Pretoria Parks and Gardens

(Pretoria, Gauteng, South Africa)

Pretoria is renowned for its beautiful parks and open green spaces. In fact, it was once awarded the title of Outstanding Garden City of the World in an international competition. Particularly worthy of note are the Pretoria National Botanical Gardens. They remain a firm favourite with both visitors and locals alike.

Many of Pretoria's parks and gardens become venues for concerts and other events during the summer months. They are also ideal for summer picnics or just an opportunity to relax whilst sightseeing.

Burgers Park

Address: Jacob Mare Street. Pretoria, South Africa, ZA
Burgers Park was established back in the 1870s and remains Pretoria's finest surviving examples of a Victorian park. Indeed, in the 1970s, it was added to the National Monument list.
Open hours: daily, winter - until sunset, winter - until 22:00
Admission: free

Pretoria National Botanical Garden

Address: 2 Cussonia Avenue, Brummeria, Pretoria, South Africa, ZA
Tel: +27 012 843 5104
Founded in 1946, Pretoria's National Botanical Garden has become a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. Divided by a rocky outcrop, the garden can be explored via a series of paved nature trails. Many South African species of plants and trees can be found here. Look out for the garden's aloe collections which are best seen in the winter, when in full bloom. The expanses of lawn also make this a good place to enjoy a picnic or open air concert.
Open hours: daily - 08:00 to 18:00 (last entry, 17:00)
Admission: charge, free entry for seniors on Tuesdays

Union Buildings' Gardens

Address: Arcadia Park, Church Street, Pretoria, South Africa, ZA
Tel: +27 012 300 5200
The terraced gardens surrounding the Union Buildings in the centre of Pretoria are a pleasant place to sit and admire the buildings' grand architecture. They are planted only with indigenous plants. Garden tours may be available (by appointment only).
Open hours: daily
Admission: free

Austin Roberts Bird Sanctuary

Address: Pretoria, South Africa, ZA
Tel: +27 012 440 8316
Named after the famous 19th-century South African ornithologist, J. Austin Roberts, this sanctuary is a real haven of bird life. Some 70 species of birds shelter within the habitat provided by two dams at the sanctuary. Among them are some rather unique species, including the blue crane and the crown crane. Visitors can observe the wildlife from the guided walks on offer around the Austin Roberts Bird Sanctuary, or alternatively from the sanctuary's bird hide.
Open hours: daily, summer - 07:00 to 18:00, winter - 07:00 to 17:00
Admission: charge

The Freedom Park

Address: Pretoria, South Africa, ZA
Tel: +27 012 361 7400
This monument to international freedom and democracy was first opened to the public in 2007. The park is located on Salvokop and offers visitors and locals a chance to reflect on South Africa's past and future, amidst beautiful surroundings. Fine panoramic views of the city and beyond can also be enjoyed.
Open hours: daily (tours available, 09:00, 12:00 and 15:00)
Admission: free

Morletta Spruit

Address: Pretoria, South Africa, ZA
Pretoria's suburbs are the location for a nature trail, which takes visitors through the Gaerie Glen Nature Reserve. The Morletta Spruit area is home to a varied selection of bird and plant life, all of which can be admired on a gentle stroll.
Open hours: daily
Admission: free

Fountains Valley

Address: Christina de Wit Drive, Apples River, Pretoria, South Africa, ZA
Tel: +27 012 440 2121
Fountains Valley is a long-established nature reserve that is well frequented by visitors and locals alike. Two natural springs, a picturesque garden and swimming pool are among the park's many facilities. The park often hosts live music events, too.
Open hours: daily - 07:00 to 19:00
Admission: charge

Magnolia Dell

Address: Queen Wilhelmina Drive/Walker Street, Pretoria, South Africa, ZA
Tel: +27 012 358 1430
This quaintly named park is a welcome haven of peace and quiet amidst Pretoria's hustle and bustle. The Magnolia Dell is a great place to linger over a picnic or bring the kids to let off some steam. Either way, few can resist its charms.
Open hours: daily
Admission: free