Essential Travel Info > Bird Watching > Southern Africa > South Africa > Gauteng > Pretoria

Birdwatching in Pretoria - Essential Travel Info

South Africa Gauteng Pretoria | birding birdwatchers birders watching bird-watching in Pretoria Gauteng South Africa

Quick search for accommodation Country: Loading... Loading countries... Province: Please select a country first Loading provinces... Town: Please select a country first Loading towns...

Click here to book from a selection of over 600 establishments realtime in South Africa!

Back to Gauteng

Birdwatching in Pretoria Gauteng South Africa (59 Results)

	Phumula Holiday Resort - Pretoria Gauteng South Africa Birdwatching 54km north of Pretoria. Chalets, caravan sites, conference facilities, group centres & game park (12 game species). Swimming pool, slide, table tennis, darts, pool table, soccer table, volley ball court & jukskei pitch. Hiking & cycling (own bicycle) allowed in game park. Near Rust de Winter dam.
	Tussen-i-bome - Pretoria Gauteng South Africa Birdwatching Relax around the fire. Snuggle up under a quilt and listen to a jackal howling or a nightjar calling, before you drift off to sleep in an oxwagon. Taste fresh warm "bakoond bread". Meals available.
	Illyria House & Spa - Pretoria Gauteng South Africa Birdwatching Our serene beauty has always been an irresistible attraction to all lovers of fine things. Against the backdrop of classical music, antiques and exquisite cuisine, an enchanting colonial lifestyle, complete with white-gloved butlers and a resident duck family unfolds. OR Tambo Airport (25 min) and Pretoria Luxury Rail Platforms (5 min).
	Malherbe Guest House - Pretoria Gauteng South Africa Birdwatching Situated in Malherbe Street, approx 350m from the new Pretoria Academic Hospital. For your convenience we have a dedicated computer for internet and e-mail (Skype also available). Breakfast available on request. Lunch and dinner by prior arrangement only at an extra charge. Also available is a landline for incoming calls for guests. Lovely sunny verandah overlooking the garden as well as BBQ (braai) facilities for times when you would like to do your own cooking. All rooms inside the house have desks and can accommodate 2 people. The house has a 24-hour alarm system with 24-hour armed response security as well as ample parking inside the security walls.
	Zebra Country Lodge, Conference & Wedding Venue - Pretoria Gauteng South Africa Birdwatching Luxurious hideaway in a bushveld setting. Spacious accommodation in 3 different lodges. Restaurants, bomas and a variety of dining options. Guided nature drives, walking trails and horse-riding. The perfect venue for weddings, functions and leisure getaways. The colourful Ndebele Village and "eShebeen"e are a highlight.
	Royal Ridge Guest House - Pretoria Gauteng South Africa Birdwatching Situated in tranquil surroundings in the diplomat suburb of Waterkloof Ridge. Superbly furnished units have private entrances leading onto a beautiful, landscaped garden. Secure parking. Easy access to freeways and 30 min drive from OR Tambo Airport. Wireless internet.
	Chez Coetzer - Pretoria Gauteng South Africa Birdwatching Chez Coetzer is a beautifully decorated guest house in an African-Victorian style. Three spacious, luxury en suite bedrooms equipped with 100% percale linen, down duvets and pillows, desk, chair, DSTV, air-conditioning, under floor heating, safe and tea/coffee facilities in each room. Secure parking on the premises. Relax in a beautiful Victorian garden and heated pool.
	Edelweiss Country Estate - Pretoria Gauteng South Africa Birdwatching Edelweiss Conference & Function Estate is easy accessible from the major freeways. From N1 and Zambesi Drive - 2,5km on the R573 to Moloto and Kwa Mhlanga. Provision is made to meet all your requirements in a relaxed atmosphere a world away from the hustle of city life, yet only 10 min from Pretoria city and 40 min from Johannesburg International Airport. With its luscious subtropical gardens, it creates the ideal setting for conferences, weddings, accommodation or any other social events.
	Intundla Game Lodge - Pretoria Gauteng South Africa Birdwatching Luxurious en suite thatched chalets. This exclusive lodge is less than 30 min north east of Pretoria and is a conference venue, training venue, bush retreat and wedding venue. A picturesque and tranquil setting under the Bobbejaans Berg Mountains.
