hours Free

Pretoria National Botanical Garden

This botanical garden is home to a diverse range of indigenous plants and offers beautiful walking trails, picnic spots, and a variety of wildlife.

Nature 2-3 hours R50 for adults, R25 for children

Voortrekker Monument

This monumental structure commemorates the Voortrekkers who left the Cape Colony in the 19th century. The monument offers a museum and a tower with panoramic views of Pretoria.

Historical 1-2 hours R30 for adults, R15 for children

Melrose House

Melrose House is a historic home that served as the headquarters of the British military during the Second Anglo-Boer War. Today, it houses a museum and a tea garden.

Historical 1 hour R50 for adults, R25 for children

Pretoria Zoo

The Pretoria Zoo is home to a wide variety of animals, including rare and endangered species. The zoo offers educational programs and conservation initiatives.

Nature 2-3 hours R120 for adults, R60 for children

Must-Try Local Dishes

Braai

Braai is a traditional South African barbecue, featuring grilled meats such as boerewors (sausage), lamb chops, and steak.

Dinner Contains meat, can be adapted for various dietary preferences

Bobotie

Bobotie is a sweet and spicy minced meat dish topped with an egg-based custard. It is often served with yellow rice and chutney.

Dinner Contains meat and eggs, can be made with alternative ingredients for vegetarians

Bunny Chow

Bunny Chow is a hollowed-out loaf of bread filled with curry, typically made with chicken, beef, or beans.

Lunch Contains meat, can be made with vegetarian or vegan fillings

Melktert

Melktert is a traditional South African milk tart, featuring a sweet pastry crust filled with a creamy, custard-like filling.

Dessert Contains dairy and eggs, can be made with alternative ingredients for dietary restrictions

Popular Activities

Hiking Water sports Game drives Picnicking Tea at Melrose House Visiting botanical gardens Museum visits Historical site tours

Best Time to Visit

Spring (September to November) and Autumn (March to May)

Spring and autumn offer mild weather, perfect for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The city is also less crowded during these seasons.

15°C to 30°C 59°F to 86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Afrikaans, English, Northern Sotho
Widely spoken: English, Afrikaans
English: Widely spoken

Currency

South African Rand (ZAR)

Time Zone

GMT+2

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe, but exercise caution

Pretoria is generally safe for travelers, but it is important to exercise caution, especially in certain areas and at night. Be aware of your surroundings, avoid walking alone at night, and keep valuables secure.

Important Precautions:

• Be aware of your surroundings
• Avoid walking alone at night
• Keep valuables secure

Getting there

By air

OR Tambo International Airport • 45 km from city center
Lanzeria Airport • 30 km from city center

By train

Pretoria Station

By bus

Park Station, Pretoria Station

Getting around

Public transport

The PBS offers an affordable and reliable way to get around the city. Buses are frequent and cover most major areas.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Bolt

Rentals

Car, Bike

Neighborhoods

Pretoria Central Hatfield Menlo Park Sunnyside

Day trips

Cullinan Diamond Mine

40 km from Pretoria • Half day to full day

The Cullinan Diamond Mine is famous for being the source of the world's largest diamond, the Cullinan Diamond. Visitors can take a guided tour of the mine and learn about its history and the diamond mining process.

Hartebeestpoort Dam

60 km from Pretoria • Full day

Hartebeestpoort Dam is a popular destination for water sports, fishing, and hiking. The dam is surrounded by beautiful landscapes and offers a variety of outdoor activities.

Pilanesberg National Park

150 km from Pretoria • Full day to overnight

Pilanesberg National Park is a malaria-free game reserve offering excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing. The park is home to the Big Five (lion, leopard, rhinoceros, elephant, and buffalo) and a variety of other animals.

Festivals

Pretoria Jazz Festival • September Aardklop National Arts Festival • October Pretoria Open-Air Arts Festival • November

Pro tips

Visit the Pretoria National Botanical Garden in the spring for the best blooms
Explore the city's cultural and historical sites, such as the Union Buildings and the Voortrekker Monument
Experience a traditional South African braai (barbecue) at a local restaurant or with a host family
Take a day trip to the Cullinan Diamond Mine or Pilanesberg National Park for a unique and memorable experience
Attend a local festival or event, such as the Pretoria Jazz Festival or the Aardklop National Arts Festival