Pretoria Tourist Attractions and Sightseeing

(Pretoria, Gauteng, South Africa)

The South African city of Pretoria has a long and rich history, which stretches from the first settlers some 350 years ago to the 19th-century Voortrekkers who farmed the area and established Pretoria as their capital city. Many of the city's historic buildings have survived and are now tourist attractions in their own right. It is certainly worth taking a stroll around the city to take in these popular attractions.

Pretoria also boasts a number of entertaining tourist attractions for the whole family. These include both the city's prestigious National Zoological Gardens and the Derdepoort Recreation Resort.

Melrose House

Address: 275 Jacob Maré Street, Pretoria, South Africa, ZA
Tel: +27 012 2805
Built in 1886 by a rich businessman, George Jesse Heys, Melrose House is today an interesting attraction dedicated to Victorian living. There is plenty to admire, including stained glass windows, beautiful carpets, fine porcelain and ornate ceilings. The house is also home to a display of photographs depicting the Anglo-Boer War. In recent years, Melrose House has become a well-known centre for talks and workshops, as well as antique fairs and exhibitions.
Open hours: Tuesday and Wednesday - 10:00 to 17:00, Thursday - 10:00 to 20:00, Sunday - 10:00 to 18:00
Admission: charge

National Zoological Gardens of South Africa

Address: 232 Boom Street, Pretoria, South Africa, ZA
Tel: +27 012 328 3265
Pretoria is home to the largest zoo in the whole of South Africa. The National Zoological Gardens of South Africa houses hundreds of different mammal, bird, reptile, amphibian and invertebrate species, together with an impressive aquarium. The zoo is also home to the country's third largest collection of exotic trees. It is possible to walk some distance along the zoo's network of paths, so it's recommended that visitors wear comfortable shoes.
Open hours: daily - 08:30 to 17:30 (last entry - 16:30)
Pretoria tourist attraction: charge, discounts for children

Derdepoort Recreation Resort

Address: East Lynn, Pretoria, South Africa, ZA
Tel: +27 012 667 1176
This resort features a host of activities and fun for all the family. As well as a swimming pool, there is also a children's farm, shop and picnic area. All in all, there should be enough attractions spread around the Derdepoort Recreation Resort to keep the little ones happy for quite some time.
Open hours: daily - 08:00 to 16:00
Admission: charge for resort entrance

Klapperkop Fort

Address: Church Street West, Pretoria, South Africa, ZA
Tel: +27 012 460 3235
Built at the end of the 19th century, the Klapperkop Fort offers today's visitors and tourists a chance to admire the great views over the city. Klapperkop was one of just four forts that were built in order to defend Pretoria. Its defensive powers were never tested. The site has been turned into a military attraction, which houses some interesting exhibits.
Open hours: daily - 10:00 to 16:00
Admission: charge

Friends of the Rail

Address: Friends of the Rail Depot, off Van de Hoff Road, Hermanstadt, Pretoria, South Africa, ZA
Tel: +27 012 548 4090
A vintage steam train ride is a great way to see the area and is sure to be a big hit with both the young and the old. Regular train rides run in and around Pretoria, with destinations including Rayton, Cullinan and the hot springs of Bela Bela.
Open hours: available on enquiry
Admission: charge