	Amarilli B&b - Pretoria Gauteng South Africa Birdwatching Luxurious accommodation set against the Magaliesberg with beautiful views and close to all amenities. Quality and service excellence. Quiet country atmosphere, beautiful garden with lots of bird life. We attend to the smallest detail to make your stay comfortable and enjoyable.
	Kiepersol House - Pretoria Gauteng South Africa Birdwatching Kiepersol House is situated in the diplomatic suburb of Waterkloof Ridge. Set in a beautiful tranquil garden with a sauna, swimming pool and tennis court. Six comfortable well-equipped bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms , One of which is a self-catering family suite. Close to highways, shopping malls, restaurants and two golf courses.
	Nkwe Caravan Park Cc - Pretoria Gauteng South Africa Birdwatching 1 Chalet, 6 on site Caravans and caravan/tent sites, swimming pool, picnic and braai facilities, kids park and bird watching. Special rates for pensioners and children.
	Pinedew Guest House & Wedding Venue - Pretoria Gauteng South Africa Birdwatching Luxuriously furnished double bedrooms, 3 with en suite bathrooms and balconies. Equipped with all the amenities to ensure a comfortable stay. The homely atmosphere is enhanced by its setting amongst pine trees in a flourishing garden. Enjoy the tranquillity and bird life. Excellent cuisine.
	Watercrest Garden Estate - Pretoria Gauteng South Africa Birdwatching One of Tshwane's most exclusive conference, function and wedding venues. Exclusivity ensured. We offer premier 5-star style accommodation and treat our guests to the best quality food and warmest hospitality. The peaceful garden and unrivalled commitment by staff ensures a memorable experience.
	Edelweiss Corporate Guest House - Pretoria Gauteng South Africa Birdwatching Edelweiss is set high up on the slopes of the Magalieskruin. 8 elegantly furnished suite rooms with DSTV, workstations, wireless and a full breakfast included. Dinners and function options always available.
	Isiphiwo Guest House - Pretoria Gauteng South Africa Birdwatching Isiphiwo - the Zulu word meaning "God given" is set on a hillside in the beautiful bushveld. 11 stylishly-appointed bedrooms overlook the lush gardens and sparkling pool. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast while watching the abundant bird life or dine under the star-studded African sky.
	River Meadow Manor - Pretoria Gauteng South Africa Birdwatching Newly-opened guest house with 7 rooms.
	Lama-lama Game Reserve And Conference Centre - Pretoria Gauteng South Africa Birdwatching Part of the Leeuwfontein Collaborative Reserve of 3000ha unspoilt bush. Ideal spot for nature lovers, team building, small conferences and family get togethers. Bush camp available as a unit only. Sleeps up to 20 people in five thatched roof chalets and one timber chalet. Meals available on request.
	Bed And Breakfast At Ted's Place - Pretoria Gauteng South Africa Birdwatching Gracious Victorian-style home in a serene, indigenous garden. We offer personal service. Registered in-house tourist guide. All bedrooms fully equipped. Traditional breakfasts served. 40 min from OR Tambo International Airport. Gateway to Big Five game reserves and Mpumalanga. Fully licensed.
	Country Estate Exotica - Pretoria Gauteng South Africa Birdwatching Centrally situated in Pretoria's eastern suburbs close to all major business centres and highways. Spacious, relaxed and comfortable country living amid lush parklike gardens and bird sanctuary. Tranquil, private and safe, suitable for either business or leisure travellers including families. DUMELA - WELCOME!.
	The Farm Inn - Pretoria Gauteng South Africa Birdwatching A delightful creation built of natural rock, logs and thatch beckons you to peace and tranquillity in a relaxed country atmosphere. 2 charming chapels, 12 unique venues and an elegant à la carte restaurant. 84 en suite bedrooms, 3 African bomas and exciting game drives. "A classical venue for all occasions". "A luxurious lodge for all seasons".
	Home A-way Guest House - Pretoria Gauteng South Africa Birdwatching Home A-Way is renowned for warm hospitality. Our tastefully decorated rooms are ideal for the discerning local and international business person, academics and tourists. Enjoy South African weather in our garden which has a wide variety of birds and indigenous trees.
	Leopardsong Game Lodge - Pretoria Gauteng South Africa Birdwatching Situated within the boundaries of Pride of Africa Nature Reserve in extent of 2000 ha malaria-free bushveld with 800 head of game such as giraffe, zebra, eland, kudu, waterbuck etc. Fully serviced accommodation. Meals available on request.
