Experience Pretoria

The administrative capital of South Africa, where culture and innovation thrive

Overview

Pretoria, also known as the Jacaranda City, is the administrative capital of South Africa. This bustling city is steeped in history and culture, with numerous museums and landmarks that offer a glimpse into the country’s past. From the iconic Union Buildings to the majestic Voortrekker Monument, Pretoria is a hub for African tourism. The city’s vibrant atmosphere is complemented by its striking natural beauty, with scenic parks and gardens dotted throughout the landscape. Whether you’re exploring the city’s vibrant nightlife or admiring the stunning Jacaranda trees in full bloom, Pretoria is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the rich diversity of African culture.

City History

Founded in 1855 by Marthinus Pretorius, a Voortrekker leader, the city was named in honor of his father, Andries Pretorius, a prominent figure in the Battle of Blood River.

Pretoria became the administrative capital of South Africa in 1910, symbolizing its political importance. The city witnessed significant events in the nation’s history, from the signing of the Peace Treaty of Vereeniging in 1902, ending the Second Anglo-Boer War, to the establishment of the Union Buildings in 1913, designed by Sir Herbert Baker. These iconic structures, perched atop Meintjieskop Hill, remain central to South Africa’s governmental operations and serve as a testament to Pretoria’s political heritage.

The city’s architectural landscape is a fascinating blend of colonial, indigenous, and modern styles. Historical landmarks such as the Church Square, with its statue of Paul Kruger, and the Pretoria National Botanical Garden, established in 1946, reflect the city’s evolution over centuries. The Voortrekker Monument, completed in 1949, commemorates the Voortrekkers who left the Cape Colony in the 1830s, seeking independence and freedom.

Pretoria is also a hub for education and research, housing prestigious institutions like the University of Pretoria, established in 1908, and the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), one of Africa’s leading scientific research organizations. These institutions contribute significantly to the city’s intellectual and technological advancements.

Things to See

Pretoria is a fascinating city with a rich history and a multitude of interesting attractions. To make the most of your time in Pretoria, here are some of the top things to see and do:

Union Buildings – This impressive government complex is a symbol of South Africa’s democracy and is home to the offices of the President and the Cabinet.

Voortrekker Monument – This massive granite monument commemorates the Afrikaans pioneers who trekked into the interior of South Africa in the 1800s.

Church Square – This historic square in the heart of Pretoria is home to a number of important landmarks, including the Palace of Justice, the Old Capitol Theatre, and the statue of Paul Kruger.

National Zoological Gardens – This sprawling zoo is home to over 4,000 animals from all over the world, including many rare and endangered species.

Pretoria Art Museum – This museum is home to an impressive collection of South African art, with works dating back to the 19th century.

Freedom Park – This poignant memorial to South Africa’s struggle for freedom and democracy features a museum, a garden, and a breathtaking view of the city.

Groenkloof Nature Reserve – This beautiful nature reserve on the outskirts of Pretoria is home to a variety of wildlife, including zebras, giraffes, and antelopes.

Getting In

There are several ways to get to Pretoria, depending on your starting point and preferred mode of transportation.

By air; the closest airport to Pretoria is the OR Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg. From the airport, you can take a taxi, shuttle, or hire a car to get to Pretoria. The journey takes around 45 minutes, depending on traffic.

By train; Pretoria has two major train stations: Pretoria Station and the Gautrain Station. Pretoria Station is located in the city center and is served by both local and long-distance trains. The Gautrain Station is located in Hatfield, a suburb of Pretoria, and is part of the Gautrain rapid transit system that connects Pretoria with Johannesburg and the surrounding areas.

By road; If you are driving to Pretoria, there are several major highways that connect the city with Johannesburg and other parts of South Africa. The N1 and N4 highways are the main routes into Pretoria, and both offer easy access to the city center. Once you arrive in Pretoria, there are several transportation options available to get around the city, including buses, taxis, and car rentals. The city also has a modern and efficient rapid transit system called the A Re Yeng Bus Rapid Transit System, which connects the city center with various suburbs and other parts of Pretoria.

Currency

The currency used in Pretoria, South Africa is the South African Rand (ZAR). The Rand is the official currency of South Africa and is also used in other countries such as Lesotho, Namibia, and Eswatini. The Rand is subdivided into 100 cents and is denoted by the symbol “R”. The South African Reserve Bank is responsible for issuing the Rand in banknotes and coins. The Rand is widely accepted in Pretoria and can be exchanged at banks, foreign currency exchange offices, and some hotels and airports.