Pretoria Accommodation

Pretoria was founded in 1855 and named after Andries Pretorius, a Voortrekker leader. The city was the Capital of the Zuid-Afrikaansche Republiek from 1860 until 1910, administrative capital of  the Union of South Africa from 1910 until 1961, and of the Republic of South Africa from 1961. Pretoria is situated in the transitional area between the Highveld and the Bushveld, approximately 50 km north of Johannesburg. It lies in a warm, well-sheltered, fertile valley, surrounded by the hills of the Magaliesberg range.

Pretoria is one of South Africa's leading academic cities, and it is home to both the University of Pretoria and to UNISA, the University of South Africa. Overlooking the whole of the city from a hilltop are the magnificent Union Buildings, built in golden stone with Italian tiled roofs. Avenues of purple flowering jacaranda trees are wide enough to turn a team of oxen, this is why Pretoria is known as the Jacaranda city. Pretoria is an important industrial centre, with heavy industries including iron and steel casting as well as automobile, railroad and machinery manufacture. The city has a number of scientific institutes and an abundance of open spaces with parks, bird sanctuaries, nature reserves and a zoo.

Pretoria, the administrative capital of South Africa, offers a rich mix of cultural, historical, and natural attractions.

Here are 15 things to see or do in Pretoria:

1. Union Buildings: Iconic government offices with beautiful gardens, offering panoramic views of the city.
2. Voortrekker Monument: A massive granite structure commemorating the Voortrekkers who left the Cape Colony.
3. Pretoria National Botanical Garden: A serene escape showcasing South Africa's indigenous plants.
4. Freedom Park: A heritage site honoring the country's journey to freedom.
5. Kruger House Museum: The historical residence of Paul Kruger, a significant figure in South African history.
6. National Zoological Gardens of South Africa: One of the largest zoos in the country, home to a variety of animals.
7. Rietvlei Nature Reserve: A large nature reserve ideal for game viewing, bird watching, and hiking.
8. Melrose House Museum: A Victorian mansion where the Treaty of Vereeniging was signed, ending the Second Boer War.
9. Hazel Food Market: A vibrant market offering local and international delicacies every Saturday.
10. Church Square: The historic center of Pretoria, surrounded by important buildings like the Palace of Justice.
11. Loftus Versfeld Stadium: A major sports venue hosting rugby and soccer matches.
12. Ditsong National Museum of Natural History: Formerly the Transvaal Museum, featuring extensive natural history exhibits.
13. State Theatre: South Africa's largest theatre complex, showcasing a variety of performing arts.
14. Faerie Glen Nature Reserve: A beautiful natural area perfect for hiking and wildlife spotting.
15. Austin Roberts Bird Sanctuary: A sanctuary named after a renowned ornithologist, ideal for bird watchers.

These attractions highlight Pretoria's diverse offerings, from historical landmarks and cultural sites to natural reserves and vibrant markets.