	Acacia Cottage - Pretoria Gauteng South Africa Birdwatching Cottage with 3 beds. Breakfast available.
	Tiptol Guest House - Pretoria Gauteng South Africa Birdwatching Situated in the suburb of Waterkloof, within walking distance of the Brooklyn Mall and Austin Roberts Memorial Bird Sanctuary. Quiet area, where guests can relax in the lovely tranquil garden, undisturbed by the bustle and noise of traffic. Spacious, en suite twin bedrooms with TV (including 2 additional self-catering units).
	The Bushbaby Inn - Pretoria Gauteng South Africa Birdwatching The Bushbaby Inn offers an up-market comfortable stay, full English breakfast included. This friendly guest house is surrounded by an indigenous garden with plenty of bird life and its own resident bushbabies. 5 spacious, well-appointed rooms with full en suite bathrooms, air-conditioning, bar fridge and coffee/tea tray.
	Genius Loci Game Ranch - Pretoria Gauteng South Africa Birdwatching Beautiful luxury Lodge, offering conference, breakaway, weekend facilities, and wedding venue. In serene secure surroundings 45 min from Pretoria, surrounded by the tranquillity of the bushveld. Guests relax and dine in sociable stylish accommodation. Conference facilities available which will unleash your team's creative spirit. Intimate weddings catered for.
	N'kosi Sana Game Lodge - Pretoria Gauteng South Africa Birdwatching Experience life on a game farm and become part of it! N'Kosi Sana Game Lodge is situated in the rolling hills of Groenfontein, and offers marvelous views, the scenic Eland River, two dams fed by natural fountains, game in abundance. Peace and tranquillity one hour from Pretoria.
	Weavind Place - Pretoria Gauteng South Africa Birdwatching We are an up-market, luxury B&B with full self-catering facilities with one and two bedroom suites, en suite bathrooms, lounges and patios and good security throughout. The units are in a large garden with big trees. Our reptuation is based on high standards and personal service.
	Mangwa Valley Game Lodge - Pretoria Gauteng South Africa Birdwatching Game lodge with wedding & conference facilities. Thatch lodge, ladies bar, pool, self-catering and non self-catering chalets. Activies include game drives, fishing, horse-riding, quad biking, elephant back safaris, clay pigeon shooting, paint ball and hiking. Restaurant facilities available on request.
	Ruby Rose Guest House - Pretoria Gauteng South Africa Birdwatching Ruby Rose Guest House welcomes you to a place where you can relax and feel like home. 4-star graded by TGCSA. 7 stylish, comfortable en suite rooms each with a private entrance. Equipped with DSTV, coffee/tea tray and air-conditioner. Experience the pleasure of relaxing by the side of the swimming pool and let the abundant bird life dazzle you with their song.
	Beethoven Lodge Pretoria - Pretoria Gauteng South Africa Birdwatching Beethoven is a 4-star lodge in Florauna Pretoria, situated at the foot of the Magalies Mountain range in a tranquil environment offering exceptional lifestyle and service. Surrounded with golf courses, wild life sancturies, shopping centres, cinemas, restaurants, casino's and hospitals. 10 min away from CBD, Wonderboom International Airport, museum's and heritage sites.
	Maggy's B&b T/a Phale's B&b - Pretoria Gauteng South Africa Birdwatching Get a twist to your life by going on a vacation in the township. Spend a night in Temba at Maggy's and experience ubuntu, the traditional African hospitality.
	Guesthouse Threebees B&b&b - Pretoria Gauteng South Africa Birdwatching Threebees Guesthouse is an establishment for anyone looking for a home away from home. Located in the north east of Pretoria the home is set in the upmarket area of Montana Park and has stunning views over Montana as far as the eye can see. Pooltable, darts and swimming pool.
	Perry's Place - Pretoria Gauteng South Africa Birdwatching Perry's Place is a guest house with a fully licensed restaurant and pub. We are 45km north of Pretoria just off the N1 and close to the pristine Rust de Winter Dam. Share the beautiful bushveld with us and experience our warm hospitality, farm-style food and excellent wines. Game-viewing, fishing, boating and horse-riding by arrangement. Within the Dinokeng Big Five game reserve.
	The Garden Cottage - Waterkloof Ridge - Pretoria Gauteng South Africa Birdwatching Delightful and spacious private cottage for 2 in a beautiful secure tranquil garden, in this upmarket suburb. B&B or self-catering. Twin beds, kitchenette, lounge and desk area. Electronic security and covered parking. Close to hospitals, Brooklyn Mall, UNISA, University of Pretoria, various schools and SABS. 30min from O. R. Tambo International Airport.
