Pretoria South Africa 7 Day Itinerary

7-Day Itinerary for Travelling in Pretoria, South Africa

Day 1: Arrival and City Orientation

  • Morning: Arrive at OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) and take a taxi or shuttle to your accommodation in Pretoria.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Union Buildings, the official seat of the government and a national heritage site. Take a stroll around the beautiful gardens and enjoy the views of the city.
  • Evening: Head to Hatfield Plaza for dinner and a lively atmosphere. Try The Old House Restaurant for some traditional South African cuisine.

Accommodation:

  • The Capital Menlyn Maine: A luxurious hotel with modern amenities and a great location.

Transportation:

  • Taxis are widely available, but you can also use ride-hailing apps like Uber or Bolt.
  • If you plan to explore the city extensively, consider renting a car for the duration of your stay.

Tips:

  • Be mindful of your belongings, especially in crowded areas.
  • Learn some basic Afrikaans phrases to show respect and appreciation for the local culture.

Day 2: History and Culture

  • Morning: Visit the Voortrekker Monument, a historic site that commemorates the Voortrekkers’ journey. Enjoy the stunning views of the city from the top of the monument.
  • Afternoon: Explore the National Museum of Natural History, which features exhibits on South Africa’s natural history, including dinosaurs and ancient cultures.
  • Evening: Enjoy a traditional African dinner at Sakhumzi Restaurant in Soweto.

Day 3: Nature and Wildlife

  • Morning: Visit the Pretoria National Botanical Garden, a beautiful oasis in the heart of the city. Take a leisurely walk around the gardens and enjoy the variety of plant species.
  • Afternoon: Head to the National Zoological Gardens, home to over 700 species of animals, including lions, elephants, and giraffes.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at The Blue Crane Restaurant in the beautiful suburb of Waterkloof.

Day 4: Adventure and Thrills

  • Morning: Take a hot air balloon ride over Pretoria for a breathtaking view of the city. Book with Balloon Rides SA.
  • Afternoon: Visit Acrobranch, an adventure park offering zip lines, obstacle courses, and more.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at The Social on Main, a trendy restaurant in Hatfield.

Day 5: Wine and Dine

  • Morning: Visit the Casa Toscana Lodge & Restaurant for a wine tasting experience. Learn about South African wines and enjoy a gourmet lunch.
  • Afternoon: Explore the Pretoria Art Museum, which features a diverse collection of South African art.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at The Fat Cactus, a popular restaurant in Hatfield serving delicious Mexican-inspired dishes.

Day 6: Shopping and Relaxation

  • Morning: Visit the Menlyn Park Shopping Centre, one of Pretoria’s largest malls. Shop, dine, or catch a movie.
  • Afternoon: Treat yourself to a relaxing spa day at The Spa at The Capital Menlyn Maine.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at The Greek Olive, a cozy restaurant serving authentic Greek cuisine.

Day 7: Departure

  • Morning: Spend some time shopping for last-minute souvenirs or exploring a local market, like the Pretoria Boeremark.
  • Afternoon: Depart for OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) and your onward journey.

Other things to know:

  • Pretoria is known as the “Jacaranda City” due to its stunning jacaranda trees that bloom in October and November.
  • Be prepared for variable weather, with summer temperatures often reaching 30°C (86°F) and winter temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F).
  • Learn about South Africa’s complex history and cultural diversity to appreciate the local context.

Enjoy your trip to Pretoria!