Attractions Nearby Pretoria, Day Trips and Excursions

(Pretoria, Gauteng, South Africa)

Pretoria is an excellent base from which visitors can get out and about in the surrounding countryside. The area is home to a number of nearby attractions, including nature reserves, geological features and historic towns. For those who prefer to travel as part of a group, many of these destinations are served by organised coach or guided tours, offering affordable day trips and similar excursions.

Any visitor to Pretoria will want to include Johannesburg on their 'must-see' list. It is the nearest large city and has a huge amount to offer by way of tourist attractions.

Johannesburg

Some 56 km / 35 miles from Pretoria, Johannesburg is a lively and cosmopolitan city where there's always plenty of things to do. Visitors can head to the city's most popular tourist attractions, which include the city's Planetarium and Zoo, or they can head down to Gold Reef City. Alternatively, it's worth taking time to discover Johannesburg's fascinating past by visiting one or more of its many museums and galleries.

Rustenberg

The small town of Rustenberg is a popular day trip destination from nearby Pretoria. As the third oldest town in what was once the Transvaal Province, it offers plenty to see and do, including its Anglican and Dutch Reformed churches dating from the 19th century. There are also craft shops and galleries, and places to eat out. Rustenberg's nature reserve, located on the slopes of Magaliesberg Mountain, is a great way of seeing the game animals and other wildlife attractions that are native to this area.

Cullinan / Dinoking

The discovery of the world's biggest diamond put the small town of Cullinan on the world map. Today, visitors can stroll around its restored streets, and enjoy Cullinan's jewellery shops and cafes. The murals in the town hall are also worth a look. Visitors can tour the diamond mine, which is still operational and quite an 'eye-opener'.

Roodeplaat Dam

Some 105 km / 65 miles from Pretoria, Roodeplaat Dam is a good place to visit if you're ready to escape the hustle and bustle of the city for a day or two. Visitors can enjoy a relaxing day's fishing, followed by an evening cruise.

Soshanguve

Just 40 km / 25 miles north of Pretoria is the Soshanguve township, the location of the Tswaing Asteroid Crater. The crater is thought to be around 200,000 years old. At the bottom of the crater is a salt lake, known as the Soutpan (Salt Pan). Admire this attraction from the rim or, if you're more adventurous, take a hike down.

Wonderboom Nature Reserve

Tel: +27 012 440 8316 or +27 012 341 5204
The central attraction of this nearby park is a huge centenarian fig tree. In fact, the Wonderboom Nature Reserve was first set up to protect it. The tree is now a national monument and the surrounding countryside has become the location of numerous hiking trails. Look out for a small fort that dates back to the Boer War.
Open hours: daily - 07:00 to 18:00, last entry to the reserve at 16:00
Admission: charge, discount available for seniors and children under 13 years old