	Monument Park Guest House - Pretoria Gauteng South Africa Birdwatching Guest House in sought after area, close to all major routes and centres situated next to Groenkloof Nature Reserve which gives a peaceful setting and abundant birdlife. All rooms have private entrances and secure on-site parking. We have a lovely pool and lapa area where guests can relax.
	Re Etile Family Home - Pretoria Gauteng South Africa Birdwatching Award-winning peaceful, comfortable accommodation in previously disadvantaged community. Outstanding facilities, warm hospitality. 15km to Pretoria CBD, 10 min drive to Menlyn and Kollonade shopping centres, CSIR and Innovation Hub. Lunch, dinner, laundry or braai's on request.
	Didimala Game Lodge - Pretoria Gauteng South Africa Birdwatching Didimala Game Lodge is designed for the executive, providing ultimate luxury, comfort and high-tech equipment with a bushveld ambience, a touch above the rest. Situated just more than an hours drive from central Jaohannesburg and only 45 min from Pretoria.
	Mongena Game Lodge - Pretoria Gauteng South Africa Birdwatching About an hours' drive from Johannesburg International Airport, lies an enchanting game reserve called Mongena.The Boekenhoutspruit feeds a dam of 30 ha that provides for an abundance of game and bird life, including 3 of the Big Five. Mongena caters for conferences of up to 60 delegates and weddings
	Deo Gratias Guest House - Pretoria Gauteng South Africa Birdwatching Situated 10 klm from N1 Polokwane hiway. Deo Gratias meaning "Thanks To God" will be found on a 10 ha smallholding. Ideally situated near Roodeplaat Dam and next to Sandonia golf course. We offer double en suite accommodation, as well as single.
	Filoli Guest House - Pretoria Gauteng South Africa Birdwatching Filoli is an elegant meditteranean style home, offering every comfort. Overlooking a beautiful lush garden with abundant birdlife. Bordering the Pretoria Country Club in Waterkloof. Easy access to highways, 35 min to Johannesburg International Airport. Close to Brooklyn and Menlyn shopping centres. Secure parking.
	Kwalata Game Ranch - Pretoria Gauteng South Africa Birdwatching Kwalata Game Ranch, just north of Pretoria, hosts conference and teambuilding events up to 150 delegates. Wedding and functions are our specialities. At Phiri Adventure Camp the focus is on adventure, school, church and environmental groups. Teambuilding programmes for corporate and schools can be presented. Shebeen and cultural tours to Mandela village provide a unique experience for one and all.
	B&b At Hammy's Country Estate - Pretoria Gauteng South Africa Birdwatching B&B at Hammy's offers affordable comfortable accommodation for the business or leisure traveller on the city doorstep. 3 twin bedded spacious rooms, country breakfasts. Easy access to major routes, airports, entertainment, shopping, medical facilities, game reserve, sailing, golfing, model aircraft, horse-riding and birdwatching.
	Monte Metse River Ranch - Pretoria Gauteng South Africa Birdwatching A true safari atmosphere. Situated on the banks of the Elands river at the mouth of the Rust de Winter dam only 40 min from Pretoria. 2 fully-equipped wooden chalets and 6 twin bedded wooden bungalows sharing communal bathrooms. Also on site are informal conference facilities which can accommodate 80 people.
	Rietvlei View Guest House - Pretoria Gauteng South Africa Birdwatching Providing quality accommodation is our business and since 1995 we have been doing just that. Guests are offered a choice of individually decorated and well appointed accommodation options. Our various units are well positioned, for both tourists and the corporate guests. Since 1995 we have grown from a two-bedroom B&B establishment to now offering a variety of options in our 4-star graded guest house and can in total accommodate 38 guests in Pretoria and Centurion.
	Whistletree Lodge - Pretoria Gauteng South Africa Birdwatching Come and discover the legend that surrounds Whistletree Lodge. Individually decorated en suite single and double rooms with balcony, overlooking beautiful, wooded, landscaped garden with a large variety of bird life. Evening meals and snacks on request. Winner of numerous awards.
