Things to Do in Pretoria

Historic square in the city centre, surrounded by old buildings like the Palace of Justice and Ou Raadsaal. Statue of Paul Kruger in the middle.

🕐 Public area, accessible 24/7

💡 Best seen on a weekday morning when the area feels alive. Stick to the square; the surrounding streets can be dodgy after dark.

The seat of the South African government, set on a hill with sprawling terraced gardens. Views over the city and statue of Nelson Mandela.

🕐 Gardens open daily 5am-8pm (subject to state events)

💡 Go early on a weekday to walk the gardens without crowds. Security checks are quick but avoid peak times around 9am.

A small, shaded park in the suburb of Brooklyn. Old jacaranda trees, lawns, and a central pond. Good for a quiet hour or a walk.

🕐 Daily, dawn to dusk

💡 Tucked away, so few tourists. Bring water; no cafe. Best in October when jacarandas bloom purple.

A well-kept 76-hectare garden split by a quartzite ridge. Displays of indigenous plants, including cycads and aloes, with walking trails and picnic spots.

🕐 Daily 8am-6pm (Oct-Mar), 8am-5pm (Apr-Sep)

💡 Entry is 45 rand for adults. Pack lunch and use the picnic areas near the dam. Avoid weekends if you want quiet.

A granite monument commemorating the Great Trek. The interior frieze and museum tell a contested history; the grounds include a nature reserve.

🕐 Daily 8am-5pm (museum), grounds open 6am-6pm

💡 Entry is 80 rand for adults. The climb to the top gives great views. Visit on a weekday for fewer people and cheaper parking.