Pretoria must-see attractions
What are the must-see top attractions that Pretoria has on offer for international and local tourist?
When it comes to top attractions, South Africa does have much to offer foreigners and locals alike. Cape Town, for example, continues to top the world’s destinations for international travellers. But what about Pretoria? How often does the City of Tshwane get swept aside when tourists make the choice for must-see South African attractions?
While Pretoria does not attract as many visitors as Paris or Cape Town for example, the city should not be underestimated. Not only is it one of the largest cities in the world when it comes to land size, but it’s said to hosts the second most diplomatic missions in the world (after Washington D.C) with over 130 embassies or high commissions.
ShowMe Pretoria will highlight some of our city’s must-see attractions:
The Union Buildings are arguably one of the most beautiful landmarks in the country; the grounds house a magnificent terraced garden, filled with statues, fountains and memorials, where people come to walk, exercise or have a picnic. The highlight of a visit to the Union Buildings would certainly be the Mandela statue which takes centre stage on the terrace in front of the buildings.
Widely regarded as one of the top zoos in the world, the National Zoo in Pretoria is the largest zoo in the country and hosts in excess of 600 000 visitors every year. It has an Aquarium and Reptile Park and is a well-respected research facility with successful breeding programmes.
Change and freedom can be experienced at Freedom Park. Linking Freedom Park and another historic and unique landmark, the Voortrekker Monument, is what is called Reconciliation Road. This symbolises South Africa’s continuous attempts to reconcile its differences. Freedom Park with its world class //hapo museum aims to give visitors a broad perspective of the history of South Africa while acknowledging all the people who struggled for humanity and freedom.
We also dare not forget the connection Pretoria has with Madiba. Not only was he been hospitalised here in Arcadia for two months, but it’s also the place where he was inaugurated as the first democratically elected president of South Africa and also where the famous Rivonia Trial took place; in the beautifully restored Palace of Justice, on Church Square.
According to the City of Tshwane it’s estimated that about 710,000 foreign tourists visited the City in 2011 and the city has plans to greatly improve its infrastructure to accommodate our visitors.
City of Tshwane is well on its way of providing top quality attractions to travellers.
| Pretoria Museums |
Related Articles
Book your accommodation right here on ShowMe.
You can find the top hotels, lodges and Airbnb establishments conveniently placed on the map below. All you need to do is click on the place that’s conveniently located and within your budget and then make a booking. What could be easier?
If the map is not where you want to be, click on the ShowMe Pin and then enter the exact name of the location and the map will adjust accordingly.
