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Pretoria Travel Guide & Information


The beautiful, laid-back city of Pretoria is the administrative capital of South Africa. Once referred to as the `Afrikaner Jerusalem`, this pretty city that was synonymous with white domination but is now home to Thabo Mbeki, black president of South Africa after liberation. Located near Johannesburg, Pretoria walks at a much slower pace than its neighboring megapolis and is still the perfect place to have a truly Afrikaans experience. Home to a large student community that drives the city`s thriving nightlife, Pretoria still houses the military and educational institutions associated with the capital city. From the Church Square and Kruger House to the Zoological Gardens and designing masterpieces in the form of Union Buildings, fascinating attractions and sights can be found in Pretoria in large numbers. Home to the largest university of South Africa, Pretoria draws hordes of students every year from all over the continent.

Things to do in Pretoria

A wonderful South African city, Pretoria is full of cultural and historical attractions. From well-maintained parks and interesting g museums to historical monuments and an array of wildlife attractions, one would never experience a dearth of fascinating things to see and do in Pretoria.

City Centre:The city centre is one of the most sought after destinations in Pretoria. Church Square is a prominent attraction here that is located on the world`s longest street. The Station Building located south of the centre is the primary highlight of the British Imperial architecture.

Burgers Park:A suburb not too far away from the city centre, Burgers Park features some really interesting sights and attractions that include the Melrose House and beautiful villas that are more than a century old.

Marabastad:Located north of the city centre, Marabastad is an ideal place to have a truly African experience. From traditional healers and cinema to Hindu temple and fascinating stores, this beautiful place reveals and blends the cultural and religious aspects of Pretoria.

Sunnyside, Arcadia and HatfieldThe Union Buildings, located east of the Church Street, with its manicures lawns and lawns attract hordes of travelers. Structured between 1901 and 1903, it acts as a venue for many official functions and events. Hatfield, boasting of many restaurants, bars and outdoor cafes, is the best place to enjoy the sun in the city.

Where to Stay in Pretoria

Surprisingly for a place with high living standards, accommodation options in Pretoria are quite affordable. Being a capital city, Pretoria abounds in comfortable and stylish lodging options that host business and leisure travelers in equal numbers. Book well-equipped and safe accommodation options in Pretoria in advance to avoid last minute hassles and exorbitant prices.

Three Star Hotels:Conveniently located in the upmarket suburb of Hatfield, Garden Court Hatfield is a three-star property that offers guests with a comfortable and affordable stay. Another preferred three star hotel in Pretoria is the Holiday Inn Express Sunnypark Pretoria. Located in the heart of the city, this hotel is a perfect place to stay in for both business visitors and leisure vacationers.

Four Star Hotels:Lavish and comfortable yet affordable, four star hotels in Pretoria offer great facilities and in-room services for its discerning guests. Some of the best lodging options in this category include Alpine Attitude Boutique Hotel, Court Classique Suite Hotel, Kievits Kroon, Premier Hotel Pretoria, Southern Sun, the Centurion Lake Hotel and Leriba Lodge and Spa.

Five Star Hotels:For travelers who love the luxuries of life, the lavish and expensive five star hotels in Pretoria are ideal accommodation options. Offering excellent amenities and services, Castello di Monte, Irene Country Lodge, Lombardy Boutique Hotel, and the Sheraton Pretoria Hotel and Towers are some of the most sought after luxurious hotels in the city.

Passport & Visa Requirements

A valid passport is required by all nationals intending to visit Pretoria, South Africa. The South Africa consulate requires at least 2 blank pages in your passport for entry stamp.

Visa is not required by the nationals of following countries, traveling for a period of less than 90 days, and for business and pleasure purposes: British, Canada, USA, Australia, Some EU countries

UK nationals are exempted from paying visa charges.

When to visit Pretoria

October is considered to be the best time to visit Pretoria. It is in this month that one can witness thousands of jacaranda trees in full bloom that provides the city with a distinct purple hue during spring. The dry winter months from June to October are also a great time to visit this South African city with July and August being the peak tourist season.

Pretoria Weather

The city of Pretoria enjoys a dry subtropical climate with wet and hot summers and cool and dry winters. Owing to its sheltered valley position that acts like a heat trap, the annual average temperature in the city of high altitudes hovers around 18.7 degree Celsius. Most of rainfall in Pretoria falls during the summer months and a drought like situation prevails during winter time. Snowfall is a very rare phenomena.

Currency and Language

Currency:The South African Rand is the official currency of Pretoria, South Africa. ATMs can be easily found all over the city. However, do inform your bank about your traveling dates and find out about their cash withdrawal charges.

Language:South Africa boasts of having 11 official languages. Out of which, Tswana, Afrikaans, English and Tsonga are spoken by the majority of population in Pretoria.
Getting to Pretoria
Map of Pretoria