Pretoria is one of those places that often gets overlooked by travellers. With the Kruger Park and eclectic city of Johannesburg as its neighbour, it’s not a big surprise. However, it wouldn’t be fair to say that Pretoria is not just as special.
Basing yourself in Pretoria for your travels allows you the freedom to enjoy the city life, but also be within close distance to the absolute best attractions in Gauteng. A quick drive takes you back in time, to the Cradle of Humankind, while a luxury train ride can transport you to the nightlife scene in Joburg.
And guess what? It’s not a trip that’s going to break the wallet. Unlike touristy places, like sunny Cape Town, Pretoria is beloved by the locals, with low price tags in mind. Get ready to be blown away by adventure and history in South Africa’s capital city!
6 Fun Things to Do in Pretoria That Won’t Break the Bank
To get to all the fun, booking a cheap flight with either Mango Airlines, Kulula Airlines or FlySafair is all it takes. Once that’s out the way, you can enjoy an array of affordable activities that are found in and outside of Pretoria.
Below you’ll find the top places to visit in Pretoria, without the price comprising the experience.
1. Wander Around the Sheds Market
The Sheds Market is deemed Pretoria’s hippest, social city market. It’s a trendy, multi-cultural space where artists, farmers, craftsmen, bakers – and anyone whose selling anything really – can gather and sell their products.
Described as an African urban experience, jazz singers and local bands show off on a stage for listeners to enjoy. It’s a chance to discover a side to the city that you may not have known, with local entrepreneurs and friendly faces.
Entrance to one of the most loved activities in Pretoria is R50 before 14:00 pm, so get there early to avoid paying R100.
Please note: The market usually operates on the last Saturday of the month, but you’ll need to check the calendar for any last-minute changes.
2. Explore the Magaliesburg Region
The Magaliesburg mountain range is the first choice for locals who are looking to escape the city and connect with nature. And what’s better than connecting with a 1,000-year-old tree?
The Wonderboom Fig Tree is a national monument standing 25 meters high. Having a 5,5-meter diameter, it’s always fun to gather friends for a massive tree hug.
The Wonderboom Nature Reserve has a number of braai and picnic spots, as well as a variety of animals. Try spotting the rock hyrax and black eagles that frequent the area. There are also several hiking trails that take you to scenic locations in the reserve. One of the impressive spots is the Wonderboom Fort, which was built in 1987 to protect Pretoria against the British.
As an adult, you’ll be paying around R31 for entrance, while kids pay R19. So if you’re wondering about which fun activities in Pretoria are fit for kids, a chance to be running around outside is fantastic.
3. Refresh with a Beer at Capital Craft
A lot of travellers are excited about sitting down in a new city and tasting its local brews. Capital Craft specialises in serving the tastiest food, paired with the best craft beer. Their philosophy is that a beer isn’t simply a beer, rather it tells its own story that goes perfectly with a good dish.
With an affordable menu, you can enjoy both a good meal and beer. But if you’re really strapped with cash, simply grabbing a drink with your travel crew is great, too. And if you’re looking for date ideas in Pretoria, this one is a goodie!
4. Explore the Pretoria Botanical Gardens
Each unique province in South Africa offers something entirely new. While each region has its own botanical gardens, it’s always worth visiting new ones to check out how diverse the plant species and wildlife in South Africa is.
Not only do you get to get lost in the beautiful gardens, but you can also attend a variety of events that are hosted at the grounds. Many local musicians perform here, as well as fascinating workshops and mini-festivals.
Adults pay as little as R40 to enter the park. However, events come at an extra cost. You can always pack a picnic and save by not eating out.
5. Day Hike at Rietvlei Game Reserve
It would be a crime to visit Pretoria and not have a game reserve experience. Rietvlei is home to the protected rhino in South Africa, and they’re easy to come by in the park. Zebra, hartebeest, waterbuck, hippos and cheetah call this reserve home, too.
Entrance to the park is R55, which goes towards conservation. You can choose to self-drive through the park, or for a more adventurous day, R85 allows you to hike around the park.
If the budget allows, a game drive is brilliant. It will cost you R200 with a guide and is one of the most iconic things to do in Pretoria.
6. Visit the Pretoria Art Museum
Embrace your artsy side and visit the Pretoria Art Museum that dedicates an entire block to art, primarily South African work. You can expect to see artwork from renowned artists such as Henk Pierneef, Irma Stern and Maggie Loubser.
As well as displaying local art, there are also a number of travelling international artworks that are displayed throughout the year.
Visitors pay as little as R20 to gain access to the museum.
To Sum Up: What to Do in Pretoria on a Budget
Out of all the adventurous things to do in Pretoria, find one that fits your budget and allows you to see as much of the city as you can. And if you’re feeling like splurging on one particular activity, know that these activities can be incorporated into your itinerary to save you money.
Travel around the city and get to know the locals, or venture to the outskirts of Pretoria to discover the fascinating outdoors and incredible landscapes.