	Morula Hotel And Casino - Pretoria Gauteng South Africa Birdwatching Situated 40km north west of Pretoria in Mabopane, Morula Hotel and Casino overlooks the picturesque Nooitgedacht dam. Morula was built in 1986 and has been a popular gaming playground since opening. Morula boasts with a newly refurbished parking area, an ultramodern electronic gaming floor and 59 MVG hotel suites.
	Treetops & Treats Guest House And Conference Venue - Pretoria Gauteng South Africa Birdwatching All inclusive, 4-star luxury suites with unsurpassed ambience, hospitality and much more. Nestled amongst trees on a high slope overlooking the capital city. Minutes away from the hub of all major attractions yet quiet, peaceful, private and secure. Once experienced, forever hooked.
	Donann Bed And Breakfast - Pretoria Gauteng South Africa Birdwatching In a scenic farm setting. Part of the Cradle of Humankind Heritage Reserve. Offers rustic quaint and comfortable accommodation. Spacious bedroom in the main house, separate rondavel and a cottage with lounge, kitchen and dining room. All have TV, stocked bar fridge, heater and tea trays with snacks. World Heritage site. Plenty of bird life and near Hartbeespoort and Sterkfontein Caves.
	Pretoria North Lodge & Conference Centre - Pretoria Gauteng South Africa Birdwatching Nestling at the foot of the Magalies Mountains, close to Pretoria and on the main route to the Kruger National Park. Offering beautiful views and our garden hosts the scarce and very shy green dove. 8 en suite rooms each with DSTV, telephone and internet connection. Enjoy our indoor heated pool as well as our large spa bath.
	An Executive Venue - Pretoria Gauteng South Africa Birdwatching Serviced (including dishes) and luxuriously furnished (with DSTV) 1, 2 and 3-bedroomed (2 to 6-bed) cottages with well-equipped kitchens. Secluded gardens with private patio, in Moreleta Park (eastern suburbs). Secure complex. Sparkling pool. Country Club and gym 1km away. Close to all major highways and nature reserve.
	The Woodpecker Inn - Pretoria Gauteng South Africa Birdwatching The Woodpecker Inn is an affordable yet luxurious guest house situated on the prestigious Woodhill Residential Golfing Estate. Ideal for the business executive or golfer with home away from home comforts and conveniences. Excellent restaurants and shopping malls are all within close proximity.
	Snowy's Executive Lodge - Pretoria Gauteng South Africa Birdwatching A haven in the city! Tranquil, evergreen garden landscape with panoramic views. Tastefully decorated, en suite double rooms with private entrances and balconies or terrace. No smoking indoors. Ample secure parking. Close to N1/N4 highways, Hatfield, Brooklyn, university, CSIR, Loftus Stadium and embassies.
	Loodswaai Game Lodge - Pretoria Gauteng South Africa Birdwatching Loodswaai is an Erichsen family-owned game ranch, northeast of Pretoria in a moderate malaria-free area. Come and enjoy the unique African experience of a lifetime on a 3,500ha game ranch. Airstrip for small aircrafts available. Abundant bird life and unique landscape, where buffalo and rhino roam.
	Intsingizi Town Lodge And Conference Centre - Pretoria Gauteng South Africa Birdwatching Affordabble Guest House Accommodation in Montana, Pretoria. Also ideal conference / wedding venue. 10 beautiful thatched rooms scattered between the amble trees in the garden offers real privacy. Situated in the north eastern suburbs of Pretoria, Intsingizi Town Lodge/Guesthouse and Conference Centre, with its warm Climate is close to major highways, hospitals and shopping centres.
	Unicadia Self Catering Accommodation - Pretoria Gauteng South Africa Birdwatching Centrally situated. Eight affordable, spacious fully-equipped apartments. Serviced, TV, M-Net, stereo radio, swimming pool and secure parking. Close to shops, restaurants, cinemas, University of Pretoria, Union Buildings, Loftus and art gallery.
	Kloof B&b - Pretoria Gauteng South Africa Birdwatching Kloof B&B is situated in a quiet secure privately patrolled street overlooking the Moreleta Kloof Nature Reserve. Well-equipped self-catering/B&B units with private entrance and garden. Easy access to N1, R21 and N4, 25 min from O. R. Tambo International Airport, close to Menlyn, Kloof hospital, Pretoria East hospital and 3 golf courses.
	Pure Joy Lodge - Pretoria Gauteng South Africa Birdwatching Exclusive accommodation and conference facilities on privately-owned estate. Wide variety of waterfowl and small game. Close to Pretoria CBD and all major highways. Guests can enjoy a traditional African bush braai in the uniquely designed boma. Weddings, Conferences and Functions catered for.

