Top 5 Attractions in Pretoria:
Pretoria is a vibrant city with a rich history and offers numerous attractions. Here are popular places to consider:
National Zoological Gardens of South Africa
Commonly referred to as the Pretoria Zoo, this is one of the world's largest zoos and an excellent place for a day out with the family. Covering 85 hectares, it offers a vast array of animals from around the world. There's also an aquarium, reptile park, and an aerial cableway that provides a panoramic view of the zoo.
Pretoria National Botanical Garden
This 76-hectare urban oasis is a great place for families to enjoy the outdoors. With its vast variety of plants, it offers walking trails, picnic spots, and bird-watching opportunities. There are often educational programs and workshops for children, making it a fun and educational day out.
Voortrekker Monument and Nature Reserve
Besides being a historical site with the grand Voortrekker Monument to explore, the surrounding reserve offers picnicking, hiking, and horse riding. The monument itself provides a glimpse into South African history, and the views from the top are breathtaking. The grounds also have a Heritage Site and Cultural History Museum.
Irene Dairy Farm
A working dairy farm located in the suburb of Irene, this attraction offers a rustic escape from the city. Families can watch cows being milked, enjoy farm-fresh products in the on-site shop, or have a meal in one of the two restaurants. The lush gardens and play areas are perfect for children to roam around.
Adventure Zone Cullinan
For families with slightly older kids looking for a bit of adventure, this attraction in the nearby town of Cullinan offers activities like ziplining, abseiling, and quad biking. There are also guided tours of the historic Cullinan Diamond Mine, where the world's largest rough gem-quality diamond was found.
These are just a handful of the many attractions Pretoria has to offer for families and kids. The city's combination of cultural, historical, and natural sites ensures there's something for everyone.