Pretoria, South Africa-2-day-itinerary

2-Day Itinerary for Travelling in Pretoria, South Africa

Day 1:

Morning

  • Voortrekker Monument: Start your day with a visit to the Voortrekker Monument, a National Heritage Site that commemorates the history of the Afrikaner people. (Open from 8am to 5pm, R50 entrance fee)
  • Freedom Park: Take a short walk to Freedom Park, which offers stunning views of the city and hosts various cultural events throughout the year.

Afternoon

  • Pretoria National Botanical Garden: Unwind with a leisurely stroll through the beautiful Pretoria National Botanical Garden, home to over 220 species of trees and plants. (Open from 8am to 6pm, R25 entrance fee)
  • Union Buildings: Take a guided tour of the Union Buildings, the official seat of the South African government and a stunning example of neoclassical architecture.

Evening

  • Dinner at The Blue Crane Restaurant: Enjoy traditional South African cuisine with a modern twist at this popular restaurant, located in the heart of Pretoria.
  • Accommodation:
    • Hotel 224: A stylish boutique hotel offering comfortable rooms and a rooftop pool. (From R1,200 per night)
    • Pretoria Backpackers: A budget-friendly option with dorms and private rooms, as well as a lively atmosphere. (From R250 per night)

Transportation

  • Gautrain Bus: Use the efficient Gautrain bus system to travel between attractions. (R20-R50 per trip)
  • Taxi: Alternatively, hail a taxi or book in advance through services like Zebra Cabs.

Things to Know

  • Language: While Afrikaans and English are widely spoken, you may also hear Sepedi, Setswana, and isiNdebele.
  • Currency: The South African rand (ZAR) is the local currency. You can exchange currency at banks or bureaux de change.
  • Safety: Take normal precautions to stay safe in Pretoria, such as avoiding walking alone at night and keeping valuables secure.

Tips

  • Book tickets in advance: Secure your spot at popular attractions by booking tickets online beforehand.
  • Pack sunscreen: Protect yourself from the strong South African sun with a broad-spectrum sunscreen.
  • Try local food: Be adventurous and try some traditional dishes like bobotie, boerewors, or malva pudding.

Day 2:

Morning

  • Pretoria Zoo: Visit the Pretoria Zoo, home to over 3,000 animals from around the world. (Open from 8am to 5pm, R80 entrance fee)
  • National Museum of Natural History: Explore the fascinating exhibits at this museum, which features a vast collection of natural history specimens and artifacts.

Afternoon

  • Church Square: Take a stroll through the historic Church Square, surrounded by beautiful old buildings, cafes, and shops.
  • Pretoria Art Museum: Discover an impressive collection of South African art at this museum. (Open from 10am to 5pm, R20 entrance fee)

Evening

  • Dinner at Kream Restaurant: Savor contemporary South African cuisine with a focus on local ingredients at this trendy restaurant.
  • Nightlife:
    • Hatfield Plaza: This vibrant nightlife hub offers bars, clubs, and live music venues.
    • The Village: Enjoy cocktails and snacks in a stylish setting.

Other Things of Interest

  • Groenkloof Nature Reserve: Escape the city with a hike or bike ride through this scenic nature reserve. (Open from 6am to 7pm, R25 entrance fee)
  • Pretoria Farmers’ Market: Stock up on fresh produce and artisanal goods at this bustling market. (Every Saturday from 5am to 10am)

Remember to stay hydrated, wear comfortable shoes, and be respectful of local customs and traditions. Enjoy your time in Pretoria!