Other Accommodation in Pretoria Gauteng South Africa

4 X 4 Holidays in Pretoria • Art Galleries in Pretoria • Backpacker Lodges in Pretoria • Bed and Breakfasts in Pretoria • Boutique Hotels in Pretoria • Budget Hotels in Pretoria • Business Hotels in Pretoria • Caravan and Camping in Pretoria • Child Friendly Accommodation in Pretoria • Conference Venues in Pretoria • Disabled Friendly in Pretoria • Fishing in Pretoria • Five Star Hotels in Pretoria • Four Star Hotels in Pretoria • Game Lodges in Pretoria • Game Reserves in Pretoria • Golf Resorts in Pretoria • Guest Houses in Pretoria • Health Spas in Pretoria • Hiking in Pretoria • Holiday Cottages in Pretoria • Holiday Flats in Pretoria • Honeymoon in Pretoria • Hotels in Pretoria • Lodges in Pretoria • Luxury Hotels in Pretoria • Museums in Pretoria • Pet Friendly in Pretoria • Resorts in Pretoria • Self-Catering in Pretoria • Three Star Hotels in Pretoria • Township Accommodation in Pretoria • Wedding Venues in Pretoria •

Geography: Pretoria, the capital city of South Africa is found in the heartland of the country, nestling in the Apies River Valley about 50km north of the bustle of Johannesburg.

