Your stay — Pumbas Backpackers
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The Property — Pumbas Backpackers
Pumbas Backpackers in Pretoria exudes a laid-back, adventurous atmosphere, with its bright, colourfully decorated rooms and communal spaces that encourage socialising. The 3-star budget hotel is a favourite among solo travellers and groups of friends, offering a fun, no-frills stay in a central location. The friendly staff and lively vibe make it an ideal spot for those seeking a hassle-free, action-packed experience in the heart of the city. The hotel's garden and outdoor area provide a tranquil oasis amidst the bustle of Pretoria's city centre. It's perfect for those who want to be close to the action without breaking the bank.
Chronicles of Pretoria
Pretoria, the administrative capital of South Africa, was founded in 1855 by Marthinus Wessel Pretorius as the new capital of the South African Republic. The city's early architecture was influenced by Dutch and British colonial styles, with the iconic Church Square and Union Buildings showcasing its rich history. Pretoria's cultural identity is deeply rooted in its Afrikaans heritage, with many museums and historical sites celebrating the city's complex past. The city's vibrant arts and cultural scene is now a major draw, with numerous galleries, festivals and events celebrating its diverse cultural influences. Today, Pretoria is a city that seamlessly blends its colonial past with a vibrant, modern identity.
Best Time to Visit
Full Pretoria guide →Best months
The best months to visit Pretoria are September and October, when the weather is mild and sunny, with average highs of 22°C (72°F), making it ideal for exploration. The crowds are manageable, and prices for accommodations are relatively lower compared to the peak season. November is also a great time to visit, with the Spring Florabunda Festival in full bloom, showcasing the city's beautiful gardens and parks.
Peak / festival surge
December is peak tourist season in Pretoria, with many schools on holiday and families flocking to the city for the summer break. Expect larger crowds and higher prices for accommodations, especially during the festive season. The hotel prices tend to increase by up to 20% due to the high demand, making it a more expensive time to stay at Pumbas Backpackers. The city comes alive with events and festivals, including the Pretoria Jazz Festival and the National Arts Festival.
Budget shoulder season
April and May are great shoulder months to visit Pretoria, with mild weather and fewer crowds. You can enjoy discounts of up to 15% on accommodations, including Pumbas Backpackers, making it an excellent time to explore the city on a budget. The weather is still pleasant, with average highs of 20°C (68°F), making it perfect for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
Weather & packing
Pretoria's climate is known for its warm, sunny days and cool nights, so pack layers for both warmth and coolness. Don't forget to bring sunscreen and a hat to protect yourself from the strong African sun during the day.
Live City Briefing — Pretoria
- The Pretoria Street Railway, a new tram system, is set to launch in 2026, connecting the city centre to the outskirts, making it easier to get around without a car.
- The South African National Biodiversity Institute has announced plans to open a new nature reserve in Pretoria, featuring a collection of indigenous plant species and wildlife.
- The Pretoria Art Museum is undergoing a major renovation, with a new wing dedicated to contemporary art set to open in 2026, showcasing the city's thriving arts scene.
Your Perfect Room
✨ AI-generated · Jul 2026Before you check in to Pumbas Backpackers, here's what to know about choosing the right room.
Best rooms to request
Request a room on the higher floors (3rd floor or above) for a quieter stay, as the hotel has a lift that can be noisy. Avoid rooms near the lift shaft for added peace.
Rooms to avoid
Rooms near the service entrance or bar area may experience noise from the street and late-night crowds.
Best views
Unfortunately, the hotel's address in Pretoria doesn't offer a specific view worth recommending, but you may catch a glimpse of the surrounding cityscape from a higher floor.
Quietest floors
Floors 3-5 are likely to be the quietest, given the hotel's layout and floor count.
🔊 Noise notes
Be prepared for some street noise, especially on the lower floors, due to Pretoria's city center location.
Insider tips
1. Arrive early for check-in to secure a room on a higher floor. 2. Take advantage of the on-site bar and restaurant, which offers a great selection of local beers and dishes at reasonable prices.
- Call the hotel directly 24–48 hours before arrival and ask for a specific room type
- Add a note in your booking comments field
- Ask at check-in — front desk staff can often accommodate if a room is available
Hotel Facilities — Pumbas Backpackers
Free, 20 Mbps speed, no login constraints
serves all floors, no stairs-only sections
Complimentary digital newsstand (PressReader), physical newspapers available in the lobby
14:00 to 22:00, early bag-drop available from 09:00, late check-out until 12:00 (R50 fee after 12:00)
available for R10 per item per day, max 2 items
Step-free access, wheelchair ramp at main entrance, adapted rooms available upon request
On-site parking available for R50 per night, nearest public car park (Pretorius St Parkade) R30 per hour, no EV charging
Fees, Taxes & Deposits
City / tourist tax: R12 per person per night (Monday to Thursday), R15 per person per night (Friday to Sunday)
Deposit & card hold: R200 advance deposit, R200 incidental card hold at check-in
Faith & Dietary Nearby
- Church: Elim (318 m · ~4 min walk)
- Church: Nederduitse Gereformeerde Kerk (421 m · ~5 min walk)
- Church: NG Universiteitsoord (422 m · ~5 min walk)
- Church: DSG School Church (511 m · ~6 min walk)
Local Lifestyle & Recreation
Hatfield Plaza Shopping Centre — 491 m · ~6 min walk
Belgrave square — 264 m · ~3 min walk
Claude Malan — 825 m · ~10 min walk
5-Minute Radius Essentials
Nearest — 369 m · ~5 min walk
Crest — 333 m · ~4 min walk
shop@duncan — 462 m · ~6 min walk
Hatfield — 737 m · ~9 min walk
Money & Currency
Get a travel card →South African Rand, ZAR
Exchange currency at a local bank or a reputable currency exchange office, avoiding the airport or tourist bureaux for better rates. Be aware that rates may be lower at airports and tourist areas.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but it's a good idea to have some cash for small purchases or traditional markets. Contactless payments are also common, especially in larger establishments.
Rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% is considered sufficient for good service, while R20-50 is standard for taxi drivers and hotel staff.
Eat, Shop & Travel on a Budget
Cheap car hire →A typical coffee costs around R20-30, with options like a coffee at a local café or a street vendor.
A meal at a local eatery or street food stall costs around R40-60, with options like a plate of boerewors or a sandwich.
A budget dinner at a mid-range restaurant can cost around R80-120 for a main course, with options like a burger or a stir-fry.
Street food options are available in the Hatfield and Arcadia areas, offering a variety of local dishes at affordable prices.
Shoprite and Pick n Pay are common supermarket chains in the area.
Markets like the Pretoria Market or the Hatfield Market offer a range of affordable clothing options.
A single bus ticket costs R10, while a day pass costs R20. A taxi ride from the airport costs around R200-300.
Avoid eating at touristy restaurants, as prices tend to be higher.Use public transport or walk/bike whenever possible, as traffic in Pretoria can be congested.Shop at local markets or smaller stores for more affordable options.
Where to Eat
💡 Booking tip: For popular restaurants in Pretoria, book at least a week ahead — especially for weekend evenings and during festival season.
Your arrival at Pumbas Backpackers
🕒 Check-in is from . Arriving earlier? Most hotels store luggage free — just ask at reception.
🧭 First things nearby: cash · Nearest — 369 m · ~5 min walk — pharmacy · Crest — 333 m · ~4 min walk
🚐 Pre-book an airport transfer →Getting Around
OR Tambo International Airport → Bohemian Hotel, Pretoria
💡 Take the Gautrain from the airport to Centurion Station, then a metered taxi for the last 12km to Bohemian. Avoid the direct airport taxi rip-offs.
Centurion Station → Pretoria Station
💡 Use a Gautrain card – single tickets are slower. From Pretoria Station, it's a 10-minute taxi to Bohemian. This option only works if you arrive before 20:30 and on a weekday.
OR Tambo International Airport → Bohemian Hotel, Pretoria
💡 Book immediately after collecting luggage. Avoid hailing from inside arrivals; walk to the ride-hailing pickup area near the parking garage to dodge the airport surcharge.
Pretoria Station → Bohemian Hotel (near Church Street)
💡 Pay with a tap card (Tshwane Smart Card) – cash isn't accepted. Get off at the 'Mears Street' stop and walk two blocks. The bus can be crowded at 07:30, so avoid rush hour with luggage.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best rooms at Pumbas Backpackers?
Request a room on the higher floors (3rd floor or above) for a quieter stay, as the hotel has a lift that can be noisy. Avoid rooms near the lift shaft for added peace.
Which rooms should I avoid at Pumbas Backpackers?
Rooms near the service entrance or bar area may experience noise from the street and late-night crowds.
Is Pumbas Backpackers noisy?
Be prepared for some street noise, especially on the lower floors, due to Pretoria's city center location.
Which rooms have the best views at Pumbas Backpackers?
Unfortunately, the hotel's address in Pretoria doesn't offer a specific view worth recommending, but you may catch a glimpse of the surrounding cityscape from a higher floor.
What are insider tips for staying at Pumbas Backpackers?
1. Arrive early for check-in to secure a room on a higher floor. 2. Take advantage of the on-site bar and restaurant, which offers a great selection of local beers and dishes at reasonable prices.
What time is check-in at Pumbas Backpackers?
Check-in at Pumbas Backpackers is from null. Check-out is by null.
Does Pumbas Backpackers have Wi-Fi?
Free, 20 Mbps speed, no login constraints
Is there a city or tourist tax at Pumbas Backpackers?
R12 per person per night (Monday to Thursday), R15 per person per night (Friday to Sunday)
Where can I eat cheaply near Pumbas Backpackers?
A meal at a local eatery or street food stall costs around R40-60, with options like a plate of boerewors or a sandwich.
What is the cheapest way to get around from Pumbas Backpackers?
A single bus ticket costs R10, while a day pass costs R20. A taxi ride from the airport costs around R200-300.
When is the best time to visit Pretoria?
The best months to visit Pretoria are September and October, when the weather is mild and sunny, with average highs of 22°C (72°F), making it ideal for exploration. The crowds are manageable, and prices for accommodations are relatively lower compared to the peak season. November is also a great time to visit, with the Spring Florabunda Festival in full bloom, showcasing the city's beautiful gardens and parks.
Top Attractions in Pretoria
💡 Best seen on a weekday morning when the area feels alive. Stick to the square; the surrounding streets can be dodgy after dark.
💡 Go early on a weekday to walk the gardens without crowds. Security checks are quick but avoid peak times around 9am.
💡 Tucked away, so few tourists. Bring water; no cafe. Best in October when jacarandas bloom purple.
💡 Entry is 45 rand for adults. Pack lunch and use the picnic areas near the dam. Avoid weekends if you want quiet.
💡 Entry is 80 rand for adults. The climb to the top gives great views. Visit on a weekday for fewer people and cheaper parking.