Pretoria

The administrative capital of South Africa, Pretoria is one of Gauteng's most important cities. It is the executive seat of the government of South Africa, and has a host of outdoor tourist activities for which it is very famous!

At first, Pretoria comes across as a very serious and uptight city. One of the three capitals of the country, Pretoria has a very formal feel to it. The city was named after Andries Pretorius, the famous Voortrekker leader who led the clan to victory at the Battle of the Blood River. The city has been the administrative capital of South Africa since 1855 when it was founded. That being said, the city has some of the most fun activities you could indulge in! There are so many game reserves, parks, and also South Africa's national zoo, that you'll find yourself having a gala of a time in the outdoors. The National Botanical Garden is also located here and is home to a huge variety of flora throughout the year. Go horse riding or explore the plethora of hiking trails in the nature reserves. Visit the historic Voortrekker Monument which honours the great legacy of the Voortrekkers, or the Pretoria Forts which were built just before the Second Boer War, against the British. Shop at the biggest mall in Africa, the Menlyn Centre with over 300 stores to ensure a super day out shopping! Popularly known as the Jacaranda City due to more than 70,000 Jacaranda trees throughout, the city's colourful parks and wonderful attractions are sure to make it a few days spent well.