History: It is the executive capital of South Africa and is home to most of the government departments as well as the South African National Defence Force. Although the Nguni originally inhabited the area, the modern history of the city is closely tied to that of the ruling parties, starting with the Transvaal republic in the late 1800s. Marthinus Pretorius, son of the Voortrekker hero, Andries Pretorius, founded the town in 1854. It played an important role in the South African (Anglo-Boer) War, which it survived unscathed, and elected its first town council in 1902. City status was granted in 1931. Today it is still the city of presidents and the home of the democratically chosen leader of our country, President Thabo Mbeki, who succeeded Nelson Mandela in 1999. The corridors of crescent-shaped Union Buildings are still the home to the decision makers of the country.

Arts and Culture: Pretoria is a graceful city of historic monuments, museums and jacaranda trees and as it has more museums than most cities its size, is a treat for the history and culture buff. The life and times of Paul Kruger, the last president of the Transvaal Republic, can be seen at Kruger House. The modest home shows that he was a man of simple taste, while the magnificent Sammy Marks House shows the decadent tastes of the famous entrepreneur. Other highlights include Heroes' Acre where Kruger and Pretorius are buried, Church Square with Van Wouw's statue of 'Oom Paul', the old Raadsaal, the Palace of Justice and old Reserve Bank, the Police Museum with some rather grisly exhibits and the Transvaal Museum with its bird collection and whale skeleton. The magnificent Melrose House described as a 'Victorian Extravaganza' was where the peace treaty that ended the South African (Anglo-Boer) War was signed. The National Cultural History and Open-Air Museum is impressive, while the Voortrekker Monument with its marble frieze depicting the story of the Great Trek is worth a visit. The nearby residential area of Marabastad is often claimed to be where Marabi music of the 1950s shebeens was first played.

Science and Nature: Not only is Pretoria a city of fine buildings and museums, but it also has a host of nature reserves and parks. The National Zoological Gardens are the largest in Africa and visitors will enjoy seeing the flamingos, white lions and white tigers among the other 400 species of mammals, birds and reptiles. Close to the Zoo is the aquarium and Atlantis Water Park. The city was also the first in Africa to proclaim a nature reserve - President Kruger proclaimed Fountains Valley, where the Apies has its source in 1895. Pretoria was once known as the "town of roses", but recently owing to the more than 60 000 lilac coloured trees lining the streets, it is now known as the "Jacaranda City". The blue and mauve trees are especially colourful in October and November. A drive along Herbert Baker Drive is a must to see the rare white jacarandas in bloom. At the Austin Roberts Bird Sanctuary visitors can view the blue crane, the national bird of South Africa. Other sites of interest to nature lovers include the Tswaing Crater Museum a 2,000ha site 40km northwest of Pretoria. The site is one of the youngest and best-preserved meteorite impact craters in the world. Here visitors can do a 7.2km Crater Trail, or enjoy the displays on the natural and cultural history of the area at the museum.

Entertainment: There is much to keep visitors to Pretoria entertained. The State Theatre has superb productions of ballet, drama, opera and popular musicals while the flea market in Strijdom Square is great fun. Pretoria's arcades are a delight for shoppers, very often with pavement cafés and there are fine suburban shopping centres too, such as Menlyn Park. Live music and other pubs and clubs that attract a younger crowd can be found in Hatfield while the Derdepoort Regional Park with its farmyard, playground and bushveld atmosphere is wonderful for the kids. Visitors can enjoy a picnic and the fresh air in the Fountains Valley Nature Reserve, and in the Wonderboom Nature Reserve a 1,000-year old fig tree can be seen.

Sport: Pretoria is sport mad and offers world-class facilities to the public. Fans of the Blue Bulls rugby team can watch a game at that hallowed ground, Loftus Versfeld, while the Supersport Centurion Cricket Stadium in nearby Centurion hosts many international Tests.

Did You Know? Pretoria was the first town north of the Vaal to use electricity. Also, the nearby village of Cullinan was where the world's largest rough diamond, the 3,106 carat Cullinan was discovered in 1905.

Back to Gauteng

South Africa Gauteng Pretoria | birding birdwatchers birders watching bird-watching in Pretoria Gauteng South Africa